Wednesday, January 30, 2019

DWDD: Humanitarian and Disaster Relief warehouse, pinasinayaan nina DND Sec. Lorenzana and Ambassador

From Katropa DWDD-CRS Virtual RTV (Jan 29): Humanitarian and Disaster Relief Warehouse, pinasinayaan nina DND Sec. Lorenzana and Ambassador

Pinasinayaan nina Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana At US Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim Ang Humanitarian and disaster relief warehouse sa Basa Airbase, floridablanca Pampanga kahapon.
...

Ito ang unang una proyekto sa ilalim ng Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement o EDCA sa pagitan ng Pilipinas at Estados unidos, na multi-purpose warehouse.

Paglalagyan ng mga pre-positioned equipment at supplies ang nasabing pasinidad na magagamit para sa mga sakuna at iba pang Security operations ng dalawang bansa.

Sinabi naman ni Sec. Lorenzana, malaking tulong Ang bagong pasilidad para masiguro na ang bansa ay “disaster-resilient”

Inihayag naman ni Ambassador Kim na ang proyekto ay simbolo ng commitment ng kanyang bansa sa RP-US alliance at dedikasyon ng Estados unidos sa pagpapanatili ng peace and stability sa rehiyon.

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DWDD: 6 CTG Killed in Tinambac Encounter

From Katropa DWDD-CRS Virtual RTV (Jan 31): 6 CTG Killed in Tinambac Encounter

Six members of CPP-NPA Terrorists Group (CTG) were killed and numerous high-powered firearms were seized in the encounter a...t Barangay Lupi, Tinambac, Camarines Sur, 6:25 am, January 30.

According to the report, the said clash transpired when troops from 83rd Infantry Battalion conducted operation in response to the information they received about the presence of 15-armed terrorists in the said place.

The said firefight ensued for almost 20 minutes and resulted to the death of six CTG members and confiscation three M16 rifle, one M16 with attached grenade launcher, ammunition, subversive documents and personnel belongings.
The recent incident was the third clash for this month as a result of the intensified operation being conducted by the Joint Task Force Bicolandia to address the CTG threats in the region.

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AFP keeps close watch on entry points

From the Visayan Daily Star (Jan 30, 2019): AFP keeps close watch on entry points
The Armed Forces of the Philippines Central Command has ordered the Army, Navy and Air Force to closely monitor all entry and exit points in all the islands of the Visayas, following the twin bombings in Jolo, Sulu.

Lt. Gen. Noel Clement, AFP Central Command chief, yesterday assured the people of Visayas that the AFP will continue its effort to quell any attempt that would affect the normal situation in the region.

The AFP Central Command and the Army 3rd Infantry Division condemned in the strongest terms the terror act that claimed the lives of 21 civilians and soldiers, and injured more than 100.

Maj. Gen. Dinoh Dolina, 3ID commander, vowed to protect the people of Western and Central Visayas from terror attacks.

The assurance was made by Dolina in support to the order of Lt. Gen. Clement Force to closely monitor the maritime waters of the Visayas and all points of entry and exit in the region in tandem with other law enforcement agencies.

Dolina said they are now doubling their efforts to suppress any terror attempt that would jeopardize the peace and security situation in the region.

At the same time, he encouraged Muslim communities to cooperate with the government security forces and work together to safeguard their brothers against those who promote violent radicalism.

Dolina also encouraged the people of Western and Central Visayas to continue their vigilance and to cooperate with the 3ID to prevent any terrorist group from staging similar terror attacks in the whole region

Two years ago, the 47th Infantry Battalion, that is being supervised by 302nd Infantry Brigade, neutralized and killed all the Abu Sayyaf bandits who landed in Bohol.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2019/January/30/topstory2.htm

Jolo bombing: Grade 11 student wrongly tagged as Abu Sayyaf leader's brother

From Rappler (Jan 31 2019): Jolo bombing: Grade 11 student wrongly tagged as Abu Sayyaf leader's brother

(UPDATED) He is only 18 years old

WRONG PERSON? The military says the man wearing a bun and a blue-green jacket is actually a grade 11 student. Westmincom video screenshot

WRONG PERSON? The military says the man wearing a bun and a blue-green jacket is actually a grade 11 student. Westmincom video screenshot

(UPDATED) – The man suspected to be the brother of an Abu Sayyaf leader involved in the Jolo Cathedral bombing is actually an 18-year-old Grade 11 student, the military announced on Wednesday, January 30.

According to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), the man in CCTV videos they earlier released – who was subject of intense scrutiny – is the same man in a blue-green jacket wearing a bun.


He was identified as Alshaber Arbi, 18 years old, and a Grade 11 student of Kalingalan Caluang National High School. (WATCH: Outside Jolo Cathedral during the bombing)

Arbi is suspected of remotely detonating a bomb in the cathedral. Just before the 2nd bomb exploded, he was seen in one of the CCTV clips extending his left hand, with a small item in it, to a companion.

It turns out, the companion who stood beside him was a teacher at Kalingalan Caluang National High School, identified as Gerry Isnajil. Both turned themselves in to cops on Wednesday to clear their name.

