Monday, August 28, 2017

PH Air Force personnel train in US’ Japan base

From Update Philippines (Aug 28): PH Air Force personnel train in US’ Japan base

Philippine Air Force personnel together with United States Air Force personnel undergone a training course on maintenance of Lockheed C-130 Hercules military transport aircraft last week at Yokota Air Base, Japan.

The training course was led by the US Air Force 373rd Training Squadron Detachment 15.

“This is the first time we have taught this class with students from the Philippine Air Force,” said US Air Force Staff Sgt. Angelica Ponce, 373rd Training Squadron Detachment 15 aerospace propulsion instructor. “Aside from the different uniforms in the seats the class is no different.”

“This is very important because we can get some new ideas with regards to the matters of the build of up of the engine,” said Philippine Air Force Technical Sgt. Eulogio Arong, 220th Airlift Wing maintenance specialist. “It’s quite different from our country so it is good to learn how other military’s complete their mission, and we can strengthen our relationship.”



First bilateral Philippine US Air Force aircraft maintenance class to be taught at Yokota by the 373rd Training Squadron Detachment 15, August 23, 2017. US Air Force photo

https://www.update.ph/2017/08/ph-air-force-personnel-train-in-us-japan-base/20335

Duterte honors 5 slain Negrenses in Marawi

From the Visayan Daily Star (Aug 29): Duterte honors 5 slain Negrenses in Marawi

Five Negrense soldiers, who were among the 129 government forces killed fighting ISIS-inspired Maute terrorists in Marawi City, were awarded yesterday with posthumous recognitions of the Order of Lapu Lapu, Kalasag rank by President Rodrigo Duterte.

The distribution of posthumous awards was made yesterday as the nation marked National Heroes Day at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig City that was spearheaded by Duterte.

The awards were received by the families of five Negrense slain soldiers, who were 2Lt. 2Lt. Macglen Abuyabor of Bais City, Negros Oriental, SSgt. Joseph Villanueva of La Castellana, PFC Ramonito Occena III of Sipalay City, Cpl. Ariel Arquio of Cauayan, and Corporal Arjhay Baroa of San Carlos City, all in Negros Occidental.

The medal of the Order of Lapu Lapu Kalasag Rank is awarded to public and private servants who lost their lives as a direct result of their participation in advancing the campaign and advocacy of the government.

Duterte created the Order of Lapu-Lapu in April through Executive Order 17 and expanded its coverage through Executive Order 35 signed on August 3

Families of soldiers killed in the ongoing conflict in Marawi are also entitled to receive almost P1 million worth of benefits each from the government, according to the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Dutertae, in his speech televised nationwide, said “Today, we confer the Order of Lapu-Lapu [to] individuals who rendered extraordinary service to our country; of utmost significance are the fallen heroes of Marawi, of Jolo, Sulu and in other places in the country fighting terrorism and subversion of the New People's Army and the ISIS-Maute terror groups in Lanao,"

He added that he created the Order of Lapu-Lapu because he believes "Every Filipino who has done something for the country should be recognized, living or dead."

"I cannot thank them enough for their invaluable service to the nation, and we shall be forever in debt," Duterte also said.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2017/August/29/topstory1.htm

6th Negrense soldier killed in Marawi receives full military honors – 7 th IB

From the Visayan Daily Star (Aug 29): 6th Negrense soldier killed in Marawi receives full military honors – 7 th IB

Another soldier returned home in a casket in Negros Oriental.

The remains of PFC Nilbert Dedales, a member of the Special Forces Regiment (Airborne), Special Operations Command of the Philippine Army, was given full military honors during its arrival at the Dumaguete Airport Friday, the 79th Infantry Battalion said.

Dedales, of Brgy. Tayawan, Bayawan City in Negros Oriental, was the sixth Negrense soldier killed in Marawi City in the fighting between government forces and the ISIS-inspired Maute terrorist group, that is now on its third month since May 23.

The five other Negrense “heroes”, who were already laid to rest, included 2Lt. Macglen Abuyabor of Bais City, Negros Oriental, SSgt. Joseph Villanueva of La Castellana, PFC Ramonito Occena III of Sipalay City, Cpl. Ariel Arquio of Cauayan, and Corporal Arjhay Baroa of San Carlos City, all in Negros Occidental.

They were honored yesterday during the commemoration of National Heroes Day, with 124 other soldiers and policemen, who died in the fighting in Marawi.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2017/August/29/negor2.htm

Australia offers to train Philippine troops in ISIS fight

From Rappler (Aug 29): Australia offers to train Philippine troops in ISIS fight

Australia, which has an extensive defense cooperation program with Manila, has already deployed two high-tech AP-3C Orion aircraft for surveillance, and is keen to provide further help

In this file photo, smoke rises after aerial bombings by Philippine Air Force planes on Islamist militant positions in Marawi, June 6, 2017. Noel Celis/AFP

In this file photo, smoke rises after aerial bombings by Philippine Air Force planes on Islamist militant positions in Marawi, June 6, 2017. Noel Celis/AFP

Australia Tuesday, August 29, offered to help train the Philippines military to tackle Islamic militants terrorizing parts of the country, calling the threat "deeply concerning".

Philippine forces have been besieging militants in the southern city of Marawi for almost 100 days. But the gunmen, flying the ISIS black flag, have defied military assaults including airstrikes and artillery barrages.

Australia, which has an extensive defense cooperation program with Manila, has already deployed two high-tech AP-3C Orion aircraft for surveillance, and is keen to provide further help.

Foreign Minister Julie Bishop said she recently spoke to Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte who wanted to bolster resources for his armed forces.

"We would be ready to support the Philippines in the same way we are supporting Iraq in advising, assisting and training," she said.

"We indicated what we have been doing in Iraq. I went through with the president in some detail the support we have given in Iraq, that does not include troops on the ground. That is advising and assisting."

