MNLF leader says group supporting revolutionary gov’t plan

From the often pro-CPP online publication the Davao Today (Nov 22): MNLF leader says group supporting revolutionary gov’t plan

Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) Davao City Chairman Rolando Olamit during a peace rally initiated by the Philippine national Police and the Arrmed Forces of the Philippines at Rizal Park, Davao City on September 25, 2013. (Ace R. Morandante / davaotoday.com)

A Davao City-based leader of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) said on Wednesday, November 22, that their group supports the call for the President to declare a revolutionary government.

Rolando Olamit, chair of MNLF-Davao, said they believe that by doing so, it is the “best and fastest way” to achieve a federal form of government.

 

MNLF has vowed to support the push for federalism since Duterte took the seat of presidency. The group believes that the federal system will enable the country to have a “government of transparency and accountability.

“The MNLF supports this revolutionary government to speed up the attainment of federalism,” Olamit said in a media briefing at the Mandaya Hotel here.

Olamit is one of the organizers of the so-called RevGov (Revolutionary Government) rally here.

A revolutionary government, he said, will “heal” the current political problems in the country, especially in Mindanao.

Olamit said that they are expecting at least three million people from Davao and other neighboring areas to join and support the event which will take place on November 30 at the Crocodile Park.

In October, Duterte expressed his intention to declare a revolutionary government if opposition groups bring violence and chaos on the streets, in a bid to topple him from power.

But recently, the President announced that he will not declare such, saying that “it’s far from happening.”

Meanwhile, Lawyer Joel Obar, spokesperson of the Network Revolution, one of the groups that push for a revolutionary government, clarified that “it is not the President who will declare for a revolutionary government but the people.”

“The President is out of this. As a matter of fact he will not proclaim, he will accept the challenge of the people. So if he says he will not proclaim, it’s true; he will not proclaim because he will accept,” Obar explained.

Obar explained that when the people will proclaim or grant powers of sovereignty to the President on November 30, it is up for Duterte to accept it or not, either on the same day or any date after the rally.

“So far he did not say he we will not accept. He only said he will not proclaim because he will not be the one to proclaim it is the people who will proclaim and grant him the revolutionary power. That should be understood,” he added.

Obar also mentioned that he is optimistic that Duterte will accept the challenge. “If you ask me it might be 90% above.”

Both groups hope that more people will join the nationwide simultaneously grand rally which will be held in different parts of the country including Manila, Baguio, La Union, Cebu, Bacolod, Dumaguete and Siquijor.

 

http://davaotoday.com/main/politics/mnlf-leader-says-group-supporting-revolutionary-govt-plan/

CPP/NPA Abra: 2 sundalo, sugatan sa Harasment ng NPA!

NPA-Abra propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Nov 20): 2 sundalo, sugatan sa Harasment ng NPA!

Ka Diego Wadagan, Spokesperson
NPA-Abra (Agustin Begnalen Command)

20 November 2017

November 18, 2017 5:10pm naglunsad ng harassment operation ang Saulo Lumadao Front laban sa sundalo ng 24th IB na nagooperasyon sa Brgy. Danac, Boliney Abra. Agad na pinaputokan ng NPA yunit ang nagpapahingang mga sundalo. Dalawang sundalo ang agad nasugatan sa nasabing labanan.

Bahagi ang aksyong ito ng NPA ng pagparusa sa abusadong AFP sa Abra na nagsisilbing protektor ng mga energy project tulad ng higanteng geothermal sa South Abra at planong Binongan Dam sa North Abra.

https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statements/20171120-2-sundalo-sugatan-sa-harasment-ng-npa

CPP/NPA-NCM: Pagpanghasi sa AFP sa Katawhang Moro, Nagpadayon

NPA-North Central Mindanao propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Nov 21): Pagpanghasi sa AFP sa Katawhang Moro, Nagpadayon

Ka Malem Mabini, Spokesperson
NPA-North Central Mindanao

21 November 2017

Gipanghimaraut sa North Central Mindanao Region ug sa katawhan sa mga kabaryuhan sa syudad sa Cagayan de Oro ug Iligan ug sa kasadpang bahin sa Misamis Oriental ug Lanao del Sur ang pagtuyok-tuyok sa binuhat-sa-U.S.

 nga spy plane sama sa P3 Orion ug Predator drone niadtong petsa 18 ug 19 sa Nobyembre niining tuiga. Subrang kalisang ang nasinati sa mga lumulupyo sa nahisgutang mga lugar ilabina gihimo kini sa lalum nga kagabhion hangtud na sa pagka-kaadlawon. Kini nga mga matang sa spy plane ang gigamit sa Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) panahon sa ilang pagpamomba sa Marawi City.

Kung mahinumduman, niadtong Oktubre 17, 2017 gideklara ni Pres. Rodrigo Duterte nga “nalingkawas na ang Marawi City gikan sa mga teroristang Maute/ISIS.” Pero walay hunong ang AFP sa pagpanghasi sa katawhang Moro. Padayong ginahalingan sa AFP ang ginapakaylap niining black scare. Nagapakaylap kini og propaganda bahin sa recruitment sa Maute/ISIS sa dagkung unibersidad sa Marawi, Iligan ug Cagayan. Aduna na kunoy mga salin ug sumusunod sa Maute/ISIS nga nakasulod sa Iligan ug Cagayan, butang nga gipanghimakak sa PNP.

Ang padayong pagpanghasi sa rehimeng US-Duterte pinaagi sa iyang AFP mao ang pagdis-arma sa katawhan Moro, Lumad ug mga setler sa nahisgutan nga mga lugar sa ilang militansya sa kusganong pagbabag, armado ug dili armado, sa planong pagpundar og mga plantasyon ug minahan sa ilang mga kayutaang ansestral.

Paspas nagasulod ang mga proyekto sa negosyo sa dagkung imbestor sa Autonomous Region For Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) ug sa Cagayan ug Iligan. Matud pa ni Agriculture Secretary Manny Piňol niadtong Hulyo niining tuiga, maayo kuno butangan og mga proyekto sama sa mga plantasyon sa oil palm, saging ug mga minahan ug uban pang negosyo ang ARMM tungod kay walay NPA. Sa ARMM lang, mokabat og 103,000 ektaryas nga kayutaan ng planong himuong plantasyon sa oil palm ug sagingan. Niini, 2,600 ektaryas ang target sa usa ka dakung agribusiness corporation nga magtukod og plantasyon sa saging sa Bumbaran. Aduna say planong ekspansyon sa nagtunhay nga minahan sa bukid sa Cagayan wala pay labot sa planong mosulod.

Apan dili makatugot ang katawhang Moro, Lumad ug mga mag-uumang setler sa nasangpit nga mga lugar nga mapapahawa sa ilang kayutaang ansestral, ug sa mga uma nga ilang ginatikad. Buhaton niini ang tanang porma sa armadong kusog sa Pilipinas.

https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statements/20171121-pagpanghasi-sa-afp-sa-katawhang-moro-nagpadayon

CPP/NPA-Batangas: Nasugbu 9: Human Rights Defenders, Biktima ng Abusong Militar!

NPA-Batangas propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Nov 21): Nasugbu 9: Human Rights Defenders, Biktima ng Abusong Militar!

Nakapiring ang batas, nagpapatuloy ang de facto Martial Law sa Batangas

Apolinario Matienza, Spokesperson
NPA-Batangas (Eduardo Dagli Command)
21 November 2017

Iligal na inaresto at ipiniit ng mga pwersa ng Nasugbu Police ang 9 na tagapagtanggol ng karapatang pantao. Ganap na 7:30 ng gabi kahapon, ika-20 ng Nobyembre sa harapan mismo ng munisipyo ng Pamahalaang Bayan ng Nasugbu, lalawigan ng Batangas. Ang mga hinuli ay pawang mga kasapi ng Samahan ng Pinagbuklod na Damdamin sa Quezumbing, Calaca (SAPIDA) na sina Leonardo delos Reyes 44, Carlos Sanosa 64, Joey Castillano 47, Roberto Hernandez at Peping Morillo habang sina Jocelyn Cabadin 44, Jennylyn Bayani 30 at Orlan Cabadin 19, ay mga myembro naman ng HABAGAT o Haligi ng Batangueñong Anak-Dagat at isinama din ang driver na si Anthony Banaga.

