From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 7): 2 Army troops slain, 7 wounded in Sorsogon clash with NPA rebels
Two Army soldiers were killed while 7 others were wounded in a clash between military troops and New People's Army (NPA) rebels early Monday in Barangay (village) Casili, Gubat town in Sorsogon , a spokesman of the Army Southern Luzon Command (Solcom) said today.
The government soldiers were on combat patrol at around 5:00 a.m. Monday when they engaged in a 30-minute firefight an undetermined number of NPA rebels in the vicinity of Barangay Casili, an outskirt village of Gubat town, said Army Maj. Virgilio Perez, Solcom spokesperson.
Reports reaching Solcom said that aside from the exchange of fire power, the NPA rebels also used and planted landmines against the government troopers.
Perez, in a text message, said the identities of the slain soldier including those wounded were withheld pending notification of their family.
A source that refuses to be named for security reasons said the NPA attack this morning was a retaliation by the rebel movement following the death of ranking rebel leader Andres "Ka Magno" Hubilla and Miguel "Ka Billy" Himor in an encounter with Army soldiers in a remote village in Casiguran town the other week.
The two slain rebels were interred today at the Casiguran Public Cemetery with hundreds of red shirt-wearing supporters joining the burial rites.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1005125
Tuesday, August 8, 2017
US Coast Guard to send maritime law enforcement experts to Palawan
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 8): US Coast Guard to send maritime law enforcement experts to Palawan
The United States Coast Guard (USCG) is sending a team of maritime law enforcement experts to Palawan for a week-long workshop that will focus on sharing best practices and enhancing interoperability.
This is according to a media release by the Public Affairs Section (PAS) of the U.S. Embassy Tuesday afternoon.
The workshop will be with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), the Philippine Navy (PN), and the Philippine National Police (PNP).
It will focus on sharing best practices and enhancing the interoperability among the three participating agencies in support of the National Coast Watch System 2017 Field Training Exercises scheduled to take place in Manila, Palawan, and Cebu in mid-September.
“As strong allies, the U.S. and Philippines share a wide range of interests, and we will continue to work in partnership to ensure our joint maritime security efforts and other lines of cooperation are robust and effective,” the statement said.
PNP Director General Roland "Bato" dela Rosa (first from left, first line) was guest of honor and speaker during the transfer of the Joint Maritime Law Enforcement Training Center on August 4 at Sito Magarwak, Barangay Sta. Lourdes, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan. (Photo courtesy of the U.S. Embassy Public Affairs Section.)
The information came after U.S. Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission Michael Klecheski transferred custody of a brand new Joint Maritime Law Enforcement Training Center (JMLETC) valued at over Php65.4-million to the the Philippines in a ceremony at Sitio Magarwak, Barangay Santa Lourdes, Puerto Princesa City, on August 4, 2017.
Philippine National Police (PNP) Director General Ronald M. de la Rosa was the guest of honor and keynote speaker, and Klecheski also delivered remarks during the turnover.
The JMLETC, funded by the U.S. Defense Threat Reduction Agency (USDTRA), is part of the larger National Coast Watch System (NCWS) designed to bolster the Philippines’ maritime domain awareness capabilities and to stop large-scale weapons from transiting through or near Philippine territorial waters.
The facility will also be used to conduct maritime law enforcement training for the PCG, PN, and PNP to enhance vessel boarding, use of force, evidence preservation, and case package preparation techniques.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1005280
The United States Coast Guard (USCG) is sending a team of maritime law enforcement experts to Palawan for a week-long workshop that will focus on sharing best practices and enhancing interoperability.
This is according to a media release by the Public Affairs Section (PAS) of the U.S. Embassy Tuesday afternoon.
The workshop will be with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), the Philippine Navy (PN), and the Philippine National Police (PNP).
It will focus on sharing best practices and enhancing the interoperability among the three participating agencies in support of the National Coast Watch System 2017 Field Training Exercises scheduled to take place in Manila, Palawan, and Cebu in mid-September.
“As strong allies, the U.S. and Philippines share a wide range of interests, and we will continue to work in partnership to ensure our joint maritime security efforts and other lines of cooperation are robust and effective,” the statement said.
PNP Director General Roland "Bato" dela Rosa (first from left, first line) was guest of honor and speaker during the transfer of the Joint Maritime Law Enforcement Training Center on August 4 at Sito Magarwak, Barangay Sta. Lourdes, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan. (Photo courtesy of the U.S. Embassy Public Affairs Section.)
The information came after U.S. Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission Michael Klecheski transferred custody of a brand new Joint Maritime Law Enforcement Training Center (JMLETC) valued at over Php65.4-million to the the Philippines in a ceremony at Sitio Magarwak, Barangay Santa Lourdes, Puerto Princesa City, on August 4, 2017.
Philippine National Police (PNP) Director General Ronald M. de la Rosa was the guest of honor and keynote speaker, and Klecheski also delivered remarks during the turnover.
The JMLETC, funded by the U.S. Defense Threat Reduction Agency (USDTRA), is part of the larger National Coast Watch System (NCWS) designed to bolster the Philippines’ maritime domain awareness capabilities and to stop large-scale weapons from transiting through or near Philippine territorial waters.
The facility will also be used to conduct maritime law enforcement training for the PCG, PN, and PNP to enhance vessel boarding, use of force, evidence preservation, and case package preparation techniques.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1005280
Army officer slain in Sorsogon should be celebrating birthday today
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 8): Army officer slain in Sorsogon should be celebrating birthday today
Army 2Lt Lee O. Tremedal should be celebrating his 37 birthday today but a landmine blast claimed his life on Monday.
Tremedal died, along with another Army officer, when a landmine planted by suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels exploded in a remote village in Gubat town in Sorsogon.
His wife Jheniefeb, 34, a practicing dentist in her hometown in Surigao del Norte, had planned to arrive today to surprise and join him in celebrating his birthday but instead, she would be mourning the tragic fate that befell her husband, according to Army Maj. Virgilio Perez, Southern Luzon Command (Solcom) spokesperson.
Perez, in a phone interview Tuesday, said Tremedal, before joining the Army, was a BS Agriculture Technology graduate at the Surigao del Norte College of Agriculture and Technology and an advanced ROTC officer during his college years.
He entered the military service as enlisted personnel in September 2005 as a candidate soldier.
Tremedal was first assigned at 78IB of the 8th Infantry Division in Samar, then in Bicol, at the 31st the Infantry Batallion operating in Sorsogon province.
Tremedal and Army Staff Sergeant Allan Bercasio died in the landmine explosion early morning Monday that also wounded seven other soldiers while on combat patrol in Barangay Casili, a remote village in Gubat, Sorsogon.
According to Perez, he (Tremedal) led a squad (17) of Army troopers regularly conducting combat patrol in outskirt villages where suspected NPA rebels were reportedly sighted and holding extortion activities victimizing villagers in far-flung communities.
On the other hand, Bercasio was a native of Goa town in Camarines Sur, and a platoon leader under Tremedal.
Perez said the remains of 2Lt Tremedal lie in state at the St. Peter Memorial Chapel here in Legazpi, to be brought later to his hometown in Surigao del Norte.
Tremedal and Bercasio would be given recognition for their dedication and gallantry in their military duty.
Perez said about 50 suspected NPA rebels waylaid the squad of Army troopers that included the two slain soldiers on combat patrol on Monday morning.
The rebel attack coincided with the interment at the Casiguran Public Cemetery of ranking rebel leader Andres “Ka Magno” Hubilla and NPA member Miguel “Ka Billy” Himor.
The military said Hubilla and Himor died in an encounter with soldiers in a remote village in Casiguran town, also in Sorsogon, on July 28 but Karapatan-Bicol's fact-finding mission claimed the two were massacred along with civilians Arnel Borres and Dick Laura.
Hundreds of supporters wearing red shirts joined the burial rites in a call for justice for the slain rebels.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1005284
Army 2Lt Lee O. Tremedal should be celebrating his 37 birthday today but a landmine blast claimed his life on Monday.
Tremedal died, along with another Army officer, when a landmine planted by suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels exploded in a remote village in Gubat town in Sorsogon.
His wife Jheniefeb, 34, a practicing dentist in her hometown in Surigao del Norte, had planned to arrive today to surprise and join him in celebrating his birthday but instead, she would be mourning the tragic fate that befell her husband, according to Army Maj. Virgilio Perez, Southern Luzon Command (Solcom) spokesperson.
Perez, in a phone interview Tuesday, said Tremedal, before joining the Army, was a BS Agriculture Technology graduate at the Surigao del Norte College of Agriculture and Technology and an advanced ROTC officer during his college years.
He entered the military service as enlisted personnel in September 2005 as a candidate soldier.
Tremedal was first assigned at 78IB of the 8th Infantry Division in Samar, then in Bicol, at the 31st the Infantry Batallion operating in Sorsogon province.
Tremedal and Army Staff Sergeant Allan Bercasio died in the landmine explosion early morning Monday that also wounded seven other soldiers while on combat patrol in Barangay Casili, a remote village in Gubat, Sorsogon.
According to Perez, he (Tremedal) led a squad (17) of Army troopers regularly conducting combat patrol in outskirt villages where suspected NPA rebels were reportedly sighted and holding extortion activities victimizing villagers in far-flung communities.
On the other hand, Bercasio was a native of Goa town in Camarines Sur, and a platoon leader under Tremedal.
Perez said the remains of 2Lt Tremedal lie in state at the St. Peter Memorial Chapel here in Legazpi, to be brought later to his hometown in Surigao del Norte.
Tremedal and Bercasio would be given recognition for their dedication and gallantry in their military duty.
Perez said about 50 suspected NPA rebels waylaid the squad of Army troopers that included the two slain soldiers on combat patrol on Monday morning.
The rebel attack coincided with the interment at the Casiguran Public Cemetery of ranking rebel leader Andres “Ka Magno” Hubilla and NPA member Miguel “Ka Billy” Himor.
The military said Hubilla and Himor died in an encounter with soldiers in a remote village in Casiguran town, also in Sorsogon, on July 28 but Karapatan-Bicol's fact-finding mission claimed the two were massacred along with civilians Arnel Borres and Dick Laura.
Hundreds of supporters wearing red shirts joined the burial rites in a call for justice for the slain rebels.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1005284
Army, PNP hunt down BIFF in Maguindanao
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 8): Army, PNP hunt down BIFF in Maguindanao
Police and military forces in the province of Maguindanao have been placed on heightened alert after outlawed Moro armed group harassed Army and PNP detachments in nearby Datu Unsay town.
“We need to be proactive as the armed men continue to create noise to make they are still a force to reckon with,” Senior Supt. Agustin Tello, Maguindanao police director, told reporters after a police officer and two soldiers were injured when the ISIS inspired Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters simultaneously attacked the police station and two Army detachments.
Tello said PO1 Usman Datuan of Datu Unsay municipal police office, is now recuperating in a hospital from bullet injuries he sustained during the Saturday night harassment by the BIFF.
Tello said members of the outlawed BIFF came close to the police station in Datu Unsay and opened fire, triggering a brief firefight at past 7 p.m.
Although outnumbered, the police officers returned fire on the BIFF who were forced to flee when soldiers of a nearby detachment came responding.
Another group of ISIS inspired BIFF also attacked with rifle grenades an Army base located near the town hall.
Two soldiers belonging to the 21st Mechanized Company suffered shrapnel injuries after a rifle grenade landed in the detachment. A 20-minute firefight ensued until the militants fled.
Tello could not say if the BIFF suffered casualties following the artillery fire from government forces.
Police believed the attack was meant to avenge the death of six BIFF after it clashed with joint government forces and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in nearby Shariff Saydona town.
Tello said the Maguindanao police have augmented its forces in towns vulnerable to harassment by BIFF. These are the towns of Mamasapano, Shariff Aguak, Datu Salibo, Datu Unsay, Datu Saudi Ampatuan and Datu Piang.
The Army’s 57th Infantry Battalion also beefed up its forces to thwart attacks by BIFF forces which, an Army official said, want to make its presence felt anew in Maguindanao.
Police and military forces in the province of Maguindanao have been placed on heightened alert after outlawed Moro armed group harassed Army and PNP detachments in nearby Datu Unsay town.
“We need to be proactive as the armed men continue to create noise to make they are still a force to reckon with,” Senior Supt. Agustin Tello, Maguindanao police director, told reporters after a police officer and two soldiers were injured when the ISIS inspired Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters simultaneously attacked the police station and two Army detachments.
Tello said PO1 Usman Datuan of Datu Unsay municipal police office, is now recuperating in a hospital from bullet injuries he sustained during the Saturday night harassment by the BIFF.
Tello said members of the outlawed BIFF came close to the police station in Datu Unsay and opened fire, triggering a brief firefight at past 7 p.m.
Although outnumbered, the police officers returned fire on the BIFF who were forced to flee when soldiers of a nearby detachment came responding.
Another group of ISIS inspired BIFF also attacked with rifle grenades an Army base located near the town hall.
Two soldiers belonging to the 21st Mechanized Company suffered shrapnel injuries after a rifle grenade landed in the detachment. A 20-minute firefight ensued until the militants fled.
Tello could not say if the BIFF suffered casualties following the artillery fire from government forces.
Police believed the attack was meant to avenge the death of six BIFF after it clashed with joint government forces and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in nearby Shariff Saydona town.
Tello said the Maguindanao police have augmented its forces in towns vulnerable to harassment by BIFF. These are the towns of Mamasapano, Shariff Aguak, Datu Salibo, Datu Unsay, Datu Saudi Ampatuan and Datu Piang.
The Army’s 57th Infantry Battalion also beefed up its forces to thwart attacks by BIFF forces which, an Army official said, want to make its presence felt anew in Maguindanao.
Hundreds flee as NPA men sighted in MisOr town
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 8): Hundreds flee as NPA men sighted in MisOr town
Hundreds of families flee from their upland communities in Opol town, Misamis Oriental on Tuesday
(August 8), after a group of armed individuals were sighted in their villages. (Jigger J. Jerusalem)
More than a hundred families from two upland villages here fled their homes after dozens of gun-wielding men were sighted in their communities Monday afternoon, a local government official said Tuesday.