Australia is part of the coalition fighting ISIS in Iraq and Syria, with 780 defense personnel based in the Middle East.

Bishop said it was "deeply concerning" for the entire Asian region that Islamic State had a presence in the southern Philippines, with the United States, Malaysia and Indonesia also offering support.

Duterte declared martial law across Mindanao island, home to 20 million people, on May 23 immediately after fighters flying the ISIS flag rampaged through Marawi.

Their assault on the city ignited an unprecedented urban war, which Duterte has warned is part of an ISIS campaign to establish a base in Mindanao.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/180424-australia-offers-training-philippine-troops-isis-fight

President gives posthumous recognition to 129 soldiers killed in Marawi

From the Manila Times (Aug 28): President gives posthumous recognition to 129 soldiers killed in Marawi

PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte has awarded 129 soldiers who died fighting terrorists in Marawi City with a posthumous recognition of the Order of Lapu Lapu, Kalasag rank on Monday.

The President cited the fallen soldiers during the commemoration of the National Heroes Day at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig City.

The medal of Order of Lapu Lapu Kalasag Rank is awarded to public and private servants who lost their lives as a direct result of their participation in advancing the campaign and advocacy of the government.

The posthumous award was also described as a recognition of the courage and gallantry of the soldiers who paid the ultimate sacrifice of laying down their lives to fight terrorism and ensure the safety and security of the people in Mindanao.

The posthumous award for each soldier was received either by the soldier’s wife or parent.

Most of the soldiers who died in Marawi City were between 21 and 30 years old.

President Duterte has declared martial law in Mindanao last May 23 to supposedly suppress a rebellion by the Maute group seeking to establish an independent state in the southern Philippines with Islamist extremist leader Isnilon Hapilon as its emir.

Authorities were supposed to arrest Hapilon but were repelled by Maute forces. Since then, the Maute group has wrought havoc in Marawi, destroying the city, taking hostages and killing non-Muslims which prompted the President to declare martial law.

Congress extended martial law last July 22 until the end of 2017 on the President’s word that he needed more time to suppress a rebellion from the Maute group, Abu Sayyaf, Ansarul Khilafah Philippines and Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF).

http://www.manilatimes.net/president-gives-posthumous-recognition-129-soldiers-killed-marawi/347209/

Interview with Fidel V. Agcaoili, of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines

From Fight Back! News--News and Views from  the People's Struggle (Aug 25): Interview with Fidel V. Agcaoili, of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines

“We are fighting for national and social liberation of the Filipino people”

Fight Back! interviewed Fidel V. Agcaoili, the National Democratic Front of the Philippines’ Peace Panel chairperson, August 19, in Utrecht, the Netherlands. The interview was conducted by Fight Back! editor Mick Kelly, who is also responsible for the international work of Freedom Road Socialist Organization (FRSO).

Fight Back!: What is the National Democratic Front for the Philippines (NDFP) and what do you want?
Fidel V. Agcaoili: The National Democratic Front for the Philippines is the formal alliance of underground organizations that is carrying out the struggle for national and social liberation of the Filipino people.

It includes the Communist Party, the New People’s Army, and other organizations, such as MAKIBAKA, which is the organization of women and Christians for National Liberation, which is the organization of Christians believing in the liberation theology. Then we have the organizations of the Moro, the Cordilleras, the Lumad, government employees, migrants, teachers, students, youth, Kabataaang Makabayan, and then health professionals, etcetera - 17 organizations in all.

What do we want? As I told you we are fighting for national and social liberation of the Filipino people. In the current period, we say that we would like to liberate the Filipino people from its semi-feudal and semi-colonial situation, so that we will be able to break the chains of feudalism that has enslaved the peasantry which constitutes about 75% of our people, and also to be able to bring about national industrialization in the country.

The Philippines is a rich country; we have about 20 of the basic metals in the world and we have a lot of them. We can transform these natural resources into finished products in our own country, and use our own capital and human resources to develop them, so we can move forward - establish a society that is more just, equitable and independent.

Fight Back!: You have been engaged with peace talks with the government. Why?

Agcaoili: You see, we view peace negotiations as a form of struggle also, where we can be able to amplify and explain the objectives of the liberation struggle. We engage the government formally, but we always say that the objective - we are guided by the program for a people’s democratic revolution, the program of the National Democratic Front of Philippines - in carrying out peace negotiations, in dealing with the government. That means we will not be engaging in the surrender of the arms, but for a political settlement.

We would be able to engage the government in peace negotiations that would come up with agreements on social and economic reforms, on political and constitutional reforms - then we can bring about a situation where we will be able to achieve the objectives of the front.

Fight Back!: So where are the talks at right now? And where do you see them going?

Agcaoili: Right now, the talks are in a situation of suspended animation. Suspended animation because the government of Duterte, and Duterte himself declared that he is no longer interested in the peace negotiations, and would continue to fight for 50 more years if necessary.

But then they have not yet, they have come out with this officially, even Duterte, they have not yet sent us a formal letter terminating the peace negotiations in accordance with the joint agreement on safety and immunity guarantees, where it is stated that if one side wants to break negotiations then all he has to do is send a formal letter to the other side. The other side, upon receipt of the letter, has 30 days to withdraw all of its forces from in the open by disengaging in peace negotiations, so that they would be safe, and then the fighting can continue.

So, they have not yet sent us the formal letter of termination. For us the implication is that they would like to, while there is fighting, they would like to perhaps ‘cool off’ for a while across the table, while in the field the situation remains the same.

Under the current regime, we were able to at least come out with certain points of agreement, especially with respect to land reform, carrying out general land reform. And we had both agreed, in principle anyway, that the land should be distributed freely to the tillers. The government is the one that has the resources, would be the ones to set aside the amount necessary to acquire this land from the landlords, through various means. It could mean that the landlords would be given bonds which they could retrieve over a period of time, with interest of course. Or they could put these bonds, what monies they would get, into the industries set up in connection with the carrying out of national industrialization. So, encourage them to become bourgeois [laughs], from being landlords.