Ang naturang grupo ay nakatakdang maglunsad ng 2-araw na Fact Finding Mission (FFM) noong araw na iyon at mag-iikot sana sa mga bayan ng Unang Distrito upang idokumento at ilantad ang matinding militarisasyon at mga kaakibat nitong kaso ng paglabag sa karapatang pantao partikular sa mga Barangay ng Kaylaway, Aga at Bundukan sa bayan ng Nasugbu, Barangay Coral ni Lopez, Quezumbing, Pantay at Loma sa Calaca, Barangay San Diego sa Lian, at Barangay Toong sa Tuy. Mistulang binubuhusan ng malamig na tubig ang mga baryong may mainit na pakikibaka para sa lupa dahil sa ginagawang encampment ng PAF/PA sa mga baryong ito.

Kasabay ng nasabing FFM, naganap ang engkwentro sa pagitan ng pwersa ng 730th CG ng PAF, 202nd IBde Philippine Army laban sa New People’s Army/NPA sa Barangay Utod ng Nasugbu Batangas, pasado alas-8 ng umaga. Ang FFM ay naging Quick Reaction Team/QRT at kaagad na nagtungo sa Brgy. Utod upang magsagawa ng dokumentasyon hinggil sa pangyayari ngunit hinarang naman sila ng mga pwersa ng PAF at binalagbagan pa ng tangkeng Armored Personnel Carrier o APC. Ang isa pang grupo ng mga delegado ay hinarangan naman sa kahabaan ng Banana St., Barangay Putat dahil sa diumano’y paglabag sa batas-trapiko ngunit ang totoo’y nais lamang nitong pigilan sila na makarating sa baryo. Sadyang masalimuot ang paghahanap ng katotohanan at pagtatanggol sa karapatan dahil ang mga mamamayan at grupong nagtataguyod sa karapatang-pantao at magsisigurong walang sibilyan ang madadamay, ang siya ngayong naging biktima ng pandarahas at abuso ng mga pulis at militar!

Nahihibang si Rodrigo Duterte sa pagsasabi na dudurugin ang rebolusyonaryong kilusan, sukdulang ipamalas nito ang kanyang kalupitan maging sa mga tagpagtanggol ng karapatang pantao. Sa utos mismo ni Nasugbu P/CInsp. Rogelio Pineda, ipinaturo nito sa PAF ang siyam na magsasaka at mangingisda, pinaratangang mga myembro ng NPA at diumano’y kasama pa sa naganap na labanan. Tulad ng kanilang amo na si Duterte, nauulol ang PAF / PA / PNP sa kanilang pakanang pagdadawit sa siyam na sibilyan sa naganap na labanan at iligal na pag-aaresto at detention sa mga ito. Kaparehas na eksena ito na naganap noong 2002 na todong pandarahas din ang ginawa ng PAF noong panahon ni Col. Orbon kung saan ay sinakal, kinulata ng baril at halos ilibing na sa hukay ang mga ito. Nagaganap ulit ito ngayon sa katauhan naman nina Gen. Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos Jr., Commander ng 202nd IBde PA, at Maj. Gen. Rhoderick Parayno, acting Commander ng AFP Southern Luzon Command. Ang dalawang ito din ang may direktang kamay sa naganap na aerial bombings sa Mount Banoi noong Setyembre na sumira sa kabuhayan ng mamamayan at kumitil ng buhay ng isang matanda at isang bata dulot ng kanilang walang habas na pambobomba.

Mariing kinukundena ng Eduardo Dagli Command-NPA Batangas ang hindi makatarungang aksyon ng mga kapulisan at militar na ito. Dapat na kagyat palayain ang Nasugbu 9 dahil kahit kailan ay hindi krimen ang magtanggol para sa karapatan ng inaapi at pinagsasamantalahang mamamayan.

Ang encampment ng mga militar sa Unang Distrito, paglabag sa mga karapatang pantao, at ang iligal na pang-aaresto at pagdedetine sa 9 na magsasaka ay malinaw na may umiiral na de facto Martial Law sa Batangas. Ito ang pruwebang ang Martial law ni Marcos ay binuhay ng pasistang si Rodrigo Duterte at ang sandigan ng kanyang gobyerno ay nakasalalay sa lakas militar. Malinaw pa sa sikat ng araw na siya ay walang pagsasangalang-alang sa karapatang pantao at sunud-sunurang tagapagtaguyod ng makauring interes ng mga Panginoong-May-Lupa at Burgesya Kumprador . Siya ang bagong tuta ng Imperyalistang Amerikano at siyang tunay na terorista katulad ng kanyang amo.

At dahil dito matinding galit ang nararamdaman ng mamamayan sa arbitraryong pag-aresto sa 9 na human rights defenders. Itinatakwil na siya ng mamamayan ng Batangas at katulad ng nakaraang Rehimeng Marcos, siya rin ay maibabasura ng kasaysayan. Magiging bangungot ang kanyang pangarap na durugin ang Rebolusyonaryong Kilusan dahil sa kanyang pasismo ay lalo lamang pinagkakaisa ang mamamayan at itinuturo ang landas ng Armadong Paglaban.

Palayain ang Nasugbu 9!
Militar sa Kanayunan, Palayasin!
Igalang ang Karapatang Pantao ng Mamamayan sa Batangas!
Ibagsak ang Pasistang Rehimeng US-Duterte!
Magpunyagi sa Armadong Rebolusyon!

 

https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statements/20171121-nasugbu-9-human-rights-defenders-biktima-ng-abusong-militar

CPP/NPA-NCM: Ambus sa 23rd sa Agusan Norte 3 ka AFP Patay, Daghan ang Samaron

NPA-North Central Mindanao propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Nov 20): Ambus sa 23rd sa Agusan Norte 3 ka AFP Patay, Daghan ang Samaron

Ka Malem Mabini, Spokesperson
NPA-North Central Mindanao

21 November 2017

Subling nahiagom ug kaswalidad ang tropa sa 23rd IB PA batok sa usa ka platon nga Yunit sa BHB ubos sa Western Agusan Norte Agusan Sur (WANAS) sa tulo ka oras kapin nga sangka didto sa kilometro 10, barangay kamagong,Nasipit Agusan del Norte sa may alas 6:45 sa buntag kaniadtong Nobyembre 19,2017.Tulo ang gikataho nga patay usa ka opisyal ug duha ka elemento sa Cafgu ug ubay-ubay nga
samaron sa panig sa AFP nga gikarga sa ilang military truck ug helicopter.Human sa sangka nasakmit sa yunit sa BHB ang 7 ka military backpack,usa ka ammo vest mga buhing bala ug mga himang pang komunikasyon sa nanagan nga kaaway.Sa kasuko sa mersenaryong AFP naghulog kini 3 ka rocket launcher gamit ang helikopter gunship apan luwas nga naka widro ang BHB.

Kining maong aksyong Militar nagpakita sa aktibong depensa sa BHB sa nagpadayong operasyong militar sa Agusan del Norte aron gubaon ang rebolusyonaryong kalihukan pinaagi sa Oplan Kapayaan. Sa taktikang saywar operisyon,gibaharan ang katawhan nga bilanggoon ang si kinsa mang nagasuporta sa BHB,buhatan ug mga ginama-gamang kaso,ug pagtanom sa peke nga mga ebendisya aron hadlokon og pitolon ang mga katungod sibil.

Laoman sa rehimeng US-Duterte nga mapakyas sila uban ang iyang mga mersenaryong AFP/PNP/Cafgu ug Paramilitar nga puohon ang Rebolusyonaryon kalihukan sa dili pa matapos ang tuig 2018.Sugaton kini sa militanting pagsukol sa katawhan armado ug dili armado aron depensahan ang ilang mga katungod tawo.