Two others yield: Two other persons of interest in the CCTV clips released by the military turned themselves in: 24-year-old Alsimar Mohammad Albi and 17-year-old Abdulzam Albi.

According to Westmincom, the two were at a pharmacy to buy medicine for Alsimar's mother who is confined at the Integrated Provincial Health Office in Sulu.

Just after they bought the medicine, the explosions happened, prompting them to run away.

The latter two were not identified by the Westmincom in the clips they earlier released.

"The two said that they are not familiar with the identities of the suspects and their purpose of coming out is to clear their names fearing that authorities will hunt them down," the Westmincom said in a statement.

The 4 are now being questioned by the Special Investigation Task Group formed to probe the cathedral twin blasts.

In a press briefing on Thursday, January 31, Philippine National Police spokesman Bernard Banac announced that all of them have been cleared from their 'persons of interest' list, after convincing the Special Investigation Task Group that they were innocent.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/222313-jolo-bombing-grade-11-student-tagged-abu-sayyaf-leader-brother

China opens 'rescue center' in West Philippine Sea

From Rappler (Jan 31 2019): China opens 'rescue center' in West Philippine Sea

China claims it will use its artificial islands in the West Philippine Sea for humanitarian purposes, while experts warn that China aims for militarization

KAGITINGAN REEF. This satellite image dated January 1, 2018, shows Kagitingan Reef (Fiery Cross Reef) in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea). Photo courtesy of CSIS/AMTI/DigitalGlobe

KAGITINGAN REEF. This satellite image dated January 1, 2018, shows Kagitingan Reef (Fiery Cross Reef) in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea). Photo courtesy of CSIS/AMTI/DigitalGlobe

MANILA, Philippines – China has opened a "maritime rescue center" on Kagitingan Reef (Fiery Cross Reef) in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea) "to better protect navigation and transport safety," Chinese state media reported.

China's transport ministry said the center "will offer better support to maritime rescue operations in the southern part of the South China Sea," according to a Xinhua news report on Tuesday, January 29.

Rappler is still trying to reach the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs for comment as of posting time.

China had said it plans to use its artificial islands in the West Philippine Sea for humanitarian purposes, but experts warn that China is militarizing these waters.

Xinhua said that on July 27, 2018, the Chinese transport ministry also sent a rescue ship to Zamora Reef (Subi Reef) in the West Philippine Sea "tasking it with emergency response operations."

A replacement ship was sent in October of the same year, Xinhua said.

Xinhua said that over the past 6 months, "the two ships have rescued 16 people and two ships in 8 operations." This reportedly led to the salvaging of 12 million yuan or $1.7 million in property.

Weather stations, missiles

China in November 2018 said it has started to operate weather stations in the West Philippine Sea, but Foreign Secretary Teodoro "Teddyboy" Locsin Jr thumbed down the filing of diplomatic protests against China. He also challenged the media to verify for themselves if China indeed installed weather stations in the West Philippine Sea.

The US network CNBC also reported in May 2018 that China has installed missiles in the West Philippine Sea.

The Philippines owns the exclusive rights to explore and exploit the West Philippine Sea based on a July 2016 international ruling, but China refuses to recognize this legal victory at The Hague.

Instead China is pushing for joint development of the West Philippine Sea, which experts warn could be unconstitutional if done under the pretext that China owns the rights over these.
 
https://www.rappler.com/nation/222353-china-opens-maritime-rescue-center-fiery-cross-reef-west-philippine-sea

Alleged Abu Sayyaf killed in Zambo

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jan 31 2019): Alleged Abu Sayyaf killed in Zambo

ZAMBOANGA CITY  -- A suspected Abu Sayyaf-linked bomb-maker was killed near the downtown area here after fighting back and attempting to escape police operatives on January 28 , a day after the deadly twin explosions in Jolo Cathedral Sunday (January 27).

Authorities here acknowledged this development as a result of the support the police and military have from ZamboangueƱos.

“Dapat matuwa tayo kasi nahuli'(We should be happy because he was caught), said Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) spokesperson Col. Gerry Besana.

According to reports from the Police Regional Office 9, suspected Abu Sayyaf Admar Asilon was killed in Sto. NiƱo, a barangay within the city proper on Monday night. Upon sensing police presence in the street, Asilon reportedly opened fire and attempted to escape before he was killed. Asilon had been the subject of police intelligence monitoring under the supervision of Police Chief Inspector Mohammad Hashim Sahidani.

Police operatives recovered from his possession ingredients and parts for an improvised explosive device (IED) including an electric time fuse, a hand grenade, a .45 caliber pistol and a cellular phone.

Meanwhile, Col. Besana said residents here and in the neighboring provinces have no reason to be alarmed for spillovers. What needs to be done, he said, is for residents to keep on maintaining stronger ties with security authorities especially the police and the armed forces to avert any threat to security.

“Wag kayong mabahala at matakot. Panawagan namin lahat tayo dapat magkaisa, dapat may pakialam,” (Do not be alarmed or scared. What we are appealing is for all of us to become united and to be concerned)Besana appealed.