So that’s I think, a major breakthrough, to the credit also of current regime, but also of course because of the demand that has been put forward by the National Democratic Front to give concrete expression to the aspirations of the Filipino peasantry for the destruction of landlordism and feudalism of the country.

Fight Back!: Anything else the you would like to say?

Agcaoili: Oh, well! We would like to ask our friends abroad if they could continue to support the Filipino people’s struggle for national and social liberation. And, as part of this struggle, to support the continuation of the peace negotiations, towards achieving a just and lasting peace in the Philippines.

http://www.fightbacknews.org/2017/8/25/interview-fidel-v-agcaoili-national-democratic-front-philippines

Fight Back! interview with Jose Maria Sison on the people’s war in the Philippines (Part 1)

From Fight Back! News--News and Views from  the People's Struggle (Aug 27): Fight Back! interview with Jose Maria Sison on the people’s war in the Philippines

Enter a descriptive sentence about the photo here.

Jose Maria Sison, the founding Chairman of the Communist Party of the Philippines with Fight Back! editor Mick Kelly. (FightBack!News/Staff)

Part 1

Fight Back! interviewed Jose Maria Sison, the founding Chairman of the Communist Party of the Philippines, August 19, in Utrecht, the Netherlands. This is the first part of the interview.

The interview was conducted by Fight Back! editor Mick Kelly, who is also responsible for the international work of Freedom Road Socialist Organization (FRSO).

Fight Back!: In the Philippines, there is a people’s war taking place, for basic social change. Why?
Jose Maria Sison: The Philippines is a semi-colonial and semi-feudal country. Corresponding to that is the bourgeois democratic revolution of the new type. That is to say, it’s of the new type because it’s under working-class leadership - no longer under the bourgeois leadership, as in the old democratic revolution. One other way of phrasing what I call the ‘bourgeois democratic revolution, the new type’; they seem to call it ‘the people’s democratic revolution with a socialist perspective.’ And you know, the kind of character, as a new type of democratic revolution is determined by its class leadership - the working class - and the working class is the force that carries over the revolution from the democratic stage to the socialist stage of the revolution.

People’s war can be carried out in the Philippines any time, because Philippine society, which is semi-colonial and semi-feudal, is in chronic crisis. It’s a country that is agrarian and underdeveloped and most people are in the countryside. They are peasants. So, you have a wide countryside, as the physical terrain for building the New People’s Army and carrying out people’s war through stages, from small and weak, to bigger, to stronger.

We have three probable stages in the development of the people’s war. First stage is strategic defensive, in which we change the balance of forces by launching tactical offensives. You get the weapons from the enemy’s side and then you can get onto the strategic stalemate, where there is a parity. In other words, in so many areas, there will be a tug of war, over, let’s say, over towns - over town centers and even some small cities.

The enemy cannot hold on to any areas firmly and the NPA must maintain its mobility. When the enemy advances in bigger force, then the NPA retreats, it takes a more advantageous position, and then hits back [laughs]. Anyway, the final stage is when the force that was on the offensive, on the strategic offensive, is already placed on the defensive, and, so it’s now the force that was previously on the strategic defensive that goes on the strategic counter-offensive.

In terms of the growth of the army, when guerilla warfare is predominant in the strategic defensive, but elements of regular mobile warfare will already arise, upon the completion of that stage. And most of the fighting in the strategic offensive will be - most of the crucial fighting will be - done by the regular, by the mobile forces, so there will be bigger units, but with characteristics of mobility: The use of the tactics of concentration, dispersion, and shifting of forces, depending on the circumstances - whatever’s advantageous to the revolutionary army.

Now, in the strategic of counter-offensive, there will be instances where in crucial battles there will be some positional warfare, especially to destroy the strongholds and then of course, where certain cities can be taken over, by fighting, then the army that wins, the people’s army that wins, can leave the place: turn over the city to other types of forces - turn over the cities to the self-defense units, so that it can go - to beat the enemy as well.

So, you never throw away the mobility. But in the strategic counter-offensive you’ll see much use of positional warfare and the regular mobile warfare, depending on the situation. You don’t tie down your force, because, you know, you have already the momentum of winning, so [laughs] you don’t just keep territory, because you can transfer the matter of governance, peace and order, to the local revolutionary forces.

So that’s how we envision its probable course. And additional scheduling of each stage, the stages will appear as the people’s war develops. There can be even some zig zag - yeah it can happen - but the general course is from victory to victory.

Now, it is crucial that the working class is the lead factor that is taking up the democratic revolution from the bourgeois. Completely, surely, that with the working class in the leadership of the revolution, that puts the democratic revolution, even if it’s reliant on both peasants and workers, surely on the path, towards socialism. The one that is placed in the role of realizing the socialist cause is the working class. The working class leads the main component of proletarian dictatorship, the People’s Army. It smashes the military and bureaucratic machinery of the reactionary state. Then it will take over the enterprises that are in the commanding heights of the economy, the sources of raw materials, the main lines of communications. Those will be taken over by the proletarian state.

Democratic reform, land reform, will be carried out. You see, it’s when you seize power, all over the country, when you can really carry out, when you can complete land reform - it’s no longer here and there, as at present, in the strategic defensive. But when you have power, when the proletariat has already seized power, then the democratic reform, land reform, affecting the majority of the people can be carried out within a relatively short period of time.

But at the same time, there are stages in the development of agricultural cooperation. In the first stage, [it] can be based on certain villages, townships and districts. The third and highest level would be the communes. So, you combine social organization and the building of whatever amount of mechanization you can have.

Of course, whatever old ways of tilling, storing and processing the agricultural products will have to be pursued, pending deliveries from the industrial sector of the economy. And the working class is directly in charge of that part of the economy. Building the industries, also those industries will eventually recruit the peasants whose surplus population will be absorbed, given jobs by socialist industry.

Fight Back!: Very good…

Sison: Then we may also give concessions in the transitional processes. The small and medium entrepreneurs may be given an opportunity to participate in the national recovery, if, let us say, in the process of the revolutionary war, and because of let’s say, imperialist blockade, you have difficulties getting all the means necessary for building socialist industry. Well in Russia, you have the New Economic Policy, even then the proletariat will be in command, the proletariat will be in charge of economic planning.

And also, rather than frighten the people with [possessing] professional and technical skills, you can buy them off in a sort of way, you can give higher wages so they don’t flee [laughs] from the country.

Filipino people can also avail of the Filipinos in different countries - Filipinos who work abroad as professionals in technologies and as skilled workers - they can come back, to help in the socialist construction.

So that’s the outlook.

http://www.fightbacknews.org/2017/8/27/fight-back-interview-jose-maria-sison-people-s-war-philippines

10 construction workers released unharmed by NPA rebels

From the Manila Bulletin (Aug 28): 10 construction workers released unharmed by NPA rebels

Combat maneuvering troops, supported by war earth-moving facilities of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), on Monday pressed their wide pursuit operations against more than 100 fleeing New People’s Army (NPA) rebels who swooped down and set up a road block at a Mimbalite area, Barangay Eureka, Gingoog City late Friday afternoon.





Butuan City Map (Credits: Google Map | Manila Bulletin)
On the other hand, combat pilots of the Philippine Air Force’s (PAF) strike wing are already on standby alert for possible air cover to the pursuing combat maneuvering troops of the Army’s 403rd Infantry Brigade.

Combat maneuvering battalion of the Army’s 401st Infantry (Unity) Brigade also conducted blocking position along the provincial border of Agusan del Norte and Misamis Oriental in the possible escape route of withdrawal of the NPA rebels.

According to the latest information reaching here, the fleeing rebels of the NPA, armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), are now heading to Utao River in Agusan del Norte.

The expanded hot pursuit operation of the combat maneuvering troops of the Army’s 4thInfantry (Diamond) Division is also supported by the forces of Northeastern Mindanao Police Regional Office 13 (PRO 13), as blocking force in the regional border of northeastern and northern Mindanao regions.

On Friday at 1 p.m., at least 130 heavily armed rebels believed to be members of guerilla-Front Committee 4-B of the CPP-NPA North-Central Mindanao Regional Committee under certain ”Commander Dahon” swooped down and set up a road block at a Mimbalite area in Eureka, Gingoog City and held 10 workers of construction firm, took their vehicles and Isuzu pickup and forward boom truck.

According to initial report from Gingoog City Police Station (GCPS), the rebels also seized some personal belongings of the workers.

The 10 workers, with one field engineer were heading to Sitio Mimbalite of that same city when they were flagged down by the rebels past 12 noon on Friday, GCPS report said.

The workers were riding a pickup truck, a dump truck and a boom truck at that time, it said.

The rebels commandeered the vehicles and brought the workers to Sitio Talangisog where they were held for over five hours.

GCPS report also added that the construction workers were temporarily held hostage by the NPAs and lectured them (workers) not to believe the local government’s promise of a certificate of ancestral domain title before releasing them, after almost five hours.

No one was reported harmed among the released construction workers of Equi-Parco Construction Company based in Butuan city.

The rebels returned to the workers the vehicles including their belongings before 5 p.m. on the same day, it was learned.

As of this posting, wide pursuit operations against the fleeing rebels are still ongoing while the GCPS is preparing charges in court against the suspects who temporarily held hostage the construction workers while also conducted road blocking during the incident.

GCPS city director Supt. Roel Lamiing said they are gathering vital information from the released construction workers in addition to their preparation for filing of appropriate charges against the group of “Commander Dahon.”

http://news.mb.com.ph/2017/08/28/10construction-workers-released-unharmed-by-npa-rebels/

Troops kill 2 suspected NPA rebels in Isabela clash

From GMA News (Aug 28): Troops kill 2 suspected NPA rebels in Isabela clash

Two suspected New People's Army rebels were killed following a clash with government forces in Isabela early Monday morning, a military statement said.

A statement from the Army's 86th Infantry Battalion said around 4:30 a.m., patrolling elements of the battalion's Alpha Company engaged an undetermined number of communist rebels at Sitio Lumalog in Barangay Cadsalan in San Mariano town.

The operating troops recovered a shotgun and a .22 caliber rifle from the rebels. No casualties were reported on the side of the operating troops.

Authorities are determining the identities of the two slain insurgents.

Lieutenant Colonel Jose Caraga condoled with the families of the rebel fatalities, but called on the insurgents in the area to give themselves up and avoid similar incidents in the future.

The NPA is the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines. Talks with the National Democratic Front of the Philippines have been on hold since July following the attacks on government forces.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/regions/623589/troops-kill-2-suspected-npa-rebels-in-isabela-clash/story/

Soldiers kill 10 Maute terrorists trying to sneak into main battle area in Marawi – Wesmincom report

From News 5/InterAksyon (Aug 28): Soldiers kill 10 Maute terrorists trying to sneak into main battle area in Marawi – Wesmincom report



Photo shows one of the boats recovered by soldiers after a 3-hour firefight with Maute Group members who tried to sneak into the main battle area through Lake Lanao. HANDOUT PHOTO FROM WESTERN MINDANAO COMMAND

Soldiers of the Joint Task Force Marawi intercepted, and killed, at dawn Monday members of the Daesh-inspired Maute terror group on board two motorized pump boats as they tried to sneak into the main battle area.

A three-hour fire fight and pursuit operations immediately ensued between forces of the Joint Task Group Lawa and the fleeing terrorists, according to a report by the Western Mindanao Command.

Troops who searched the area about 5am recovered five bodies of the enemy; one M16 rifle; and one motorized pump boat.

The soldiers were also able to shoot and neutralize five more terrorists but were unable to recover the bodies. One of the pump boats was also seen sinking during the pursuit operation.

Patrolling soldiers and policemen were still looking for the dead bodies and sunken boat.

“The recent accomplishment of our ground forces only shows the successful coordination made by our troops and the local government units,” said Lieutenant General Carlito G Galvez, Jr., Commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

“The plan of the terrorists was earlier reported to us; that is why it was easier for patrolling special forces riverine units and maritime policemen to detect and neutralize the movement.”

“Let this be a warning to those who have the intention to escape and to enter, our troops are ready for you,” added LtGen Galvez. “We will definitely get you.”

http://www.interaksyon.com/soldiers-kill-10-maute-terrorists-trying-to-sneak-into-main-battle-area-in-marawi-wesmincom-report/

X-ray, hi-tech equip for TFD likely in 2018

From the Mindanao Times (Aug 25): X-ray, hi-tech equip for TFD likely in 2018

THE TASK Force Davao will have to wait until 2018 for its request for border crossing-type equipment at the critical entry points in the city.

In an earlier interview, Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio said the procurement of the walkthrough scanners for passengers and vehicle x-rays were ongoing.

However, in an interview aired over DXAB, Task Force Davao chief Col. Bernard Erwin Neri said the procurement will take longer.
 
“It’s because of the bidding process,” Neri said.

According to Neri, the best that the TFD could do is wait for the results of the bidding process.

Public Safety and Security Command Center chief Benito de Leon said the proposed equipment would be similar to the border crossing at the United States-Mexico border.

The request for a more sophisticated border checkpoint came after the Sept. 2 Roxas Night Market blast that killed 15 and injured 69 others.

The local government is now making preparations for the commemoration of the Sept. 2 event

The blast was blamed to the Maute Group, with at least five members already under the custody of authorities.
 

DCPO: Man who smuggled firearms into city a member of the NPA

From the Mindanao Times (Aug 28): DCPO: Man who smuggled firearms into city a member of the NPA

AUTHORITIES have identified a person of interest in the attempted smuggling of guns into the city based on the CCTV footage that linked him to the crime.
 
Davao City Police Office (DCPO) director, Sr. Supt. Alexander Tagum, said the person of interest has been known to be a member of the New People’s Army, which reportedly attempted to smuggle the guns into the city.

Earlier, authorities claimed that the guns were to be used by liquidation forces reminiscent of SPARU Units (Special Partisan Unit) which killed police, soldiers, government officials and anti-communists during the Marcos era.

According to Tagum, the police will be distributing a clear copy of the footage to help determine the identity of the alleged member of the NPA.

“The investigation is still ongoing,” Tagum said. “We received information where the guns are meant to be delivered so the police officers remain prepared to counter the plan.”

Police are waiting for the warrant of arrest to be issued against the person of interest, likely for violation of illegal possession of firearms or Republic Act 10591.

Found in one bag during a routine checkpoint in Barangay Lasang, Bunawan District earlier this month were seven caliber .45 pistols and one 9mm Ingram machine pistol.
 
Tagum said there was only one person who carried the bag with the guns. The firearms were not new as evidenced by the rust.

“These were already used before the inspection,” Tagum said.

Tagum added that the court will determine in 60 days if the evidence warrants an arrest since the case will be docketed under regular filing.
Earlier this month, passengers of a bus from Tacloban were held by police after one of the bags inspected at the Task Force Davao checkpoint yielded guns. Police said the perpetrator may have escaped after realizing that the police dogs detected the guns.
 

3 alleged communist rebels fall

From the Mindanao Times (Aug 28): 3 alleged communist rebels fall

THREE reported members of the New People’s Army (NPA) were apprehended by the combined elements of the 1st Special Forces Battalion and the Bukidnon Provincial Public Safety Company in Barangay Licoan, Sumilao, Bukidnon 11:50 a.m. on Aug. 23.
 
Capt. Norman Tagros, the civil-military-operations (CMO) officer of 403rd Infantry Brigade, told the TIMES that the troops responded to a tip from residents about the presence of armed men in the area.

The operation resulted to the apprehension of Rey S. Lomingka alias Patrick or Tikboy and Roger D. Ayombo alias Delfin, both residents of Licoan; and Romeo B. Salilo alias Piolo or Rose, a resident of Barangay Nangka, Libona, Bukidnon.
 
Also seized from their possession were an M653 rifle with two magazines and 45 live ammunition; one M14 rifle with two magazines and 40 live ammunition; one caliber .22 rifle; two grenades; one .38 caliber revolver and subversive documents.

They were turned over to the PNP of Bukidnon for filing of appropriate charge.

In a separate incident, an NPA member surrendered to the 1st Special Forces Battalion on Aug. 24 around 4 p.m. The rebel brought along his one M653 rifle, two magazines, and 37 bullets.
 
Alias Brendo (not his real name) confessed that he got tired of the false promises of the NPA.

He will be enrolled into the Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP) of the government, where he can receive immediate assistance of P15,000 and a livelihood assistance of P50,000. He will also get cash for the gun he surrendered.

Meanwhile, Col. Eric C. Vinoya, commander of 403rd Infantry Brigade, encouraged the other members of the NPA to surrender.
 
“I congratulate our troops, as well as our PNP counterparts, not only for the successful conduct of this operation, but also for the high level of professionalism that they displayed in the performance of their mandate by respecting the provisions of human rights, and by upholding the provisions of the International Humanitarian Law during this incident,” he added.

“With this, I would like to encourage all those who are still entangled with the ill-motivated armed struggle and false promises of the NPA to lay down their arms, surrender, and return to the folds of the law,” he said.
 

Photo: Battle Update

From MindaNews (Aug 28): Photo: Battle Update



Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez, chief of the Armed Forces’ Western Mindanao Command, briefs reporters on suspected positions of the Maute Group at the Lanao del Sur provincial capitol complex in Marawi City on Monday, 28 August 2017, Day 98 of the Marawi Crisis. MindaNews photo by FROILAN GALLARDO

http://www.mindanews.com/photo-of-the-day/2017/08/battle-update/

5 militants trying to reinforce Maute in Marawi slain — AFP

From MindaNews (Aug 28): 5 militants trying to reinforce Maute in Marawi slain — AFP



Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez, chief of the Armed Forces’ Western Mindanao Command, briefs reporters on suspected positions of the Maute Group at the Lanao del Sur provincial capitol complex in Marawi City on Monday, 28 August 2017, Day 98 of the Marawi Crisis. MindaNews photo by FROILAN GALLARDO

Government troops killed five suspected militants reportedly trying to reinforce the Islamic State-inspired Maute gunmen fighting in Marawi City on Monday.

Armed Forces of the Philippines Western Mindanao chief Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez said the slain militants were part of a 10-man group trying to sneak into Marawi on board two motorized boats around 2:30 am dawn.

Galvez said soldiers engaged the militants in a three-hour firefight killing five of them.

He said the troops recovered the bodies of their slain adversaries.

He said the troops were still searching for the remaining five terrorists and recovered an M16 rifle and a motorized boat.

“The terrorists are trying to sneak in some reinforcements to help their beleaguered companions in Marawi,” he added.

Galvez said that by sending reinforcements in small batches, the militants were hoping to evade Army and police units guarding Lake Lanao which has a surface area of 340 square kilometers.

Lake Lanao is the country’s second largest lake.

Galvez said the remaining 50 to 60 Maute gunmen in Marawi have stepped up use of improvised explosive devices and some hostages they have pressed into fighting the government troops.

He said the fighting is now concentrated in some 400 houses and structures in the villages near the lake.

“We have cleared 32 buildings yesterday and we suffered no casualties in the past 10 days. We see this as a weakening of their resistance,” Galvez said.

http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2017/08/5-militants-trying-to-reinforce-maute-in-marawi-slain-afp/

Malaysia arrests 8 Filipinos who illegally enter Sabah

From the Mindanao Examiner (Aug 28): Malaysia arrests 8 Filipinos who illegally enter Sabah

Malaysia arrested 8 Filipinos who illegally entered Sabah on Monday despite strict security patrol in southern Philippines near the border, reports said.

It said the skipper of the speedboat who brought the Filipinos managed to escape shortly after policemen intercepted the passengers in Kampung Padas. This was also confirmed by Sabah Region 4 marine police commander Assistant Commissioner Mohd Yazib Abd Aziz in a report by the New Straits Times.

Yazib said those who have been arrested, whose ages are between 13-53, are mostly from Basilan, a province in the Muslim autonomous region in southern Philippines. They all have no travel documents and were carrying various identification cards when policemen searched them.

The identities of the Filipinos were not immediately known, but all of them were being interrogated in a detention cell. It was unknown how they managed to pass through strict security patrol in southern Philippines, but there had been numerous reports that many Filipinos still crossed the border illegally to find for jobs, mostly in palm plantations and construction sites.

Many of them crossed Sabah from Sitangkai Island and Bongao in Tawi-Tawi, also in the autonomous region.

http://mindanaoexaminer.com/malaysia-arrests-8-filipinos-who-illegally-enter-sabah/

5 ISIS fighters killed in Lake Lanao clash

From the Mindanao Examiner (Aug 28): 5 ISIS fighters killed in Lake Lanao clash

Five alleged ISIS militants were killed in a clash early Monday with soldiers following an attempt to reinforce other fighters in the besieged city of Marawi in southern Philippines, officials said.

Officials said the militants were in two boats when soldiers intercepted them and a firefight ensued killing the gunmen. Troops recovered the bodies of the slain fighters and one of the boats. The other boat allegedly sank.

Fighting still continues in Marawi as the battle is now on its 4th month with the military chief Eduard Ano saying this could be over soon. The military insisted that security forces had allegedly killed a total of 603 ISIS members since fighting began on May 23 when militants occupied Marawi in an effort to declare it a province of the Islamic State.

Despite the huge number of enemy casualties, the military did not provide evidence to back up its claims, except saying that all these kills were based on intelligence reports. It said 130 soldiers and 45 civilians also perished in the clashes.

http://mindanaoexaminer.com/5-isis-fighters-killed-in-lake-lanao-clash/

Armed man killed in firefight

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 28): Armed man killed in firefight

A suspected member of an armed group involved in extortion activities was killed while another managed to escape in a brief firefight in a remote village in Zamboanga del Norte, the police reported Monday.

Chief Insp. Helen Galvez, Police Regional Office-9 (PRO-9) information officer, identified the slain suspect as Abdusalam Wahab alias Boyong, of Panabotan, Sirawai, Zamboanga del Norte.

Galvez said Wahab was killed in a brief encounter with joint police and military forces around 2:30 p.m. Sunday in Barangay Doña Cecilia, Sirawai municipality.

She said the troops were on security patrol when they chanced upon two lawless elements and engaged them in a brief firefight that resulted in Wahab’s death.

She said Wahab has a standing warrant of arrest for attempted murder issued by the court in the municipality of Siocon, an adjoining town of Sirawai.

She said the troops recovered from the possession of Wahab a caliber .45 pistol and a hand grenade.

She said Wahab’s group is allegedly engaged in criminal activities in Barangay Doña Cecilia, Sirawai.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1007734

Woman says Maute child warrior could be her missing son

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 28): Woman says Maute child warrior could be her missing son

A woman said she may have found her long-lost son, who disappeared seven years ago, after seeing a social media photo of alleged child warriors of the Maute terrorist group.

Rowhanisa Abdul Jabar, resident of Tondo, Manila, said she was stunned upon seeing the Facebook photo in question, which showed three teenage boys brandishing high-powered firearms.

One of the boys, she said, had eerie similarities with her son Azramie, who was abducted when he was only three on July 4, 2010 at their rented apartment in Manila.

A househelp named Ula Urada was arrested in connection with the boy's disappearance, though her other accomplices remain at-large.

Authorities said the Maute terrorist group has been known to use child warriors in their months-long siege of Marawi City.

Last month, a captured 17-year-old Maute member said that as part of their training, child warriors are asked to perform beheading before they can "graduate."

Faisal (not his real name) said he has been training with the group since he was 10 years old.

Jabar appealed to the military to bring the child, whom she believed to be her son, alive.

“It's difficult to attain closure with this kind of situation, that's why I had mixed emotions when I saw that picture," she said in a phone interview.

She added that she was torn between feeling happy with the prospect of reuniting with her son, and at the same time sad if she finds out that her child is a terrorist.

Army Col. Romeo Brawner, deputy commander of Task Group Ranao, said Maute's use of child warriors has brought challenges to government troops in their drive to flush out the group's remaining members from Marawi.

“Our soldiers have a soft spot for young fighters, but they are forced to shoot them when they get violent with their arms," Col. Brawner said.

Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (Armm) Assemblyman Zia Alonto Adiong, spokesman of the Provincial Crisis Management Committee, blasted the Maute group for using children in warfare, describing the practice as "un-Islamic."

“This is illegal, immoral and anti-Islamic. Pero so far, wala pang mga magulang (na nag-identify na anak nila ang mga nasa pictures) na lumalapit sa atin upang magpatulong,” Adiong said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1007750

Military hosts 5-day educ tour for 35 Marawi kids

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 28): Military hosts 5-day educ tour for 35 Marawi kids

The Joint Task Force Marawi is hosting a five-day educational tour for 35 children in Manila, a top military official announced Monday.

Brig. Gen. Rolando Joselito Bautista, Joint Task Force Marawi commander, said the tour is from August 28, to Sept. 1, which kicked off with a simple send off ceremony at the Lanao del Sur provincial capitol.

Dubbed as “Tabak Educational Tour: Peaceful Environment for Marawi Children,” the Manila tour is expected to provide the children-participants, who live in conflict-affected areas, with educational experience, social and cultural values for peace-building, and exposure to peaceful environments.

Bautista said the participants, ranging from 7-13 years old, were identified as among those vulnerable and susceptible to violent extremism.

“This is one of the initiatives of the armed forces to ensure that those children displaced by the crisis in Marawi City are given adequate support and psycho-social treatment by the government. It is imperative that at the initial stage, those deemed vulnerable are being guided and educated to know their roles in the mainstream society,” said Bautista, who is also the Army’s 1st Infantry Division.

He noted that the Islamic State for Iraq and Syria (ISIS)-inspired Maute group recruited and use child warriors in the main battle area and “are still recruiting minors until now.”

The Joint Task Force Marawi has tapped the assistance of the Lanao del Sur provincial government, Philippine National Police Women and Children Protection Desk, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Teach Peace Build Peace Movement, and the Kilos Kabataan Livelihood Foundation, Inc. to realize the educational tour project.

The task force also coordinated with concerned government agencies, offices, and partners in Manila.

“Rather than hold guns and become combatants, we want these children to foster a sense of responsibility and, in the future, become leaders of a peaceful Marawi,” Bautista said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1007770

Duterte pays tribute to country's national heroes

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 27): Duterte pays tribute to country's national heroes

President Rodrigo Duterte on Sunday, August 27, paid homage to the country's national heroes recognizing their contributions to nation building and independence.

In his National Heroes Day message, President Duterte urged the Filipinos to honor the nation's heroes by emulating them.

"Today, we pay homage to the men and women who helped lay the foundations of this nation. Their courage, leadership and wisdom paved the way for us to enjoy the blessings of freedom, independence and democracy," the President said.

"They have dedicated their lives to ensure that future generations will have a life that is full and comfortable," he added.

"Let us honor them by upholding the rule of law, protecting our nation and fostering goodwill among ourselves. We will harness the same virtues as we continue to fight against lawlessness, criminality and poverty that hinders us from achieving our full potential," he further said.

The President said the country will be forever grateful to noble deeds and sacrifices of the national heroes.

"As we commemorate the life and works of our national heroes, we must continue to embrace their ways in our daily undertakings. Let us emulate their examples as we continue to realize our ideals and aspirations for ourselves and for our country," he said.

The country will commemorate the National Heroes Day on Monday, August 28.

Also on Sunday, Malacañan congratulated all the Filipino athletes who won and brought honor to the country in the Southeast Asia Games (SEA Games) in Kuala Lumpur.

"The whole country cheered when Team Pilipinas Gilas Men’s Basketball Team unleashed their top form and once again asserted our basketball supremacy in Southeast Asia by clinching the gold last night," according to the statement of Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella read over Radyo Pilipinas.

"Kiyomi Watanabe and the Philippine taekwondo poomsae team composed of Rodolfo Reyes Jr., Dustin Jacob Mella and Raphael Mella likewise got gold in the 63kg division in women’s judo and taekwondo male poomsae, respectively," he added.

Abella encouraged Filipinos to continue supporting the athletes competing in the SEA Games in Malaysia.

The Philippines now has 18 gold, 25 silver and 47 bronze medals, as of August 26, 11 p.m.

On the burial of Kian delos Santos, Abella said the public must allow "the law to take its due course."

He noted that authorities are already investigating the killing of delos Santos.

"A criminal complaint against the Caloocan policemen involved in the incident has already been filed. Investigation is now in process. Let us allow the law to take its due course," Abella said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1007687

AFP regrets Maute patriarch death

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 28): AFP regrets Maute patriarch death

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) would rather have Cayamora Maute face the courts and be tried for his alleged involvements in the Marawi City crisis so that justice can be given to all victims of the terrorist attack.

"This is an unfortunate incident for his family; but more so to the victims of terrorism in Marawi and their relatives who are awaiting justice and expecting that Mr. Cayamora would answer/atone for his involvement in the Marawi rebellion," AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Eduardo Año said in a message forwarded by the military's public affairs office.

The Maute patriarch died at the Taguig-Pateros Hospital due to various health complications around 3:07 p.m. Sunday.

Cayamora Maute is the father of Omar and Abdullah Maute, leaders of the Maute Group responsible for attacking and killing civilians and government troops in the ongoing Marawi City crisis that started last May 23.

Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) spokesperson, Senior Insp. Xavier Solda, said the Maute patriarch was rushed to the Taguig-Pateros Hospital around 4:30 a.m. after complaining of weakness and difficulty in breathing.

The older Maute was immediately given antibiotics and constantly monitored, he added.

"He complained again of difficulty in breathing at around 12:30 p.m. Jail nurse conducted nebulization twice. He was supported with oxygen," Solda added.

Shortly after his detention at the BJMP facility in Camp Bagong Diwa, Taguig City, last June 8, Cayamora was diagnosed to be suffering from hypertension, diabetes, pneumonia and viral hepatitis.

Last Aug. 9, the 64-year-old Maute complained of "body weakening and 'manas' (edema) and was placed in full medication and monitoring for a week until his medical condition improved," the BJMP spokesperson added.

On Aug. 13, another medical examination revealed that Cayamora was suffering from hypertension type 2, diabetes type 2, uncontrolled gastroenteritis and ascites.

Shortly after the senior Maute's death, his remains were immediately brought to the BJMP facility in Taguig for viewing of his family.

Solda said a "family representative" claimed Cayamora's body around 7:15 p.m. and brought to Bulacan for Muslim burial.

Cayamora was arrested in Davao City and brought to Metro Manila about two months ago following the May 23 Marawi City siege.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1007696

Philanthropist donates P68-M to fallen Army soldiers

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 28): Philanthropist donates P68-M to fallen Army soldiers

In line with the country's observance of National Heroes Day, the Philippine Army (PA) on Sunday handed over PHP68 million in checks to the families and loved ones of 68 troopers who died in the ongoing efforts to liberate Marawi City from the clutches of Maute Group.

The turnover ceremony took place at Ricarte Hall, PA Officers Club, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, Army spokesperson Lt. Col. Enrico Gil Ileto said.

Families and loved ones of the fallen troops were given PHP1 million check each.

The money was initially donated by an anonymous donor to the Armed Forces of the Philippines who then forwarded it to the PA, Ileto added.

The number of beneficiaries of this unnamed philanthropist has now climbed to 76.

Family members of the remaining Army fatalities will be given the same assistance once their documents and other requirements are processed.

“The Philippine Army is grateful for the support extended to the families of our fallen soldiers. This will surely serve as an inspiration to our troops still fighting in Marawi City,” Ileto added.

As of this posting, a total of 130 troops, from the various armed services, have been reported killed in the ongoing Marawi crisis.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1007710

AFP preparing for 'one big battle' in Marawi

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 28): AFP preparing for 'one big battle' in Marawi

After regaining the Marawi City police station and the Grand Mosque last week, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Eduardo Año said the military is now preparing for the "one big battle" that will liberate the locality from the clutches of the remaining Maute Group terrorists.

This is possible as the area, where the terrorists are holed in, have grown much smaller, the AFP chief said Monday.

He added that he is expecting the Maute Group remnants to resist as the latter are forced to consolidate into much smaller positions which they will use in fighting to the end.

"Formerly, they (Maute Group terrorists) were spread out (but with the capture of the Marawi City police station and Grand Mosque) they are now consolidating their remaining fighters and positions," Año said in Filipino.

He also declined to give the date or timeframe for this so-called "one big battle" preferring that the ground and tactical commanders decide and plan on the operation.

As of this writing, military units in Marawi have so far neutralized 603 terrorists and recovered 665 weapons.

Government losses were placed at 130 troops along with 45 civilians executed or killed by the terrorists.

Rescued civilians totaled 1,728 while 1,270 improvised explosive devices and unexploded ordnances have been recovered so far.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1007730

AFP expects no drastic moves from Maute group after patriarch's death

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 28): AFP expects no drastic moves from Maute group after patriarch's death

While it expects the morale of the remaining Maute Group terrorists to plummet with the death of Cayamora Maute, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is not expecting the lawless elements to commit atrocities worse than what they have done so far in Marawi City.

This was stressed on Monday by AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Eduardo Año.

"Wala na, wala nang drastic drastic dyan, alam mo naman yung pinaggagawa nila, wala na sigurong ida-drastic pa sa pinaggagawa nila nung nakaraan, simula nung day 1 (May 23) (No more, no more drastic moves. There is nothing more drastic than what they have done since day 1) ," he said when asked whether the AFP is expecting any more atrocities or trouble from the terrorists.

On the first day of their rampage, Maute group members shot and killed unarmed civilians and security troops aside from looting, vandalizing and destroying private and government properties, including churches, schools and business establishments.

Cayamora, father of the terror group's founders Omar and Abdullah Maute, died at the Taguig-Pateros District Hospital on Sunday afternoon due to medical complications.

The Maute patriarch was transferred to the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology in Camp Bagong Diwa, Taguig City last June 8 shortly after his arrest in Davao City on June 6.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1007735