CPP/Information Bureau: On Duterte’s threat of tagging the NPA as terrorists

CPP Information Bureau propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Nov 20): On Duterte’s threat of tagging the NPA as terrorists



Information Bureau
Communist Party of the Philippines

20 November 2017

Duterte’s recent threat to tag the NPA as terrorists and nothing more than criminals and to crackdown on the progressive movement, is a little too convenient, given his inclination to follow the AFP’s proposal to extend martial law beyond December 31. Mindanao martial law has long been running out of excuses, as the so-called Maute/ISIS threat has long disappeared, and he and his military warfreaks could not drumbeat enough noise of a “spillover.”

Duterte is nothing if not consistent in his fascist rants and acts, using even the tired excuse of the progressive left “conspiring” with the NPA, to constantly kowtow to the wishes of the higher echelons of the US-controlled armed forces. He has resorted to namecalling and threats so many times, in so many forms, that the people have grown weary of his constant harping. This time, he even invokes his US masters, in placing the NPA and CPP, “same as America,” as terrorists. Emboldened by the recent Trump approval of his strongman rule, he is bent on eliminating all opposition, legal and otherwise. The people recognize these threats against the revolutionary and progressive movement for what they are: to eliminate the strongest and most consistent opposition to his fascist rule, silence dissent against his anti-people and pro-imperialist policies and further perpetuate himself in power through a one-man rule.

The fact is, he does not even need to issue this threat. The reactionary state has long criminalized political dissent, charging both revolutionaries and progressives with trumped-up criminal charges and detaining them for long periods of time. Illegal arrests of civilians and activists continue, even more after the formation of Duterte’s IACLA, and almost 500 political prisoners continue to languish in various jails across the country despite promises of an amnesty. Moreover, the AFP has been carrying out an all-out war since February not only against the revolutionary movement but especially against civilian communities suspected of supporting the NPA, on Duterte’s orders himself. He followed this closely with an order for the AFP to “flatten the hills” of suspected NPA areas, and then proceeded to flatten Marawi City through his martial law declaration in Mindanao. He has, time and again, announced that he will unleash the AFP’s military might against the NPA as soon as he finishes with Marawi. Since coming into power, he has beefed up the AFP arsenal with more guns, bombs and warplanes.

His wars of death and destruction have spurred aerial bombings, shelling, strafing, political and extrajudicial killings, illegal arrests and detention, resulting in thousands of people displaced, billions-worth of properties destroyed and massive human rights violations. These have roused an increasing number of people to join protests and pushed many activists into revolutionary struggle.

Duterte is wrong in thinking that the revolutionary movement will just roll over and surrender in the face of his rants. He is wrong in thinking that the progressive movement will be cowed with his threats of a crackdown and mass arrests. The people shall oppose as strongly as they opposed his previous plan of imposing martial law nationwide. The democratic mass movement will continue to strengthen itself by organizing, propaganda and militant mobilizations, while the revolutionary forces will continue advancing the people’s war comprehensively to achieve genuine democracy and national sovereignty.

https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statements/20171120-on-dutertes-threat-of-tagging-the-npa-as-terrorists

MILF: Editorial - An abstain vote is understandable!

Editorial posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Nov 23 ): Editorial - An abstain vote is understandable!

Alongside four other members of Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) -- Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam -- the Philippines voted no to the resolution calling for full and free access to humanitarian aid for thousands of minority Rohingya in Myanmar who are the subject of “ethnic cleansing” from fanatic Buddhist militants, in cahoots with state forces, or vice versa. Three predominantly Muslim ASEAN members – Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei -- voted in favour of the resolution. Singapore and Thailand abstained from voting.
Last week, 135 UN members voted in support of the draft resolution. The Philippines was one of the 10 nations that last week opposed the resolution, which also called on Myanmar to grant full citizenship rights to members of the Muslim minority who had fled to nearby Bangladesh to escape abuse.

To our mind, a no vote is too difficult to comprehend, because the issue here is about principle; it is about the inalienable right of people, Muslims or non-Muslims, to be protected by states and the United Nations and member states. And principles are not subject for compromise.

The principle of R2P (Responsibility to Protect) is the issue here. It refers to the obligation of states toward their populations and toward all populations at risk of genocide and other mass atrocity crimes. It stipulates three pillars of responsibility namely: 1) Every state has the Responsibility to Protect its populations from four mass atrocity crimes: genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity and ethnic cleansing; 2) The wider international community has the responsibility to encourage and assist individual states in meeting that responsibility; 3) If a state is manifestly failing to protect its populations, the international community must be prepared to take appropriate collective action, in a timely and decisive manner and in accordance with the UN Charter.

If the Philippines had only abstained from voting, it is very understandable. It neither condones the persecutions nor condemns the same. At least, the vote can still be defended, although it is a weak decision, if not a flawed one.

We surmise that the negative vote was only decided at the level of the Department of Foreign Affairs; and it seems it was made in haste. Even the Philippines permanent representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Teodoro Locsin Jr., seems not aware of this decision. We also doubt deeply whether the decision has been cleared with the president before it was cast.

We hope and strongly appeal to the Philippine government to change its no vote to abstain in time for the deliberation of the resolution during the forthcoming UN plenary session. Of course, we would prefer a yes vote, but we also look at the difficulties being faced by the Philippines as this year’s chair of ASEAN.     

http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1088/an_abstain_vote_is_understandable_

MILF: NOORUSALAAM, Inc. comforts, educates Lanao mothers on extremism

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Nov 23): NOORUSALAAM, Inc. comforts, educates Lanao mothers on extremism

The Noorusalaam, Inc. Lanao - Marawi Chapter is helping Maranao mothers who were victims of the concluded Marawi crisis and whose families have to cope with the surge of extremism in Lanao provinces during a series of training-seminars it facilitated this November, 2017.
In its Reach Out to Mothers Project entitled "Inaakun Sindawakun" (My mother, My light) Noorusalaam engages Lanao mothers in a two-tract activity consisting of a series of One - Day Seminar on Mothers Counselling and follow-ups Individual Counselling and Debriefing of Mothers With Children Affected by Violent Extremism (VE).

Under the first tract, Noorusalaam was able to serve about 130 Maranao mothers with Islamic awareness-raising on preventing religious extremism and coping with life trials during its conduct of Seminar Workshop on Mothers counselling. The first two sessions were held last November 5 in Iligan City with 50 participant-mothers and at MSU Marawi City on November 13 with 70 participant- mothers respectively.

Quoting from Mrs. Amera M. Macabero, Noorusalaam, Inc, Lanao-Marawi Chapter President, the project is designed to capacitate mothers in dealing with the proliferation of radicalism and terrorism affecting their children. In particular, it aims to provide and raise awareness among mothers about the advent of extremism, deal with children's vulnerability and prevent them from being recruited thereto, as well as identify possible roles of mothers in the preventing the same in the family and the community.

Recalling that Marawi City was under military siege for about five months when combined forces of Abu Sayyaf Group led by Isnilon Hapilon, the alleged Emir of South East Asia and ISIS-inspired Maute Group led by Omar Maute, and his brother Abdullah Maute occupied the town on May 23. Some 200, 000 Marawi residents were displaced by the crisis.

As to the second tract, Macabero is further quoted that the activity has been coined to help these mothers cope with the pain caused by the Marawi crisis and lessen its psychological defriment upon them. Specifically, it aims to develop capacity and foster mutual counselling and debriefing skills among mothers, help restore their ability to respond to related stressful situation and provide mother emotional support.

Under this tract, Noorusalaam aims to reach out to individual mothers in the municipalities of Marantao, Wato, Saguiaran, Piagapo in Lanao Sur and Balo-i in Lanao Norte.

Noorusalaam, Inc. is an organisation of Muslim mothers with national membership.

It's first conduct of training seminar series on mothers counselling was funded by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) of the Australian Government through The Asia Foundation (TAF).

http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1085/noorusalaam--inc--comforts--educates-lanao-mothers-on-extremism

MILF: Iqbal describes MILF, MNLF Struggle as “One People, One Aspiration” towards RSD

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Nov 23): Iqbal describes MILF, MNLF Struggle as “One People, One Aspiration” towards RSD



MILF Information Chief, and Chair of the MILF Peace Implementing Panel Mohagher Iqbal graced the third and final day of the Training Workshop on Writing News and Peace Messages in Davao City which culminated on November 18, 2017.

Through power point presentation, Iqbal discussed the Status of the” Struggle of Moros for Their Rights”.

He reviewed the historical annals pertaining Islam and it's coming to the Archipelago now Philippines which served as the legitimate basis of the Moro people's assertion of nationhood. Both MNLF and the MILF took the same historical narrative in their protracted struggle for right to self-determination of the Bangsamoro.

That's why, "our struggle did not came out of the blue," stressed Iqbal.

"There is only one Bangsamoro struggle," Iqbal explained as "we talk about the same people, the same homeland and the same aspiration," he said.

As such, "there is really a necessity for convergences among us in our common political aspiration," ended Iqbal.

The training workshop is held in support to the MNLF - MILF Convergence initiative funded by The Asia Foundation and the Australian Aid. The participants are a mixture of MILF, MNLF members, the BTC, BLMI, BDA and local NGOs Maguindanao, Cotabato City, and Sultan Kudarat Province.

http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1084/iqbal_describes_milf__mnlf_struggle_as____one_people__one_aspiration____towards_rsd_

DWDD: NO MORE | OPAPP cancels talks with CPP-NPA-NDF

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Nov 22): NO MORE | OPAPP cancels talks with CPP-NPA-NDF

 

 MANILA (DWDD) – The Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) has cancelled all meeting and talks with the Communist Party of the Philippines – National Democratic Front – New People’s Army (CPP-NDF-NPA).

According to Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza, he ordered the suspension of all talks with the Communist group in accordance with the order of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte that there will no more peace talks with the terrorist group.

President Duterte gave the order after the CPP-NPA-NDF continued with their terroristic activities, like arson, ambuscades and extortion on private and public individuals / groups.

Meanwhile, Sec Dureza thanked the Norwegian government for their assistance, in the form of being a third-party facilitator, for the GPH-CPP Peace Process. AES

http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/11/22/no-more-opapp-cancels-talks-with-cpp-npa-ndf/

DWDD: STATEMENT | SND on PRRD’s Directive that No More Peace Talks with the CPP-NPA-NDF.

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Nov 22): STATEMENT  |  SND on PRRD’s Directive that No More Peace Talks with the CPP-NPA-NDF.



CAMP GEN EMILIO AGUINALDO, Quezon City (DWDD) – The President has had enough of the Communist movement’s penchant for double-talk and continued acts of atrocities against the Filipino people. In keeping with the President’s guidance, the DND and AFP will continue to vigorously pursue operations against their armed components

We strongly suggest to the NPA to lay down their arms, surrender, return to society, and be part of the real change espoused by the national leadership. DND PAS / MCAG

http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/11/22/statement-snd-onprrds-directive-that-no-more-peace-talks-with-the-cpp-npa-ndf/

DWDD: ARRESTED | 2ID Troops captures 12 NPA terrorist in Batangas

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Nov 22): ARRESTED  |  2ID Troops captures 12 NPA terrorist in Batangas

 

 NASUGBU, Batangas (DWDD) – Military forces arrested 12 NPA terrorist in a joint AFP-PNP checkpoint on November 21, at Barangay Utod Nasugbu, Batangas after an encounter on November 20.

According to Major General Rhoderick Parayno, acting Commander, AFP Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM), the 12 arrested suspects were identified as Jocelyn Cabadin y Bautista, , Jenelyn Bayani y Bautista, Leonardo Delos Reyes Jr y Gregorio, Carlos Sanosa y Caro, Orlan Cabadin y Revadolla, Josefino Castilalno y Nama, Pheping Sacdalan y Relevo, Roberto Hernandez y Castillano and Mark Anthony Banaga y Casilihan.

They were positively identified by personnel of CG PAF, 730th Combat Group, Batangas Police Public Safety Company and 2CGF, 2ID as the armed men who attempted to ambush them.

The suspects are now in the custody of PNP Nasugbu while hot pursuit operations are still being conducted by PNP Cavite, PNP Batangas and troops from the 2nd Infantry Division against the NPA terrorist. SOLCOM/MCAG

http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/11/22/arrested-2id-troops-captures-12-npa-terrorist-in-batangas/

DWDD: COMMISSIONED | PN put into service 2 TC-90s donated by Japan

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Nov 22): COMMISSIONED  |  PN put into service 2 TC-90s donated by Japan

NAVAL BASE HERACLEO ALANO, Sangley Point, Cavite (DWDD) – The Philippine Navy (PN) commissioned 2 Beechcraft King-air TC90 donated by the Japanese government.

According to Lt. Sahirul Taib, spokesperson Philippine Fleet, Philippine Navy Fleet Commander Rear Admiral Gaudencio Collado Jr. led the blessing and commissioning ceremony.

Lt Taib added that they have already upgraded the said aircraft with navigational equipment that can be used by the Philippine Fleet for its maritime air surveillance, while its pilots already underwent orientation and training.

Currently, the two aircrafts have not been given any specific task and it will depend with the higher headquarters on where it will be deployed.

At present, the Philippine Fleet has 6 Islander aircraft, 5 Augusta Westland helicopter, at the latst addition, the 2 of 5 TC-90 Beechcraft planes.

“Yung TC90 natin mas malaki siya kesa sa Islander na meron ang Philippine Navy, so with this new aircraft TC90 mas mapapalawak ang maritime air surveillance at kung ano anong activities na pwedeng magamit para sa kaniya,” according to Lt Taib. AES/ALS

http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/11/22/commissioned-pn-put-into-service-2-tc-90s-donated-by-japan/

DWDD: COMMISSIONED | PN put into service 2 TC-90s donated by Japan

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Nov 22): COMMISSIONED  |  PN put into service 2 TC-90s donated by Japan

 


NAVAL BASE HERACLEO ALANO, Sangley Point, Cavite (DWDD) – The Philippine Navy (PN) commissioned 2 Beechcraft King-air TC90 donated by the Japanese government.

According to Lt. Sahirul Taib, spokesperson Philippine Fleet, Philippine Navy Fleet Commander Rear Admiral Gaudencio Collado Jr. led the blessing and commissioning ceremony.

Lt Taib added that they have already upgraded the said aircraft with navigational equipment that can be used by the Philippine Fleet for its maritime air surveillance, while its pilots already underwent orientation and training.

Currently, the two aircrafts have not been given any specific task and it will depend with the higher headquarters on where it will be deployed.

At present, the Philippine Fleet has 6 Islander aircraft, 5 Augusta Westland helicopter, at the latst addition, the 2 of 5 TC-90 Beechcraft planes.

“Yung TC90 natin mas malaki siya kesa sa Islander na meron ang Philippine Navy, so with this new aircraft TC90 mas mapapalawak ang maritime air surveillance at kung ano anong activities na pwedeng magamit para sa kaniya,” according to Lt Taib. AES/ALS

http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/11/22/commissioned-pn-put-into-service-2-tc-90s-donated-by-japan/

DWDD: LOSING GROUND | Abandoned NPA camp discovered in Gabaldon, Nueva Ecija

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Nov 22): LOSING GROUND  |  Abandoned NPA camp discovered in Gabaldon, Nueva Ecija



GABALDON, Nueva Ecija (DWDD) – Government troops were able to recover an abandoned enemy camp on November 19 at Barangay Malinao in Gabaldon, Nueva Ecija.

According to reports, a Scout Platoon of the 56th Infantry Battalion, while conducting Combat Clearing Operations discovered an abandoned camp of the terrorist New People’s Army (NPA) complete with makeshift huts and kitchen and can accommodate more or less 30 persons.

Authorities were able to recover personal belonging.

The NPA encampment is believed to be abandoned a week ago.

Currently, troop are scouring the area and are following tracks from fleeing terrorist headed towards North near creek line.

Additional troops were dispatch to Brgy Malinao, Gabaldon to assist in dismantling and clearing the area. AES/ALS

http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/11/22/losing-ground-abandoned-npa-camp-discovered-in-gabaldon-nueva-ecija/

DWDD: CAPTURED | NFWM apprehends one notorious killer and 5 armed men in Sulu waters

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Nov 22): CAPTURED  |  NFWM apprehends one notorious killer and 5 armed men in Sulu waters

 

NFWM, Zamboanga City (DWDD) – The Philippine Navy through the Naval Forces Western Mindanao apprehended six armed men believed to be members of the Abu Sayyaf Group/ Kidnap for Ransom Group (ASG/KFRG) in the vicinity off Bolod Island, Tonquil, Sulu on Monday, Nov. 20, 2017.

A Special CAFGU Active Auxilliary (SCAA) member of NFWM reported that the FB Nancy 888, a commercial fishing vessel under Nancy Fishing Company was being harassed and chased by an unidentified armed group in the evening of Nov. 19.

Allegedly, the said armed group were onboard two motorized pump boats steaming at the vicinity 22 nautical miles Northeast off Saluping Island in Basilan also known as Sibarot fishing grounds located between the island province of Sulu and Basilan.

Subsequently, the Commander Naval Forces Western Mindanao, Rear Adm. Rene V Medina AFP made necessary actions to address the said maritime concern. CNFWM immediately responded by activating NTG 61.1, the Quick Reaction Team (QRT) of Naval Task Force 61.

Upon its activation BRP Manuel Gomez (PC 388) and one Navy Seal team was immediately deployed in the area to conduct Maritime Interdiction Operations (MIO) against a hostile contact.

Through the immediate reaction of NTG 61.1 and SCAA, the said armed group was apprehended and subsequently transported to Headquarters NFWM at Zamboanga City for proper disposition.

The six armed men apprehended were later identified as Omar Amping, 39; Gabby S Juwa, 35; Jadi Luhadi, 21; Alcimel Abdulla, 18; Madi Jalilul, 19 and Sakkam Dekani, 60. Also, one M16A1 rifle with three long and one short magazine consisting of 110 live ammunition were recovered from the bandits.

Upon arrival to HNFWM the group was given medical check-ups at a military hospital and underwent interrogation by a combined police and military team.

Further investigation revealed that Omar Amping is a notorious killer (gun-for-hire) and ranked number Four in the “Most Wanted List of Personalities” in Zamboanga City with two standing warrant of arrest for five counts of Murder. NFWM / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/11/22/captured-nfwm-apprehends-one-notorious-killer-and-5-armed-men-in-sulu-waters/

DWDD: AFP Supports Decision to Stop Peace talks with CPP-NDF-NPA

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Nov 22): AFP Supports Decision to Stop Peace talks with CPP-NDF-NPA

 

CAMP GEN EMILIO AGUINALDO, Quezon City (DWDD) – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) supports the decision of President Rodrigo Duterte to stop the Peace Talks with the Communist Party of the Philippines – National Democratic Front – New People’s Army (CPP-NDF-NPA).

This was the message made by AFP Chief of Staff Gen Rey Leonardo Guerrero that waas released by AFP spokesperson MGen Restituto Padilla.

The AFP also assured the public that it will continue with its mandate to protect our communities from the threat of Communist terrorist.

In the past few weeks, the NPA has been consistent with its terroristic activities, like the ambush they did last November 9 on a police vehicle in Bukidnon that killed a police officer, and unfortunately brutally killing a 4-month old child that was hit by stray bullets.

The AFP is calling on the public to support the Peace and Development efforts of the government, that was previously hampered by attacks and sabotage by the NPA’s, by depriving them of any assistance or refuge. Any information that could lead to the arrest, surrender or defeat of the communist terrorist woud a mean a difference in our fight for a more peaceful and developing nation. AFP PAO/MCAG

http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/11/22/afp-supports-decision-to-stop-peace-talks-with-cpp-ndf-npa/

DWDD: COMMUNITY SUPPORT PROGRAM | 4 NPA Surrenders to 60IB in Davao Del Norte, ComVal

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Nov 23): COMMUNITY SUPPORT PROGRAM | 4 NPA Surrenders to 60IB in Davao Del Norte, ComVal

ASUNCION, Davao Del Norte (DWDD) – Amid the on-going implementation of the 60th Infantry Battalion’s Community Support Program (CSP) in Davao del Norte and Laak, Compostela Valley Province, four members of the New People’s Army voluntarily surrendered to the unit, each of them bringing at least one high-powered firearm and other war materials, on separate occasions in the last two weeks.



Two of the four surrenderees are leaders of the NPA people’s militia (militiang bayan). One of the remaining two was recruited when he was still a minor. The other one is a fresh recruit who had been with the same group for only a week. All of the surrenderees turned-over their NPA-issued firearms to the authorities.

On November 8 (Wednesday), an Alias Gimo from Kapalong town surrendered to the CSP Team deployed in the area together with two anti-personnel landmines. In a follow-up operation, the military retrieved Gimo’s M16 assault rifle from his former station. Gimo was the leader of a militiang bayan unit under Maximo Catarata aka Makatindog who is the commander of Guerilla Front 34.

On November 16 (Thursday), an Alias Allan from Laak town surrendered to the joint elements of 60IB’s Charlie Company and the 72IB’s Delta Company (CAFGU Active Auxiliaries). Allan brought with him his AK-47 rifle together with several magazines and numerous ammunitions. Allan was recruited by a certain Hayker earlier this month and has only been with the NPA for a week.

On November 19 (Sunday), an Alias Jeko from New Corella town surrendered to 60IB with his M16 rifle attached with a M203 grenade launcher. He also turned in his NPA-issued handheld communication radio. Jeko was a leader of another militia unit under Danny Pastor aka Caloy of Guerilla Front 33. He said he was involved in several armed encounters including the recent clash with 60IB troops last September in Barangay Longganapan, Laak.



Later that same day (November 19), an Alias Karel from Laak town also surrendered to 60IB with the help of Alias Allan who was his cousin. Karel said he joined the NPA after undergoing an orientation with the NPA in 2015. He was only 16 years old at that time. Karel surrendered with his garand rifle.

Attributed to the continuous implementation of 60IB’s CSP, coupled with its intensified security,

intelligence, and civil-military operations, the surrenders of Gimo, Allan, Jeko, and Karel were preceded by the voluntary submission of over 60 other former NPA members for 2017 alone. At least 20 of them yielded with their firearms (usually coupled with landmines and other war materials).

In their respective custodial interviews, all four said that they have wanted to surrender for some time already because they are tired of treading the mountains while their leaders lay comfortable about in their hideouts. They also narrated how it is getting even more difficult to evade operating military troops as the time passes.

Jeko also mentioned a conflict in their higher leadership, citing disagreements among his superiors and disintegration of command.

Gimo, meanwhile, said that his role as MB–in charge of delivering supplies and laying/detonating landmines against military troops–prevented him from earning extra money and taking care of his family. The same is true for many of his comrades.

The four further revealed how their respective groups are continuously planning to conduct atrocities against government troops and even civilian establishments and facilities.

Recently, the troops of 60IB have also discovered four NPA encampments particularly in the hinterlands of Laak, CVP.

Meanwhile, four surrenderees will be enrolled to the Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP) where they can receive immediate cash and livelihood assistance. They will also receive additional cash remuneration for their surrendered firearms.

1001st Infantry Brigade Commander, Col. Erwin Bernard Neri, in a statement, acknowledged the “extra effort” of the troops to really engage the community and encourage NPA members and supporters to voluntarily surrender instead of insisting to continue in their armed struggle. “I think they are finally realizing that fighting a fully capable and functioning government is futile. We are making consistent progress in the communities and we see no reason for them to remain struggling in the mountains.”

Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Emmanuel Canilla, Commander of 60IB, says that, “it is better to surrender; especially with their firearms and bombs so those [NPA criminals] left behind will not have the means to cause further harm.”

President Rodrigo Duterte, the AFP’s Commander-in-Chief, recently said that he plans to proclaim the NPA as terrorists. He has also previously ordered the military to conduct relentless operations in areas threatened by the NPA criminals. 60IB / MCAG

http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/11/23/community-support-program-4-npa-surrenders-to-60ib-in-davao-del-norte-comval/

Presidential Peace Adviser: All meetings with communists cancelled

From Update Philippines (Nov 22): Presidential Peace Adviser: All meetings with communists cancelled


“We are hereby announcing today the cancellation of all planned meetings with the CPP/NPA/NDF in line with President Duterte’s directive that there will be no more peace talks with them,” Presidential Peace Adviser Jesus Dureza said in a statement released November 22.

President Rodrigo Duterte on November 21 said he told Dureza to tell the leftists he is no longer available for any official talk.

“Recent tragic and violent incidents all over the country committed by the communist rebels left the President with no other choice but to arrive at this decision. We take guidance from the President’s recent announcements and declarations,” Dureza said.

“This is an unfortunate development in our work for peace. Never before have we all reached this far in our negotiations with them,” he added.

“President Duterte has taken unprecedented steps and has walked the so-called extra mile to bring peace. However, the Communist Party and its armed elements have not shown reciprocity,” he said.

Secretary Dureza noted that there will be no peace negotiations anymore with the CPP/NPA/NDF until such time as the desired enabling environment conducive to a change in the government’s position becomes evident.

https://www.update.ph/2017/11/presidential-peace-adviser-all-meetings-with-communists-cancelled/22895

Newly-activated Japanese aircraft to help PH identify threats

From Update Philippines (Nov 22): Newly-activated Japanese aircraft to help PH identify threats
The newly-activated Japanese-donated Beechcraft King Air TC-90 will help the Philippine Fleet determine the exact capability needed to defeat a particular threat in the country’s waters, a Navy official said.

“TC-90 will have a big role in maritime air surveillance, which is a critical component of naval operations. It will provide a bigger and better perspective of the operating environment, which is crucial for decision making because it will determine the type of capability needed to address a certain threat,” Philippine Fleet commander, Rear Adm. Gaudencio Collado, said Tuesday.





TC-90 with tail number 390, one of the two Japanese aircraft donated to the Philippines last March 27, was activated during short ceremonies at Naval Base Heracleo Alano, Sangley Point, Cavite City on Tuesday.

Its activation will boost the operations and maritime air surveillance capabilities of the Naval Air Group (NAG). With the completion of this process, the plane is mission-ready and could be deployed to any area designated by the Navy headquarters.

Prior to its activation, the TC-90 was fitted with navigation and maritime air surveillance equipment, apart from other upgrades.

Philippine Fleet spokesperson, Lt. Sahirul Taib, earlier said no schedule has been set on the activation of the second TC-90.

The TC-90 has a range of more than 1,000 nautical miles and a cruising speed of 260 knots, and is capable of carrying eight passengers along with the pilot. At present, the Navy is operating about six Norman Britten “Islander” patrol aircraft, four GAF “Nomad” airplanes, five Agusta Westland combat utility helicopters, and one Robinson R-22 training helicopter.

The TC-90, which is part of the Beechcraft King Air aircraft family, was offered by Japan shortly after the Agreement Concerning the Transfer of Defense Equipment and Technology was finalized on Feb. 29, 2016.

Two TC-90s were delivered to Sangley Point, Cavite last March 27. Three more will be delivered in the first quarter of 2018.

https://www.update.ph/2017/11/newly-activated-japanese-aircraft-to-help-ph-identify-threats/22898

AFP gears up for possible NPA attacks

From Update Philippines (Nov 22): AFP gears up for possible NPA attacks


Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief-of-Staff Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero said the military would do its best to protect and defend all peace-loving communities from the attacks of the communist rebels.

This after President Rodrigo Duterte ordered the cancellation of all planned meetings aimed at reviving the peace talks with the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) Wednesday following a series of atrocities conducted by the rebels.

“We support the President’s decision to cancel talks with the CPP-NPA-NDF and will continue to safeguard our communities against attacks by the NPAs,” he added.

In line with this, Guerrero urged the public to continue supporting the AFP’s peace and development efforts.

Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza, in a statement, said atrocities and other violent incidents committed by the rebels forced the Chief Executive to come about with the decision cancelling all planned meetings with the rebel group.

“Recent tragic and violent incidents all over the country committed by the communist rebels left the President with no other choice but to arrive at this decision. We take guidance from the President’s recent announcements and declarations. This is an unfortunate development in our work for peace. Never before have we all reached this far in our negotiations with them,” he added.

Duterte suspended the peace talks between the government and the CPP-NPA-NDF last February 4 following a series of atrocities conducted by rebel forces against unarmed security troops and civilians.

https://www.update.ph/2017/11/afp-gears-up-for-possible-npa-attacks/22900

US aircraft crashes in Philippine Sea en route to USS Ronald Reagan

From Update Philippines (Nov 22): US aircraft crashes in Philippine Sea en route to USS Ronald Reagan



“A United States Navy aircraft carrying 11 crew and passengers crashed into the ocean southeast of Okinawa at approximately 2:45 p.m. today,” US Navy Task Force 70 Public Affairs said. 

“The names of the crew and passengers are being withheld pending next of kin notification,” it added. “Personnel recovery is underway and their condition will be evaluated by USS Ronald Reagan medical staff.”

The US Navy said the aircraft was en-route to the US Navy aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), which is currently operating in the Philippine Sea.

USS Ronald Reagan is conducting search and rescue operations. The cause of the crash is not known at this time.

https://www.update.ph/2017/11/us-aircraft-crashes-in-philippine-sea-en-route-to-uss-ronald-reagan/22902

Slain cop laid to rest

From the Mindanao Times (Nov 22): Slain cop laid to rest

POLICE officer 3 Wilfredo Garol was laid to rest at Calinan Memorial Park yesterday noon amid calls from his relatives for justice.

Garol, 34, an intelligence officer of Baguio Police Precinct who was killed by New People’s Army (NPA) gunmen last Nov. 13, was given burial honors.

Before the burial, a mass was offered to him at the Sacred Heart Parish in Calinan.

Police regional director, Chief Supt. Manuel Gaerlan, has confirmed that NPA hitmen killed Garol.

“We have the description of the two (suspects), but (there are) no names yet. Of course, these members of the NPA are using aliases,” Gaerlan said.

Garol, a resident of Rubber village in Calinan District, died from eight gunshot wounds on the different parts of his body, the autopsy results showed.

The victim was killed by two of his hitchhiking passengers in Barangay New Valencia, Tugbok District at 7:45 a.m. on Monday. His firearm was stolen.

Sr. Insp. Maria Teresita Gaspan, the spokesperson of Davao City Police Office (DCPO), said the victim’s widow received P100,000 financial assistance from DCPO’s mortuary funds.

The victim’s family was also assured of financial assistance and scholarship grant through the program of President Rodrigo Duterte intended to the bereaved families of any of the member of the police or military killed in action.

A day prior to the burial, DCPO Director Sr. Supt Alexander Tagum and his command staff visited Garol’s wake at Angel Funeral, Calinan.

http://mindanaotimes.net/slain-cop-laid-to-rest-2/

AFP: No truce yet

From the Mindanao Times (Nov 22): AFP: No truce yet

THE ARMED Forces of the Philippines (AFP) can’t declare yet if there is a need for a suspension of military operations (SOMO) during the yuletide season.

 

“We will still assess the security situation and make the necessary recommendation by that time,” AFP Chief of staff, Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero, told TIMES yesterday.

For now, the military is still intensifying its security operations following series of attacks conducted by the New People’s Army (NPA) in various places in Mindanao.

 

This as the Davao City Local Peace Committee (DC-PEACE) is calling for a truce in time for the yuletide celebration thru a cessation of hostilities with communist rebels.

Mayor Sara Duterte said the DC-PEACE asked her to talk with the AFP and the Philippine National Police (PNP) for a possible declaration of SOMO.

On Saturday, President Rodrigo Duterte announced that he is planning to issue a proclamation to declare the communist rebels as “terrorists.”

The President also said that he is no longer pursuing peace talks with the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).

Both the AFP and PNP remained on high alert status as communist rebels reportedly started conducting a series of attacks ahead of CPP’s founding anniversary on Dec. 26.

 

Guerrero said they are anticipating intensifying attacks and atrocities by the NPA as December arrives.

“We have already standing orders to monitor their movement and all units will be on full alert status,” Guerrero said.

Chief Supt. Manuel Gaerlan, police regional director in Davao, said they already reminded all police officers to be extra vigilant.

“We all know that during the anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines, they conduct tactical offensives and attacks against the government forces and installations,” Gaerlan said.

“As of this time, we are still on full alert status since the Martial Law is still in effect until Dec. 31 this year,” he said.

Communist rebels recently staged a series of attacks in Davao and Caraga regions.

Last Nov. 13, a police officer assigned at the Baguio Police Precinct of Davao City Police Office (DCPO) was killed by NPA hitmen while letting them hitch on his motorcycle in Sitio Luman, Barangay New Valencia, Tugbok district.

On that day, NPA rebels abducted two police officers at an outpost along the national highway in Barangay Bad-as, Placer, Surigao del Norte.

The next day, rebels ambushed a mobile patrol, resulting in the death of a four-month-old baby in Talakag, Bukidnon.

 

http://mindanaotimes.net/afp-no-truce-yet-2/

Military prepares as talks end

From the Mindanao Times (Nov 22): Military prepares as talks end

THE ARMED Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is gearing up against the anticipated attacks as the government peace panel already announced the cancellation of the peace talks with the Communist Party of the Philippines-National Democratic Front (CPP-NDF).

Nevertheless, AFP Chief of Staff, Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero, told TIMES yesterday that they are behind their Commander-in-Chief 100% when President Duterte has revealed that his administration is mulling to declare the New People’s Army, the armed wing of the CPP-NDF, as a terrorist group.

“We support the President’s decision to cancel talks with (CPP-NDF) and will continue to safeguard the communities against the attacks by the NPAs,” Guerrero said. “We ask the public for their continued support to the AFP’s peace and development efforts.”

In a separate interview, Maj. Gen. Noel Clement, the commander of 10th Infantry Division, said the AFP is giving the NPA all the opportunities to settle peacefully the armed conflict, but they have taken advantage by bolstering their strength and harassing communities.

“If we are to return to the negotiating table, they have to show sincerity,” Clement added.

Speaking also in yesterday’s AFP-PNP press conference held at Royal Mandaya hotel, Capt. Jerry Lamosao, the spokesperson of 10th Infantry Division, said the military is always prepared, with or without the declaration of all-out war against the NPAs.

“We are continuously hunting down the NPAs, especially those who are conducting atrocities in the hinterlands and some areas,” Lamosao said.

“Actually our forces have been deployed not just for combat operations but also for community support program (CSP), wherein our soldiers are in barangays facilitating the government projects and programs like education, infrastructures, and agriculture,” he added.

Meanwhile, the AFP is still assessing whether to declare the traditional holiday truce this year.

“We will still assess the security situation and make the necessary recommendation by that time,” Guerrero said.

For now, the military is still intensifying its security operations following series of attacks conducted by the NPA in various places in Mindanao.

This, as the Davao City Local Peace Committee (DC-PEACE) is calling for a truce in time for the yuletide celebration thru a cessation of hostilities with communist rebels.

Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio said the organization asked her to talk with the AFP and the Philippine National Police (PNP) for a possible declaration of SOMO.

Both the AFP and PNP remained on high alert status as communist rebels reportedly started conducting a series of attacks ahead of CPP’s founding anniversary on Dec. 26.

Guerrero said they are anticipating intensifying attacks and atrocities by the NPA as December arrives.

“We have already standing orders to monitor their movement and all units will be on full alert status,” Guerrero said.

Chief Supt. Manuel Gaerlan, police regional director in Davao, said they already reminded all police officers to be extra vigilant. “We all know that during the anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines, they conduct tactical offensives and attacks against the government forces and installations,” Gaerlan said.

Communist rebels recently staged a series of attacks in Davao and Caraga regions.

 

Last Nov. 13, a police officer assigned at the Baguio Police Precinct of Davao City Police Office (DCPO) was killed by NPA hitmen while letting them hitch on his motorcycle in Sitio Luman, Barangay New Valencia, Tugbok district.

On that day, NPA rebels abducted two police officers at an outpost along the national highway in Barangay Bad-as, Placer, Surigao del Norte.

 

The next day, rebels ambushed a mobile patrol, resulting in the death of a four-month-old baby in Talakag, Bukidnon.

 

http://mindanaotimes.net/military-prepares-as-talks-end/

TFD personnel undergo training

From the Mindanao Times (Nov 22): TFD personnel undergo training

MEMBERS of the Task Force Davao (TFD) are undergoing a week-long maritime operations orientation training in the vicinity of the oil depots in Barangay Sasa, Buhangin District.

Col. Nolasco Mempin, the TFD commander, told TIMES yesterday that the training aims to enhance the capabilities of TFD troopers in maritime operations, particularly in patrolling coastal areas to preempt entry of the terrorists to the city through Davao Gulf.

Mempin said the 20 TFD agents undergoing the Riverine Operations Orientation Training until Saturday will be taught the basics of waterborne operations such as searching watercraft, survival, and tactic, techniques and procedures (TTP) of operation in inland water.

The additional subjects in the training are boat formation, movement formation, reacting to enemy contact, map reading, boat night navigation and boat handling techniques.

Mempin said that the TFD is not letting down its guard against the possible threat of extremists even though the leaders of IS-linked terrorists were already neutralized in Marawi.

The TFD recently completed its training on urban combat course.

Mempin said the TFD is seeking anew the support and cooperation of the public to keep the city safe from terrorists. He said the public has to be vigilant by reporting to authorities any suspicious persons in their community.

http://mindanaotimes.net/tfd-personnel-undergo-training-2/

Dureza cancels planned meetings with communists

From MindaNews (Nov 22): Dureza cancels planned meetings with communists

Secretary Jesus Dureza, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (PAPP), has cancelled the planned meetings with the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) after President Rodrigo R. Duterte said it is no longer an “entity worth talking to” and categorized it as a terrorist group.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Dureza said the cancellation of the planned meetings was an unfortunate development because the peace talks between the government (GRP) and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDF) had never reached the fifth round under previous administrations.

Dureza said they took guidance from the recent announcement and declaration of the President who blamed the New People’s Army (NPA), armed wing of the communists, as behind a series of attacks all over the country.

Duterte told reporters on Tuesday that Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea and Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo would study and draft the proclamation labelling the communists as terrorists.

“It’s a legal thing that they have to craft,” he said.

Duterte said he will not go back to the peace table with the CPP with the NPA attack last November 9 in Barangay Tikalaan, Talakag, Bukidnon that left two people dead and six injured. Among those killed was four-month-old Walysha Machorao, whose family boarded a Toyota Fortuner that was tailing a police patrol car.

The United States Secretary of State has designated the CPP-NPA as a foreign terrorist organization on August 9, 2002. From 1997 to 2017, the Secretary has listed 61 international terrorist groups, with only 13 groups so far delisted. The CPP-NPA is still on the list.

Duterte warned the mining companies to close if they continue to pay revolutionary taxes to the NPA.

“It’s almost a public knowledge that mining companies are contributing to the taxation of the NPAs thereby giving them also strength, money to buy arms, and bullets and all in their desire to topple down the Republic of the Philippines. We have to talk. I have to talk to them. For those who cannot resist, then you better close up,” he stressed.

In a statement issued on Monday, the communists said: “The people recognize these threats against the revolutionary and progressive movement for what they are: to eliminate the strongest and most consistent opposition to his [Duterte’s] fascist rule, silence dissent against his anti-people and pro-imperialist policies and further perpetuate himself in power through a one-man rule.”

“The fact is, he does not even need to issue this threat. The reactionary state has long criminalized political dissent, charging both revolutionaries and progressives with trumped-up criminal charges and detaining them for long periods of time,” the communists added.

The supposed fifth round of peace negotiations scheduled on May 27 to June 2 in The Netherlands was cancelled by the GRP “for lack of compelling reason” after the NDFP instructed the NPA units to intensify offensives across the country with Duterte’s declaration of martial law in Mindanao last May 23.

Duterte placed Mindanao under martial law after the Islamic State-inspired Maute Group attacked Marawi. It took the military five months of non-stop clashes with the terrorists to retake the country’s lone Islamic City.

The 60-day implementation period, as allowed by the 1987 Constitution, was supposed to lapse on July 22, but Duterte extended martial law until December 31 and got congressional approval.

Last October 16, the military killed Abu Sayyaf Group leader Isnilon Hapilon, the emir of the ISIS in Southeast Asia, and Omar Maute.

Dureza said the President has taken “unprecedented steps and has walked the so-called extra mile to bring peace” but he criticized the communists for not reciprocating this effort.

He maintained that the GRP-NDFP peace talks would not resume “until such time as the desired enabling environment conducive to a change in the government’s position becomes evident.”

Dureza thanked the Royal Norwegian Government for its strong support to the peace efforts and, at the same time, expressed regrets for this turn of events.

He said the government remains steadfast and undeterred in its unrelenting journey for sustainable and just peace.

“Let’s all stay the course,” he said.

http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2017/11/dureza-cancels-planned-meetings-with-communists/

Philippine military parades 5 ‘rescued’ Filipino fishermen (Photos)

From the Mindanao Examiner (Nov 20): Philippine military parades 5 ‘rescued’ Filipino fishermen



Photos released by the Philippine military to the regional newspaper Mindanao Examiner show the 5 Filipino fishermen recovered by soldiers on Languyan Island in Tawi-Tawi province in the restive Muslim autonomous region.



ZAMBOANGA CITY – The Philippine military paraded Monday 5 kidnapped Filipino fishing crew members recovered by soldiers on the remote southern province of Tawi-Tawi in the restive Muslim autonomous region, officials said.

Officials said the fishermen – Vergel Arquino, from Davao City; Jushua Ybanez; Emo Fausto; Junald Minalang; and Spriano Sordid, all from Pagadian City in Zamboanga del Sur province – were recovered Friday on Languyan Island.

The men were crew members of the fishing boat Danvil 8 kidnapped by the Abu Sayyaf on October 14 off Pangutaran Island in the Sulu Sea.

Rear Admiral Rene Medina, commander of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao, said security forces found the opportunity to rescue the victims after learning the captors were confused and on the run due to the continuing conduct of focused military operations in the area. “The timing was critical since the captors may shoot the victims if they will know about the plan,” Medina said.

Brigadier General Custodio Parcon, Jr., commander of the Joint Task Force Tawi-Tawi, said the successful rescue was made possible due to the loose security of the captors.

Both officials did not say if soldiers made any arrest, but apparently the fishermen were recovered by troops after their captors abandoned them.

The military did not release details of the recovery, but it was also in Languyan where security forces recovered this month 3 Vietnamese sailors Buy Xuan Vien, Bui Trung Duc and Nguten Quang Huy, including the cadaver of another seaman Nguyin Huu Trong who died while in captivity.

Until now, security officials did not say how the Vietnamese were rescued or whether the hostages had been freed for ransom. The sailors were among 17 crew members of the cargo ship MV Giang Hai 5 hijacked by the Abu Sayyaf on February 25 while sailing off of Pangutaran Island. Two of the crewmen were also killed by the Abu Sayyaf while attempting to escape while the rest had been recovered by soldiers.

The recovery of the sailors coincided with President Rodrigo Duterte’s visit to Vietnam for the APEC summit. The Western Mindanao Command previously said that Abu Sayyaf militants are still holding over two dozen Filipinos and foreign hostages in the restive region.

http://mindanaoexaminer.com/philippine-military-parades-5-rescued-filipino-fishermen/

Senior NPA leaders captured in Pagadian City (Photos)

From the Mindanao Examiner (Nov 20): Senior NPA leaders captured in Pagadian City



Philippine Army photos released to the regional newspaper Mindanao Examiner show two senior NPA leaders Leonardo Jacotin and Rosario Tabanao who were captured November 18, 2017 in Zamboanga del Sur’s Pagadian City.



PAGADIAN CITY – Security forces have captured two senior leaders of the communist New People’s Army rebel group in Pagadian City in the southern Filipino province of Zamboanga del Sur, officials announced on Monday.

Officials said the duo – Leonardo Jacotin and Rosario Tabanao – were captured on November 18 in their hideout following a tipoff from informants. Policemen, backed by army soldiers, swooped down in the village of Balangasan and arrested them.

Troops also recovered a fragmentation grenade, a .45-caliber pistol and a magazine loaded with 8 bullets, 50 rounds of AK-47 ammunition, 10 assorted identification cards and 17 cell phones.

Brigadier General Jacinto Bareng, commander of the 102nd Infantry Brigade, said the duo has warrants of arrest and are facing multiple criminal charges, including murder. He said Jacotin is the NPA’s logistic officer for western Mindanao, and Tabanao in the group’s finance officer.

“The NPA top leaders are responsible for robbery, large-scale extortion activities, proliferation of illegal firearms and explosives, and murder cases in the area,” he said.

The NPA has been fighting for many decades now in an effort to overthrow the democratic government and install its own communist state in the country. President Rodrigo Duterte, who previously supported the rebel group, has threatened to blacklist the NPA and its allied political groups and among them is the leftist organization called Bayan, for the string of deadly attacks on civilians and government targets across the Philippines.

http://mindanaoexaminer.com/senior-npa-leaders-captured-in-pagadian-city/

Navy Seals capture 6 alleged Sayyafs in sea chase (Photos)

From the Mindanao Examiner (Nov 22): Navy Seals capture 6 alleged Sayyafs in sea chase



Photos released on Wednesday, November 22, 2017 by the Naval Forces Western Mindanao to the regional newspaper Mindanao Examiner show the 6 suspected Abu Sayyaf militants, including a notorious hired killer Omar Amping, following their capture at sea by Navy Seals.





ZAMBOANGA CITY – Navy seals have captured 6 suspected Abu Sayyaf members, one of them a notorious hired killer wanted in Zamboanga City for a string of criminal charges, officials said.

Officials said the suspects – Omar Amping, 39; Gabby Juwa, 35; Jadi Luhadi, 21; Alcimel Abdulla, 18; Madi Jalilul, 19, and Sakkam Dekani, 60 – were pursuing a fishing vessel in two speedboats when intercepted by soldiers and eventually arrested on Monday evening off Bolod Island near Tongkil town in Sulu province.

Soldiers also seized an M16 automatic rifle and dozens of ammunition from the militants who are currently being interrogated. One of them, Amping, is wanted by the police in Zamboanga and had been linked to the 207 bombing at Plaza Pershing that wounded over a dozen civilians.

Local police authorities, then under Senior Superintendent Manuel Barcena, also tagged Amping as a military informant, an allegation strongly denied by then Southern Command chief Major General Nelson Allaga. Barcena said 3 alleged militants, Marjuni Ammala, Aristalon Isniril and Ronely Ahman who were captured by the police, had tagged Amping as the one who recruited and provided them the improvised explosive used in the attack.

The capture of Amping and the others came after a pro-government militiaman reported to the Philippine Navy under Rear Admiral Rene Medina that the fishing vessel Nancy 888 was being harassed by Amping’s group.

The gunmen had pursued the fishing boat from Saluping Island in Basilan province until the soldiers – who were deployed by Medina to respond to the incident – caught up with the gang and eventually arrested all of them. Medina said the Quick Reaction Team of Naval Task Force 61 – with patrol craft BRP Manuel Gomez and one Navy Seal team – was immediately deployed in the area to save the fishing crew from possible hijacking and kidnapping.

He said Amping’s group was taken to the headquarters of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao in Zamboanga. “Further investigation revealed that Omar Amping is a notorious gun-for-hire and ranked 4th in the Most Wanted List of Personalities in Zamboanga City with two standing warrant of arrest for five counts of murder,” Medina said.

Amping was previously arrested by the police, but had been freed for a still unknown reason. In 2010, Amping’s cousin Beniser, a former soldier who was also wanted by the police for multiple murder cases, was captured in Zamboanga. Hired killers are actively operating in Zamboanga and had been blamed for many gun attacks here.

http://mindanaoexaminer.com/navy-seals-capture-6-alleged-sayyafs-in-sea-chase/