The military official likewise calls on residents to immediately report suspicious persons, abandoned items and incidents to the police or military, but avoid sharing malicious posts in social media without first validating the sources.

Zamboanga City Mayor Beng Climaco said earlier that security measures have been tightened in the city particularly in entry and exit points, and in places of convergence. The public is to expect more police and military visibility, more checkpoints and more bomb squads. The residents can reach the security authorities through police hotline 09778558138, 992-3187/992-3179/991-3164 and Task Force Zamboanga through 09177102326 or 957-3932.

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1017783

2 rebels killed in Surigao Sur clash

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jan 31 2019): 2 rebels killed in Surigao Sur clash

SAN AGUSTIN, Surigao del Sur -- Two communist terrorists died in an encounter with the government troops in San Agustin town, Surigao del Sur last January 24, 2019.

The operating troops under 401st Brigade were conducting security operations in the hinterlands of Sitio Kabulohan, Barangay Buhisan in San Agustin town when more or less 10 NPA terrorists fired at them prompting them to return fire.

The firefight lasted for about five minutes, after which the armed group scampered in different directions.

The 10 New Peoples Army (NPA) terrorists were believed to be members of Sub-Region Committee Southland, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee led by Felizardo Valdez also known as “Ado.”



The troops also seized an M14 rifle, anti-personnel mines and ammunition, subversive documents and other war materials.According to Brigadier General Andres Centino, the security operations against the CPP-NPA Terrorists (CNTs) in the boundary of Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Sur started since December 2018 after they abducted the Cafgu Active Auxiliaries (CAA) and two soldiers in Barangay New Tubigon in Sibagat, Agusan del Sur.

The NPAs took the CAAs and soldiers and used them as human shields until now. The security operations accordingly, intend to go after the armed groups responsible for the abduction.

Centino said the two cadavers are still in the area as of this time.

“The operating troops were not able to immediately extricate them due to bad weather,” he said.

“The soldiers will exert their best efforts to extricate them as soon as possible and turn-over them to the Philippine National Police and Barangay Officials for identification and proper disposition. We extend our condolences to the families of these two NPAs,” Centino added. (401st Brigade, PA/PIA-Surigao del Sur)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1017725

2 NPA terrorists killed in Surigao del Norte clash

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jan 31 2019): 2 NPA terrorists killed in Surigao del Norte clash




SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte  -- Two Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army terrorists (CNTs) were found dead in an encounter with the troops of 30th Infantry Battalion (30IB) in the outskirts of Sitio Little Baguio, Brgy. Payapag, Bacuag, Surigao del Norte on January 25, 2019.

The troops of 30IB conducted security operations in response to a report from a concerned citizen on the presence of NPAs in the said sitio. As they arrived in the area, they encountered an estimated 30 fully armed terrorists of
Guerilla Front 16 (GF16) of North Eastern Mindanao Regional Command (NEMRC) led by Alias JD/Bern.


The firefight lasted for one and a half hours. After which, the CNTs scampered in different directions and resulted to zero casualty on the government side while a female and a male CNTs in their 20s were found dead in the encounter site. More of them are believed to be wounded in the clash as stains of blood were visible in the withdrawal route.

The cadavers were brought at the Bacuag Funeral Homes and were properly turned over to barangay officials and Philippine National Police (PNP) personnel for proper disposition and identification.

“We extend our deepest sympathies to the bereaved families of the dead NPA terrorists. It is tragic that up to this moment, there are still people who are blinded by the failed ideologies of these terrorists. We have coordinated with the local government unit and our PNP counterparts to help us find their families and ensure that proper burial will be given,” said Lieutenant Colonel Allen Raymund Tomas, commanding officer of 30IB.

Moreover, the army troops also overran the CNTs’ lair that can accommodate 50 persons and recovered one AK47 rifle, one M16 rifle, one landmine with 100 meters electrical wire, three magazines of M16, 10 magazines of AK47, assorted medicines, personal belongings, and subversive documents.

Brigadier General Franco Nemesio Gacal, commander of 402nd Brigade, said the locals' timely information regarding the presence of CNTs in the area had helped the government troops in preempting possible NPA atrocities in connection with the celebration of the 50th NPA founding anniversary in March 2019.

“This is a great sign that the people are no longer allowing these terrorists to stay in there peaceful community. Rest assured that the Philippine Army will continue to take aggressive actions in order to stop the NPAs from committing crimes against the people,” said Gacal.

Major General Ronald Villanueva, 4th Infantry Division commander, also said the units under the 4ID have never stopped going after the NPA terrorists in their area of responsibility.

“We have not declared any suspension of operations even during the last holiday season and we are determined to end the deception and terrorism brought by Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) – NPA – National Democratic Front (NDF) or CNN in the communities,” he said.

On the other hand, members of the terrorist group who came to the realization that they are just being exploited are given the opportunity to go back to the folds of the law and return to the mainstream society. They can avail of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) being offered by the government," Villanueva added. (1Lt. Ken Enciso, 30IB, Phil. