From GM News Online (Sep 25): 1 dead, 13 wounded in military raid to get Hapilon
A soldier was killed while 13 others were wounded in an operation to get Abu Sayyaf and now Maute-ISIS leader Isnilon Hapilon in Marawi City.
In his report on "24 Oras" on Monday, GMA News' Jun Veneracion said a mosque inside the main battle area was the target of government troops in their operation staged before dawn.
Based on intelligence information, Hapilon, who led the attack in Marawi and alleged leader of ISIS in Southeast Asia, was hiding in the mosque.
The intense fighting lasted until the morning, according to different sources of GMA News.
Military officials believe that Hapilon and the 10 other foreign fighters with him will not surrender amid several military offensives.
The incident raised the number of fatalities on the part of government to 152 while 695 have been killed on the part of Maute.
The report said the AFP will be sending 60 to 80 more troops in Marawi to ensure that Maute will not be able to go out of the city and prevent their supporters from helping them.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/nation/627135/1-dead-13-wounded-in-military-raid-to-get-hapilon/story/
Tuesday, September 26, 2017
Philippine experience to be used by Asean as template in countering extremism
From The Gulf News (Sep 26): Philippine experience to be used by Asean as template in countering extremism
http://gulfnews.com/news/asia/philippines/philippine-experience-to-be-used-by-asean-as-template-in-countering-extremism-1.2095654
The Manila Declaration was adopted during the 11th Asean Ministerial Meeting on Transnational Crime
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) members will make use of lessons learnt from the Philippines’ experience with the Maute-Abu Sayyaf in confronting the rise of violent extremism in the region, Interior Secretary Catalino Cuy said yesterday.
Cuy announced that the regional bloc late last week adopted the ‘Manila Declaration to Counter the Rise of Radicalisation and Violent Extremism’, to counter an emerging threat to the region.
The Manila Declaration was adopted during the 11th Asean Ministerial Meeting on Transnational Crime (AMMTC) in Pasay City.
Although the Philippines had been confronting radical extremism for years with the Abu Sayyaf, it had only evolved into an all-out conflict in recent months as extremist fighters took to the streets and actually made efforts to actually hold territory.
Past attacks by similar radical groups had largely utilised guerrilla tactics of quickly seizing an area and then withdrawing when confronted by a bigger force.
Maute fighters, backed by Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon, seized the entire city of Marawi on May 23. Government forces were able to expel much of the heavily armed extremists, but at the cost of the lives of more than a hundred Filipino soldiers and dozens of civilians.
Cuy said lessons learnt from such incidents would be valuable not just for the Philippines but also for other Asean countries confronting similar threats from religious extremists.
“From our experiences in the past, we have learnt that we can achieve greater heights when we collaborate with one another. We should therefore exhibit the same cooperation to counter the rise of radicalisation and violent extremism in our region,” said Cuy, adding “the Manila Declaration firms up this partnership to counter these threats.”
The Manila Declaration was adopted during the 11th Asean Ministerial Meeting on Transnational Crime (AMMTC) in Pasay City.
Although the Philippines had been confronting radical extremism for years with the Abu Sayyaf, it had only evolved into an all-out conflict in recent months as extremist fighters took to the streets and actually made efforts to actually hold territory.
Past attacks by similar radical groups had largely utilised guerrilla tactics of quickly seizing an area and then withdrawing when confronted by a bigger force.
Maute fighters, backed by Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon, seized the entire city of Marawi on May 23. Government forces were able to expel much of the heavily armed extremists, but at the cost of the lives of more than a hundred Filipino soldiers and dozens of civilians.
Cuy said lessons learnt from such incidents would be valuable not just for the Philippines but also for other Asean countries confronting similar threats from religious extremists.
“From our experiences in the past, we have learnt that we can achieve greater heights when we collaborate with one another. We should therefore exhibit the same cooperation to counter the rise of radicalisation and violent extremism in our region,” said Cuy, adding “the Manila Declaration firms up this partnership to counter these threats.”
Through the Manila Declaration, the AMMTC leaders vowed to counter radicalisation and violent extremism, in particular those that lead to terrorism “in all forms and manifestations, through the prevention of radicalisation, financing, recruitment, and mobilisation of individuals into terrorist groups”.
The AMMTC leaders also acknowledged that emphasis should be on the aspect of “de-radicalisation” in rehabilitation and reintegration programmes as part of comprehensive measures in countering terrorism.
The AMMTC leaders also acknowledged that emphasis should be on the aspect of “de-radicalisation” in rehabilitation and reintegration programmes as part of comprehensive measures in countering terrorism.
A sustained and proactive approach through capacity-building programmes focused on promoting peace education also plays an important role in countering radical violent extremism.
“In adopting the Manila Declaration, the AMMTC heads reaffirmed their commitment to the aims and objectives of the Langkawi Declaration on the Global Movement of the Moderates adopted on 27 April 2015 and the Kuala Lumpur Declaration in Combating Transnational Crime on 30 September 2015,” Cuy said.
“In adopting the Manila Declaration, the AMMTC heads reaffirmed their commitment to the aims and objectives of the Langkawi Declaration on the Global Movement of the Moderates adopted on 27 April 2015 and the Kuala Lumpur Declaration in Combating Transnational Crime on 30 September 2015,” Cuy said.
http://gulfnews.com/news/asia/philippines/philippine-experience-to-be-used-by-asean-as-template-in-countering-extremism-1.2095654
Four construction workers charged over Abu Sayyaf links
From The Star online (Sep 25): Four construction workers charged over Abu Sayyaf links
Four construction workers arrested on the eve of National Day have been charged at the Sessions Court over their ties to the Abu Sayyaf militant group.
Hajar Abdul Mubin, 25, was accused of being a member of the Abu Sayyaf group since 2010, and charged under Section 130KA of the Penal Code on Monday.
He was accused together with Ahmad Omar, 52, Jaffar Ahmad, 26, and Philippine national Abdul Syamir Dabilin, 25, who were charged with intentional omission of information regarding a terrorist act — an offence under Section 130M.
Hajar, also known as Abu Asrie, is believed to be a member of the Jolo-based Lucky 9 kidnap-for-ransom group with links to the Abu Sayyaf based in the jungles of Jolo and Basilan islands.
According to the charge sheet, all four lived in the same flat in Taman Desa Baiduri, in Cheras.
They were all arrested on Aug 30.
The four, who were not represented, confirmed they understood the charges which were read in Malay.
Crimes under Section 130KA are punishable with life imprisonment and a fine, while offences under Section 130M are punishable with up to seven years prison, a fine or both.
Deputy Public Prosecutor Siti Noorhafizan Zakaria offered no bail as the accused were arrested under the Special Offences (Special Measures) Act (Sosma) 2012.
Judge Surita Budin fixed Oct 16 for next mention to transfer the case to the High Court.
http://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2017/09/25/four-constructions-workers-charged-over-abu-sayyaf-links/
Four construction workers arrested on the eve of National Day have been charged at the Sessions Court over their ties to the Abu Sayyaf militant group.
Hajar Abdul Mubin, 25, was accused of being a member of the Abu Sayyaf group since 2010, and charged under Section 130KA of the Penal Code on Monday.
He was accused together with Ahmad Omar, 52, Jaffar Ahmad, 26, and Philippine national Abdul Syamir Dabilin, 25, who were charged with intentional omission of information regarding a terrorist act — an offence under Section 130M.
Hajar, also known as Abu Asrie, is believed to be a member of the Jolo-based Lucky 9 kidnap-for-ransom group with links to the Abu Sayyaf based in the jungles of Jolo and Basilan islands.
According to the charge sheet, all four lived in the same flat in Taman Desa Baiduri, in Cheras.
They were all arrested on Aug 30.
The four, who were not represented, confirmed they understood the charges which were read in Malay.
Crimes under Section 130KA are punishable with life imprisonment and a fine, while offences under Section 130M are punishable with up to seven years prison, a fine or both.
Deputy Public Prosecutor Siti Noorhafizan Zakaria offered no bail as the accused were arrested under the Special Offences (Special Measures) Act (Sosma) 2012.
Judge Surita Budin fixed Oct 16 for next mention to transfer the case to the High Court.
http://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2017/09/25/four-constructions-workers-charged-over-abu-sayyaf-links/
MILF appeal to Duterte
From Tempo (Sep 26): MILF appeal to Duterte
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has asked President Rodrigo Duterte to “return to the Maranao” Marawi lands they lost to the government through the years.
MILF First Vice-Chairman Ghazzali Jaafar said the proposal is part of the process of “correcting the historical injustices on the Moro people.”
He said the request was conveyed to and welcomed by Duterte in their meeting last week in Davao City.
Jaafar on Friday read to visiting foreign journalists at the MILF’s Camp Darapanan in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao, a historical summary of the land dispossession, starting with the colonial succession of the Americans from the Spaniards with the Treaty of Paris of 1898.
Marawi City was created in 1940 by Commonwealth Act 592 with its original name Dansalan, meaning “harbor.”
http://tempo.com.ph/2017/09/26/milf-appeal-to-duterte/
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has asked President Rodrigo Duterte to “return to the Maranao” Marawi lands they lost to the government through the years.
MILF First Vice-Chairman Ghazzali Jaafar said the proposal is part of the process of “correcting the historical injustices on the Moro people.”
He said the request was conveyed to and welcomed by Duterte in their meeting last week in Davao City.
Jaafar on Friday read to visiting foreign journalists at the MILF’s Camp Darapanan in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao, a historical summary of the land dispossession, starting with the colonial succession of the Americans from the Spaniards with the Treaty of Paris of 1898.
Marawi City was created in 1940 by Commonwealth Act 592 with its original name Dansalan, meaning “harbor.”
http://tempo.com.ph/2017/09/26/milf-appeal-to-duterte/
Kidnapped cop: Rebs tap YouTube for proof of life
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Sep 26): Kidnapped cop: Rebs tap YouTube for proof of life
Communist guerrillas tapped a popular video-sharing internet site to show proof of life in the case of a captive police officer.
Members of New People’s Army (NPA) uploaded on YouTube a video showing PO1 Bristol Catalan, captured by the guerrillas on Aug. 16, was still alive.
Guerrillas tagged Catalan as a prisoner of war. The police officer was driving his sons to school in the village of Katipunan, Makilalal town, North Cotabato when guerrillas abducted him at gunpoint.
Rigoberto Sanchez, spokesperson of the NPA’s Guerrilla Front 53, said Catalan was in good hands.
In the video, Catalan spoke of being treated well by his captors.
He also made an appeal to the military to suspend operations against NPA in North Cotabato while he was still in captivity.
Sanchez accused the police and military of sabotaging efforts to free Catalan by launching offensives against NPA in the province.
Kidapawan Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo had appealed to the guerrillas to free Catalan.
Catalan’s two children, who were with him when he was seized, had stopped going to school and showed signs of trauma, according to the bishop.
The rebels did not say what offense Catalan was being accused of.
Gigi, Catalan’s wife, said in a radio interview that her anguish over her husband’s fate was eased by the video. She, however, repeated a plea for the guerrillas to free her husband, saying the police officer had done nothing wrong against guerrillas.
On Sept. 15, another NPA unit freed a policeman in Lupon, Davao Oriental.
President Duterte thanked the Communist Party of the Philippines and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines “for the humanitarian gesture of releasing a policeman taken hostage.”
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/933346/kidnapped-cop-rebs-tap-youtube-for-proof-of-life
Communist guerrillas tapped a popular video-sharing internet site to show proof of life in the case of a captive police officer.
Members of New People’s Army (NPA) uploaded on YouTube a video showing PO1 Bristol Catalan, captured by the guerrillas on Aug. 16, was still alive.
Guerrillas tagged Catalan as a prisoner of war. The police officer was driving his sons to school in the village of Katipunan, Makilalal town, North Cotabato when guerrillas abducted him at gunpoint.
Rigoberto Sanchez, spokesperson of the NPA’s Guerrilla Front 53, said Catalan was in good hands.
In the video, Catalan spoke of being treated well by his captors.
He also made an appeal to the military to suspend operations against NPA in North Cotabato while he was still in captivity.
Sanchez accused the police and military of sabotaging efforts to free Catalan by launching offensives against NPA in the province.
Kidapawan Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo had appealed to the guerrillas to free Catalan.
Catalan’s two children, who were with him when he was seized, had stopped going to school and showed signs of trauma, according to the bishop.
The rebels did not say what offense Catalan was being accused of.
Gigi, Catalan’s wife, said in a radio interview that her anguish over her husband’s fate was eased by the video. She, however, repeated a plea for the guerrillas to free her husband, saying the police officer had done nothing wrong against guerrillas.
On Sept. 15, another NPA unit freed a policeman in Lupon, Davao Oriental.
President Duterte thanked the Communist Party of the Philippines and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines “for the humanitarian gesture of releasing a policeman taken hostage.”
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/933346/kidnapped-cop-rebs-tap-youtube-for-proof-of-life
Army, MILF press offensive vs IS-inspired BIFF
From the Manila Bulletin (Sep 25): Army, MILF press offensive vs IS-inspired BIFF
The military and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) have pressed their offensive against an Islamic State (IS)-inspired group in Maguindanao’s second district.
Early Monday morning, the Army fired artillery shots towards Barangay Muslim in Guindulungan, Maguindanao after black flag-carrying suspected terrorists were seen massing in the village.
Over the weekend, four suspected members of ISIS-inspired Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) were injured when the military launched artillery strikes against a BIFF faction that tried to attack Army bases in Guindulungan town, according to Capt. Arvin John Encinas.
Speaking for the Sixth Infantry Division, Encinas said the preemptive artillery strike was launched after military units in Guindulungan learned of the suspicious convergence of followers of BIFF leader Imam Bongos, alias Commander Bongos, in a secluded barangay there.
Bongos is a leader of the BIFF faction operating in Maguindanao.
Bongos’ men attacked on Saturday dawn the joint personnel of the Army’s 37th Infantry Battalion and 6th ID’s 64th Division Reconnaissance Company in Barangay Muslim, Guindulungan, Maguindanao.
Intelligence officials said followers of Bongos tried to harass an Army detachment in Guindulungan, but changed their plan following the military’s artillery bombardment.
The MILF’s Task Force Ittihad (Unity) had been battling the BIFF Esmael Abdulmalik faction after the latter tried to influence MILF-identified communities in Datu Salibo, Maguindanao.
MILF fighters sent to check on the report in Barangays Tee and Andavit triggered sporadic firefights that have already claimed the lives of at least 40 fighters from both sides.
http://news.mb.com.ph/2017/09/25/army-milf-press-offensive-vs-is-inspired-biff/
The military and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) have pressed their offensive against an Islamic State (IS)-inspired group in Maguindanao’s second district.
Early Monday morning, the Army fired artillery shots towards Barangay Muslim in Guindulungan, Maguindanao after black flag-carrying suspected terrorists were seen massing in the village.
Over the weekend, four suspected members of ISIS-inspired Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) were injured when the military launched artillery strikes against a BIFF faction that tried to attack Army bases in Guindulungan town, according to Capt. Arvin John Encinas.
Speaking for the Sixth Infantry Division, Encinas said the preemptive artillery strike was launched after military units in Guindulungan learned of the suspicious convergence of followers of BIFF leader Imam Bongos, alias Commander Bongos, in a secluded barangay there.
Bongos is a leader of the BIFF faction operating in Maguindanao.
Bongos’ men attacked on Saturday dawn the joint personnel of the Army’s 37th Infantry Battalion and 6th ID’s 64th Division Reconnaissance Company in Barangay Muslim, Guindulungan, Maguindanao.
Intelligence officials said followers of Bongos tried to harass an Army detachment in Guindulungan, but changed their plan following the military’s artillery bombardment.
The MILF’s Task Force Ittihad (Unity) had been battling the BIFF Esmael Abdulmalik faction after the latter tried to influence MILF-identified communities in Datu Salibo, Maguindanao.
MILF fighters sent to check on the report in Barangays Tee and Andavit triggered sporadic firefights that have already claimed the lives of at least 40 fighters from both sides.
http://news.mb.com.ph/2017/09/25/army-milf-press-offensive-vs-is-inspired-biff/
Western Mindanao forces inflict casualties on BIFF
From the Manila Bulletin (Sep 26): Western Mindanao forces inflict casualties on BIFF
The Armed Forces of the Philippines-Western Mindanao Command (AFP-WestMinCom) said that the death toll on the side of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) has reached a total of 62 as military offensives have been intensified in a bid to contain Daesh-inspired fighters in Central Mindanao.
BIFF (MANILA BULLETIN FILE PHOTO)
The Western Mindanao Command said government forces also apprehended nine BIFF fighters and recovered eight firearms and 28 improvised explosive devices and components since fighting erupted last August 2 in Maguindanao.
As of February 20, 2017, 41 BIFF fighters have been killed while 21 others wounded in the joint security operations launched by the AFP and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) against a BIFF faction under Esmael Abdul Malik, alias Abu Toraype.
“MILF ground forces maneuvered on BIFF lairs to purge terrorists in MILF areas, particularly in the municipalities of Shariff Saydona Mustapha and Datu Salibo, both in Maguindanao,” said Major General Arnel Delavega, commander of the Joint Task Force Central.
“Complementing (them) were our ground forces on blocking positions in most probable enemy withdrawal sites,while our field artillery units continuously provided indirect fire,” Delavega added.
Air assets were deployed to sustain aerial strikes on enemy territories and conduct close air support to MILF forces in Barangay Damablac, Talayan, Maguindanao last September 19.
“Troops sustained security operations on built-up areas, particularly in vulnerable areas, in coordination with the police, to prevent the enemy from conducting atrocities,” Delavega said.
Military troops preempted BIFF fighters from transporting a 60mm. mortar from Barangay Damablac, Talayan, Maguindanao towards Barangay Nabalawag, Midsayap, North Cotabato, fueling the joint security operation in Maguindanao.
Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command, maintained that the threat they are confronting in Central Mindanao, which has been instigated by the BIFF faction, is very much related to the Maute group in Marawi City.
“While sustaining our efforts in containing the threats in the other areas of the Command, the WestMinCom is very much in control of the situation in Central Mindanao. By following the principle of ‘Economy of Force,’ we sustain the operational momentum in Central Mindanao by employing the forces-in-being of the JTF Central with very minimal augmentation of air assets,” Galvez said.
“Very significantly, our strategic alliance with the MILF continues to benefit our security campaign as their forces confront the BIFF fighting side by side with our soldiers. With this, we are able to focus our forces in Marawi City, while winning over the threat in Central Mindanao and in other parts of our joint area of operations. And we will sustain our efforts to address the threat of terrorism in our area,” he added.
http://news.mb.com.ph/2017/09/26/western-mindanao-forces-inflict-casualties-on-biff/
The Armed Forces of the Philippines-Western Mindanao Command (AFP-WestMinCom) said that the death toll on the side of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) has reached a total of 62 as military offensives have been intensified in a bid to contain Daesh-inspired fighters in Central Mindanao.
BIFF (MANILA BULLETIN FILE PHOTO)
The Western Mindanao Command said government forces also apprehended nine BIFF fighters and recovered eight firearms and 28 improvised explosive devices and components since fighting erupted last August 2 in Maguindanao.
As of February 20, 2017, 41 BIFF fighters have been killed while 21 others wounded in the joint security operations launched by the AFP and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) against a BIFF faction under Esmael Abdul Malik, alias Abu Toraype.
“MILF ground forces maneuvered on BIFF lairs to purge terrorists in MILF areas, particularly in the municipalities of Shariff Saydona Mustapha and Datu Salibo, both in Maguindanao,” said Major General Arnel Delavega, commander of the Joint Task Force Central.
“Complementing (them) were our ground forces on blocking positions in most probable enemy withdrawal sites,while our field artillery units continuously provided indirect fire,” Delavega added.
Air assets were deployed to sustain aerial strikes on enemy territories and conduct close air support to MILF forces in Barangay Damablac, Talayan, Maguindanao last September 19.
“Troops sustained security operations on built-up areas, particularly in vulnerable areas, in coordination with the police, to prevent the enemy from conducting atrocities,” Delavega said.
Military troops preempted BIFF fighters from transporting a 60mm. mortar from Barangay Damablac, Talayan, Maguindanao towards Barangay Nabalawag, Midsayap, North Cotabato, fueling the joint security operation in Maguindanao.
Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command, maintained that the threat they are confronting in Central Mindanao, which has been instigated by the BIFF faction, is very much related to the Maute group in Marawi City.
“While sustaining our efforts in containing the threats in the other areas of the Command, the WestMinCom is very much in control of the situation in Central Mindanao. By following the principle of ‘Economy of Force,’ we sustain the operational momentum in Central Mindanao by employing the forces-in-being of the JTF Central with very minimal augmentation of air assets,” Galvez said.
“Very significantly, our strategic alliance with the MILF continues to benefit our security campaign as their forces confront the BIFF fighting side by side with our soldiers. With this, we are able to focus our forces in Marawi City, while winning over the threat in Central Mindanao and in other parts of our joint area of operations. And we will sustain our efforts to address the threat of terrorism in our area,” he added.
http://news.mb.com.ph/2017/09/26/western-mindanao-forces-inflict-casualties-on-biff/
Abu Sayyaf's bomb plot foiled; 3 militants arrested
From Anadolu Agency (Sep 25): Abu Sayyaf's bomb plot foiled; 3 militants arrested
Intelligence reports revealed the group would bomb public places in the city in three days
Government security forces thwarted a plan to bomb this southern city of Mindanao after arresting three militants who possessed improvised explosive devices here.
Army Col. Leonel Nicolas, head of the Joint Task Force Zamboanga, said joint military and police operations led to the arrest of the Abu Sayyaf suspects in separate areas in Zamboanga city on Saturday.
The three, identified as Omar Askali, a.k.a. Ayub, and Mukaram Sapie, a.k.a.Mukram, and a certain Shayif were part of the group of notorious Abu Sayyaf sub-leader Furuji Indama.
The military tagged Askali as a trusted follower of Indama, who operates in Basilan province, a known stronghold of the Abu Sayyaf group.
The other two arrested suspects were Askali's cohorts trained in manufacturing IEDs.
"Intelligence reports revealed that the group will bomb public places in the city three days from now. This prompted our troops to conduct a joint operation with the police to capture the terrorists and preempt their bomb ploy," said Nicolas.
Nicolas saidAskali was nabbed at Governor Lim Avenue. A hand grenade, cellular phone, and two identification cards were recovered by authorities from the suspect's possession.
Afollow up joint law enforcement operation of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Philippine National Police resulted in the arrest of Mukram and Shayif in the village of Taluksangay.
Nicolas said an IED and a Caliber .45 pistol were recovered from the duo. "The suspects were sent by Indama to conduct bombing in this city," he added.
According to him, the area was still being searched for another IED since information from Ayub revealed that Mukram and Shayif were keeping two IEDs.
Authorities are still determining if the arrested Askali is related to slainMuamar Askali, the Abu Sayyaf spokesman who was killed in an island province of Bohol in central Philippines popular with tourists, in April this year.
Askali was linked to several high-profile kidnappings insouthern Philippines and around Malaysia's Sabah state. He had appeared in videos demanding ransom for foreigners taken by Daesh-linked Abu Sayyaf group.
They were behind the kidnappings of two Canadians and a Norwegian at an upscale resort on Samalisland in Davao province in September 2015, and a German off Malaysia's Sabah state in November 2016.
The Canadians were beheaded in April and June lastyear, after ransoms were not paid. While the Norwegian was released in September last year, after paying ransom .
A German hostage was also beheaded in February this year after talks for his release in exchange for ransom collapsed.
Askali also reportedly planned the abduction in April 2014 of a German couple off Sabah. The two were released that same year after the German government reportedly paidransom .
http://aa.com.tr/en/asia-pacific/abu-sayyafs-bomb-plot-foiled-3-militants-arrested/918541
Intelligence reports revealed the group would bomb public places in the city in three days
Government security forces thwarted a plan to bomb this southern city of Mindanao after arresting three militants who possessed improvised explosive devices here.
Army Col. Leonel Nicolas, head of the Joint Task Force Zamboanga, said joint military and police operations led to the arrest of the Abu Sayyaf suspects in separate areas in Zamboanga city on Saturday.
The three, identified as Omar Askali, a.k.a. Ayub, and Mukaram Sapie, a.k.a.
The military tagged Askali as a trusted follower of Indama, who operates in Basilan province, a known stronghold of the Abu Sayyaf group.
The other two arrested suspects were Askali's cohorts trained in manufacturing IEDs.
"Intelligence reports revealed that the group will bomb public places in the city three days from now. This prompted our troops to conduct a joint operation with the police to capture the terrorists and preempt their bomb ploy," said Nicolas.
Nicolas said
A
Nicolas said an IED and a Caliber .45 pistol were recovered from the duo. "The suspects were sent by Indama to conduct bombing in this city," he added.
According to him, the area was still being searched for another IED since information from Ayub revealed that Mukram and Shayif were keeping two IEDs.
Authorities are still determining if the arrested Askali is related to slain
Askali was linked to several high-profile kidnappings in
They were behind the kidnappings of two Canadians and a Norwegian at an upscale resort on Samal
The Canadians were beheaded in April and June last
A German hostage was also beheaded in February this year after talks for his release in exchange for ransom collapsed.
Askali also reportedly planned the abduction in April 2014 of a German couple off Sabah. The two were released that same year after the German government reportedly paid
http://aa.com.tr/en/asia-pacific/abu-sayyafs-bomb-plot-foiled-3-militants-arrested/918541
New Army battalion activated vs counter-insurgency
From the Sun Star (Sep 26): New Army battalion activated vs counter-insurgency
A NEW battalion assigned in the 10th Infantry Division (ID) was activated on Monday, September 25, at Camp General Manuel T. Yan Sr., Barangay Tuboran, Mawab, Compostela Valley Province.
The new battalion is seen to complement the efforts and further boost the capacity of the troops in its counter-insurgency campaign especially in Davao Region.
Captain Rhyan Batchar, 10th ID spokesperson, in a statement issued Monday, said the newly-activated 89th "Makatao" Infantry Battalion (IB), which is pursuant to General Orders No. 818 issued on September 15, will be commanded by Lieutenant Colonel (Ltc.) Luciano Caiman Jr., who was the former commander of the 72nd IB....
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/local-news/2017/09/26/new-army-battalion-activated-vs-counter-insurgency-566131
A NEW battalion assigned in the 10th Infantry Division (ID) was activated on Monday, September 25, at Camp General Manuel T. Yan Sr., Barangay Tuboran, Mawab, Compostela Valley Province.
The new battalion is seen to complement the efforts and further boost the capacity of the troops in its counter-insurgency campaign especially in Davao Region.
Captain Rhyan Batchar, 10th ID spokesperson, in a statement issued Monday, said the newly-activated 89th "Makatao" Infantry Battalion (IB), which is pursuant to General Orders No. 818 issued on September 15, will be commanded by Lieutenant Colonel (Ltc.) Luciano Caiman Jr., who was the former commander of the 72nd IB....
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/local-news/2017/09/26/new-army-battalion-activated-vs-counter-insurgency-566131
Here’s How ISIS Gave A Modern Army A Run For Its Money In The Pacific
From The Daily Caller (Sep 25): Here’s How ISIS Gave A Modern Army A Run For Its Money In The Pacific
A joint group of police and military forces guard while conducting a house to house search as part of clearing operations in different sections of Marawi city. REUTERS/Stringer
The Armed Forces of the Philippines have been fighting to liberate a city overrun by Islamic militants for four months.
Radical Muslim militants with ties to the Islamic State seized control of Marawi, a city in the southern Philippines, in late May. The jihadis planned their assault in advance, preparing for a long fight against Filipino troops.
At least 502 local terrorists, 114 government forces, and 45 civilians had been killed as of the start of August. Filipino forces have been battling Islamic militants in the southern Philippines for decades, but the situation in Marawi is unlike anything seen previously.
When the militants stormed the city, they set fire to churches, took hostages, murdered civilians, and raised the black ISIS standard above government buildings.
What was expected to be a short liberation effort has turned into a brutal, bloody campaign. The defense ministry initially predicted it could wrap up the conflict in a week. Over the past four months, much of the city has been destroyed by frequent air strikes, and hundreds of thousands of people have fled Marawi.
“It took us one week from this point to that point, to cross that street,” Brigadier General Melquiades Ordiales of the Philippines 1st Marine Brigade told Reuters, referring to a two-lane road in the war-torn city.
“It was really very, very tough,” he added.
The militants the Filipino forces are fighting are not poorly-armed, poorly-trained rebels in the jungles. The ISIS fighters are equipped with high-powered combat weapons, night vision goggles, sniper rifles, and even surveillance drones, Captain Arnel Carandang, of the Philippines Army First Scout Ranger Battalion, introduced.
The jihadis have also put their hostages, many of which are Christian, to work for the caliphate, forcing them onto the battlefield to search for supplies, build bombs, and scavenge for food, guns, and ammunition. The radical Muslim militants have also made female captives serve as sex slaves for the army.
The terrorists have numerous snipers and are armed with anti-tank weapons. They hide in bomb-proof tunnels and use human shields, operating out of mosques around the city.
The militants, many of which come from other countries, have demonstrated tactics used by ISIS in Iraq and Syria, where thousands of lives have been lost.
“By the way they move and their tactics, you can see they’ve been trained,” Col. Jose Maria Cuerpo, deputy commander of the 103rd Brigade fighting in Marawi, explained to Reuters.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines believes it is close to liberating the city, but they are concerned about violent extremism in the last days of the fighting. Suicide bombings and other fanatical extremist behavior are particularly worrisome.
The ISIS fighters in Marawi are reportedly considering striking other targets across the Philippines. As the Islamic extremists lose ground in the Middle East, they are increasingly turning their focus to alternative battlefields. Marawi may be the beginning of a largest ISIS effort to secure a foothold for expansion in Southeast Asia.
http://dailycaller.com/2017/09/25/heres-how-isis-gave-a-modern-army-a-run-for-its-money-in-the-pacific/
A joint group of police and military forces guard while conducting a house to house search as part of clearing operations in different sections of Marawi city. REUTERS/Stringer
The Armed Forces of the Philippines have been fighting to liberate a city overrun by Islamic militants for four months.
Radical Muslim militants with ties to the Islamic State seized control of Marawi, a city in the southern Philippines, in late May. The jihadis planned their assault in advance, preparing for a long fight against Filipino troops.
At least 502 local terrorists, 114 government forces, and 45 civilians had been killed as of the start of August. Filipino forces have been battling Islamic militants in the southern Philippines for decades, but the situation in Marawi is unlike anything seen previously.
When the militants stormed the city, they set fire to churches, took hostages, murdered civilians, and raised the black ISIS standard above government buildings.
What was expected to be a short liberation effort has turned into a brutal, bloody campaign. The defense ministry initially predicted it could wrap up the conflict in a week. Over the past four months, much of the city has been destroyed by frequent air strikes, and hundreds of thousands of people have fled Marawi.
“It took us one week from this point to that point, to cross that street,” Brigadier General Melquiades Ordiales of the Philippines 1st Marine Brigade told Reuters, referring to a two-lane road in the war-torn city.
“It was really very, very tough,” he added.
The militants the Filipino forces are fighting are not poorly-armed, poorly-trained rebels in the jungles. The ISIS fighters are equipped with high-powered combat weapons, night vision goggles, sniper rifles, and even surveillance drones, Captain Arnel Carandang, of the Philippines Army First Scout Ranger Battalion, introduced.
The jihadis have also put their hostages, many of which are Christian, to work for the caliphate, forcing them onto the battlefield to search for supplies, build bombs, and scavenge for food, guns, and ammunition. The radical Muslim militants have also made female captives serve as sex slaves for the army.
The terrorists have numerous snipers and are armed with anti-tank weapons. They hide in bomb-proof tunnels and use human shields, operating out of mosques around the city.
The militants, many of which come from other countries, have demonstrated tactics used by ISIS in Iraq and Syria, where thousands of lives have been lost.
“By the way they move and their tactics, you can see they’ve been trained,” Col. Jose Maria Cuerpo, deputy commander of the 103rd Brigade fighting in Marawi, explained to Reuters.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines believes it is close to liberating the city, but they are concerned about violent extremism in the last days of the fighting. Suicide bombings and other fanatical extremist behavior are particularly worrisome.
The ISIS fighters in Marawi are reportedly considering striking other targets across the Philippines. As the Islamic extremists lose ground in the Middle East, they are increasingly turning their focus to alternative battlefields. Marawi may be the beginning of a largest ISIS effort to secure a foothold for expansion in Southeast Asia.
http://dailycaller.com/2017/09/25/heres-how-isis-gave-a-modern-army-a-run-for-its-money-in-the-pacific/
Manila nabs rebel leader planning bomb attacks
From the Gulf Today (Sep 26): Manila nabs rebel leader planning bomb attacks
A “rogue” Moro rebel leader tagged by the military as planning to launch bombing attacks in Central Mindanao, was arrested on Monday during a raid in his hideout in North Cotabato province.
Lieutenant Colonel Gerry Basana, an Army battalion chief, identified the suspect as Muslimin Ladtungan, more popularly known as “Commander Mus” of the Daesh-linked Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF).
Basana said Ladtungan surrendered when he found himself cornered by a team of soldiers and policemen sent to arrest him in a “barangay” (village) in the town of Midsayap, North Cotabato on Monday morning.
Basana credited villagers for the arrest of Ladtungan who reportedly planned a series of bombing attacks in North Cotabato and neighbouring Maguindanao to avenge the death of 27 BIFF members in a series of clashes with forces of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
Confiscated from Ladtungan’s hideout were several improvised bombs as well as powerful weapons like a grenade launcher, rifles and pistols, according to Basana.
Based on intelligence information, Basana said Ladtungan planned to bomb crowded areas and other public places especially in Maguindanao where BIFF and MILF forces have engaged in a series of bloody encounters since Aug.2.
The clashes, he said, resulted from MILF’s participation in the government anti-terrorism campaign and to help maintain peace and order as part of its commitment when it signed a peace agreement with the government.
The military said the BIFF was founded by the late MILF veteran field commander Ameril Umbra Kato who broke away with about 1,200 of his armed followers due to major policy differences with front leaders over the conduct of their peace talks with the government.
Since then, the military said the BIFF has pledged allegiance to the Daesh extremists in the Middle East as it warned it would continue to oppose the MILF peace deal with the government.
Also linked to the Daesh are the Abu Sayyaf extremists and the Maute terror group named after two brothers – Omar and Abdullah Maute – that laid siege to Marawi City on May 23 and now on its fourth month.
http://www.gulftoday.ae/portal/4bbf404b-0549-4609-a6d4-2eefc7b241ac.aspx
A “rogue” Moro rebel leader tagged by the military as planning to launch bombing attacks in Central Mindanao, was arrested on Monday during a raid in his hideout in North Cotabato province.
Lieutenant Colonel Gerry Basana, an Army battalion chief, identified the suspect as Muslimin Ladtungan, more popularly known as “Commander Mus” of the Daesh-linked Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF).
Basana said Ladtungan surrendered when he found himself cornered by a team of soldiers and policemen sent to arrest him in a “barangay” (village) in the town of Midsayap, North Cotabato on Monday morning.
Basana credited villagers for the arrest of Ladtungan who reportedly planned a series of bombing attacks in North Cotabato and neighbouring Maguindanao to avenge the death of 27 BIFF members in a series of clashes with forces of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
Confiscated from Ladtungan’s hideout were several improvised bombs as well as powerful weapons like a grenade launcher, rifles and pistols, according to Basana.
Based on intelligence information, Basana said Ladtungan planned to bomb crowded areas and other public places especially in Maguindanao where BIFF and MILF forces have engaged in a series of bloody encounters since Aug.2.
The clashes, he said, resulted from MILF’s participation in the government anti-terrorism campaign and to help maintain peace and order as part of its commitment when it signed a peace agreement with the government.
The military said the BIFF was founded by the late MILF veteran field commander Ameril Umbra Kato who broke away with about 1,200 of his armed followers due to major policy differences with front leaders over the conduct of their peace talks with the government.
Since then, the military said the BIFF has pledged allegiance to the Daesh extremists in the Middle East as it warned it would continue to oppose the MILF peace deal with the government.
Also linked to the Daesh are the Abu Sayyaf extremists and the Maute terror group named after two brothers – Omar and Abdullah Maute – that laid siege to Marawi City on May 23 and now on its fourth month.
http://www.gulftoday.ae/portal/4bbf404b-0549-4609-a6d4-2eefc7b241ac.aspx
Nine NPA bomb makers surrender in Sultan Kudarat
From the Philippine Star (Sep 25): Nine NPA bomb makers surrender in Sultan Kudarat
The nine rebels who surrendered Sunday yielded roadside bombs that they originally planned to plant along thoroughfares in Senator Ninoy Aquino town in Sultan Kudarat. JOHN UNSON
SULTAN KUDARAT, Philippines — Nine communist rebels trained to make and use powerful roadside bombs surrendered to the military on Sunday.
The nine supposed New People’s Army guerrillas turned themselves in to the Army’s 33rd Infantry Battalion in Barangay Malegdeg in Senator Ninoy Aquino, Sultan Kudarat.
They yielded six newly-assembled IEDs, "subversive" documents, medical supplies and lists of traders they were to subject to collection of “protection money” on a periodic basis.
The nine men, whose identities municipal officials asked to withhold pending the grant of government security clearances and to protect their relatives from the ire of their leaders in the NPA’s Guerilla Front 73, are now confined in a military camp.
More than 20 NPAs from Senator Ninoy Aquino and nearby towns in Sultan Kudarat have pledged allegiance to the Philippine flag in the past six months through the joint efforts of the 33rd IB and municipal officials.
Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc of the 33rd IB said on Monday that the nine NPAs willingly appeared at a designated site in Barangay Malegdeg in Senator Ninoy Aquino town where local leaders were to meet and fetch them.
“It was good that they also turned over powerful improvised explosive devices,” Cabunoc said.
Maj. Gen. Arnel Dela Vega, commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, said on Monday he is thankful to local officials who helped work out the surrender of the nine NPAs.
Dela Vega said he is also grateful to Sultan Kudarat Gov. Pax Mangudadatu for helping rehabilitate the more than 20 NPAs who earlier returned to the fold of law through initiatives by the 33rd IB.
The leader of the nine NPA bombers, who asked to be identified only as Buloy for fear of reprisals, said what hastened their surrender last Sunday was the raid by authorities hours before of the hideout of wanted criminal gang leader Dodong Baylon in Barangay Kabulanan in Isulan, Sultan Kudarat.
Combined personnel of the 33rd IB and the Philippine National Police recovered from Baylon’s hideout a rocket-propelled grenade, an M16 rifle, two M14 rifles, a vintage .30 caliber Springfield bolt-action rifle, a 12-gauge shotgun, three shoulder-fire M-79 grenade launchers, and a .38 caliber revolver.
“We felt we will be targeted next. Isulan is very near Senator Ninoy Aquino. If we get arrested we can face criminal cases for keeping IEDs so we decided to yield without hesitation to the people who started negotiating our surrender secretly before that operation against Dodong Baylon was launched,” Buloy said in Bisaya.
Baylon, who was to be arrested in the joint police-Army operation based on a warrant from a court, managed to escape just as the raiding teams began surrounding his hideout in Barangay Kabulanan.
His alleged coddler in the barangay, a Moro guerrilla commander named Morix Endeng, was arrested and is now undergoing interrogation by police.
Military: Bomb attacks in Zamboanga foiled
From Malaya Business Insight (Sep 25): Military: Bomb attacks in Zamboanga foiled
THE military yesterday claimed to have foiled a plan of the Abu Sayyaf to stage bombing attacks in Zamboanga City this week, with the arrest of two members of the group last Saturday.
Omar Askali alias Ayub and Mukaram Sapie alias Mukram and Shayif were arrested by the AFP’s Task Force Zamboanga and the city police at around 10:30 a.m. along Governor Lim avenue. Recovered from Askali were a hand grenade, a cellular phone and two identification cards.
Follow-operations resulted in the arrest of Mukram in Barangay Taluksangay later on Saturday. Seized from Mukram’s possession was an improvised bomb and a cal. 45 pistol.
Askali is a “trusted follower” of Abu Sayyaf leader Furuji Indama and is trained in manufacturing improvised explosive devices, said Capt. Jo-ann Petinglay, spokeswoman of the military’s Western Mindanao Command.
Petinglay said troops were still searching the area for another improvised bomb because information provided by Askali indicated that Mukram was keeping two bombs.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/military-bomb-attacks-zamboanga-foiled
THE military yesterday claimed to have foiled a plan of the Abu Sayyaf to stage bombing attacks in Zamboanga City this week, with the arrest of two members of the group last Saturday.
Omar Askali alias Ayub and Mukaram Sapie alias Mukram and Shayif were arrested by the AFP’s Task Force Zamboanga and the city police at around 10:30 a.m. along Governor Lim avenue. Recovered from Askali were a hand grenade, a cellular phone and two identification cards.
Follow-operations resulted in the arrest of Mukram in Barangay Taluksangay later on Saturday. Seized from Mukram’s possession was an improvised bomb and a cal. 45 pistol.
Askali is a “trusted follower” of Abu Sayyaf leader Furuji Indama and is trained in manufacturing improvised explosive devices, said Capt. Jo-ann Petinglay, spokeswoman of the military’s Western Mindanao Command.
Petinglay said troops were still searching the area for another improvised bomb because information provided by Askali indicated that Mukram was keeping two bombs.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/military-bomb-attacks-zamboanga-foiled
Surrender, release captives, AFP tells Maute anew
From Malaya Business Insight (Sep 25): Surrender, release captives, AFP tells Maute anew
AN Army general leading the campaign to rid Marawi City of the Maute Group yesterday told the remnants of the terrorist group to release their hostages and surrender.
Maj. Gen. Rolando Bautista, commander of the military’s Joint Task Force Marawi, reiterated the military’s appeal as government forces continue to regain ground from the Maute which attacked the city on May 23.
“The terrorists are now becoming desperate as our soldiers and police are closing in on their defensive positions,” said Bautista.
The military has said 40 to 60 Maute men in the city, holding around 45 to 50 hostages.
“We are continuing our appeal to the terrorists to release their hostages and for them to surrender,” Bautista said.
Bautista made the call after he and Maj. Gen. Danilo Pamonag, head of the Joint Special Operations Task Force Trident, crossed two bridges that troops have re-captured from the Maute.
Masui Bridge which was retaken after skirmishes last Friday while Bayabao Bridge was recovered earlier this month.
Col. Edgard Arevalo, chief of the AFP public affairs office, said the Maute members would end up dead if they would not surrender. He said the Maute could forget escaping because “we’re guarding the escape route.”
The fighting has so far left 694 Maute members dead, and 151 soldiers and policemen, and 47 civilians.
Presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella said the Lanao del Sur drug trade matrix made public by President Duterte last Friday showed the ties between illegal drugs and terrorist activities.
“Local politicians in Mindanao adversely affected by the government’s campaign against illegal drugs have financed the Daesh-inspired Maute Group, whose attempt to undermine our sovereignty resulted in the rebellion in Marawi. It is therefore imperative that we destroy the drug apparatus not only to protect the Filipino family and the youth of the country but also to secure our communities,” he said.
The matrix named some local government officials from the Visayas and Mindanao, as well as their alleged partners in the illegal drugs trade, who supposedly financed the Maute attack on Marawi. Duterte said the matrix is the product of two to three months work of the intelligence community.
The list includes the name Parojinog, supposedly referring to Ozamiz City mayor Reynaldo Paojinog who was killed along with his wife, brother, sister and 11 others in a police raid in Ozamiz on July 30.
Duterte said he was considering giving a copy of his latest drug matrix to priests and bishops who, while frowning on some aspects of the war against drugs, can talk to some alleged drug personalities who are parish members.
Last year, the President also released a “narco-list” containing the names of hundreds of names of local politicians, judges, and policemen, another list involving the drugs trade at the National Bilibid Prison that identified Sen. Leila de Lima as among those involved in the illegal operations.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/surrender-release-captives-afp-tells-maute-anew
AN Army general leading the campaign to rid Marawi City of the Maute Group yesterday told the remnants of the terrorist group to release their hostages and surrender.
Maj. Gen. Rolando Bautista, commander of the military’s Joint Task Force Marawi, reiterated the military’s appeal as government forces continue to regain ground from the Maute which attacked the city on May 23.
“The terrorists are now becoming desperate as our soldiers and police are closing in on their defensive positions,” said Bautista.
The military has said 40 to 60 Maute men in the city, holding around 45 to 50 hostages.
“We are continuing our appeal to the terrorists to release their hostages and for them to surrender,” Bautista said.
Bautista made the call after he and Maj. Gen. Danilo Pamonag, head of the Joint Special Operations Task Force Trident, crossed two bridges that troops have re-captured from the Maute.
Masui Bridge which was retaken after skirmishes last Friday while Bayabao Bridge was recovered earlier this month.
Col. Edgard Arevalo, chief of the AFP public affairs office, said the Maute members would end up dead if they would not surrender. He said the Maute could forget escaping because “we’re guarding the escape route.”
The fighting has so far left 694 Maute members dead, and 151 soldiers and policemen, and 47 civilians.
Presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella said the Lanao del Sur drug trade matrix made public by President Duterte last Friday showed the ties between illegal drugs and terrorist activities.
“Local politicians in Mindanao adversely affected by the government’s campaign against illegal drugs have financed the Daesh-inspired Maute Group, whose attempt to undermine our sovereignty resulted in the rebellion in Marawi. It is therefore imperative that we destroy the drug apparatus not only to protect the Filipino family and the youth of the country but also to secure our communities,” he said.
The matrix named some local government officials from the Visayas and Mindanao, as well as their alleged partners in the illegal drugs trade, who supposedly financed the Maute attack on Marawi. Duterte said the matrix is the product of two to three months work of the intelligence community.
The list includes the name Parojinog, supposedly referring to Ozamiz City mayor Reynaldo Paojinog who was killed along with his wife, brother, sister and 11 others in a police raid in Ozamiz on July 30.
Duterte said he was considering giving a copy of his latest drug matrix to priests and bishops who, while frowning on some aspects of the war against drugs, can talk to some alleged drug personalities who are parish members.
Last year, the President also released a “narco-list” containing the names of hundreds of names of local politicians, judges, and policemen, another list involving the drugs trade at the National Bilibid Prison that identified Sen. Leila de Lima as among those involved in the illegal operations.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/surrender-release-captives-afp-tells-maute-anew
Duterte reorganizes intel advisory body
From Malaya Business Insight (Sep 26): Duterte reorganizes intel advisory body
PRESIDENT Duterte has reorganized the National Intelligence Committee (NIC), the advisory body to the director general of the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA), to promote unity and cohesion of the intelligence community as well as remove duplication of intelligence activities.
The President, in signing Administrative Order 7 on September 22, included the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, the Coast Guard, and the Office for Transportation Security in the advisory body; removed the Presidential Security Group; and retained the Department of Foreign Affairs, the NBI, Bureau of Customs, the Armed Forces and the PNP.
The new order states that the highest ranking intelligence officers of the nine agencies will form part of NIC.
The AO also retained the NICA director general as chairman of NIC, and will continue to be assisted by the regional intelligence committees that had been institutionalized in the regions to promote and enhance intelligence fusion.
The President said the reorganizing of NIC is necessary to “provide more focused and clearer delineation of tasks among units/agencies involved in the gathering of intelligence on national security issues and concerns, in order to preclude unnecessary duplication of intelligence activities, ensure complete coverage of the intelligence concerns as well as promote the judicious use of government resources”.
NIC was created through Administrative Order 3 (s.2003) to serve as the advisory body to the NICA director general and for the coordination, integration, and fusion of all intelligence activities and preparation of national intelligence estimates for local and international situations, and address issues of national intelligence concerns.
The current NICA head is Alex Agudo.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/duterte-reorganizes-intel-advisory-body
PRESIDENT Duterte has reorganized the National Intelligence Committee (NIC), the advisory body to the director general of the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA), to promote unity and cohesion of the intelligence community as well as remove duplication of intelligence activities.
The President, in signing Administrative Order 7 on September 22, included the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, the Coast Guard, and the Office for Transportation Security in the advisory body; removed the Presidential Security Group; and retained the Department of Foreign Affairs, the NBI, Bureau of Customs, the Armed Forces and the PNP.
The new order states that the highest ranking intelligence officers of the nine agencies will form part of NIC.
The AO also retained the NICA director general as chairman of NIC, and will continue to be assisted by the regional intelligence committees that had been institutionalized in the regions to promote and enhance intelligence fusion.
The President said the reorganizing of NIC is necessary to “provide more focused and clearer delineation of tasks among units/agencies involved in the gathering of intelligence on national security issues and concerns, in order to preclude unnecessary duplication of intelligence activities, ensure complete coverage of the intelligence concerns as well as promote the judicious use of government resources”.
NIC was created through Administrative Order 3 (s.2003) to serve as the advisory body to the NICA director general and for the coordination, integration, and fusion of all intelligence activities and preparation of national intelligence estimates for local and international situations, and address issues of national intelligence concerns.
The current NICA head is Alex Agudo.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/duterte-reorganizes-intel-advisory-body
Marawi conflict end seen in a month
From Malaya Business Insight (Sep 26): Marawi conflict end seen in a month
MORE soldiers will be deployed to Marawi City to augment some 5,000 troops battling the Maute terror group, Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez, chief of the AFP Western Mindanao Command, announced yesterday as he said the armed conflict which broke out on May 23 would not last another month.
“We have more forces coming in. We have identified some gaps. We are making sure that those gaps, especially in the (Lanao) lake will be patched up,” Galvez said in a press briefing in Marawi City.
Galvez would not say how many more soldiers will be sent to the main battle area, now down to about 10 hectares with some 300 structures.
The 5,000 figure does not include policemen supporting the operations to rid Marawi City of Maute remnants, now numbering 60 to 80, and holding 45 to 50 hostages.
Since the conflict started, 695 Maute men have died, together with 151 soldiers and policemen and 47 civilians.
Galvez said soldiers are well-distributed in the city, in keeping with the directive of higher headquarters to ensure the Maute would not be able to send reinforcements or slip out of the battle zone.
He also said the Maute Group’s defenses have started to slacken “but we cannot relax and lower our guard.” He noted that the remnants of the group are still “capable of doing something.”
Galvez said the armed conflict would not take another month. On Tuesday last week, President Duterte said the conflict might end this month as troops are already on mopping-up operations.
“It would no longer take a month. It will take days only or weeks... More or less, two weeks or three most probably, that is our timeline... Our operational push is good, considering that all the strategic areas have been recovered already,” said Galvez.
Late last month, Galvez said he expected normalcy to return to the city in two to three weeks, noting that the Maute Group was getting smaller each day.
The operations have led to the recovery of 698 firearms and rescue of 1,730 hostages.
Four newly-rescued hostages were presented by Galvez yesterday to the media in Marawi City. They were Lordvin Acopio, Hadji Abdullah Nicon Rakin Baunto, Kiram Datu Dakula Ampatua, and Abdulnasser Ergas Mangondaya.
Acopio was rescued last September 16, along with Fr. Chito Soganub, from a mosque which soldiers retook from the Maute.
Soganub was presented by Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and AFP chief Gen. Eduardo Año to the media last Monday in Camp Aguinaldo.
Baunto, Ampatua and Mangondaya were rescued by government forces last week, said Col. Romeo Brawner, deputy commander of the military’s Joint Task Force Ranao.
The military declined to give further details about the rescue of Baunto, Ampatua and Mangondaya.
“We cannot give you the answer. There are still more or less 46 hostages there. If we will reveal how we rescued them, it might compromise the ongoing rescue operations for the others,” said Galvez.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/marawi-conflict-end-seen-month
MORE soldiers will be deployed to Marawi City to augment some 5,000 troops battling the Maute terror group, Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez, chief of the AFP Western Mindanao Command, announced yesterday as he said the armed conflict which broke out on May 23 would not last another month.
“We have more forces coming in. We have identified some gaps. We are making sure that those gaps, especially in the (Lanao) lake will be patched up,” Galvez said in a press briefing in Marawi City.
Galvez would not say how many more soldiers will be sent to the main battle area, now down to about 10 hectares with some 300 structures.
The 5,000 figure does not include policemen supporting the operations to rid Marawi City of Maute remnants, now numbering 60 to 80, and holding 45 to 50 hostages.
Since the conflict started, 695 Maute men have died, together with 151 soldiers and policemen and 47 civilians.
Galvez said soldiers are well-distributed in the city, in keeping with the directive of higher headquarters to ensure the Maute would not be able to send reinforcements or slip out of the battle zone.
He also said the Maute Group’s defenses have started to slacken “but we cannot relax and lower our guard.” He noted that the remnants of the group are still “capable of doing something.”
Galvez said the armed conflict would not take another month. On Tuesday last week, President Duterte said the conflict might end this month as troops are already on mopping-up operations.
“It would no longer take a month. It will take days only or weeks... More or less, two weeks or three most probably, that is our timeline... Our operational push is good, considering that all the strategic areas have been recovered already,” said Galvez.
Late last month, Galvez said he expected normalcy to return to the city in two to three weeks, noting that the Maute Group was getting smaller each day.
The operations have led to the recovery of 698 firearms and rescue of 1,730 hostages.
Four newly-rescued hostages were presented by Galvez yesterday to the media in Marawi City. They were Lordvin Acopio, Hadji Abdullah Nicon Rakin Baunto, Kiram Datu Dakula Ampatua, and Abdulnasser Ergas Mangondaya.
Acopio was rescued last September 16, along with Fr. Chito Soganub, from a mosque which soldiers retook from the Maute.
Soganub was presented by Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and AFP chief Gen. Eduardo Año to the media last Monday in Camp Aguinaldo.
Baunto, Ampatua and Mangondaya were rescued by government forces last week, said Col. Romeo Brawner, deputy commander of the military’s Joint Task Force Ranao.
The military declined to give further details about the rescue of Baunto, Ampatua and Mangondaya.
“We cannot give you the answer. There are still more or less 46 hostages there. If we will reveal how we rescued them, it might compromise the ongoing rescue operations for the others,” said Galvez.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/marawi-conflict-end-seen-month
PH assures Vietnam of impartial probe as 2 Viet fishermen die, 5 are detained after sea chase by PH Navy
From News 5/InterAksyon (Sep 25): PH assures Vietnam of impartial probe as 2 Viet fishermen die, 5 are detained after sea chase by PH Navy
Malacañang has assured Vietnam of an impartial investigation of the sea chase at the weekend in Pangasinan involving the Philippine Navy and Vietnamese fishing boats where two fishermen were killed. Five other fishermen are in detention.
The Navy vessel was enroute to Subic, Zambales when the Filipino officers spotted six Vietnamese fishing vessels inside the 200-nautical-mile Philippine exclusive economic zone.
The Navy said the fishing vessels did not stop despite being flagged down and even after the Navy patrol gave warning shots.
It was unclear whether two of the Vietnamese fishermen died because of the warning shots.
“Authorities are now conducting a fair and thorough investigation into the incident involving a Philippine Navy vessel and Vietnamese fishing boats which were seen fishing in Bolinao, Pangasinan,” Presidential Spokesman Ernesto Abella said.
Five Vietnamese fishermen had surrendered and were detained at a precinct in Bolinao.
Meanwhile, reports from Vietnam said only one fishing vessel had an encounter with the Navy.
The report said the fishermen were forced to fight back when the Navy chased them, but full details have yet to be determined.
In New York City, Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano also assured Vietnam’s deputy prime minister Pham Binh Minh of an impartial and full investigation during an informal ASEAN meeting at the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.
http://www.interaksyon.com/ph-assures-vietnam-of-impartial-probe-as-2-viet-fishermen-die-5-are-detained-after-sea-chase-by-ph-navy/
Malacañang has assured Vietnam of an impartial investigation of the sea chase at the weekend in Pangasinan involving the Philippine Navy and Vietnamese fishing boats where two fishermen were killed. Five other fishermen are in detention.
The Navy vessel was enroute to Subic, Zambales when the Filipino officers spotted six Vietnamese fishing vessels inside the 200-nautical-mile Philippine exclusive economic zone.
The Navy said the fishing vessels did not stop despite being flagged down and even after the Navy patrol gave warning shots.
It was unclear whether two of the Vietnamese fishermen died because of the warning shots.
“Authorities are now conducting a fair and thorough investigation into the incident involving a Philippine Navy vessel and Vietnamese fishing boats which were seen fishing in Bolinao, Pangasinan,” Presidential Spokesman Ernesto Abella said.
Five Vietnamese fishermen had surrendered and were detained at a precinct in Bolinao.
Meanwhile, reports from Vietnam said only one fishing vessel had an encounter with the Navy.
The report said the fishermen were forced to fight back when the Navy chased them, but full details have yet to be determined.
In New York City, Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano also assured Vietnam’s deputy prime minister Pham Binh Minh of an impartial and full investigation during an informal ASEAN meeting at the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.
http://www.interaksyon.com/ph-assures-vietnam-of-impartial-probe-as-2-viet-fishermen-die-5-are-detained-after-sea-chase-by-ph-navy/
WATCH: Marawi generals spend time with evacuees, inspire the youth
From Rappler (Sep 25): WATCH: Marawi generals spend time with evacuees, inspire the youth
The generals take time out of the battle area to spend time with Marawi residents affected by the war
Marawi generals took time out of the battle area and their command centers to spend time with residents affected by the war with local terror groups linked with international terrorist network Islamic State (ISIS).
Western Mindanao Command chief Lieutenant General Carlito Galvez had breakfast with Marawi residents taking temporary shelter in Barangay Mipaga in Saguiran, one of the towns hosting a big number of Marawi residents. The military distributed relief goods, served hot meals, and provided entertainment.
He apologized to the evacuees for the delay in military operations to end the war. He promised the war will be over soon and they can return to their homes.
Galvez later attended a send-off ceremony for students who will take a study tour in Manila, which includes a meet and greet activity with President Rodrigo Duterte.
In the afternoon, Joint Task Force Marawi commander Major General Rolando Bautista also left the battle area to attend the closing ceremony of a youth camp at the Mindanao State University.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/183336-marawi-generals-evacuees
The generals take time out of the battle area to spend time with Marawi residents affected by the war
Marawi generals took time out of the battle area and their command centers to spend time with residents affected by the war with local terror groups linked with international terrorist network Islamic State (ISIS).
Western Mindanao Command chief Lieutenant General Carlito Galvez had breakfast with Marawi residents taking temporary shelter in Barangay Mipaga in Saguiran, one of the towns hosting a big number of Marawi residents. The military distributed relief goods, served hot meals, and provided entertainment.
He apologized to the evacuees for the delay in military operations to end the war. He promised the war will be over soon and they can return to their homes.
Galvez later attended a send-off ceremony for students who will take a study tour in Manila, which includes a meet and greet activity with President Rodrigo Duterte.
In the afternoon, Joint Task Force Marawi commander Major General Rolando Bautista also left the battle area to attend the closing ceremony of a youth camp at the Mindanao State University.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/183336-marawi-generals-evacuees
PSG officer found dead in Malacañang Park
From Rappler (Sep 26): PSG officer found dead in Malacañang Park
(4th UPDATE) Major Harim Gonzaga, a 37-year-old father of two, sustains a gunshot wound in his chest area, in a case still being investigated by authorities
(4th UPDATE) – The Presidential Security Group (PSG) confirmed that Major Harim Gonzaga, a 37-year-old officer, was found dead due to a gunshot wound in Malacañang Park on Tuesday, September 26.
Gonzaga's lifeless body was discovered by his wife, who is a sergeant in the security force, in his quarters located in Malacañang Park, Manila, at around 8:50 am on Tuesday.
The officer was seen with a gunshot wound in his chest area.
The PSG said Gonzaga was married and a father of two, as the PSG sent its condolences to the officer's family and friends.
According to Brigadier General Lope Dagoy, head of the PSG, there were no initial signs of foul play or any indication of a struggle, but police were still investigating.
The incident took place far from President Rodrigo Duterte's residence inside the compound, Dagoy said. He said even other members of the PSG were unaware of the shooting until Gonzaga's wife found the body.
The wife reportedly said she and Gonzaga were not facing any problems apart from the latter’s heavy workload, Dagoy told reporters.
Gonzaga was in charge of the security force's operations and was not one of the president's personal guards, he added.
The PSG said it "does not want to speculate" on the cause of Gonzaga's death.
It said it "will wait for the official findings" of the Scene of the Crime Operatives, as it respects the privacy of Gonzaga's family.
In a press briefing earlier on Tuesday, Presidential Spokesman Ernesto Abella also said the circumstances of the incident have yet to be determined.
"Of course it's a matter of concern. However, we need to clarify exactly what it was all about. We don't know the exact nature of the incident so we need to be able to find out exactly what it was," said Abella.
He also said he has no information on where President Rodrigo Duterte was when the incident happened.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/183360-presidential-security-group-psg-shot-malacanang-park
(4th UPDATE) Major Harim Gonzaga, a 37-year-old father of two, sustains a gunshot wound in his chest area, in a case still being investigated by authorities
(4th UPDATE) – The Presidential Security Group (PSG) confirmed that Major Harim Gonzaga, a 37-year-old officer, was found dead due to a gunshot wound in Malacañang Park on Tuesday, September 26.
Gonzaga's lifeless body was discovered by his wife, who is a sergeant in the security force, in his quarters located in Malacañang Park, Manila, at around 8:50 am on Tuesday.
The officer was seen with a gunshot wound in his chest area.
The PSG said Gonzaga was married and a father of two, as the PSG sent its condolences to the officer's family and friends.
According to Brigadier General Lope Dagoy, head of the PSG, there were no initial signs of foul play or any indication of a struggle, but police were still investigating.
The incident took place far from President Rodrigo Duterte's residence inside the compound, Dagoy said. He said even other members of the PSG were unaware of the shooting until Gonzaga's wife found the body.
The wife reportedly said she and Gonzaga were not facing any problems apart from the latter’s heavy workload, Dagoy told reporters.
Gonzaga was in charge of the security force's operations and was not one of the president's personal guards, he added.
The PSG said it "does not want to speculate" on the cause of Gonzaga's death.
It said it "will wait for the official findings" of the Scene of the Crime Operatives, as it respects the privacy of Gonzaga's family.
In a press briefing earlier on Tuesday, Presidential Spokesman Ernesto Abella also said the circumstances of the incident have yet to be determined.
"Of course it's a matter of concern. However, we need to clarify exactly what it was all about. We don't know the exact nature of the incident so we need to be able to find out exactly what it was," said Abella.
He also said he has no information on where President Rodrigo Duterte was when the incident happened.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/183360-presidential-security-group-psg-shot-malacanang-park
Maute child warriors are fiercest fighters, says former hostage
From Rappler (Sep 26): Maute child warriors are fiercest fighters, says former hostage
Former Maute hostage Lordvin Acopio says it was obvious the children have been brainwashed to join the local terror groups linked with the international terrorist network Islamic State
The child combatants of the Maute Group were as young as 10 years old and they were the fiercest among the fighters, said a former Maute hostage.
Lordvin Acopio, a teacher from Dansalan College, said he saw up to 17 child warriors inside the battle area while he was still held captive by the terror group. He was rescued on September 16 after he and Catholic priest Father Teresito "Chito" Soganub made an escape from Bato Mosque during a heavy firefight that forced their guards to abandon them.
"Matatapang. Mas pursigido. Mas may gustong patunayan (They were brave. They were more determined. They wanted to prove themselves)," Acopio told reporters on Tuesday, September 26.
Acopio said it was clear the children have been brainwashed to join the local terror group linked with the international terrorist network Islamic State. They wanted to seize the city and establish a caliphate in Mindanao.
Acopio said it scared him how the children have been hardened by an ideology that they were too young to understand. (READ: I met a Maute soldier. He's a child)
Acopio recalled how a child combatant insisted on fighting in the frontlines instead of staying with his dying father, also a Maute fighter.
The children also liked to watch violent ISIS propaganda videos which included footages of beheadings. Once, Acopio recalled, he told them how disgusting these videos were, but the children defended their watching them.
Acopio said the children who will survive the war will need a lot of help to correct their beliefs.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/183390-maute-child-warriors-determined-fighters
Former Maute hostage Lordvin Acopio says it was obvious the children have been brainwashed to join the local terror groups linked with the international terrorist network Islamic State
The child combatants of the Maute Group were as young as 10 years old and they were the fiercest among the fighters, said a former Maute hostage.
Lordvin Acopio, a teacher from Dansalan College, said he saw up to 17 child warriors inside the battle area while he was still held captive by the terror group. He was rescued on September 16 after he and Catholic priest Father Teresito "Chito" Soganub made an escape from Bato Mosque during a heavy firefight that forced their guards to abandon them.
"Matatapang. Mas pursigido. Mas may gustong patunayan (They were brave. They were more determined. They wanted to prove themselves)," Acopio told reporters on Tuesday, September 26.
Acopio said it was clear the children have been brainwashed to join the local terror group linked with the international terrorist network Islamic State. They wanted to seize the city and establish a caliphate in Mindanao.
Acopio said it scared him how the children have been hardened by an ideology that they were too young to understand. (READ: I met a Maute soldier. He's a child)
Acopio recalled how a child combatant insisted on fighting in the frontlines instead of staying with his dying father, also a Maute fighter.
The children also liked to watch violent ISIS propaganda videos which included footages of beheadings. Once, Acopio recalled, he told them how disgusting these videos were, but the children defended their watching them.
Acopio said the children who will survive the war will need a lot of help to correct their beliefs.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/183390-maute-child-warriors-determined-fighters
Presence of foreign fighters in Marawi confirmed by former hostage
From Rappler (Sep 26): Presence of foreign fighters in Marawi confirmed by former hostage
The Indonesians were mostly bombers while the Malaysians and the Arab were fighters in the frontline, says a former hostage
A former hostage of the Maute Group in Marawi confirmed the presence of foreign fighters in the Marawi war zone.
Lordvin Acopio, a teacher at Dansalan College, said he saw at least 11 foreign fighters while he was a hostage inside the battle area. He said the foreign fighters trained him to attend to wounded fighters, but sometimes he also served as interpreter to the foreigners.
Acopio said he met 7 Indonesians, 3 Malaysians, and one Arab. The Indonesians and Malaysian looked like Filipinos and he didn't know they were foreigners until he personally met them.
He said the Indonesians were mostly bombers while the Malaysians and the Arab were fighters in the frontline.
Local terror groups Maute and Abu Sayyaf attacked Marawi on May 23 in a bid to gain territory to establish a caliphate.
The leaders of both groups have pledged allegiance to international terrorist network Islamic State.
The military previously said at least 8 foreign fighters were killed in the early days of the war. It said Malaysian Mahoud Ahmad was also among the leaders and financiers of the attack.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/183398-marawi-foreign-fighters-acopio
The Indonesians were mostly bombers while the Malaysians and the Arab were fighters in the frontline, says a former hostage
A former hostage of the Maute Group in Marawi confirmed the presence of foreign fighters in the Marawi war zone.
Lordvin Acopio, a teacher at Dansalan College, said he saw at least 11 foreign fighters while he was a hostage inside the battle area. He said the foreign fighters trained him to attend to wounded fighters, but sometimes he also served as interpreter to the foreigners.
Acopio said he met 7 Indonesians, 3 Malaysians, and one Arab. The Indonesians and Malaysian looked like Filipinos and he didn't know they were foreigners until he personally met them.
He said the Indonesians were mostly bombers while the Malaysians and the Arab were fighters in the frontline.
Local terror groups Maute and Abu Sayyaf attacked Marawi on May 23 in a bid to gain territory to establish a caliphate.
The leaders of both groups have pledged allegiance to international terrorist network Islamic State.
The military previously said at least 8 foreign fighters were killed in the early days of the war. It said Malaysian Mahoud Ahmad was also among the leaders and financiers of the attack.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/183398-marawi-foreign-fighters-acopio
12 terrorists, 1 Marine killed in intense gun battle in Marawi
From Rappler (Sep 26): 12 terrorists, 1 Marine killed in intense gun battle in Marawi
The Marine is killed by an enemy sniper while 13 of his comrades are wounded by shrapnel from improvised explosive devices
A member of the Philippine Marines was killed while 13 other soldiers were wounded in an intense firefight with the Maute Group here on Monday, September 26, according to the military.
Twelve Maute Group fighters were also killed, according to Colonel Romeo Brawner, deputy commander of Task Group Ranao.
The Marine was killed by an enemy sniper while his wounded comrades were hit by shrapnel from improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
The wounded Marines were brought to a military hospital in Cagayan de Oro.
The military launched its final push to end the war in Marawi City but IEDs have forced the troops to take it slowly. (READ: How an army captain died saving his soldier's life in Marawi)
Most of the Maute strongholds have fallen into government hands and the battle area is reportedly down to less than 10 hectares. (READ: Marawi generals cross critical bridges in battle area)
But the Maute Group is still holding about 40 hostages, according to the military.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/183415-terrorists-marine-killed-marawi-final-push
The Marine is killed by an enemy sniper while 13 of his comrades are wounded by shrapnel from improvised explosive devices
A member of the Philippine Marines was killed while 13 other soldiers were wounded in an intense firefight with the Maute Group here on Monday, September 26, according to the military.
Twelve Maute Group fighters were also killed, according to Colonel Romeo Brawner, deputy commander of Task Group Ranao.
The Marine was killed by an enemy sniper while his wounded comrades were hit by shrapnel from improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
The wounded Marines were brought to a military hospital in Cagayan de Oro.
The military launched its final push to end the war in Marawi City but IEDs have forced the troops to take it slowly. (READ: How an army captain died saving his soldier's life in Marawi)
Most of the Maute strongholds have fallen into government hands and the battle area is reportedly down to less than 10 hectares. (READ: Marawi generals cross critical bridges in battle area)
But the Maute Group is still holding about 40 hostages, according to the military.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/183415-terrorists-marine-killed-marawi-final-push
Military recovers war materials in Palawan
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 25): Military recovers war materials in Palawan
Cooperation of community leaders and efforts of joint operating troops in southern Palawan have resulted in the recovery of another set of New People’s Army (NPA) war materials in the past week, an official of the military said Monday.
Marine Battalion Landing Team-4 (MBLT-4) environment unit and civil military operations officer Captain Wanel Ansa told PNA the war materials consisted of ammunitions, chest rig, medical and dental equipment, and various subversive documents.
On September 21, the 24th Marine Company (MC) of the MBLT-4 headed by 1Lt. Ellaine Collado recovered the first set in the mountainous areas of Barangay Malis, Brooke’s Point town.
The second, which consisted of one M16 rifle, was recovered in Barangay Salogon, also in the said town on September 24, said Ansa.
The MBLT-4 vowed to continue its focused military operation to keep the enemy on the run and incapable of doing any terroristic activities in its area of operation.
Last month, the battalion recovered 14 units of M16 rifles in Barangay Salogon that put a major setback to the NPA's capability.
The high-powered rifles were presented to local government officials of Brooke’s Point, who vowed to accelerate the delivery of basic social services to indigenous peoples (IP) communities to prevent the NPA from continuously exploiting them.
Vice Mayor Cesareo Benedito Jr. of the said town and some 20 village officials made the pledged as they mutually denounced the presence of the rebels in southern Palawan.
"We are all together in condemning the NPA presence in Brooke’s Point. This iniquitous armed struggle is nothing but pure evil for exploiting our innocent indigenous peoples and residents, and we encourage those who have joined (the NPA) to go down from the mountains now and surrender for us to be able to help them," Benedito said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010620
Cooperation of community leaders and efforts of joint operating troops in southern Palawan have resulted in the recovery of another set of New People’s Army (NPA) war materials in the past week, an official of the military said Monday.
Marine Battalion Landing Team-4 (MBLT-4) environment unit and civil military operations officer Captain Wanel Ansa told PNA the war materials consisted of ammunitions, chest rig, medical and dental equipment, and various subversive documents.
On September 21, the 24th Marine Company (MC) of the MBLT-4 headed by 1Lt. Ellaine Collado recovered the first set in the mountainous areas of Barangay Malis, Brooke’s Point town.
The second, which consisted of one M16 rifle, was recovered in Barangay Salogon, also in the said town on September 24, said Ansa.
The MBLT-4 vowed to continue its focused military operation to keep the enemy on the run and incapable of doing any terroristic activities in its area of operation.
Last month, the battalion recovered 14 units of M16 rifles in Barangay Salogon that put a major setback to the NPA's capability.
The high-powered rifles were presented to local government officials of Brooke’s Point, who vowed to accelerate the delivery of basic social services to indigenous peoples (IP) communities to prevent the NPA from continuously exploiting them.
Vice Mayor Cesareo Benedito Jr. of the said town and some 20 village officials made the pledged as they mutually denounced the presence of the rebels in southern Palawan.
"We are all together in condemning the NPA presence in Brooke’s Point. This iniquitous armed struggle is nothing but pure evil for exploiting our innocent indigenous peoples and residents, and we encourage those who have joined (the NPA) to go down from the mountains now and surrender for us to be able to help them," Benedito said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010620
Army, PNP arrest wanted man, seize high-powered arms
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 25): Army, PNP arrest wanted man, seize high-powered arms
Military security forces seized early Sunday high-powered firearms and arrested a notorious bandit in Bagumbayan, Sultan Kudarat.
Lt. Colonel Harold Cabunoc, commander of the Army's 33rd Infantry Battalion based here, said the raid was conducted at sitio Sapale, Barangay Kabulanan, Bagumbayan town at around 6 a.m.
Elements of 33rd IB, led by Capt. Rogelio Agustin, and local police of Bagumbayan served the warrant against Dodong Baylon for murder and multiple murder charges.
Cabunoc said Baylon, the most wanted man of adjacent Sen. Ninoy Aquino town, also in Sultan Kudarat, was the primary target of operation, but he managed to escape.
“Baylon is accused of murdering a lumad a few years ago. Our informants told us that he was coddled by a certain Commander Morix, a notorious leader of armed thugs,” Agustin said in a report.
Commander Morix, a Maguindanaon Muslim, was leader of a gang preying on indigenous peoples and farmers in the hinterlands of Sen. Ninoy Aquino, but hiding in Bagumbayan town.
Cabunoc said government forces recovered 12 firearms including one rocket-propelled grenade, one M-16 Assault Rifle, two M-14 Assault Rifle, one Cal 30 Springfield, a 12-gauge Shotgun, three M-79 Grenade launchers, and a cal .38 revolver.
Commander Morix is now detained at Bagumbayan police lock up cell while charges for violation of Republic Act 10591 (Illegal Possession of Firearms and Explosives) are being prepared against him.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010619
Military security forces seized early Sunday high-powered firearms and arrested a notorious bandit in Bagumbayan, Sultan Kudarat.
Lt. Colonel Harold Cabunoc, commander of the Army's 33rd Infantry Battalion based here, said the raid was conducted at sitio Sapale, Barangay Kabulanan, Bagumbayan town at around 6 a.m.
Elements of 33rd IB, led by Capt. Rogelio Agustin, and local police of Bagumbayan served the warrant against Dodong Baylon for murder and multiple murder charges.
Cabunoc said Baylon, the most wanted man of adjacent Sen. Ninoy Aquino town, also in Sultan Kudarat, was the primary target of operation, but he managed to escape.
“Baylon is accused of murdering a lumad a few years ago. Our informants told us that he was coddled by a certain Commander Morix, a notorious leader of armed thugs,” Agustin said in a report.
Commander Morix, a Maguindanaon Muslim, was leader of a gang preying on indigenous peoples and farmers in the hinterlands of Sen. Ninoy Aquino, but hiding in Bagumbayan town.
Cabunoc said government forces recovered 12 firearms including one rocket-propelled grenade, one M-16 Assault Rifle, two M-14 Assault Rifle, one Cal 30 Springfield, a 12-gauge Shotgun, three M-79 Grenade launchers, and a cal .38 revolver.
Commander Morix is now detained at Bagumbayan police lock up cell while charges for violation of Republic Act 10591 (Illegal Possession of Firearms and Explosives) are being prepared against him.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010619
NPA bomb expert, 8 others yield in Kudarat
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 25): NPA bomb expert, 8 others yield in Kudarat
A communist rebel trained for bomb fabrication and eight of his companions voluntarily surrendered to military authorities in Sen. Ninoy Aquino, Sultan Kudarat Sunday, the Army said Monday.
Lt. Colonel Harold Cabunoc, the Army's 33rd Infantry Battalion commander, said the surrenderers belonged to NPA Guerilla Front 73 and turned over powerful explosives and firearms.
“The explosives were so powerful these can blow up an Army armored carrier,” Cabunoc told the Philippine News Agency (PNA).
Cabunoc identified the communist bomb expert only as “Ka Buloy,” who trained bomb making rebels in Compostela Valley where the NPAs are very active.
Cabunoc officially accepted the reintegration of communist rebels during surrender rites at 6 p.m. Sunday in Barangay Malegdeg in the upland town of Sen. Ninoy Aquino.
“Ka Buloy” turned over six large size improvised bombs, medical equipment and subversive documents.
The surrender of nine Red fighters brought to 30 the total number of NPA guerillas who surrendered to government since May this year.
“The local government leaders of Sultan Kudarat have pushed the delivery of social services to the remotest areas of the province to win the hearts of the people and reject NPA recruitment,” Cabunoc said.
“The Army has taken the show of good governance as an excellent platform in winning the support of the people against hardcore communists,” Cabunoc added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010618
A communist rebel trained for bomb fabrication and eight of his companions voluntarily surrendered to military authorities in Sen. Ninoy Aquino, Sultan Kudarat Sunday, the Army said Monday.
Lt. Colonel Harold Cabunoc, the Army's 33rd Infantry Battalion commander, said the surrenderers belonged to NPA Guerilla Front 73 and turned over powerful explosives and firearms.
“The explosives were so powerful these can blow up an Army armored carrier,” Cabunoc told the Philippine News Agency (PNA).
Cabunoc identified the communist bomb expert only as “Ka Buloy,” who trained bomb making rebels in Compostela Valley where the NPAs are very active.
Cabunoc officially accepted the reintegration of communist rebels during surrender rites at 6 p.m. Sunday in Barangay Malegdeg in the upland town of Sen. Ninoy Aquino.
“Ka Buloy” turned over six large size improvised bombs, medical equipment and subversive documents.
The surrender of nine Red fighters brought to 30 the total number of NPA guerillas who surrendered to government since May this year.
“The local government leaders of Sultan Kudarat have pushed the delivery of social services to the remotest areas of the province to win the hearts of the people and reject NPA recruitment,” Cabunoc said.
“The Army has taken the show of good governance as an excellent platform in winning the support of the people against hardcore communists,” Cabunoc added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010618
Army, MILF intensify offensives vs ISIS-inspired BIFF
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 25): Army, MILF intensify offensives vs ISIS-inspired BIFF
The military and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) have pressed their offensive against an ISIS-inspired group in Maguindanao’s second district.
Early Monday morning, the Army fired artillery shots towards Barangay Muslim in Guindulungan, Maguindanao after black flag-carrying suspected terrorists were seen massing in the village.
Over the weekend, four suspected members of ISIS-inspired Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) were injured when the military launched artillery strikes against a BIFF faction that tried to attack Army bases in Guindulungan town, according to Capt. Arvin John Encinas.
Speaking for the 6th Infantry Division, Encinas said the preemptive artillery strike was launched after military units in Guindulungan learned of the suspicious convergence of followers of BIFF leader Imam Bongos, alias Commander Bongos, in a secluded barangay there.
Bongos is a leader of the BIFF faction operating in Maguindanao.
Bongos' men attacked on Saturday dawn the joint personnel of the Army’s 37th Infantry Battalion and 6th ID’s 64th Division Reconnaissance Company in Barangay Muslim, Guindulungan, Maguindanao.
Intelligence officials said followers of Bongos tried to harass an Army detachment in Guindulungan, but changed their plan following the military's artillery bombardment.
The MILF’s Task Force Ittihad (Unity) had been battling the BIFF Esmael Abdulmalik faction after the latter tried to influence MILF-identified communities in Datu Salibo, Maguindanao.
MILF fighters sent to check on the report in Barangays Tee and Andavit triggered sporadic firefights that have already claimed the lives of at least 40 fighters from both sides.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010617
The military and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) have pressed their offensive against an ISIS-inspired group in Maguindanao’s second district.
Early Monday morning, the Army fired artillery shots towards Barangay Muslim in Guindulungan, Maguindanao after black flag-carrying suspected terrorists were seen massing in the village.
Over the weekend, four suspected members of ISIS-inspired Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) were injured when the military launched artillery strikes against a BIFF faction that tried to attack Army bases in Guindulungan town, according to Capt. Arvin John Encinas.
Speaking for the 6th Infantry Division, Encinas said the preemptive artillery strike was launched after military units in Guindulungan learned of the suspicious convergence of followers of BIFF leader Imam Bongos, alias Commander Bongos, in a secluded barangay there.
Bongos is a leader of the BIFF faction operating in Maguindanao.
Bongos' men attacked on Saturday dawn the joint personnel of the Army’s 37th Infantry Battalion and 6th ID’s 64th Division Reconnaissance Company in Barangay Muslim, Guindulungan, Maguindanao.
Intelligence officials said followers of Bongos tried to harass an Army detachment in Guindulungan, but changed their plan following the military's artillery bombardment.
The MILF’s Task Force Ittihad (Unity) had been battling the BIFF Esmael Abdulmalik faction after the latter tried to influence MILF-identified communities in Datu Salibo, Maguindanao.
MILF fighters sent to check on the report in Barangays Tee and Andavit triggered sporadic firefights that have already claimed the lives of at least 40 fighters from both sides.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010617
Closure of lumad school in SoCot sought
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 25): Closure of lumad school in SoCot sought
An Army official has called for the immediate closure of a lumad or tribal school in a remote village in Banga town in South Cotabato that is allegedly run by New People’s Army (NPA) rebels.
Lt. Col. Benjamin Leander, commander of the Army’s 27th Infantry Battalion, said Monday the school has reportedly been operating for several months at sitio Lamno, Barangay Lam-afus in Banga.
Citing information from concerned residents, he said teachers at the tribal school were allegedly teaching students with “revolutionary ideas” as well as anti-government propaganda.
Its students were from various indigenous peoples or IP communities in Banga town and the neighboring areas, he said.
Leander said some of the students are reportedly from Malita town in Davao del Sur, and in Bagumbayan, Lebak and Kalamansig towns in Sultan Kudarat.
“It is clearly a revolutionary school set up to influence our IPs to take up arms against the government,” he said.
The official said the school was put up by rebels under its Front 73 during the two quarters of unilateral ceasefire declared by the national government to give way to the peace negotiations with the communist–led National Democratic Front.
President Rodrigo R. Duterte scrapped the peace process last July following a series of attacks staged by the NPA.
During the period, Leander said the rebels intensified its recruitment activities in the province, especially among IPs in Banga town, and with their extortion activities.
Proof of the organized activities were the recovery these past months of improvised explosives in several areas in Banga town, he said.
Owing to this, Leander asked the Department of Education and concerned agencies like the Department of Social Welfare and Development to verify whether the school holds proper permits and licenses to operate.
He said they should also check whether the students, who are all minors, have consents from their parents to enrol at the school.
“If not, then it is only proper for the government to close down this school,” he said.
He urged the local government unit of Banga and the provincial government of South Cotabato to look into the matter and not allow any “revolutionary school” to operate in the area.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010640
An Army official has called for the immediate closure of a lumad or tribal school in a remote village in Banga town in South Cotabato that is allegedly run by New People’s Army (NPA) rebels.
Lt. Col. Benjamin Leander, commander of the Army’s 27th Infantry Battalion, said Monday the school has reportedly been operating for several months at sitio Lamno, Barangay Lam-afus in Banga.
Citing information from concerned residents, he said teachers at the tribal school were allegedly teaching students with “revolutionary ideas” as well as anti-government propaganda.
Its students were from various indigenous peoples or IP communities in Banga town and the neighboring areas, he said.
Leander said some of the students are reportedly from Malita town in Davao del Sur, and in Bagumbayan, Lebak and Kalamansig towns in Sultan Kudarat.
“It is clearly a revolutionary school set up to influence our IPs to take up arms against the government,” he said.
The official said the school was put up by rebels under its Front 73 during the two quarters of unilateral ceasefire declared by the national government to give way to the peace negotiations with the communist–led National Democratic Front.
President Rodrigo R. Duterte scrapped the peace process last July following a series of attacks staged by the NPA.
During the period, Leander said the rebels intensified its recruitment activities in the province, especially among IPs in Banga town, and with their extortion activities.
Proof of the organized activities were the recovery these past months of improvised explosives in several areas in Banga town, he said.
Owing to this, Leander asked the Department of Education and concerned agencies like the Department of Social Welfare and Development to verify whether the school holds proper permits and licenses to operate.
He said they should also check whether the students, who are all minors, have consents from their parents to enrol at the school.
“If not, then it is only proper for the government to close down this school,” he said.
He urged the local government unit of Banga and the provincial government of South Cotabato to look into the matter and not allow any “revolutionary school” to operate in the area.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010640
4 more hostages rescued in Marawi
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 25): 4 more hostages rescued in Marawi
The military on Monday presented four more rescued hostages as government troops continue to close in on the Islamic State for Iraq and Syria (ISIS)-inspired Maute group in Marawi City.
In a phone interview, Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) chief, confirmed the troops rescued the four several days ago at the main battle area in the besieged city of Marawi.
Galvez said they withheld the announcement of rescue of the four hostages so as not to jeopardize the operation.
Galvez revealed that one of the rescued victims is a teacher named Lordvin Acopio. The teacher was rescued together with Father Teresito Suganob on September 16.
The three others who were rescued in the succeeding days were identified as Abdul Naser Ergas Mangondaya; Hadji Abdulah Necson Rakim Anunto; and, Kiram Dato Amkula Ampatoa.
The military earlier said that there are still around 50 hostages who are still in the hands of the Maute group.
Galvez said they will try to liberate Marawi City and end the crisis in few weeks time.
“The gun battle has been reduced and contained in the 10-hectare area of downtown Marawi,” he said.
To date, a total of 1,734 people have been rescued by the government forces and other government agencies since the siege began on May 23.
The crisis in Marawi City has been running for almost four months already after the ISIS-inspired Maute and Abu Sayyaf groups attacked the country’s lone Islamic City.
More than 600 terrorists and almost 200 soldiers and policemen have been killed since the fighting started.
The armed conflict has triggered humanitarian crisis as more than 300,000 individuals are staying in evacuation centers in the cities and municipalities in Lanao del Sur and Lanao del Norte provinces.
Galvez said they are relentless in their operations in running after the remaining leaders of the Maute and Abu Sayyaf who are still hiding in Marawi City.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010685
The military on Monday presented four more rescued hostages as government troops continue to close in on the Islamic State for Iraq and Syria (ISIS)-inspired Maute group in Marawi City.
In a phone interview, Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) chief, confirmed the troops rescued the four several days ago at the main battle area in the besieged city of Marawi.
Galvez said they withheld the announcement of rescue of the four hostages so as not to jeopardize the operation.
Galvez revealed that one of the rescued victims is a teacher named Lordvin Acopio. The teacher was rescued together with Father Teresito Suganob on September 16.
The three others who were rescued in the succeeding days were identified as Abdul Naser Ergas Mangondaya; Hadji Abdulah Necson Rakim Anunto; and, Kiram Dato Amkula Ampatoa.
The military earlier said that there are still around 50 hostages who are still in the hands of the Maute group.
Galvez said they will try to liberate Marawi City and end the crisis in few weeks time.
“The gun battle has been reduced and contained in the 10-hectare area of downtown Marawi,” he said.
To date, a total of 1,734 people have been rescued by the government forces and other government agencies since the siege began on May 23.
The crisis in Marawi City has been running for almost four months already after the ISIS-inspired Maute and Abu Sayyaf groups attacked the country’s lone Islamic City.
More than 600 terrorists and almost 200 soldiers and policemen have been killed since the fighting started.
The armed conflict has triggered humanitarian crisis as more than 300,000 individuals are staying in evacuation centers in the cities and municipalities in Lanao del Sur and Lanao del Norte provinces.
Galvez said they are relentless in their operations in running after the remaining leaders of the Maute and Abu Sayyaf who are still hiding in Marawi City.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010685
Bomb plot in CenMin foiled
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 25): Bomb plot in CenMin foiled
Government forces on Monday prevented a bombing plot in several areas in Central Mindanao with the arrest of a Moro rebel leader belonging to ISIS-inspired armed group.
Lt. Col. Gerry Besana of the Army’s 6th Civil-Military Operations Battalion, said the arrest of Muslimin Ladtugan, also known as “Commander Mus,” of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), prevented what could be a bombing spree of the lawless group to divert Army offensives in Maguindanao.
Ladtungan is now in police and military custody facing charges of frustrated murder and illegal possession of firearms and explosives.
Acting on tips from civilians, the Army and Midsayap police office personnel raided the hideout of Ladtungan in Barangay Nabalawag, Midsayap at around 8 a.m. Monday.
He did not resist arrest.
Found in his hideout were materials for making improvised explosive devices, an Armalite rifle, an M-14 rifle, a rocket propelled grenade and two .45 caliber pistols.
Besana lauded the vigilant residents in Midsayap who helped the Army’s 34th Infantry Battalion to the exact location of Ladtungan’s home base that led to his arrest.
Quoting reports from Army and police intelligence agents, Ladtungan was planning to launch a series of bombings in North Cotabato and adjacent provinces to avenge the deaths of 25 BIFF members during clashes against the Army and its allies, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.
The MILF’s Task Force Ittihad (Unity) had been fighting a faction of the BIFF that pledged allegiance to the ISIS. The group is headed by jihadist Esmael Abdulmalik alias Abu Toraife who tried to influence MILF communities in the villages of Tee and Andavit in Datu Salibo, Maguindanao.
Abu Toraife was a student of Malaysian terrorist Zulkifli bin Hir whom the police killed in an operation in Mamasapano, Maguindanao in 2015.
The MILF-BIFF clashes also left 11 MILF killed.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010713
Government forces on Monday prevented a bombing plot in several areas in Central Mindanao with the arrest of a Moro rebel leader belonging to ISIS-inspired armed group.
Lt. Col. Gerry Besana of the Army’s 6th Civil-Military Operations Battalion, said the arrest of Muslimin Ladtugan, also known as “Commander Mus,” of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), prevented what could be a bombing spree of the lawless group to divert Army offensives in Maguindanao.
Ladtungan is now in police and military custody facing charges of frustrated murder and illegal possession of firearms and explosives.
Acting on tips from civilians, the Army and Midsayap police office personnel raided the hideout of Ladtungan in Barangay Nabalawag, Midsayap at around 8 a.m. Monday.
He did not resist arrest.
Found in his hideout were materials for making improvised explosive devices, an Armalite rifle, an M-14 rifle, a rocket propelled grenade and two .45 caliber pistols.
Besana lauded the vigilant residents in Midsayap who helped the Army’s 34th Infantry Battalion to the exact location of Ladtungan’s home base that led to his arrest.
Quoting reports from Army and police intelligence agents, Ladtungan was planning to launch a series of bombings in North Cotabato and adjacent provinces to avenge the deaths of 25 BIFF members during clashes against the Army and its allies, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.
The MILF’s Task Force Ittihad (Unity) had been fighting a faction of the BIFF that pledged allegiance to the ISIS. The group is headed by jihadist Esmael Abdulmalik alias Abu Toraife who tried to influence MILF communities in the villages of Tee and Andavit in Datu Salibo, Maguindanao.
Abu Toraife was a student of Malaysian terrorist Zulkifli bin Hir whom the police killed in an operation in Mamasapano, Maguindanao in 2015.
The MILF-BIFF clashes also left 11 MILF killed.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010713
Año still working hard despite nearing retirement
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 25): Año still working hard despite nearing retirement
Despite his looming retirement from the military on Oct. 26, AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Eduardo Año remains committed in clearing Marawi City of the Maute Group remnants and protecting the nation from other lawless elements.
"The AFP chief remains focused on the ongoing operations. Not only in Marawi, in Sulu, or Basilan; but also in other parts of the country where operations are ongoing to protect the people from enemies of peace, security, and development like the terrorist NPA (New People's Army)," AFP public affairs office chief Col. Edgard Arevalo said late Sunday.
Military officials are required to retire upon reaching the age of 56.
He added Año's undivided attention is on the AFP's support to recovery and rehabilitation efforts of government in Marawi City once the fighting is over.
This initiative is in connection with efforts of other agencies of government, local governments.
Arevalo said part of the AFP effort is ensuring that there will be no spillover of the rebellion from Marawi to other parts of the country.
Año, a member of Philippine Military Academy Class of 1983, earlier said that he has recommended a minimum of three ranking military officials to replace him.
But it is up to President Rodrigo Duterte to decide who will be the next AFP Chief of Staff, he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010611
Despite his looming retirement from the military on Oct. 26, AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Eduardo Año remains committed in clearing Marawi City of the Maute Group remnants and protecting the nation from other lawless elements.
"The AFP chief remains focused on the ongoing operations. Not only in Marawi, in Sulu, or Basilan; but also in other parts of the country where operations are ongoing to protect the people from enemies of peace, security, and development like the terrorist NPA (New People's Army)," AFP public affairs office chief Col. Edgard Arevalo said late Sunday.
Military officials are required to retire upon reaching the age of 56.
He added Año's undivided attention is on the AFP's support to recovery and rehabilitation efforts of government in Marawi City once the fighting is over.
This initiative is in connection with efforts of other agencies of government, local governments.
Arevalo said part of the AFP effort is ensuring that there will be no spillover of the rebellion from Marawi to other parts of the country.
Año, a member of Philippine Military Academy Class of 1983, earlier said that he has recommended a minimum of three ranking military officials to replace him.
But it is up to President Rodrigo Duterte to decide who will be the next AFP Chief of Staff, he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010611
Fr. Chito holds mass in Camp Aguinaldo
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 25): Fr. Chito holds mass in Camp Aguinaldo
Father Teresito "Chito" Soganub, the Catholic priest recently rescued from the clutches of the Maute Group terrorists, held a thankgiving mass at the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) headquarters, Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City Sunday.
Around 40 military and civilian personnel attended the mass, said Joint Task Force Ranao deputy commander Col. Romeo Brawner.
"It was a great celebration of life for Father Chito whose personal safety was placed in danger because of the fierce gun battle that is happening in Marawi City. According to Father Chito, the mass was also a thanksgiving for the lives of those who were rescued," he added.
Soganub was held hostage by the terrorists from May 23 up to his rescue last Sept. 16.
To date, a total of 1,730 people have been rescued by the government forces and other government agencies since fighting began after a foiled attempt to arrest Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon and his cohorts.
"Father Chito is praying that he will be able to hear mass again at the St. Mary's Cathedral in Marawi City once the firefight is over and the area is cleared of improvised explosive devices that were laid by the terrorists," Brawner said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010616
Father Teresito "Chito" Soganub, the Catholic priest recently rescued from the clutches of the Maute Group terrorists, held a thankgiving mass at the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) headquarters, Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City Sunday.
Around 40 military and civilian personnel attended the mass, said Joint Task Force Ranao deputy commander Col. Romeo Brawner.
"It was a great celebration of life for Father Chito whose personal safety was placed in danger because of the fierce gun battle that is happening in Marawi City. According to Father Chito, the mass was also a thanksgiving for the lives of those who were rescued," he added.
Soganub was held hostage by the terrorists from May 23 up to his rescue last Sept. 16.
To date, a total of 1,730 people have been rescued by the government forces and other government agencies since fighting began after a foiled attempt to arrest Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon and his cohorts.
"Father Chito is praying that he will be able to hear mass again at the St. Mary's Cathedral in Marawi City once the firefight is over and the area is cleared of improvised explosive devices that were laid by the terrorists," Brawner said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010616
'Bato' orders crackdown on illegal sale, manufacture of PNP uniforms
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 25): 'Bato' orders crackdown on illegal sale, manufacture of PNP uniforms
Philippine National Police (PNP) Director General Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa ordered stricter enforcement of applicable laws and regulations to curb the illegal and unauthorized sales of police uniforms and other related accessories.
In a memorandum circular released this month, he ordered all PNP offices and units to implement stricter measures on the regulation and control of the use, manufacture, sale, and distribution of police owned industrial designs of uniforms and accoutrements.
The new order reinforces the courses of action that will guide the Task Force "Bantay-Bihis" and other PNP units in implementing it, Dela Rosa stressed.
It also pointed out that some PNP uniforms with patches and seals are being used by some criminals and other civilians to usurp authority for their illegal activities.
In 2000, Executive Order (EO) No. 297 prohibited the unauthorized manufacture, sale, distribution and use of uniforms, insignias, and other accoutrements of the PNP.
EO 297 reinforced Article 179 of the Revised Penal Code (RA 3815) which penalizes "any person who shall publicly and improperly make use of insignia, uniforms or dress pertaining to an office not held by such person or to a class or persons of which he or she is not a member.”
It also orders the "immediate closure of the establishment, plant or office where the uniforms and other items are illegally manufactured, stored, sold or distributed."
Meanwhile, the Directorate of Research and Development (DRD) said most of the PNP uniforms and accoutrements are already registered with Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) to safeguard the ownership of the PNP on its patented designs.
DRD head, Director Efren M. Perez, said the registration is an effective measure to stop the illegal production of substandard and unauthorized uniforms by illegal manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, and sellers which is prohibited under Republic Act 8293 otherwise known as the "Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines".
He added that the PNP has accredited persons and entities through Dayspring Consolidated, Inc. to manufacture, sell, and distribute PNP uniforms and accoutrements given the rights and privileges as authorized and exclusive distributors.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010665
Philippine National Police (PNP) Director General Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa ordered stricter enforcement of applicable laws and regulations to curb the illegal and unauthorized sales of police uniforms and other related accessories.
In a memorandum circular released this month, he ordered all PNP offices and units to implement stricter measures on the regulation and control of the use, manufacture, sale, and distribution of police owned industrial designs of uniforms and accoutrements.
The new order reinforces the courses of action that will guide the Task Force "Bantay-Bihis" and other PNP units in implementing it, Dela Rosa stressed.
It also pointed out that some PNP uniforms with patches and seals are being used by some criminals and other civilians to usurp authority for their illegal activities.
In 2000, Executive Order (EO) No. 297 prohibited the unauthorized manufacture, sale, distribution and use of uniforms, insignias, and other accoutrements of the PNP.
EO 297 reinforced Article 179 of the Revised Penal Code (RA 3815) which penalizes "any person who shall publicly and improperly make use of insignia, uniforms or dress pertaining to an office not held by such person or to a class or persons of which he or she is not a member.”
It also orders the "immediate closure of the establishment, plant or office where the uniforms and other items are illegally manufactured, stored, sold or distributed."
Meanwhile, the Directorate of Research and Development (DRD) said most of the PNP uniforms and accoutrements are already registered with Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) to safeguard the ownership of the PNP on its patented designs.
DRD head, Director Efren M. Perez, said the registration is an effective measure to stop the illegal production of substandard and unauthorized uniforms by illegal manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, and sellers which is prohibited under Republic Act 8293 otherwise known as the "Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines".
He added that the PNP has accredited persons and entities through Dayspring Consolidated, Inc. to manufacture, sell, and distribute PNP uniforms and accoutrements given the rights and privileges as authorized and exclusive distributors.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010665
Gov't programs continue in Marawi City to assist IDPs
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 26): Gov't programs continue in Marawi City to assist IDPs
The government has so far released PHP3.35 billion to help internally displaced persons (IDPs) affected by the fighting in Lanao del Sur, an official of the Office of the Civil Defense (OCD) said Monday, September 25.
OCD Assistant Secretary Kristoffer James Purisima said the money, released through the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), funded the provision of relief assistance and cash-for-work program.
"Relief assistance includes family food packs, kitchen kits, hygiene kits, sleeping kits, and drinking water kits. Various sectors continue to help the IDPs through relief operations and medical assistance," Purisima said during the regular Mindanao Hour press briefing in Malacañan.
According to Purisima, Caritas Internationalis, in coordination with the Iligan City Social Welfare and Development office, donated food packs, kitchenwares and hygiene kits to 3,000 families last Saturday.
Maranao medical students from Mindanao State University (MSU) joined the group to provide medical assistance to the IDPs, he added.
Purisima also reported that the National Housing Authority will propose for the construction of four low-rise buildings in Marawi City with 60 condo-type units per building.
"It will be constructed at the same time as the permanent shelters and this housing option aims to assist Marawi City Hall employees, teachers, and other employees and will be offered at an affordable price," the official said.
Task Force Bangon Marawi Executive Director Undersecretary Cesar Yano issued a directive last September 21 to expedite the completion of the transitional shelter site.
The post-conflict needs assessment (PCNA) is also ongoing in the outlying areas of Marawi City and other affected localities, according to Purisima.
A Bangon Marawi Youth Leadership Camp, organized by the provincial government of Lanao del Sur and other concerned agencies, is being held in MSU where around 80 youth leaders from the evacuation centers in Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, and Iligan City have signed up.
The youth camp focuses on environmental leadership, peace education and community-building activities. Also during the same press briefing, Presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella said the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) is working with Vietnamese authorities regarding a sea incident in Pangasinan.
"Authorities are now conducting a fair and thorough investigation into the incident involving a Philippine Navy vessel and Vietnamese fishing boats which were seen fishing 34 nautical miles off Cape Bolinao in Pangasinan well within our exclusive economic zone," Abella said.
"The DFA is closely coordinating with the officials of the Vietnamese Embassy in Manila on the developments after the incident particularly to facilitate access to five other Vietnamese fishermen taken into custody by the Philippine Navy," he added.
Abella also commented on the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) recommendations on how the Philippines protects the rights of the people.
"The Philippines has committed to fully accept 103 out of the 257 recommendations that we received during the Third Philippine Universal Periodic Review (UPR) in Geneva, a careful review and inclusive consultation with inputs from various stakeholders, especially from representatives from the State’s executive, legislative, and judicial departments was done, and in line with our independent foreign policy," he said.
The Palace spokesman also made an assurance that there are contingencies made by the government as a response to the two-day transport strike in Metro Manila.
He said the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has deployed vehicles offering free rides to affected commuters. "More will be deployed based on necessity," he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010727
The government has so far released PHP3.35 billion to help internally displaced persons (IDPs) affected by the fighting in Lanao del Sur, an official of the Office of the Civil Defense (OCD) said Monday, September 25.
OCD Assistant Secretary Kristoffer James Purisima said the money, released through the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), funded the provision of relief assistance and cash-for-work program.
"Relief assistance includes family food packs, kitchen kits, hygiene kits, sleeping kits, and drinking water kits. Various sectors continue to help the IDPs through relief operations and medical assistance," Purisima said during the regular Mindanao Hour press briefing in Malacañan.
According to Purisima, Caritas Internationalis, in coordination with the Iligan City Social Welfare and Development office, donated food packs, kitchenwares and hygiene kits to 3,000 families last Saturday.
Maranao medical students from Mindanao State University (MSU) joined the group to provide medical assistance to the IDPs, he added.
Purisima also reported that the National Housing Authority will propose for the construction of four low-rise buildings in Marawi City with 60 condo-type units per building.
"It will be constructed at the same time as the permanent shelters and this housing option aims to assist Marawi City Hall employees, teachers, and other employees and will be offered at an affordable price," the official said.
Task Force Bangon Marawi Executive Director Undersecretary Cesar Yano issued a directive last September 21 to expedite the completion of the transitional shelter site.
The post-conflict needs assessment (PCNA) is also ongoing in the outlying areas of Marawi City and other affected localities, according to Purisima.
A Bangon Marawi Youth Leadership Camp, organized by the provincial government of Lanao del Sur and other concerned agencies, is being held in MSU where around 80 youth leaders from the evacuation centers in Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, and Iligan City have signed up.
The youth camp focuses on environmental leadership, peace education and community-building activities. Also during the same press briefing, Presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella said the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) is working with Vietnamese authorities regarding a sea incident in Pangasinan.
"Authorities are now conducting a fair and thorough investigation into the incident involving a Philippine Navy vessel and Vietnamese fishing boats which were seen fishing 34 nautical miles off Cape Bolinao in Pangasinan well within our exclusive economic zone," Abella said.
"The DFA is closely coordinating with the officials of the Vietnamese Embassy in Manila on the developments after the incident particularly to facilitate access to five other Vietnamese fishermen taken into custody by the Philippine Navy," he added.
Abella also commented on the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) recommendations on how the Philippines protects the rights of the people.
"The Philippines has committed to fully accept 103 out of the 257 recommendations that we received during the Third Philippine Universal Periodic Review (UPR) in Geneva, a careful review and inclusive consultation with inputs from various stakeholders, especially from representatives from the State’s executive, legislative, and judicial departments was done, and in line with our independent foreign policy," he said.
The Palace spokesman also made an assurance that there are contingencies made by the government as a response to the two-day transport strike in Metro Manila.
He said the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has deployed vehicles offering free rides to affected commuters. "More will be deployed based on necessity," he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010727
Briefing on 'Tempest Wind' exercises slated Tuesday
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 26): Briefing on 'Tempest Wind' exercises slated Tuesday
Philippine and American government representatives will hold a press conference on the recently concluded "Tempest Wind" anti-terrorism exercises Tuesday afternoon.
This will take place at the National Defense College, Honor Hall in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, said DND public affairs office chief Arsenio Andolong.
Background briefing will be conducted by lDND Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and US Ambassador Sung Kim.
"Tempest Wind" is a bilateral, interagency counter-terrorism drill was designed to test and improve the ability of both nations to rapidly plan, coordinate and conduct counter-terrorism operations.
It took place in various locations in the Philippines and Hawaii last week.
Andolong earlier said "Tempest Wind" was approved by the Mutual Defense Board and Security Engagement Board (MDB-SEB) of both countries in November 2016.
The exercises aim to provide realistic scenarios on terrorism that will necessitate both high-level engagements and responses on a tactical level.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010749
Philippine and American government representatives will hold a press conference on the recently concluded "Tempest Wind" anti-terrorism exercises Tuesday afternoon.
This will take place at the National Defense College, Honor Hall in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, said DND public affairs office chief Arsenio Andolong.
Background briefing will be conducted by lDND Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and US Ambassador Sung Kim.
"Tempest Wind" is a bilateral, interagency counter-terrorism drill was designed to test and improve the ability of both nations to rapidly plan, coordinate and conduct counter-terrorism operations.
It took place in various locations in the Philippines and Hawaii last week.
Andolong earlier said "Tempest Wind" was approved by the Mutual Defense Board and Security Engagement Board (MDB-SEB) of both countries in November 2016.
The exercises aim to provide realistic scenarios on terrorism that will necessitate both high-level engagements and responses on a tactical level.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010749
Dela Rosa orders 'vulnerability check' on all PNP units
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 26): Dela Rosa orders 'vulnerability check' on all PNP units
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has instructed all of its units to conduct a vulnerability check on all their installations nationwide to ensure their capability to repel attacks and other forms of harassments from rebel groups and other lawless elements.
The order was issued by PNP head Director General Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa, said police spokesperson Chief Supt. Dionardo Carlos in a Radyo Pilipinas report Tuesday.
The vulnerability check aims to ensure the readiness of police units to defend themselves and repel the attack of the lawless elements, he added.
Dela Rosa issued this order following recent encounters with rebel groupings in Caranglan, Nueva Ecija and Mount Banoy, Batangas.
In line with this, the PNP chief has also ordered all operatives to intensify their intelligence gathering missions so as not to be caught flat-footed.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010744
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has instructed all of its units to conduct a vulnerability check on all their installations nationwide to ensure their capability to repel attacks and other forms of harassments from rebel groups and other lawless elements.
The order was issued by PNP head Director General Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa, said police spokesperson Chief Supt. Dionardo Carlos in a Radyo Pilipinas report Tuesday.
The vulnerability check aims to ensure the readiness of police units to defend themselves and repel the attack of the lawless elements, he added.
Dela Rosa issued this order following recent encounters with rebel groupings in Caranglan, Nueva Ecija and Mount Banoy, Batangas.
In line with this, the PNP chief has also ordered all operatives to intensify their intelligence gathering missions so as not to be caught flat-footed.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010744