Opol Mayor Maximino Seno said as of Tuesday afternoon about 115 families or 523 individuals left barangays Nangcaon and Tingalan to seek shelter at the municipal evacuation center for fear of the armed individuals suspected to be members of the New People’s Army (NPA).
Most of the evacuees arrived at the evacuation site on Monday afternoon, and another group of residents came down from their villages on Tuesday afternoon.
Following the mass evacuation, Seno said the town council declared on Tuesday a state of calamity in thevillages of Nangcaon, Tingalan, Limonda and Cauyonan. He said this will enable the local government to utilize its calamity fund for the evacuees’ food provisions while they are staying at the evacuation site.
Some 200 suspected NPA fighters were seen crisscrossing the mountain villages and were trying to recruit locals to their group prompting residents to leave their homes, the mayor said, citing information provided by villagers.
“Most of those who fled were approached and tried to be recruited by the NPA,” Seno said, adding the military has already conducted clearing operations in the affected barangays.
Seno hopes the displaced villagers can go back to their home the soonest possible time, though he assured the evacuees that their basic needs such as food would be taken care of.
Gennys Mangcunsay, a village councilor at Nangcaon, said many of the residents felt threatened by the presence of the armed group, which grew larger since they were spotted passing by the highland communities in the past few days.
“We had to get away because we feel it is dangerous for us if they (armed group) are in our community,” Mangcunsay, who’s also a tribal leader, said.
Mangcunsay said Seno ordered the municipal trucks to fetch the residents after barangay leaders made the request.
Rosendo Lucnoran, 60, a farmer residing at Zone 3 in Nangcaon, said he personally saw and even talked to some members of the armed group, who only identified themselves as “sundalo sa kabus” (army of the poor) and not as NPA.
“When I asked them if they are NPA, one of them told me, "we are the army of the poor. We will protect you." I replied: ‘How can you protect us when we fear you? You even killed innocent people,’” he recounted.
Lucnoran said most of the guerrillas were young people, many of them women. They were seen passing by and talking to residents in the past few days.
He said those who he interacted with did not try to recruit him or his neighbors but were looking for some persons, adding the fighters have a list of names with them and were asking for the whereabouts of those on the list.
Police Senior Superintendent Roland Destura, Misamis Oriental provincial police chief, said said they have already alerted the municipal police offices in the neighboring towns to be on a lookout for the presence of the armed group.
In a separate interview, Captain Joe Patrick Martinez, spokesperson of the Philippine Army’s 4th Infantry Division, warned fighting could erupt between government troops and the armed group if the latter would linger on the area longer.
Martinez said they received reports that the armed individuals were members of the NPA, whose presence has intensified in the area following setbacks in several encounters with state forces in neighboring Bukidnon province.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1005346
Hundreds of families flee from their upland communities in Opol town, Misamis Oriental on Tuesday
(August 8), after a group of armed individuals were sighted in their villages. (Jigger J. Jerusalem)
More than a hundred families from two upland villages here fled their homes after dozens of gun-wielding men were sighted in their communities Monday afternoon, a local government official said Tuesday.
Opol Mayor Maximino Seno said as of Tuesday afternoon about 115 families or 523 individuals left barangays Nangcaon and Tingalan to seek shelter at the municipal evacuation center for fear of the armed individuals suspected to be members of the New People’s Army (NPA).
Most of the evacuees arrived at the evacuation site on Monday afternoon, and another group of residents came down from their villages on Tuesday afternoon.
Following the mass evacuation, Seno said the town council declared on Tuesday a state of calamity in thevillages of Nangcaon, Tingalan, Limonda and Cauyonan. He said this will enable the local government to utilize its calamity fund for the evacuees’ food provisions while they are staying at the evacuation site.
Some 200 suspected NPA fighters were seen crisscrossing the mountain villages and were trying to recruit locals to their group prompting residents to leave their homes, the mayor said, citing information provided by villagers.
“Most of those who fled were approached and tried to be recruited by the NPA,” Seno said, adding the military has already conducted clearing operations in the affected barangays.
Seno hopes the displaced villagers can go back to their home the soonest possible time, though he assured the evacuees that their basic needs such as food would be taken care of.
Gennys Mangcunsay, a village councilor at Nangcaon, said many of the residents felt threatened by the presence of the armed group, which grew larger since they were spotted passing by the highland communities in the past few days.
“We had to get away because we feel it is dangerous for us if they (armed group) are in our community,” Mangcunsay, who’s also a tribal leader, said.
Mangcunsay said Seno ordered the municipal trucks to fetch the residents after barangay leaders made the request.
Rosendo Lucnoran, 60, a farmer residing at Zone 3 in Nangcaon, said he personally saw and even talked to some members of the armed group, who only identified themselves as “sundalo sa kabus” (army of the poor) and not as NPA.
“When I asked them if they are NPA, one of them told me, "we are the army of the poor. We will protect you." I replied: ‘How can you protect us when we fear you? You even killed innocent people,’” he recounted.
Lucnoran said most of the guerrillas were young people, many of them women. They were seen passing by and talking to residents in the past few days.
He said those who he interacted with did not try to recruit him or his neighbors but were looking for some persons, adding the fighters have a list of names with them and were asking for the whereabouts of those on the list.
Police Senior Superintendent Roland Destura, Misamis Oriental provincial police chief, said said they have already alerted the municipal police offices in the neighboring towns to be on a lookout for the presence of the armed group.
In a separate interview, Captain Joe Patrick Martinez, spokesperson of the Philippine Army’s 4th Infantry Division, warned fighting could erupt between government troops and the armed group if the latter would linger on the area longer.
Martinez said they received reports that the armed individuals were members of the NPA, whose presence has intensified in the area following setbacks in several encounters with state forces in neighboring Bukidnon province.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1005346
Pres. Duterte is guest of honor at PNP's 116th anniversary
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 8): Pres. Duterte is guest of honor at PNP's 116th anniversary
Pres. Rodrigo Duterte will be guest of honor in the 116th founding anniversary celebration of the Philippine National Police at Camp Crame on Wednesday. The visit is expected to boost the morale of the 190,00-strong police force.
PNP Spokesperson Chief Supt. Dionardo Carlos said Duterte will be provided with a full-dress parade and review ceremony as he issues policy directives and marching orders to the police force.
The event, to be held at the PNP Grandstand, has a theme “Buhay ng Pulis Handang Ibuwis Para sa Katahimikan at Kaayusan ng Bayan".
As a highlight, Department of Interior and Local Government officer-in-charge Catalino Cuy and PNP head Director General Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa, will assist Duterte in the presentation of awards to PNP units and personnel for outstanding achievements in the police service.
Other unit awards are:
Best Police Regional Office - Police Regional Office (PRO) 1 headed by Regional Director Chief Supt. Charlo Collado
Best Police Provincial Office- Sorsogon Police Provincial Office, PRO 5 headed by Senior Supt. Ronald Cabral
Best City Police Office - Iligan City Police Station, PRO 10 headed by Senior Supt. Leony Roy Ga
Best City Police Station- Vigan City Police Station, PRO 1, commanded by Supt. Marlo Castillo, Jr.
Best Municipal Police Station- San Jose Municipal Police Station, San Jose De Buenavista, headed by Chief Insp. Juvy Cordero
Best Regional Public Safety Battalion - Regional Public Safety Battalion 12 commanded by Supt. Michael Lebanan
Best Provincial Public Safety Company- Bukidnon Provincial Public Safety Company, PRO 10 headed by Supt. Gervacio Balmaceda, Jr.
Best City Public Safety Company - Davao City Public Safety Company, PRO 11, Supt. Ireneo Caburnay
Best National Operational Support Unit- Maritime Group headed by Director, Chief Supt. Marcelo Morales
Best National Administrative Support Unit- Information Management Technology Management Service headed headed Chief Supt. Edwin Jose Nemenzo
Best Women and Children Protection Desk - Regional Women and Children Protection Desk, PRO 7 led Chief Insp. Marilou Cuizon
Best Regional Police Human Rights Desk - Regional Police Human Rights Desk, PRO 7, led Supt. Maribel Getigan
Best Police Strategy Management Unit - Regional Police Strategy Management Unit, PRO 13 headed by Senior Supt. Gimili Macaraeg Special Unit Awards will be presented to the Counter-Intelligence Task Force under Senior Supt. Jose Chiquito Malayo for outstanding performance in counter-intelligence operations.
While for accounting of illegal drug personalities, three regional directors will receive awards namely Director Oscar Albayalde (National Capital Region Police Office), Chief Supt. Aaron Aquino (PRO 3), and Chief Supt. Ma OR Aplasca (PRO 4A).
Also, Duterte will lead of giving awards to this year’s individual awardees:
Senior Supt. Jonnel C. Estomo (Chief, Management Division, Directorate for Controllership) - Best Senior Police Commissioned Officer (PCO) for Administration
Senior Supt. Rene P. Pamuspusan (Executive Officer, Directorate for Operations) - Best Senior Police Commissioned Officer (PCO) for Operation
Chief Insp. Ford B. Sudaypan (Chief, Strategy Review Scorecard, SAF) - Best Junior Police Commissioned Officer (PCO) for Administration
Chief Insp. Ritchie J. Yandug(Officer-in-Charge (OIC), Manolo Fortich MPS, PRO 10) - Best Junior Police Commissioned Officer (PCO) for Operation
SPO4 Francisco L. Alfeche (Municipal Executive Senior Police Officer (MESPO), Malapatan MPS, PRO 12) - Best Senior Police Non-Commissioned Officer (PNCO) for Administration
SPO2 Harold V. Nicolas (Intelligence PNCO, PRO 1) - Best Senior Police Non-Commissioned Officer (PNCO) for Operation
PO1 Juan Carlos C. Ventura (PIO, PRO 1) - Best Junior Police Non-Commissioned Officer (PNCO) for Administration
PO2 Jhan Lay P. Apostol (Investigator PNCO, PRO 1) - Best Junior Police Non-Commissioned Officer (PNCO) for Operation
NUP Grace W. Abalde (Admin Officer V, PRO 10) - Best Non-Uniformed Personnel (NUP)for Supervisory level
· NUP Sheena Lyn B. Montiero (Communication Development Officer 1, Police Community Relations Group) - Best Non-Uniformed Personnel (NUP) for Non-Supervisory level
Chief Insp. Jovie E. Espenido (OIC, Ozamis City Police Station, PRO 10) - Individual Award for Anti- Illegal Drugs Operation
Senior Supt. Rolando B. Anduyan (Deputy Regional Director for Operations, PRO – ARMM) - Individual Award for Crisis Management in Marawi City.
Duterte will also present Special Individual Awards to PNP personnel cited for their roles in law enforcement operations on Marawi City. They are:
Supt. Rex Arvin T. Malimban - Deputy Chief, Logistics Management Division, PNP-SAF
Supt. Lambert A. Suerte - Commanding Officer, Rapid Deployment Battalion (RDB), PNP-SAF
SPO1 Erwin V. Garalde - Company Executive Senior Police Officer, 84th SAC, RDB, PNP-SAF
SPO1 Jethro L. Amengan - Senior Counter Terrorist Operative (CTO) and Extended Range Support Team (ERST), 83rd Coy, RDB, PNP-SAF.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1005239
Pres. Rodrigo Duterte will be guest of honor in the 116th founding anniversary celebration of the Philippine National Police at Camp Crame on Wednesday. The visit is expected to boost the morale of the 190,00-strong police force.
PNP Spokesperson Chief Supt. Dionardo Carlos said Duterte will be provided with a full-dress parade and review ceremony as he issues policy directives and marching orders to the police force.
The event, to be held at the PNP Grandstand, has a theme “Buhay ng Pulis Handang Ibuwis Para sa Katahimikan at Kaayusan ng Bayan".
As a highlight, Department of Interior and Local Government officer-in-charge Catalino Cuy and PNP head Director General Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa, will assist Duterte in the presentation of awards to PNP units and personnel for outstanding achievements in the police service.
Other unit awards are:
Best Police Regional Office - Police Regional Office (PRO) 1 headed by Regional Director Chief Supt. Charlo Collado
Best Police Provincial Office- Sorsogon Police Provincial Office, PRO 5 headed by Senior Supt. Ronald Cabral
Best City Police Office - Iligan City Police Station, PRO 10 headed by Senior Supt. Leony Roy Ga
Best City Police Station- Vigan City Police Station, PRO 1, commanded by Supt. Marlo Castillo, Jr.
Best Municipal Police Station- San Jose Municipal Police Station, San Jose De Buenavista, headed by Chief Insp. Juvy Cordero
Best Regional Public Safety Battalion - Regional Public Safety Battalion 12 commanded by Supt. Michael Lebanan
Best Provincial Public Safety Company- Bukidnon Provincial Public Safety Company, PRO 10 headed by Supt. Gervacio Balmaceda, Jr.
Best City Public Safety Company - Davao City Public Safety Company, PRO 11, Supt. Ireneo Caburnay
Best National Operational Support Unit- Maritime Group headed by Director, Chief Supt. Marcelo Morales
Best National Administrative Support Unit- Information Management Technology Management Service headed headed Chief Supt. Edwin Jose Nemenzo
Best Women and Children Protection Desk - Regional Women and Children Protection Desk, PRO 7 led Chief Insp. Marilou Cuizon
Best Regional Police Human Rights Desk - Regional Police Human Rights Desk, PRO 7, led Supt. Maribel Getigan
Best Police Strategy Management Unit - Regional Police Strategy Management Unit, PRO 13 headed by Senior Supt. Gimili Macaraeg Special Unit Awards will be presented to the Counter-Intelligence Task Force under Senior Supt. Jose Chiquito Malayo for outstanding performance in counter-intelligence operations.
While for accounting of illegal drug personalities, three regional directors will receive awards namely Director Oscar Albayalde (National Capital Region Police Office), Chief Supt. Aaron Aquino (PRO 3), and Chief Supt. Ma OR Aplasca (PRO 4A).
Also, Duterte will lead of giving awards to this year’s individual awardees:
Senior Supt. Jonnel C. Estomo (Chief, Management Division, Directorate for Controllership) - Best Senior Police Commissioned Officer (PCO) for Administration
Senior Supt. Rene P. Pamuspusan (Executive Officer, Directorate for Operations) - Best Senior Police Commissioned Officer (PCO) for Operation
Chief Insp. Ford B. Sudaypan (Chief, Strategy Review Scorecard, SAF) - Best Junior Police Commissioned Officer (PCO) for Administration
Chief Insp. Ritchie J. Yandug(Officer-in-Charge (OIC), Manolo Fortich MPS, PRO 10) - Best Junior Police Commissioned Officer (PCO) for Operation
SPO4 Francisco L. Alfeche (Municipal Executive Senior Police Officer (MESPO), Malapatan MPS, PRO 12) - Best Senior Police Non-Commissioned Officer (PNCO) for Administration
SPO2 Harold V. Nicolas (Intelligence PNCO, PRO 1) - Best Senior Police Non-Commissioned Officer (PNCO) for Operation
PO1 Juan Carlos C. Ventura (PIO, PRO 1) - Best Junior Police Non-Commissioned Officer (PNCO) for Administration
PO2 Jhan Lay P. Apostol (Investigator PNCO, PRO 1) - Best Junior Police Non-Commissioned Officer (PNCO) for Operation
NUP Grace W. Abalde (Admin Officer V, PRO 10) - Best Non-Uniformed Personnel (NUP)for Supervisory level
· NUP Sheena Lyn B. Montiero (Communication Development Officer 1, Police Community Relations Group) - Best Non-Uniformed Personnel (NUP) for Non-Supervisory level
Chief Insp. Jovie E. Espenido (OIC, Ozamis City Police Station, PRO 10) - Individual Award for Anti- Illegal Drugs Operation
Senior Supt. Rolando B. Anduyan (Deputy Regional Director for Operations, PRO – ARMM) - Individual Award for Crisis Management in Marawi City.
Duterte will also present Special Individual Awards to PNP personnel cited for their roles in law enforcement operations on Marawi City. They are:
Supt. Rex Arvin T. Malimban - Deputy Chief, Logistics Management Division, PNP-SAF
Supt. Lambert A. Suerte - Commanding Officer, Rapid Deployment Battalion (RDB), PNP-SAF
SPO1 Erwin V. Garalde - Company Executive Senior Police Officer, 84th SAC, RDB, PNP-SAF
SPO1 Jethro L. Amengan - Senior Counter Terrorist Operative (CTO) and Extended Range Support Team (ERST), 83rd Coy, RDB, PNP-SAF.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1005239
PHL defense exec cites need for talks on defense forces
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 8): PHL defense exec cites need for talks on defense forces
Department of National Defense (DND) Undersecretary Ricardo A. David Jr. on Monday highlighted the need for discussions about reserve forces.
In his speech during the 14th ASEAN Regional Forum Security Policy Conference (ASPC) at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC), David said this topic “is seldom discussed in multilateral fora.”
”Given the unique yet critical role of reserve forces we should also promote cooperation in this area,” he said.
The conference gathered defense and security officials from the 10-member regional block Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) as well as their counterparts from several partner countries such as Australia.
It was first held in 2004 to help promote confidence building among defense and security authorities.
David is optimistic that Monday’s conference will further help officials “derive new lessons and cooperation activities”
“We believe that we can build trust and confidence with our partners if we know where they are coming from and we can promote a wide array of cooperation if we understand the over-all dynamics of the region,” he said.
”This is not only in line with the objectives of the ASPC but also the Philippines thrust to streamline and rationalize initiatives of the region to ensure that our cooperation activities complement one another and do not duplicate our efforts,” he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1005253
Department of National Defense (DND) Undersecretary Ricardo A. David Jr. on Monday highlighted the need for discussions about reserve forces.
In his speech during the 14th ASEAN Regional Forum Security Policy Conference (ASPC) at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC), David said this topic “is seldom discussed in multilateral fora.”
”Given the unique yet critical role of reserve forces we should also promote cooperation in this area,” he said.
The conference gathered defense and security officials from the 10-member regional block Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) as well as their counterparts from several partner countries such as Australia.
It was first held in 2004 to help promote confidence building among defense and security authorities.
David is optimistic that Monday’s conference will further help officials “derive new lessons and cooperation activities”
“We believe that we can build trust and confidence with our partners if we know where they are coming from and we can promote a wide array of cooperation if we understand the over-all dynamics of the region,” he said.
”This is not only in line with the objectives of the ASPC but also the Philippines thrust to streamline and rationalize initiatives of the region to ensure that our cooperation activities complement one another and do not duplicate our efforts,” he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1005253
AFP: PH yet to receive notice of US airstrike plan in Marawi City
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 8): AFP: PH yet to receive notice of US airstrike plan in Marawi City
The head of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said the Philippines is yet to receive a formal notice from the United States of its reported plan to conduct airstrikes in the besieged Marawi City and noted that such proposal, if any, has to undergo a process.
AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Eduardo Año said only when the Philippines is actually invaded by "another state actor" can direct military action involving US forces can be allowed.
"Direct military actions may only be allowed during actual invasion of the Philippines by another state actor," he said. "We at the AFP is yet to receive any formal notice or offer for such air capability deployment."
He said the existing Mutual Defense Treaty with the US stipulates that only technical assistance and training may be allowed under the Mutual Defense Board-Security Engagement Board.
Año expressed appreciation over US' desire to help in the ongoing fight against terrorists in the southern Mindanao city but also emphasized that it has to undergo a process. "And a covenant must be had between the Commanders-in-Chief of both nations before that option my be adopted," he said.
"We appreciate Pentagon's reported desire to help the Philippines in the fight against Daesh-inspired Maute Group because terrorism is a global menace that the community of nations must unite to fight against," Año said.
A US news network reported the Pentagon is considering a plan that would allow the US military to conduct air strikes in Marawi City. Fighting in Marawi City started when government forces tried to arrest Abu Sayyaf leader and ISIS "emir" Isnilon Hapilon last May 23.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1005262
The head of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said the Philippines is yet to receive a formal notice from the United States of its reported plan to conduct airstrikes in the besieged Marawi City and noted that such proposal, if any, has to undergo a process.
AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Eduardo Año said only when the Philippines is actually invaded by "another state actor" can direct military action involving US forces can be allowed.
"Direct military actions may only be allowed during actual invasion of the Philippines by another state actor," he said. "We at the AFP is yet to receive any formal notice or offer for such air capability deployment."
He said the existing Mutual Defense Treaty with the US stipulates that only technical assistance and training may be allowed under the Mutual Defense Board-Security Engagement Board.
Año expressed appreciation over US' desire to help in the ongoing fight against terrorists in the southern Mindanao city but also emphasized that it has to undergo a process. "And a covenant must be had between the Commanders-in-Chief of both nations before that option my be adopted," he said.
"We appreciate Pentagon's reported desire to help the Philippines in the fight against Daesh-inspired Maute Group because terrorism is a global menace that the community of nations must unite to fight against," Año said.
A US news network reported the Pentagon is considering a plan that would allow the US military to conduct air strikes in Marawi City. Fighting in Marawi City started when government forces tried to arrest Abu Sayyaf leader and ISIS "emir" Isnilon Hapilon last May 23.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1005262
PAF shopping for deployment requirements for FA-50PH jet aircraft
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 8): PAF shopping for deployment requirements for FA-50PH jet aircraft
The Philippine Air Force (PAF) has allocated the sum of PHP7,792,000 for the acquisition of materiels and equipment needed for the deployment of its South Korean-made FA-50PH "Fighting Eagle" jet aircraft which is now seeing action over Marawi City.
Bid opening is slated for Aug. 22, 9 a.m. at the PAF Procurement Center in Villamor Airbase, Pasay City, said PAF bids and awards committee chair Brig. Gen. Nicolas Parilla in a bid bulletin posted at the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System.
No specifics were given on the items to be acquired due to operational security concerns.
The FA-50PHs are currently being used by the military in the ground-support role in the ongoing effort to neutralize the remaining Maute Group terrorists in Marawi City.
Other aircraft helping in the ground-support role are the Rockwell OV-10 "Bronco", SIAI-Marchetti SF-260 light attack planes and AgustaWestland AW-106 attack helicopters, to name a few.
The PAF operates 12 units of the Korea Aerospace Industries-made fighter jet.
The entire order is worth PHP18.9 billion.
As of 7 p.m. Aug. 6, the number of Maute Group terrorists killed has reached the 528 mark while number of government troops slain in the ongoing operations is now at 122 along with 45 civilians executed.
Recovered firearms are placed at 603 and rescued civilians at 1,728. Fighting in Marawi City started in May 23 when government troops botched an attempt to arrest Abu Sayyaf leader and ISIS "emir" in Southeast Asia Isnilon Hapilon.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1005251
The Philippine Air Force (PAF) has allocated the sum of PHP7,792,000 for the acquisition of materiels and equipment needed for the deployment of its South Korean-made FA-50PH "Fighting Eagle" jet aircraft which is now seeing action over Marawi City.
Bid opening is slated for Aug. 22, 9 a.m. at the PAF Procurement Center in Villamor Airbase, Pasay City, said PAF bids and awards committee chair Brig. Gen. Nicolas Parilla in a bid bulletin posted at the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System.
No specifics were given on the items to be acquired due to operational security concerns.
The FA-50PHs are currently being used by the military in the ground-support role in the ongoing effort to neutralize the remaining Maute Group terrorists in Marawi City.
Other aircraft helping in the ground-support role are the Rockwell OV-10 "Bronco", SIAI-Marchetti SF-260 light attack planes and AgustaWestland AW-106 attack helicopters, to name a few.
The PAF operates 12 units of the Korea Aerospace Industries-made fighter jet.
The entire order is worth PHP18.9 billion.
As of 7 p.m. Aug. 6, the number of Maute Group terrorists killed has reached the 528 mark while number of government troops slain in the ongoing operations is now at 122 along with 45 civilians executed.
Recovered firearms are placed at 603 and rescued civilians at 1,728. Fighting in Marawi City started in May 23 when government troops botched an attempt to arrest Abu Sayyaf leader and ISIS "emir" in Southeast Asia Isnilon Hapilon.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1005251
DND: No talk with US on drone strike against PH terror targets
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 8): DND: No talk with US on drone strike against PH terror targets
There are no talks with the US government regarding the use of its armed drones against ISIS-inspired terror groups in the Philippines.
This was confirmed by Department of National Defense (DND) public affairs office chief Arsenio Andolong in a statement Tuesday.
"The DND denies any discussions regarding the use of US drones to strike against Daesh-inspired terrorist groups in the Philippines. The AFP also states that no such discussions have occurred at their level," he noted.
Earlier reports claimed that the US Department of Defense is considering a plan to conduct air strikes against ISIS targets in the country, particularly in Mindanao area.
"The Chief-of-Staff AFP, Gen. Eduardo Año, said that at present such a measure is not within the provisions of the Mutual Defense Treaty. Direct military actions are only allowed during actual foreign invasion by another state actor. Hence, such a proposition has to undergo a process and an agreement must be reached that should have the approval of both the highest officials of our nations," Andolong emphasized.
The AFP is currently locked in fierce combat with Maute Group terrorists following a botched attempt to arrest Abu Sayyaf Isnilon Hapilon and ISIS "emir" in Southeast Asia last May 23.
DND Secretary Delfin Lorenzana reiterated that no discussions regarding air strikes from whatever platforms hitting local targets transpired at his level.
However, both officials expressed their appreciation for the reported desire of the US to help the Philippines fight ISIS-inspired terrorists groups in the country.
Although Philippine-US security relations and counter terrorism efforts are robust, US assistance has been limited to technical assistance, sharing of information and training.
Terrorism has indeed become a global menace that the community of nations must unite against. ASEAN of late has issued strong statements on the matter.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1005294
There are no talks with the US government regarding the use of its armed drones against ISIS-inspired terror groups in the Philippines.
This was confirmed by Department of National Defense (DND) public affairs office chief Arsenio Andolong in a statement Tuesday.
"The DND denies any discussions regarding the use of US drones to strike against Daesh-inspired terrorist groups in the Philippines. The AFP also states that no such discussions have occurred at their level," he noted.
Earlier reports claimed that the US Department of Defense is considering a plan to conduct air strikes against ISIS targets in the country, particularly in Mindanao area.
"The Chief-of-Staff AFP, Gen. Eduardo Año, said that at present such a measure is not within the provisions of the Mutual Defense Treaty. Direct military actions are only allowed during actual foreign invasion by another state actor. Hence, such a proposition has to undergo a process and an agreement must be reached that should have the approval of both the highest officials of our nations," Andolong emphasized.
The AFP is currently locked in fierce combat with Maute Group terrorists following a botched attempt to arrest Abu Sayyaf Isnilon Hapilon and ISIS "emir" in Southeast Asia last May 23.
DND Secretary Delfin Lorenzana reiterated that no discussions regarding air strikes from whatever platforms hitting local targets transpired at his level.
However, both officials expressed their appreciation for the reported desire of the US to help the Philippines fight ISIS-inspired terrorists groups in the country.
Although Philippine-US security relations and counter terrorism efforts are robust, US assistance has been limited to technical assistance, sharing of information and training.
Terrorism has indeed become a global menace that the community of nations must unite against. ASEAN of late has issued strong statements on the matter.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1005294
Treaty prohibits US airstrikes in PHL soil -- Palace
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 8): Treaty prohibits US airstrikes in PHL soil -- Palace
Malacañang on Tuesday said that any direct participation in combat operations by US troops, including airstrikes, is prohibited under the Philippine Constitution and the mutual defense treaty between the two countries.
“While PH-US military alliance remains solid and robust, US military assistance to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is limited to technical assistance, information sharing and training,” Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said in a statement sent to reporters.
Abella further clarified that under the Mutual Defense Board-Security Engagement Board with the US under the purview of the PH-US Mutual Defense Treaty of 1951, standing protocols have been put in place that, even to this day, is being followed.
“It does not involve any boots on the ground nor any direct participation in combat operations, such as the air strikes reportedly being planned against Islamic State-inspired groups in the Philippines. This is a matter prohibited by our law and Constitution,” Abella stressed.
The Palace official added that there was no discussion of airstrikes when Duterte visited the Joint Special Operations Task Force Trident in Marawi City last Friday.
Abella’s statements followed earlier reports which claimed that the US Department of Defense is considering a plan that would allow its forces to conduct air strikes against ISIS targets in the country, particularly in Mindanao area.
Philippine military and defense officials have earlier denied any talks with the US government regarding the use of its armed drones against ISIS-inspired terror groups in the Philippines.
Department of National Defense (DND) public affairs office chief Arsenio Andolong said the DND has had no discussions whatsoever on the supposed use of US drones to strike against Daesh-inspired terrorist groups in the country.
"The AFP Chief-of-Staff, Gen. Eduardo Año, said that at present such a measure is not within the provisions of the Mutual Defense Treaty. Direct military actions are only allowed during an actual foreign invasion by another state actor. Hence, such a proposition has to undergo a process and an agreement must be reached that should have the approval of both the highest officials of our nations," Andolong emphasized.
The AFP is currently locked in fierce combat with Maute Group terrorists following a botched attempt to arrest Abu Sayyaf Isnilon Hapilon and ISIS "emir" in Southeast Asia last May 23.
DND Secretary Delfin Lorenzana likewise said that no discussions regarding airstrikes from whatever platforms hitting local targets transpired at his level.
However, both officials expressed their appreciation for the reported desire of the US to help the Philippines fight ISIS-inspired terrorist groups in the country.
Terrorism has indeed become a global menace that the community of nations must unite against.
ASEAN of late has issued strong statements on the matter.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1005352
Malacañang on Tuesday said that any direct participation in combat operations by US troops, including airstrikes, is prohibited under the Philippine Constitution and the mutual defense treaty between the two countries.
“While PH-US military alliance remains solid and robust, US military assistance to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is limited to technical assistance, information sharing and training,” Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said in a statement sent to reporters.
Abella further clarified that under the Mutual Defense Board-Security Engagement Board with the US under the purview of the PH-US Mutual Defense Treaty of 1951, standing protocols have been put in place that, even to this day, is being followed.
“It does not involve any boots on the ground nor any direct participation in combat operations, such as the air strikes reportedly being planned against Islamic State-inspired groups in the Philippines. This is a matter prohibited by our law and Constitution,” Abella stressed.
The Palace official added that there was no discussion of airstrikes when Duterte visited the Joint Special Operations Task Force Trident in Marawi City last Friday.
Abella’s statements followed earlier reports which claimed that the US Department of Defense is considering a plan that would allow its forces to conduct air strikes against ISIS targets in the country, particularly in Mindanao area.
Philippine military and defense officials have earlier denied any talks with the US government regarding the use of its armed drones against ISIS-inspired terror groups in the Philippines.
Department of National Defense (DND) public affairs office chief Arsenio Andolong said the DND has had no discussions whatsoever on the supposed use of US drones to strike against Daesh-inspired terrorist groups in the country.
"The AFP Chief-of-Staff, Gen. Eduardo Año, said that at present such a measure is not within the provisions of the Mutual Defense Treaty. Direct military actions are only allowed during an actual foreign invasion by another state actor. Hence, such a proposition has to undergo a process and an agreement must be reached that should have the approval of both the highest officials of our nations," Andolong emphasized.
The AFP is currently locked in fierce combat with Maute Group terrorists following a botched attempt to arrest Abu Sayyaf Isnilon Hapilon and ISIS "emir" in Southeast Asia last May 23.
DND Secretary Delfin Lorenzana likewise said that no discussions regarding airstrikes from whatever platforms hitting local targets transpired at his level.
However, both officials expressed their appreciation for the reported desire of the US to help the Philippines fight ISIS-inspired terrorist groups in the country.
Terrorism has indeed become a global menace that the community of nations must unite against.
ASEAN of late has issued strong statements on the matter.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1005352
Why Has the Philippines’ Military Struggled in its Terror Fight Under Duterte?
From The Diplomat (Aug 8): Why Has the Philippines’ Military Struggled in its Terror Fight Under Duterte?
Despite advances being made, it has been an uphill climb and the challenge is much deeper than the headlines suggest.
Last week, reports surfaced that Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte had asked the country’s legislature to support funding for additional troops as the country’s military continues to battle Islamic State-linked militants in the southern city of Marawi as it has since May 23. The move reflects the Duterte government’s determination to root out the terror threat that has highlighted both the limitations of the Philippine military as well as the lingering fears of a heavy-handed government response that could further exacerbate the situation.
Duterte’s call for additional troops was first publicly disclosed following a briefing with key lawmakers last week at Malacanang, which was convened to discuss the terror threat in Mindanao. Senate Majority Leader Franklin Drilon, who was present during the briefing, revealed to reporters that Duterte had told them that he had received intelligence about security threats in several new areas in Mindanao which had indicated that the threat was “serious,” which accounted for why Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana had asked for additional manpower.
The request for additional troops comes as little surprise. For starters, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), despite some improvements over the past few years, still remains among the least capable militaries in the region (See: “The Truth About Philippine Military Modernization and the China Threat“). With around 130,000 personnel spread out throughout the country, only a portion of which are deployed and are combat ready, there have long been concerns about its ability to comprehensively manage a range of internal and external security threats following previous decades of underinvestment. That presents an issue for the government with any new challenge as it needs to ensure that even as it moves to secure certain areas under assault, it does not leave others vulnerable to attack.
Since May 23, Philippine forces have faced an uphill battle since members of the Islamic State-backed militants began the siege of the city of Marawi after government troops tried to target Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon. As I have noted previously, the Marawi siege had only heightened fears in the region of the establishment of a territorial foothold for the Islamic State in Southeast Asia (See: “ASEAN’s Islamic State Conundrum“).
Even though the past few weeks have seen some government advances and administration officials insist victory is on the way, Philippine defense officials have also admitted this has been a huge wake up call for them and that they are now concerned about other areas that could come under assault in the months that follow.
For those familiar with what the Philippines is confronting, this is understandable for a wide range of reasons. With respect to Marawi itself, the densely populated city is an easy place for rebels to blend with the population and difficult for Philippine forces to clean out completely, especially if it is trying to limit civilian casualties. Meanwhile, the dense, forested terrain outside of the city is also difficult to completely seal off. This geography does leave room for militants to move in and out of the city.
Besides, convenient though it might be, it is impossible in reality to separate the Marawi siege entirely from the broader challenge that the Philippines is confronting. While media accounts have often identified the Maute group as being the primary target, in actuality, the allegiances between it and other groups as well as foreign militants can be much looser, particularly with two raging insurgencies in the southern part of the country with Muslim and communist-linked militants. And amid the focus on casualty counts and troop numbers, in which the Duterte government is itself complicit, it is important to emphasize that the breeding ground that exists for such militancy is due to governance issues that date back decades and have deep political and socioeconomic roots.
Amid the struggle that Philippine forces have endured, they have been receiving some external support from countries and reinforcements have been on the way (See: “US Terror Aid Signals Enduring Defense Ties Under Duterte“). But as Duterte’s briefing made clear, the government’s assessment is that still more troops will be needed to secure not only Marawi, but also surrounding areas in Mindanao which could also come under assault. On Sunday, Duterte’s spokesman Ernesto Abella captured the essence of the Philippine military’s ongoing challenge when he said that the additional troop request reflected the need to rebalance “troops in Marawi and other points in Mindanao” to guard areas where threats could arise.
To be sure, there are routes to accomplishing this. For instance, following the briefing with Duterte last week, Panfilo Lacson, a former police chief and current chair of the Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs, told reporters that there could be fast-tracking of legislation to increase the troop ceiling, with perhaps about 20,000 more troops for the AFP and around 10,000 for the Philippine National Police (PNP). But Lacson also emphasized that this could be costly for the government, given the budgetary allocations that would need to be made for salaries, training, and equipment needed to support those troops as well. This would be the case even if there are ways to short cut this, including quickening the pace of training instead of leaving it at the usual pace which can take a year or two.
Beyond budgetary concerns, there are larger issues as well surrounding the Duterte government and its general approach to the handling of the Marawi crisis and security issues more generally. In particular, even though Duterte still possesses strong support among the Philippine people, as well as in both the Senate and the House of Representatives, to be able to pass controversial measures, such as the extension of martial law through the end of the year, such moves, along with his troubling rhetoric which often displays little regard for human rights, due process, and the rule of law, have led some to question whether he is using the crisis as an excuse to impose authoritarian rule in the Philippines.
For now, these concerns have not yet exacerbated into widespread opposition that could threaten Duterte’s reign. But if they do in the coming months or further into his six-year term, in facing the Philippines’ most urgent threat, Duterte could yet prove to be his own worst enemy (See: “The Truth About Duterte’s Popularity in the Philippines“).
http://thediplomat.com/2017/08/why-has-the-philippines-military-struggled-in-its-terror-fight-under-duterte/
Despite advances being made, it has been an uphill climb and the challenge is much deeper than the headlines suggest.
Last week, reports surfaced that Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte had asked the country’s legislature to support funding for additional troops as the country’s military continues to battle Islamic State-linked militants in the southern city of Marawi as it has since May 23. The move reflects the Duterte government’s determination to root out the terror threat that has highlighted both the limitations of the Philippine military as well as the lingering fears of a heavy-handed government response that could further exacerbate the situation.
Duterte’s call for additional troops was first publicly disclosed following a briefing with key lawmakers last week at Malacanang, which was convened to discuss the terror threat in Mindanao. Senate Majority Leader Franklin Drilon, who was present during the briefing, revealed to reporters that Duterte had told them that he had received intelligence about security threats in several new areas in Mindanao which had indicated that the threat was “serious,” which accounted for why Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana had asked for additional manpower.
The request for additional troops comes as little surprise. For starters, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), despite some improvements over the past few years, still remains among the least capable militaries in the region (See: “The Truth About Philippine Military Modernization and the China Threat“). With around 130,000 personnel spread out throughout the country, only a portion of which are deployed and are combat ready, there have long been concerns about its ability to comprehensively manage a range of internal and external security threats following previous decades of underinvestment. That presents an issue for the government with any new challenge as it needs to ensure that even as it moves to secure certain areas under assault, it does not leave others vulnerable to attack.
Since May 23, Philippine forces have faced an uphill battle since members of the Islamic State-backed militants began the siege of the city of Marawi after government troops tried to target Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon. As I have noted previously, the Marawi siege had only heightened fears in the region of the establishment of a territorial foothold for the Islamic State in Southeast Asia (See: “ASEAN’s Islamic State Conundrum“).
Even though the past few weeks have seen some government advances and administration officials insist victory is on the way, Philippine defense officials have also admitted this has been a huge wake up call for them and that they are now concerned about other areas that could come under assault in the months that follow.
For those familiar with what the Philippines is confronting, this is understandable for a wide range of reasons. With respect to Marawi itself, the densely populated city is an easy place for rebels to blend with the population and difficult for Philippine forces to clean out completely, especially if it is trying to limit civilian casualties. Meanwhile, the dense, forested terrain outside of the city is also difficult to completely seal off. This geography does leave room for militants to move in and out of the city.
Besides, convenient though it might be, it is impossible in reality to separate the Marawi siege entirely from the broader challenge that the Philippines is confronting. While media accounts have often identified the Maute group as being the primary target, in actuality, the allegiances between it and other groups as well as foreign militants can be much looser, particularly with two raging insurgencies in the southern part of the country with Muslim and communist-linked militants. And amid the focus on casualty counts and troop numbers, in which the Duterte government is itself complicit, it is important to emphasize that the breeding ground that exists for such militancy is due to governance issues that date back decades and have deep political and socioeconomic roots.
Amid the struggle that Philippine forces have endured, they have been receiving some external support from countries and reinforcements have been on the way (See: “US Terror Aid Signals Enduring Defense Ties Under Duterte“). But as Duterte’s briefing made clear, the government’s assessment is that still more troops will be needed to secure not only Marawi, but also surrounding areas in Mindanao which could also come under assault. On Sunday, Duterte’s spokesman Ernesto Abella captured the essence of the Philippine military’s ongoing challenge when he said that the additional troop request reflected the need to rebalance “troops in Marawi and other points in Mindanao” to guard areas where threats could arise.
To be sure, there are routes to accomplishing this. For instance, following the briefing with Duterte last week, Panfilo Lacson, a former police chief and current chair of the Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs, told reporters that there could be fast-tracking of legislation to increase the troop ceiling, with perhaps about 20,000 more troops for the AFP and around 10,000 for the Philippine National Police (PNP). But Lacson also emphasized that this could be costly for the government, given the budgetary allocations that would need to be made for salaries, training, and equipment needed to support those troops as well. This would be the case even if there are ways to short cut this, including quickening the pace of training instead of leaving it at the usual pace which can take a year or two.
Beyond budgetary concerns, there are larger issues as well surrounding the Duterte government and its general approach to the handling of the Marawi crisis and security issues more generally. In particular, even though Duterte still possesses strong support among the Philippine people, as well as in both the Senate and the House of Representatives, to be able to pass controversial measures, such as the extension of martial law through the end of the year, such moves, along with his troubling rhetoric which often displays little regard for human rights, due process, and the rule of law, have led some to question whether he is using the crisis as an excuse to impose authoritarian rule in the Philippines.
For now, these concerns have not yet exacerbated into widespread opposition that could threaten Duterte’s reign. But if they do in the coming months or further into his six-year term, in facing the Philippines’ most urgent threat, Duterte could yet prove to be his own worst enemy (See: “The Truth About Duterte’s Popularity in the Philippines“).
http://thediplomat.com/2017/08/why-has-the-philippines-military-struggled-in-its-terror-fight-under-duterte/
Ulama Council to craft ‘fatwa’ against terror group
From the Manila Bulletin (Aug 8): Ulama Council to craft ‘fatwa’ against terror group
CAMP RANAO, MARAWI CITY – The Ulama Council here will declare “fatwa” condemning the barbaric actions of the Maute group that occupied Marawi City and urged President Duterte to convene a National Ulama Council Convention at the soonest possible time for this purpose.
The Ulamas said they need to express their disagreement and condemnation of the terrorists who are attacking and destroying their city.
The elders also sought for unity among the Maranaos irregardless of their individual political parties and preferences.
During a two-hour dialogue with traditional leaders, local government officials led by Vice Governor Mamintal Adiong and Assemblyman Zia Alonto Adiong, and military officials here led by Lieutenant General Carlito G Galvez, Jr., Commander of the Western Mindanao Command, some 30 Ulama members raised the plight of the Internally Displaced Person’s (IDPs) from Marawi City.
The Ulama members aired their concerns pertaining to the role of the Ulama and the Sultanate in countering violent extremism and their participation in the plight of the internally displaced persons.
Despite the continuous threat to their lives, the Ulama and traditional leaders confessed their spiritual obligation to tell the truth and abhor the Un-Islamic virtues of the Maute ISIS.
“Joining an organization in exchange for money is taboo in Islam, more so, supporting a terror group that does not respect life is unacceptable to Islam,” said the Ulama leaders. “Islam is peace, and those who not want peace, is not Islam.”
The Ulamas believe that terrorism is not only a problem in Mindanao but a national and global threat that needs to be addressed.
“We support the Ulamas’ intent in pushing for the conduct of a National Ulama Council because we believe that it will save our communities from the devastation that violent extremism may bring,” Galvez said.
“Awareness is very important in countering violent extremism, so therefore, we need to have all the necessary tools and medium to spread the word in condemning it at all cost,” he added.
Galvez also ordered for all military units conducting checkpoints to immediately establish special assistance and courtesy lanes and to put up first aid stations in crowded areas for the traveling Ulama, the elderly, and sick commuters.
http://news.mb.com.ph/2017/08/08/ulama-council-to-craft-fatwa-against-terror-group/
CAMP RANAO, MARAWI CITY – The Ulama Council here will declare “fatwa” condemning the barbaric actions of the Maute group that occupied Marawi City and urged President Duterte to convene a National Ulama Council Convention at the soonest possible time for this purpose.
The Ulamas said they need to express their disagreement and condemnation of the terrorists who are attacking and destroying their city.
The elders also sought for unity among the Maranaos irregardless of their individual political parties and preferences.
During a two-hour dialogue with traditional leaders, local government officials led by Vice Governor Mamintal Adiong and Assemblyman Zia Alonto Adiong, and military officials here led by Lieutenant General Carlito G Galvez, Jr., Commander of the Western Mindanao Command, some 30 Ulama members raised the plight of the Internally Displaced Person’s (IDPs) from Marawi City.
The Ulama members aired their concerns pertaining to the role of the Ulama and the Sultanate in countering violent extremism and their participation in the plight of the internally displaced persons.
Despite the continuous threat to their lives, the Ulama and traditional leaders confessed their spiritual obligation to tell the truth and abhor the Un-Islamic virtues of the Maute ISIS.
“Joining an organization in exchange for money is taboo in Islam, more so, supporting a terror group that does not respect life is unacceptable to Islam,” said the Ulama leaders. “Islam is peace, and those who not want peace, is not Islam.”
The Ulamas believe that terrorism is not only a problem in Mindanao but a national and global threat that needs to be addressed.
“We support the Ulamas’ intent in pushing for the conduct of a National Ulama Council because we believe that it will save our communities from the devastation that violent extremism may bring,” Galvez said.
“Awareness is very important in countering violent extremism, so therefore, we need to have all the necessary tools and medium to spread the word in condemning it at all cost,” he added.
Galvez also ordered for all military units conducting checkpoints to immediately establish special assistance and courtesy lanes and to put up first aid stations in crowded areas for the traveling Ulama, the elderly, and sick commuters.
http://news.mb.com.ph/2017/08/08/ulama-council-to-craft-fatwa-against-terror-group/
Military bombs militants’ positions in bid to retake Marawi
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Aug 7): Military bombs militants’ positions in bid to retake Marawi
Marawi City. (SCREENGRAB from http://zamboanga.com/)
MARAWI CITY – The military bombed more positions of Islamic State-inspired militants as it tried to retake control of this ruined city.
Two of the Philippine Air Force FA-50 jets launched fresh air strikes shortly before 8 a.m. on Monday as fighting continues for more than two months now.
But Joint Task Force Marawi spokesperson Capt. Jo-Ann Petinglay told the Inquirer the military’s death toll rose to 122 as three more soldiers died in the battle field.
Petinglay said of the latest figures, two were killed when hit by homemade bomb explosions on Sunday, while the other one died when he had a heart attack in the war zone.
“The fighting is concentrated now in a one-square kilometer area. There are still 50 fighters inside,” she said.
Petinglay said the “remaining areas” cover parts of two villages in the heart of the city.
She said there are at least 80 hostages, including the Fr. Teresito “Chito” Suganob, the vicar general of Marawi City, still in the hands of the militants.
“But our troops, so far, killed 528 militants, and we have recovered a total of 603 assorted firearms since the start of the gun battle,” Petinglay said.
She said 45 civilians have been killed by the militants, while a total of 1,724 civilians have been rescued.
On May 23, the clashes flared up in this city when government security forces moved to arrest Isnilon Hapilon, the acknowledged head of the Islamic State in Mindanao. But soldiers were met by a big force of gunmen composed of militants from the Maute group and the Abu Sayyaf, backed by an undetermined number of foreign fighters.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/920931/marawi-islamic-state-maute-group-capt-jo-ann-petinglay-joint-task-force-marawi-isnilon-hapilon
Marawi City. (SCREENGRAB from http://zamboanga.com/)
MARAWI CITY – The military bombed more positions of Islamic State-inspired militants as it tried to retake control of this ruined city.
Two of the Philippine Air Force FA-50 jets launched fresh air strikes shortly before 8 a.m. on Monday as fighting continues for more than two months now.
But Joint Task Force Marawi spokesperson Capt. Jo-Ann Petinglay told the Inquirer the military’s death toll rose to 122 as three more soldiers died in the battle field.
Petinglay said of the latest figures, two were killed when hit by homemade bomb explosions on Sunday, while the other one died when he had a heart attack in the war zone.
“The fighting is concentrated now in a one-square kilometer area. There are still 50 fighters inside,” she said.
Petinglay said the “remaining areas” cover parts of two villages in the heart of the city.
She said there are at least 80 hostages, including the Fr. Teresito “Chito” Suganob, the vicar general of Marawi City, still in the hands of the militants.
“But our troops, so far, killed 528 militants, and we have recovered a total of 603 assorted firearms since the start of the gun battle,” Petinglay said.
She said 45 civilians have been killed by the militants, while a total of 1,724 civilians have been rescued.
On May 23, the clashes flared up in this city when government security forces moved to arrest Isnilon Hapilon, the acknowledged head of the Islamic State in Mindanao. But soldiers were met by a big force of gunmen composed of militants from the Maute group and the Abu Sayyaf, backed by an undetermined number of foreign fighters.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/920931/marawi-islamic-state-maute-group-capt-jo-ann-petinglay-joint-task-force-marawi-isnilon-hapilon
Singapore C-130 delivers aid to Philippines
From Update Philippines (Aug 7): Singapore C-130 delivers aid to Philippines
Singapore Minister for Defence Ng Eng Hen photo
A Singaporean Lockheed C-130 “Hercules” cargo plane, loaded with assorted relief supplies, has landed at the Laguindingan Airport, Misamis Oriental on Monday.
Singapore Minister for Defence Ng Eng Hen photo
The items are for the people displaced by the ongoing fighting in Marawi City where two barangays are still being held by Maute Group terrorists, Armed Forces spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said.
The Singaporean aircraft arrived at 11:25 a.m. and immediately unloaded the relief items, before flying back to Singapore at 2:31 p.m.
The relief supplies consists of tents, blankets, assorted medical supplies, medicines, drinking water, dynamo lights, food ration packs and water filtration units.
Earlier, the Singaporean government pledged to support intelligence, surveillance and recon support to the Philippines in its ongoing fight against terrorism in Marawi City. This is aside from relief aid for the evacuees displaced by the fighting.
https://www.update.ph/2017/08/singapore-c-130-delivers-aid-to-philippines/19799
Singapore Minister for Defence Ng Eng Hen photo
A Singaporean Lockheed C-130 “Hercules” cargo plane, loaded with assorted relief supplies, has landed at the Laguindingan Airport, Misamis Oriental on Monday.
Singapore Minister for Defence Ng Eng Hen photo
The items are for the people displaced by the ongoing fighting in Marawi City where two barangays are still being held by Maute Group terrorists, Armed Forces spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said.
The Singaporean aircraft arrived at 11:25 a.m. and immediately unloaded the relief items, before flying back to Singapore at 2:31 p.m.
The relief supplies consists of tents, blankets, assorted medical supplies, medicines, drinking water, dynamo lights, food ration packs and water filtration units.
Earlier, the Singaporean government pledged to support intelligence, surveillance and recon support to the Philippines in its ongoing fight against terrorism in Marawi City. This is aside from relief aid for the evacuees displaced by the fighting.
https://www.update.ph/2017/08/singapore-c-130-delivers-aid-to-philippines/19799
ISIS-inspired terror leaders still alive, says Philippine military
From the International Business Times (Aug 7): ISIS-inspired terror leaders still alive, says Philippine military
Despite the heavy air and artillery assaults on identified terrorists' positions, it is likely that leaders of the ISIS-inspired Maute and Abu Sayyaf Groups are still alive, said Philippine military officials.
"We have received reports that terror leaders Isnilon Hapilon, Abdullah Maute and Omar Maute are still alive and they are still in Marawi City," General Restituto Padilla of the Philippine military was quoted saying.
The Philippine government offered the amount of USD 200,000 money reward to those who can provide any information that will lead to the arrest of Hapilon. Moreover, a reward of USD 100,000 will be given to anyone who can provide information about the current location of either Abdullah and Omar Maute.
Thousands of Philippine soldiers were deployed in Marawi City to battle heavily armed 700 Maute and Abu Sayyaf Groups on May 23 and the battle is going on since then. The military said that after a bloody fight for over three months; only a hundred of them, occupying two villages, are left.
Meanwhile, last Sunday, six bombs exploded in Marantao, a municipality adjacent to Marawi City following which a investigation was ordered. The explosion came as a shock as the region falls outside the battle zone.
One army unit claimed that the bombs were either planted or were fired from the terrorists camp. However, according to the spokesman of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) General Restituto Padilla, they are still investigating the bomb incident.
With the Marawi battle entering its 78th day, it is reported that 690 terrorists and 122 security forces personnel have been killed.
http://www.ibtimes.sg/isis-inspired-terror-leaders-still-alive-says-philippine-military-13683
Despite the heavy air and artillery assaults on identified terrorists' positions, it is likely that leaders of the ISIS-inspired Maute and Abu Sayyaf Groups are still alive, said Philippine military officials.
"We have received reports that terror leaders Isnilon Hapilon, Abdullah Maute and Omar Maute are still alive and they are still in Marawi City," General Restituto Padilla of the Philippine military was quoted saying.
The Philippine government offered the amount of USD 200,000 money reward to those who can provide any information that will lead to the arrest of Hapilon. Moreover, a reward of USD 100,000 will be given to anyone who can provide information about the current location of either Abdullah and Omar Maute.
Thousands of Philippine soldiers were deployed in Marawi City to battle heavily armed 700 Maute and Abu Sayyaf Groups on May 23 and the battle is going on since then. The military said that after a bloody fight for over three months; only a hundred of them, occupying two villages, are left.
Meanwhile, last Sunday, six bombs exploded in Marantao, a municipality adjacent to Marawi City following which a investigation was ordered. The explosion came as a shock as the region falls outside the battle zone.
One army unit claimed that the bombs were either planted or were fired from the terrorists camp. However, according to the spokesman of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) General Restituto Padilla, they are still investigating the bomb incident.
With the Marawi battle entering its 78th day, it is reported that 690 terrorists and 122 security forces personnel have been killed.
http://www.ibtimes.sg/isis-inspired-terror-leaders-still-alive-says-philippine-military-13683
Philippines: Marawi post-conflict appraisal begins
From the Asian Correspondent (Aug 8): Philippines: Marawi post-conflict appraisal begins
Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte surrounded by soldiers pose to souvenir pictures during his visit to the military camp in Marawi City, Philippines August 4, 2017. Source: Malacanang Presidential Palace via Reuters
WITH the fighting in Marawi City in the southern Philippine island of Mindanao already “confined” to just less than 1sq km spanning two villages, the national government-led post-conflict needs assessment (PCNA) for the embattled Islamic city is finally gaining ground.
WITH the fighting in Marawi City in the southern Philippine island of Mindanao already “confined” to just less than 1sq km spanning two villages, the national government-led post-conflict needs assessment (PCNA) for the embattled Islamic city is finally gaining ground.
The PCNA, led by the Office of the Civil Defence (OCD), will become the basis for the Marawi Comprehensive Recovery and Rehabilitation Plan (MRRP).
OCD Assistant Secretary Kristoffer James Purisima, spokesman of Task Force Bangon (Rise) Marawi, said those who will carry out the PCNA have undergone a four-day training early this month.
OCD Assistant Secretary Kristoffer James Purisima, spokesman of Task Force Bangon (Rise) Marawi, said those who will carry out the PCNA have undergone a four-day training early this month.
The team will consist of some 200 people from different national government agencies, affected local government units and community stakeholders.
SEE ALSO: Evacuees want a voice in rebuilding of embattled Marawi City
Displaced children stay at an evacuation centre outside the city, as army troops continue their assault against insurgents from the Maute group, in Marawi, Philippines, on July 4, 2017. Source: Reuters/Jorge Silva
“For the ways forward of the PCNA, a deployment plan is being prepared for the human recovery needs assessment and the deployment shall begin (today) Aug 8,” Purisima said at the Mindanao Hour briefing.
The human recovery needs assessment will include not only those in the 75 evacuation centres, but also the internally displaced individuals (IDPs), locally called “bakwits,” who have sought refuge with their relatives, the official said.
Over 400,000 civilians have been displaced by the conflict in Marawi, which erupted on May 23 between government forces and the Islamic State-inspired Maute and Abu Sayyaf groups.
President Rodrigo Duterte placed Mindanao under martial law for 60 days hours after the clashes erupted. The Philippine Congress later extended it until Dec 31, 2017.
Purisima suggested it would be easier for the PCNA team to conduct the human recovery assessment as they have already the initial list of IDP data surveyed by the Department of Social Welfare and Development and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.
“We know where the IDPs are, most are home-based (staying with their relatives),” he said, adding the bakwits have been given Disaster Assistance Family Access Cards by the Social Welfare Department so they can access government aid.
The official did not give a timeline as to when the consolidated PCNA report, which includes the reconstruction and rehabilitation aspects, would be completed.
“It really depends on the situation on the ground. We are beginning with what we can — with what we can assess, which is the human side. We’re going into the evacuation centres. We’ll go to areas on the ground we can go to already,” he said.
“We’re hoping we could go into the area, ground zero, so to say, in the soonest possible time,” Purisima said, noting this would depend on the clearance from the military.
Combat seized weapons are displayed by Philippines army during a news conference, as government troops continue their assault against insurgents from the Maute group in Marawi city, Philippines, on July 4, 2017. Source: Reuters
Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesman Brigadier General Restituto Padilla said government troops were doing their best to expedite the liberation of Marawi from the remaining 30 to 40 terrorist gunmen.
“In the current situation in Marawi, we still continue to concentrate on the remaining problematic area, which is less than one square kilometre within the heart of the commercial business district,” Padilla said
“Our forces are all in place and are doing their best to fulfill their mandate of liberating Marawi at the soonest time possible,” he added.
The official noted that military efforts to reclaim Marawi from the Maute Group are also hampered by the consideration on the safety of the hostages and the sniper fires from the enemies.
The terrorist gunmen are reportedly still holding some 100 civilians, including a Catholic priest, inside a mosque.
Padilla appealed to the displaced civilians to be patient because “as soon as the coast is clear, we shall declare it safe” for them to go back.
SEE ALSO: Philippine military gets significant boost with new surveillance planes, rockets from US
While many would apparently no homes to go back to based on pictures coming out of the war zone, the government has assured them of help. To those with unhabitable homes, the government vowed to provide them with socialised housing or extend financial assistance to those whose houses need minor repairs.
The government also abandoned plans to build a tent city in Marawi and neighbouring areas for the civilians displaced by the war. Instead, they will be housed in at least 1,000 temporary shelters to reduce crowding in evacuation centres as part of the initial phase of rehabilitation efforts for the war-ravaged city.
Marawi resident Samira Gutoc-Tomawis, co-convener of Ranao Rescue Team, lamented the uncertainty of going back home as the Marawi crisis entered Day 78 today, Tuesday.
“On our incoming 80th day of the Marawi crisis, the lingering question on when to return to Marawi remains unanswered. Another mortar incident in the outskirts of Marawi in the border with Marantaw town doused our hopes as bakwits to set foot back to our beloved cool sanctuary,” she said in a social media post.
(File) A view of an empty street is seen as government forces continue their assault against insurgents from the Maute group, in Marawi City, Philippines June 25, 2017. Source: Reuters/Jorge Silva
Gutoc-Tomawis confirmed that civil society organisations have been tapped to participate in charting the recovery and rehabilitation of Marawi.
“Today, we gather as civil society in Iligan City to firm up participation in Task Force Bangon (Marawi),” she said.
Gutoc-Tomawis hailed the volunteers and non-government workers who worked without remuneration to help those affected by the Marawi crisis.
On August 4, Duterte visited the troops in Marawi for the second time to boost their morale and encouraged them to defeat the enemies to allow the return of displaced civilians to the city.
“I have to be here because I want all of you to know that… Mahal ko kayo (I love you). I hope you will be able to clean up Marawi City and get rid of the terrorists,” the President said in his speech.
Duterte said he is hopeful that the government will not lose more troops because of the ongoing battle in the locality.
SEE ALSO: Philippine Congress extends martial law to end-2017
The commander-in-chief’s second visit to the besieged city, just like the first, was unannounced. Officials only confirmed the visit when the President already left the area.
Duterte also reiterated his pledge of putting up a PHP50 billion (US$993 million) trust fund for the children of soldiers and police personnel.
Wearing on now for the third month, the war in Marawi has killed 122 military and police personnel and 45 civilians as of Monday’s data from the government.
Five more terrorist gunmen were killed, bringing their fatalities to 528, the data showed, adding that 603 firearms were recovered from them.
SEE ALSO: Evacuees want a voice in rebuilding of embattled Marawi City
Displaced children stay at an evacuation centre outside the city, as army troops continue their assault against insurgents from the Maute group, in Marawi, Philippines, on July 4, 2017. Source: Reuters/Jorge Silva
“For the ways forward of the PCNA, a deployment plan is being prepared for the human recovery needs assessment and the deployment shall begin (today) Aug 8,” Purisima said at the Mindanao Hour briefing.
The human recovery needs assessment will include not only those in the 75 evacuation centres, but also the internally displaced individuals (IDPs), locally called “bakwits,” who have sought refuge with their relatives, the official said.
Over 400,000 civilians have been displaced by the conflict in Marawi, which erupted on May 23 between government forces and the Islamic State-inspired Maute and Abu Sayyaf groups.
President Rodrigo Duterte placed Mindanao under martial law for 60 days hours after the clashes erupted. The Philippine Congress later extended it until Dec 31, 2017.
Purisima suggested it would be easier for the PCNA team to conduct the human recovery assessment as they have already the initial list of IDP data surveyed by the Department of Social Welfare and Development and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.
“We know where the IDPs are, most are home-based (staying with their relatives),” he said, adding the bakwits have been given Disaster Assistance Family Access Cards by the Social Welfare Department so they can access government aid.
The official did not give a timeline as to when the consolidated PCNA report, which includes the reconstruction and rehabilitation aspects, would be completed.
“It really depends on the situation on the ground. We are beginning with what we can — with what we can assess, which is the human side. We’re going into the evacuation centres. We’ll go to areas on the ground we can go to already,” he said.
“We’re hoping we could go into the area, ground zero, so to say, in the soonest possible time,” Purisima said, noting this would depend on the clearance from the military.
Combat seized weapons are displayed by Philippines army during a news conference, as government troops continue their assault against insurgents from the Maute group in Marawi city, Philippines, on July 4, 2017. Source: Reuters
Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesman Brigadier General Restituto Padilla said government troops were doing their best to expedite the liberation of Marawi from the remaining 30 to 40 terrorist gunmen.
“In the current situation in Marawi, we still continue to concentrate on the remaining problematic area, which is less than one square kilometre within the heart of the commercial business district,” Padilla said
“Our forces are all in place and are doing their best to fulfill their mandate of liberating Marawi at the soonest time possible,” he added.
The official noted that military efforts to reclaim Marawi from the Maute Group are also hampered by the consideration on the safety of the hostages and the sniper fires from the enemies.
The terrorist gunmen are reportedly still holding some 100 civilians, including a Catholic priest, inside a mosque.
Padilla appealed to the displaced civilians to be patient because “as soon as the coast is clear, we shall declare it safe” for them to go back.
SEE ALSO: Philippine military gets significant boost with new surveillance planes, rockets from US
While many would apparently no homes to go back to based on pictures coming out of the war zone, the government has assured them of help. To those with unhabitable homes, the government vowed to provide them with socialised housing or extend financial assistance to those whose houses need minor repairs.
The government also abandoned plans to build a tent city in Marawi and neighbouring areas for the civilians displaced by the war. Instead, they will be housed in at least 1,000 temporary shelters to reduce crowding in evacuation centres as part of the initial phase of rehabilitation efforts for the war-ravaged city.
Marawi resident Samira Gutoc-Tomawis, co-convener of Ranao Rescue Team, lamented the uncertainty of going back home as the Marawi crisis entered Day 78 today, Tuesday.
“On our incoming 80th day of the Marawi crisis, the lingering question on when to return to Marawi remains unanswered. Another mortar incident in the outskirts of Marawi in the border with Marantaw town doused our hopes as bakwits to set foot back to our beloved cool sanctuary,” she said in a social media post.
(File) A view of an empty street is seen as government forces continue their assault against insurgents from the Maute group, in Marawi City, Philippines June 25, 2017. Source: Reuters/Jorge Silva
Gutoc-Tomawis confirmed that civil society organisations have been tapped to participate in charting the recovery and rehabilitation of Marawi.
“Today, we gather as civil society in Iligan City to firm up participation in Task Force Bangon (Marawi),” she said.
Gutoc-Tomawis hailed the volunteers and non-government workers who worked without remuneration to help those affected by the Marawi crisis.
On August 4, Duterte visited the troops in Marawi for the second time to boost their morale and encouraged them to defeat the enemies to allow the return of displaced civilians to the city.
“I have to be here because I want all of you to know that… Mahal ko kayo (I love you). I hope you will be able to clean up Marawi City and get rid of the terrorists,” the President said in his speech.
Duterte said he is hopeful that the government will not lose more troops because of the ongoing battle in the locality.
SEE ALSO: Philippine Congress extends martial law to end-2017
The commander-in-chief’s second visit to the besieged city, just like the first, was unannounced. Officials only confirmed the visit when the President already left the area.
Duterte also reiterated his pledge of putting up a PHP50 billion (US$993 million) trust fund for the children of soldiers and police personnel.
Wearing on now for the third month, the war in Marawi has killed 122 military and police personnel and 45 civilians as of Monday’s data from the government.
Five more terrorist gunmen were killed, bringing their fatalities to 528, the data showed, adding that 603 firearms were recovered from them.
Bayan denounces US planned airstrike in Mindanao
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Aug 8): Bayan denounces US planned airstrike in Mindanao
The militant group Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) denounced on Tuesday the possibility of the United States (US) military to conduct airstrikes in the Philippines to wipe out groups sympathizing the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) in Marawi City.
“Bayan opposes in the strongest terms US plans to conduct airstrikes in the Philippines against ISIS-linked groups. There can be no justification for allowing a foreign superpower with the world’s worst rights record to be conducting airstrikes on Philippine soil,” Bayan secretary general Renato Reyes said in a statement.
According to an NBC News report quoting officials on Monday, “the authority to strike ISIS targets as part of (a) collective self-defense could be granted as part of an official military operation that may be named as early as Tuesday. The strikes would likely be conducted by armed drones.”
The international report also cited Pentagon spokesperson Capt. Jeff Davis’s statement that US military has been sharing intelligence with the Philippines for years, calling it a “steady state.”
“We have had a consistent CT (counter terror) presence in the Philippines for 15 years now,” Davis said.
RELATED STORY: Duterte thanks US for aid during meeting with Tillerson
However, Chief presidential legal counsel Salvador Panelo reportedly said that the matter had not been discussed by the two countries according to Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana.
Meanwhile, Reyes accused US of making the Philippines another Syria or Somalia, where US-sanctioned airstrikes against Al Qaeda and ISIS resulted to huge civilian casualties.
The activist added that the plan is also a threat against Philippine’s sovereignty.
“The airstrikes will violate our national sovereignty and will run counter to the constitutional ban on foreign troops participating in combat operations in the Philippines,” Reyes said in a statement.
“There is a concerted effort now on the part of several US agencies to push for an extended US role in the fight against ISIS, using the conflict as a pretext for permanent US basing and power-projection in Southeast Asia,” he added.
Reyes further warned that the move may potentially result to a US-led operation in Mindanao similar to the Operation Enduring Freedom Philippines, a special military operation to help fight Abu Sayyaf group and other rebels in the southern island from 2002 to 2015.
The Bayan spokesman also hinted that this may be the highlight of the Philippine visit of US President Donald Trump slated in November
http://globalnation.inquirer.net/159517/bayan-denounces-us-planned-airstrike-mindanao
The militant group Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) denounced on Tuesday the possibility of the United States (US) military to conduct airstrikes in the Philippines to wipe out groups sympathizing the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) in Marawi City.
“Bayan opposes in the strongest terms US plans to conduct airstrikes in the Philippines against ISIS-linked groups. There can be no justification for allowing a foreign superpower with the world’s worst rights record to be conducting airstrikes on Philippine soil,” Bayan secretary general Renato Reyes said in a statement.
According to an NBC News report quoting officials on Monday, “the authority to strike ISIS targets as part of (a) collective self-defense could be granted as part of an official military operation that may be named as early as Tuesday. The strikes would likely be conducted by armed drones.”
The international report also cited Pentagon spokesperson Capt. Jeff Davis’s statement that US military has been sharing intelligence with the Philippines for years, calling it a “steady state.”
“We have had a consistent CT (counter terror) presence in the Philippines for 15 years now,” Davis said.
RELATED STORY: Duterte thanks US for aid during meeting with Tillerson
However, Chief presidential legal counsel Salvador Panelo reportedly said that the matter had not been discussed by the two countries according to Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana.
Meanwhile, Reyes accused US of making the Philippines another Syria or Somalia, where US-sanctioned airstrikes against Al Qaeda and ISIS resulted to huge civilian casualties.
The activist added that the plan is also a threat against Philippine’s sovereignty.
“The airstrikes will violate our national sovereignty and will run counter to the constitutional ban on foreign troops participating in combat operations in the Philippines,” Reyes said in a statement.
“There is a concerted effort now on the part of several US agencies to push for an extended US role in the fight against ISIS, using the conflict as a pretext for permanent US basing and power-projection in Southeast Asia,” he added.
Reyes further warned that the move may potentially result to a US-led operation in Mindanao similar to the Operation Enduring Freedom Philippines, a special military operation to help fight Abu Sayyaf group and other rebels in the southern island from 2002 to 2015.
The Bayan spokesman also hinted that this may be the highlight of the Philippine visit of US President Donald Trump slated in November
http://globalnation.inquirer.net/159517/bayan-denounces-us-planned-airstrike-mindanao
US Considers Direct Military Involvement in Fight Against Islamic State-Affiliated Militants in Mindanao
From The Diplomat (Aug 8): US Considers Direct Military Involvement in Fight Against Islamic State-Affiliated Militants in Mindanao
U.S. drone strikes against the Islamic State in the Philippines may not be decisive in terminating the conflict.
The U.S. Department of Defense confirmed on Monday that it is actively considering the adoption of plans that would allow the U.S. military to carry out airstrikes on Islamic State-affiliated fighters in the southern Philippines, according to a report by NBC News.
Since late-May, the Armed Forces of the Philippines have been struggling to retake Marawi City on the southern Philippine island of Mindanao after it was overrun by militants affiliated with the Maute Group, which had declared its allegiance to the Islamic State’s caliphate.
U.S. military advisers have been operating in the Philippines since 2001 with a counterterrorism mission and have been active in assisting Filipino troops in the siege of Marawi City. The United States has additionally long shared intelligence with the Philippines as it fought against various armed groups in the south, ranging from the al-Qaeda-affiliated Abu Sayyaf to Communist and separatist rebels
The new plans would allow direct combat engagements for U.S. aerial assets — most likely unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs). The adoption of such a plan would be a boon to Philippine forces and mark a marked uptick in U.S. involvement in the ongoing fight against terror in Mindanao that has displaced thousands.
News of the new plans under consideration also come as U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson is on his first trip to Southeast Asia. In Manila, on the sidelines of the 50th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Ministerial Meeting (AMM), Tillerson met Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, who took a markedly more positive tone with Tillerson than he had with officials from the previous U.S. administration.
Shortly after coming to office in 2016, Duterte became quickly known for his overt anti-American comments, which included threats to abrogate active defense cooperation agreements between the two allies. Though he did not move to take any steps to implement these threats, Duterte regularly threatened to evict all U.S. troops from the southern Philippines prior to the start of the ongoing campaign against the militants in Marawi City.
The adoption of any plans to deploy U.S. aerial assets would likely take place in consultation with the Philippines, a U.S. treaty ally. As Prashanth Parameswaran discussed in The Diplomat earlier this week, Duterte’s ongoing struggles in the campaign to retake Marawi City have led him to ask the Filipino legislature for additional troop funding.
More broadly, an escalation in U.S. involvement would serve to underline the ongoing inadequacy of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in managing intensifying domestic threats. Despite manifold challenges, ranging from armed groups in the southern parts of the country, transnational piracy, and maritime friction with China in the South China Sea, the Philippine military continues to be one of the weakest in Southeast Asia.
In the United States, the plan may encounter congressional resistance as concerns about presidential war powers under the 2001 Authorization for the Use of Military Force (AUMF) persist. In 2001, the Philippines was among the list of countries where the U.S. military deployed under the auspices of Operation Enduring Freedom. However, direct military operations may see additional congressional scrutiny.
Extended U.S. involvement in the ongoing conflict could also tie Duterte’s political fortunes more directly to the state of the relationship with the United States as the campaign to retake Marawi drags on. However, given the challenges of urban counterinsurgency, UCAV deployment by the United States is unlikely to be a decisive strategic development on the battlefield.
Instead, it could see the United States drawn into what could be just the start of a longer military quagmire in Southeast Asia.
http://thediplomat.com/2017/08/us-considers-direct-military-involvement-in-fight-against-islamic-state-affiliated-militants-in-mindanao/
U.S. drone strikes against the Islamic State in the Philippines may not be decisive in terminating the conflict.
The U.S. Department of Defense confirmed on Monday that it is actively considering the adoption of plans that would allow the U.S. military to carry out airstrikes on Islamic State-affiliated fighters in the southern Philippines, according to a report by NBC News.
Since late-May, the Armed Forces of the Philippines have been struggling to retake Marawi City on the southern Philippine island of Mindanao after it was overrun by militants affiliated with the Maute Group, which had declared its allegiance to the Islamic State’s caliphate.
U.S. military advisers have been operating in the Philippines since 2001 with a counterterrorism mission and have been active in assisting Filipino troops in the siege of Marawi City. The United States has additionally long shared intelligence with the Philippines as it fought against various armed groups in the south, ranging from the al-Qaeda-affiliated Abu Sayyaf to Communist and separatist rebels
The new plans would allow direct combat engagements for U.S. aerial assets — most likely unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs). The adoption of such a plan would be a boon to Philippine forces and mark a marked uptick in U.S. involvement in the ongoing fight against terror in Mindanao that has displaced thousands.
News of the new plans under consideration also come as U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson is on his first trip to Southeast Asia. In Manila, on the sidelines of the 50th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Ministerial Meeting (AMM), Tillerson met Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, who took a markedly more positive tone with Tillerson than he had with officials from the previous U.S. administration.
Shortly after coming to office in 2016, Duterte became quickly known for his overt anti-American comments, which included threats to abrogate active defense cooperation agreements between the two allies. Though he did not move to take any steps to implement these threats, Duterte regularly threatened to evict all U.S. troops from the southern Philippines prior to the start of the ongoing campaign against the militants in Marawi City.
The adoption of any plans to deploy U.S. aerial assets would likely take place in consultation with the Philippines, a U.S. treaty ally. As Prashanth Parameswaran discussed in The Diplomat earlier this week, Duterte’s ongoing struggles in the campaign to retake Marawi City have led him to ask the Filipino legislature for additional troop funding.
More broadly, an escalation in U.S. involvement would serve to underline the ongoing inadequacy of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in managing intensifying domestic threats. Despite manifold challenges, ranging from armed groups in the southern parts of the country, transnational piracy, and maritime friction with China in the South China Sea, the Philippine military continues to be one of the weakest in Southeast Asia.
In the United States, the plan may encounter congressional resistance as concerns about presidential war powers under the 2001 Authorization for the Use of Military Force (AUMF) persist. In 2001, the Philippines was among the list of countries where the U.S. military deployed under the auspices of Operation Enduring Freedom. However, direct military operations may see additional congressional scrutiny.
Extended U.S. involvement in the ongoing conflict could also tie Duterte’s political fortunes more directly to the state of the relationship with the United States as the campaign to retake Marawi drags on. However, given the challenges of urban counterinsurgency, UCAV deployment by the United States is unlikely to be a decisive strategic development on the battlefield.
Instead, it could see the United States drawn into what could be just the start of a longer military quagmire in Southeast Asia.
http://thediplomat.com/2017/08/us-considers-direct-military-involvement-in-fight-against-islamic-state-affiliated-militants-in-mindanao/
2 drug suspects killed in Sulu; 3 cops hurt
From ABS-CBN (Aug 8): 2 drug suspects killed in Sulu; 3 cops hurt
Two drug suspects were killed while three police officers were wounded in anti-illegal drugs operations in Barangay Kandang, Maimbung, Sulu on Monday.
Senior Superintendent Mario Buyuccan, Sulu provincial police director, identified the suspects as Boogie Hajirin and Nurhassan Mandangan Padin.
Hajirin was cornered by police officers inside his house. Padin, who holed up inside his house, was also killed in a follow-up operation.
Police recovered three sachets of suspected shabu, drug paraphernalia, and an M-16 rifle from the house of Padin.
The suspects were allegedly responsible for the distribution and sale of illegal drugs in Maimbung and nearby towns.
According to Buyuccan, the two are also linked to the Abu Sayyaf's operation in Sulu.
The police officers injured in the operations include Inspector Ergie Wanawan, the chief of police of Maimbung Municipal Police Station.
The two other injured police officers were identified as PO3 Jun Jumah and PO1 Benasri Arah.
They were part of the raiding team and were hit by gunfire from the suspects.
Wanawan and Arah were airlifted to Zamboanga City while Jumah was brought to a local hospital.
At least five civilians were allegedly caught in the crossfire during the operations.
Buyuccan, however, denied this, saying the operations were properly executed without any collateral damage.
http://news.abs-cbn.com/news/08/07/17/2-drug-suspects-killed-in-sulu-3-cops-hurt
Two drug suspects were killed while three police officers were wounded in anti-illegal drugs operations in Barangay Kandang, Maimbung, Sulu on Monday.
Senior Superintendent Mario Buyuccan, Sulu provincial police director, identified the suspects as Boogie Hajirin and Nurhassan Mandangan Padin.
Hajirin was cornered by police officers inside his house. Padin, who holed up inside his house, was also killed in a follow-up operation.
Police recovered three sachets of suspected shabu, drug paraphernalia, and an M-16 rifle from the house of Padin.
The suspects were allegedly responsible for the distribution and sale of illegal drugs in Maimbung and nearby towns.
According to Buyuccan, the two are also linked to the Abu Sayyaf's operation in Sulu.
The police officers injured in the operations include Inspector Ergie Wanawan, the chief of police of Maimbung Municipal Police Station.
The two other injured police officers were identified as PO3 Jun Jumah and PO1 Benasri Arah.
They were part of the raiding team and were hit by gunfire from the suspects.
Wanawan and Arah were airlifted to Zamboanga City while Jumah was brought to a local hospital.
At least five civilians were allegedly caught in the crossfire during the operations.
Buyuccan, however, denied this, saying the operations were properly executed without any collateral damage.
http://news.abs-cbn.com/news/08/07/17/2-drug-suspects-killed-in-sulu-3-cops-hurt
NDF bares alleged CIA plan to kill Sison, oust Duterte
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Aug 7): NDF bares alleged CIA plan to kill Sison, oust Duterte
Jose Maria Sison (left), founder of the Communist Party of the Philippines, was a professor of President Rodrigo Duterte in college. (File photos from the Philippine Daily Inquirer)
The National Democratic Front (NDF) on Tuesday disclosed an alleged collaboration of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to kill communist leader Jose Maria Sison and overthrow President Rodrigo Duterte.
Citing reports from sources, the NDF said that military officers who are assets of the US Central Intelligence Agency and are close to AFP chief Gen. Eduardo Año “are engaged in a two-stage plot to assassinate Jose Maria Sison, NDFP chief political consultant, and subsequently to overthrow President Rodrigo Duterte.”
The NDF said that while the plot has yet to be verified, it must be immediately exposed in order to discourage its implementation.
The first stage of the plot allegedly involves sending a hit team to The Netherlands to assassinate Sison, with the verbal approvals of Duterte or Año, before or after martial law proclamation nationwide. The members of the hit team will be made to appear as dropouts from the New People’s Army but they will be from the elite forces of the AFP or from the Alex Boncayao Brigade.
The second stage of the plot is to overthrow Duterte for collaborating with the communist for decades, supposedly for betraying the alliance with the US and veering towards Russia and China; as well as for playing favorites with certain military and police officers, and for failing to solve the problem of illegal drugs despite the flagrant violation of human rights.
The AFP, meanwhile, has denied the accusations of the NDF and dismissed it as propaganda.
“Not true at all! This is once again a propaganda line of the left to gain sympathy and toe the anti-US line that they usually take. Again this is such a preposterous statement!” AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said in a statement.
http://globalnation.inquirer.net/159518/ndf-bares-alleged-cia-plan-kill-sison-oust-duterte
Jose Maria Sison (left), founder of the Communist Party of the Philippines, was a professor of President Rodrigo Duterte in college. (File photos from the Philippine Daily Inquirer)
The National Democratic Front (NDF) on Tuesday disclosed an alleged collaboration of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to kill communist leader Jose Maria Sison and overthrow President Rodrigo Duterte.
Citing reports from sources, the NDF said that military officers who are assets of the US Central Intelligence Agency and are close to AFP chief Gen. Eduardo Año “are engaged in a two-stage plot to assassinate Jose Maria Sison, NDFP chief political consultant, and subsequently to overthrow President Rodrigo Duterte.”
The NDF said that while the plot has yet to be verified, it must be immediately exposed in order to discourage its implementation.
The first stage of the plot allegedly involves sending a hit team to The Netherlands to assassinate Sison, with the verbal approvals of Duterte or Año, before or after martial law proclamation nationwide. The members of the hit team will be made to appear as dropouts from the New People’s Army but they will be from the elite forces of the AFP or from the Alex Boncayao Brigade.
The second stage of the plot is to overthrow Duterte for collaborating with the communist for decades, supposedly for betraying the alliance with the US and veering towards Russia and China; as well as for playing favorites with certain military and police officers, and for failing to solve the problem of illegal drugs despite the flagrant violation of human rights.
The AFP, meanwhile, has denied the accusations of the NDF and dismissed it as propaganda.
“Not true at all! This is once again a propaganda line of the left to gain sympathy and toe the anti-US line that they usually take. Again this is such a preposterous statement!” AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said in a statement.
http://globalnation.inquirer.net/159518/ndf-bares-alleged-cia-plan-kill-sison-oust-duterte
P1-B Pangasinan-N. Vizcaya road construction suspended due to NPA sightings
From the Manila Bulletin (Aug 7): P1-B Pangasinan-N. Vizcaya road construction suspended due to NPA sightings
http://news.mb.com.ph/2017/08/07/p1-b-pangasinan-n-vizcaya-road-construction-suspended-due-to-npa-sightings/
VILLA VERDE TRAIL — Shown here is the Barangay Malico, San Nicolas, Pangasinan section of the P1-billion Pangasinan-Nueva Vizcaya road project known as the ‘Villa Verde Trail,’ which has been put on hold due the threat posed by New People’s Army (NPA) rebels. (Courtesy of Engr. Larry Flores/DPWH 3rd Engineering District Office-Pangasinan)
San Nicolas, Pangasinan — For the safety of at least 100 workers and personnel of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the construction of the P1-billion Pangasinan-Nueva Vizcaya road project also known as the Valle Verde Trail has been suspended due to New People’s Army (NPA) sightings in this town.
San Nicolas, Pangasinan — For the safety of at least 100 workers and personnel of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the construction of the P1-billion Pangasinan-Nueva Vizcaya road project also known as the Valle Verde Trail has been suspended due to New People’s Army (NPA) sightings in this town.
“We were committed to Public Works Secretary (Mark) Villar that by December this year the Villa Verde trail will be finished and will be opened,” said Engr. Larry Flores of the DPWH 33d Engineering District-Pangasinan.
However, Engr. Narchito Arpilleda, administrative officer, told The Manila Bulletin that the P1-billion project had to be temporarily suspended based on security concerns over the presence of NPA rebels as raised by both the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
However, Engr. Narchito Arpilleda, administrative officer, told The Manila Bulletin that the P1-billion project had to be temporarily suspended based on security concerns over the presence of NPA rebels as raised by both the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
Both the PNP and the AFP called for the suspension of the ongoing construction for the safety of the workers following last July 28’s encounter which resulted in the death of one and the wounding of another in Barangay Malico, here.
The DPWH personnel are still waiting for the go signal from the PNP to operate and continue construction activities, said Flores.
Arpilleda said that once completed, the Villa Verde Trail would be used as an alternative route from Manila to Isabela and Cagayan provinces when the Dalton Pass Road in Sta. Fe is closed due to landslides and vehicular accidents.
Flores vowed to work double-time on the project once they resume construction. “Hahabol kami sa aming pangako kay secretary (We’ll catch up with the work to deliver what we promised the secretary),” he said.
Arpilleda said that once completed, the Villa Verde Trail would be used as an alternative route from Manila to Isabela and Cagayan provinces when the Dalton Pass Road in Sta. Fe is closed due to landslides and vehicular accidents.
Flores vowed to work double-time on the project once they resume construction. “Hahabol kami sa aming pangako kay secretary (We’ll catch up with the work to deliver what we promised the secretary),” he said.
http://news.mb.com.ph/2017/08/07/p1-b-pangasinan-n-vizcaya-road-construction-suspended-due-to-npa-sightings/
Will Duterte Abandon the Left in the Philippines?
From The Diplomat (Aug 7): Will Duterte Abandon the Left in the Philippines?
Though there are signs of a fraying of ties, the future outlook remains murky.
It has become commonplace to refer to Rodrigo Duterte as the Philippines’ first leftist president. Duterte himself has publicly made the claim, much to the alarm of some outside observers as well as some in the Philippines.
In reality, the claim is disputable, and it is not really certain whether he is serious about advancing socialist causes.
It is certainly true that Duterte has solid leftist links dating back decades, and that he was often considered an ally by Davao’s revolutionary forces when he was mayor for two decades.
Leftist or not, Duterte’s actions do suggest where his leanings may lie. Duterte has appointed three Cabinet members nominated by the Communist Party. He delegated the government’s land reform program to a radical peasant leader. He quickly resumed peace talks with communists by releasing top rebel leaders. He even endeared himself to nationalists by declaring his “separation” from the “imperialist” United States and was the first president to identify the colonial crimes of the U.S.
But a year later, Duterte appears to be distancing himself from his leftist allies. He declared an all-out war policy against the communist-led New People’s Army. He suspended the peace talks and insisted that a ceasefire agreement is a precondition before the government would agree to the release of more political prisoners or the signing of a social and economic reform pact with the communists. He warned that after defeating ISIS-backed terrorists in Marawi, his next target is the wiping out of the communist threat in Mindanao. He instructed the military to “flatten the hills” and bomb communities where communist rebels are operating. And most recently, he ordered the police to join the army in the counterinsurgency drive.
The Left has not held back in its own response, repeatedly exposing Duterte’s numerous failures as a leader. The Communist Party denounced the human rights record of the government; in particular, the bloody impact of the ill-conceived “war on drugs” and the continuing militarization of communities in Mindanao. It accused Duterte of serving the interest of big landlords, foreign plunderers, and even the government of U.S. President Donald Trump. It warned against the unfolding dictatorship in the country after Duterte extended Martial Law in Mindanao aside from appointing at least 13 generals in his Cabinet.
As of this writing, Duterte continues to engage in a word war with top communist leaders. He said the government is ready to wage war for another 50 years in order to defeat the rebels.
Does this represent the long-term approach of the Duterte government in dealing with the Left?
The bickering on both sides may continue and could even worsen in the coming days and weeks. But it is important to highlight that even as Duterte has lambasted communists in his speeches, he has not yet removed the three communist-appointed members in his Cabinet. A palace official told the media that the three leftist Cabinet members continue to enjoy the trust of the president.
Furthermore, despite Duterte’s frequent outbursts against the NPA rebels, he has not formally terminated the peace process. The fifth round of talks is suspended, but the overall mechanism for continuing the peace process remains valid.
After delivering his second state of the nation address, Duterte went outside the Congress complex to speak before a large crowd of leftist protesters. He repeated his tirades against rebels but he also hinted that he remains an ally and a friend of the left. He appealed for more time to deliver reforms. He said he will support the resumption of the peace talks but only if the rebels will stop conducting ambush operations.
As a veteran politician, Duterte is aware that the Left is a force that can strengthen the ranks of the political opposition. Duterte has just survived an impeachment attempt, this is no time for him to make more enemies in the political battlefield.
Perhaps there is continuing opportunity to move forward in the peace process, which explains why Duterte continues to include the Left in his Cabinet. And perhaps this is the same reason why the Left has not called for the ouster or removal of Duterte from power.
But the situation today is precarious, and things can escalate quickly. A daring NPA attack can provoke Duterte or the formal ending of the peace process can lead the left to call for the ouster of the president. And there’s always the possibility that a total war between the left and Duterte can arise in the coming weeks.
What is clear is that Duterte, at least for now, has stopped referring to himself as a leftist and socialist as he did before.
http://thediplomat.com/2017/08/will-duterte-abandon-the-left-in-the-philippines/
Though there are signs of a fraying of ties, the future outlook remains murky.
It has become commonplace to refer to Rodrigo Duterte as the Philippines’ first leftist president. Duterte himself has publicly made the claim, much to the alarm of some outside observers as well as some in the Philippines.
In reality, the claim is disputable, and it is not really certain whether he is serious about advancing socialist causes.
It is certainly true that Duterte has solid leftist links dating back decades, and that he was often considered an ally by Davao’s revolutionary forces when he was mayor for two decades.
Leftist or not, Duterte’s actions do suggest where his leanings may lie. Duterte has appointed three Cabinet members nominated by the Communist Party. He delegated the government’s land reform program to a radical peasant leader. He quickly resumed peace talks with communists by releasing top rebel leaders. He even endeared himself to nationalists by declaring his “separation” from the “imperialist” United States and was the first president to identify the colonial crimes of the U.S.
But a year later, Duterte appears to be distancing himself from his leftist allies. He declared an all-out war policy against the communist-led New People’s Army. He suspended the peace talks and insisted that a ceasefire agreement is a precondition before the government would agree to the release of more political prisoners or the signing of a social and economic reform pact with the communists. He warned that after defeating ISIS-backed terrorists in Marawi, his next target is the wiping out of the communist threat in Mindanao. He instructed the military to “flatten the hills” and bomb communities where communist rebels are operating. And most recently, he ordered the police to join the army in the counterinsurgency drive.
The Left has not held back in its own response, repeatedly exposing Duterte’s numerous failures as a leader. The Communist Party denounced the human rights record of the government; in particular, the bloody impact of the ill-conceived “war on drugs” and the continuing militarization of communities in Mindanao. It accused Duterte of serving the interest of big landlords, foreign plunderers, and even the government of U.S. President Donald Trump. It warned against the unfolding dictatorship in the country after Duterte extended Martial Law in Mindanao aside from appointing at least 13 generals in his Cabinet.
As of this writing, Duterte continues to engage in a word war with top communist leaders. He said the government is ready to wage war for another 50 years in order to defeat the rebels.
Does this represent the long-term approach of the Duterte government in dealing with the Left?
The bickering on both sides may continue and could even worsen in the coming days and weeks. But it is important to highlight that even as Duterte has lambasted communists in his speeches, he has not yet removed the three communist-appointed members in his Cabinet. A palace official told the media that the three leftist Cabinet members continue to enjoy the trust of the president.
Furthermore, despite Duterte’s frequent outbursts against the NPA rebels, he has not formally terminated the peace process. The fifth round of talks is suspended, but the overall mechanism for continuing the peace process remains valid.
After delivering his second state of the nation address, Duterte went outside the Congress complex to speak before a large crowd of leftist protesters. He repeated his tirades against rebels but he also hinted that he remains an ally and a friend of the left. He appealed for more time to deliver reforms. He said he will support the resumption of the peace talks but only if the rebels will stop conducting ambush operations.
As a veteran politician, Duterte is aware that the Left is a force that can strengthen the ranks of the political opposition. Duterte has just survived an impeachment attempt, this is no time for him to make more enemies in the political battlefield.
Perhaps there is continuing opportunity to move forward in the peace process, which explains why Duterte continues to include the Left in his Cabinet. And perhaps this is the same reason why the Left has not called for the ouster or removal of Duterte from power.
But the situation today is precarious, and things can escalate quickly. A daring NPA attack can provoke Duterte or the formal ending of the peace process can lead the left to call for the ouster of the president. And there’s always the possibility that a total war between the left and Duterte can arise in the coming weeks.
What is clear is that Duterte, at least for now, has stopped referring to himself as a leftist and socialist as he did before.
http://thediplomat.com/2017/08/will-duterte-abandon-the-left-in-the-philippines/
2 soldiers killed, 7 others hurt in Sorsogon clash
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Aug 7): 2 soldiers killed, 7 others hurt in Sorsogon clash
Two Army soldiers were killed while seven others were wounded in a clash between military troops and New People’s Army (NPA) rebels early Monday in Gubat town in Sorsogon, the military said.
The Army troopers were on combat patrol at around 5 a.m. when they engaged an undetermined number of NPA rebels in a 30-minute firefight in the vicinity of Barangay (village) Casili in the outskirt of Gubat town, said Maj. Virgilio Perez, spokesman of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Southern Luzon Command (Solcom). Reports reaching Solcom said that aside from the gunfight, the NPA rebels also used and planted landmines against the government troopers.
Perez, in a text message, said the identities of the slain and wounded soldiers are withheld pending notification of their families.
The attack coincided with the interment at the Casiguran Public Cemetery of ranking rebel leader Andres “Ka Magno” Hubilla and NPA member Miguel “Ka Billy” Himor. The military claimed Hubilla and Himor died in an encounter with soldiers in a remote village in Casiguran town, also in Sorsogon, on July 28 but Karapatan-Bicol fact-finding mission said the two were massacred with civilians Arnel Borres and Dick Laura.
Hundreds of supporters wearing red shirts joined the burial rites in a call for justice for the slain rebels.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/921014/2-soldiers-killed-7-others-hurt-in-sorsogon-clash
Two Army soldiers were killed while seven others were wounded in a clash between military troops and New People’s Army (NPA) rebels early Monday in Gubat town in Sorsogon, the military said.
The Army troopers were on combat patrol at around 5 a.m. when they engaged an undetermined number of NPA rebels in a 30-minute firefight in the vicinity of Barangay (village) Casili in the outskirt of Gubat town, said Maj. Virgilio Perez, spokesman of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Southern Luzon Command (Solcom). Reports reaching Solcom said that aside from the gunfight, the NPA rebels also used and planted landmines against the government troopers.
Perez, in a text message, said the identities of the slain and wounded soldiers are withheld pending notification of their families.
The attack coincided with the interment at the Casiguran Public Cemetery of ranking rebel leader Andres “Ka Magno” Hubilla and NPA member Miguel “Ka Billy” Himor. The military claimed Hubilla and Himor died in an encounter with soldiers in a remote village in Casiguran town, also in Sorsogon, on July 28 but Karapatan-Bicol fact-finding mission said the two were massacred with civilians Arnel Borres and Dick Laura.
Hundreds of supporters wearing red shirts joined the burial rites in a call for justice for the slain rebels.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/921014/2-soldiers-killed-7-others-hurt-in-sorsogon-clash
U.S. to maintain military role in southern Philippines, as fight against ISIS affiliates rages
From the Washington Times (Aug 7): U.S. to maintain military role in southern Philippines, as fight against ISIS affiliates rages
U.S. State Secretary Rex Tillerson, left, is welcomed by Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte during the former's courtesy call at Malacanang Palace in Manila, Philippines, Monday, Aug. 7, 2017. Tillerson is here to attend the 50th ASEAN Foreign Ministers Meeting and its Dialogue Partners. (AP Photo/Bullit Marquez)
The Pentagon has no plans of pulling back or reducing American counterterrorism efforts in the southern Philippines as Manila continues to battle Islamic State affiliates looking to gain a foothold in the country and the Pacific region writ large.
The small team of U.S. special operations forces, based in the Philippine city of Zamboanga, will continue to provide intelligence and logistical support to Philippine forces as their offensive against the Maute group — a radical militant group tied to the Abu Sayyaf terror organization and the group known as ISIS or ISIL — in the city of Marawi in the country’s south.
The small team of American troops had been part of Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines, one of the earliest U.S. counterterrorism operations launched in the wake of 9/11. As the height of Operation Enduring Freedom-Philippines, over 400 task force members provided combat support to Manila’s efforts to quash groups such as the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and the al Qaeda-linked Abu Sayyaf.
While remaining largely out of the fray inside Marawi, American forces have been critical in supporting Manila’s military offensive to drive members of the Maute group from the city, a campaign that is entering its third month since fighting broke out in late May.
“We want to support them … we want to see ISIS defeated” in Marawi and throughout the southern Philippines, Pentagon spokesman Capt. Jeff Davis said Monday, noting U.S. forces have supported the Philippine government’s war on extremists since the days just after Sept. 11 attacks.
Maute group leader Isnilon Hapilon declared allegiance to the Islamic State in 2014 and was subsequently named the group’s emir in Southeast Asia. The assault on Mawari was triggered by a failed raid by Philippine military and police on Mr. Hapilon’s base near the city, local reports say.
http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2017/aug/7/us-maintain-military-role-southern-philippines/
U.S. State Secretary Rex Tillerson, left, is welcomed by Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte during the former's courtesy call at Malacanang Palace in Manila, Philippines, Monday, Aug. 7, 2017. Tillerson is here to attend the 50th ASEAN Foreign Ministers Meeting and its Dialogue Partners. (AP Photo/Bullit Marquez)
The Pentagon has no plans of pulling back or reducing American counterterrorism efforts in the southern Philippines as Manila continues to battle Islamic State affiliates looking to gain a foothold in the country and the Pacific region writ large.
The small team of U.S. special operations forces, based in the Philippine city of Zamboanga, will continue to provide intelligence and logistical support to Philippine forces as their offensive against the Maute group — a radical militant group tied to the Abu Sayyaf terror organization and the group known as ISIS or ISIL — in the city of Marawi in the country’s south.
The small team of American troops had been part of Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines, one of the earliest U.S. counterterrorism operations launched in the wake of 9/11. As the height of Operation Enduring Freedom-Philippines, over 400 task force members provided combat support to Manila’s efforts to quash groups such as the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and the al Qaeda-linked Abu Sayyaf.
While remaining largely out of the fray inside Marawi, American forces have been critical in supporting Manila’s military offensive to drive members of the Maute group from the city, a campaign that is entering its third month since fighting broke out in late May.
“We want to support them … we want to see ISIS defeated” in Marawi and throughout the southern Philippines, Pentagon spokesman Capt. Jeff Davis said Monday, noting U.S. forces have supported the Philippine government’s war on extremists since the days just after Sept. 11 attacks.
Maute group leader Isnilon Hapilon declared allegiance to the Islamic State in 2014 and was subsequently named the group’s emir in Southeast Asia. The assault on Mawari was triggered by a failed raid by Philippine military and police on Mr. Hapilon’s base near the city, local reports say.
http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2017/aug/7/us-maintain-military-role-southern-philippines/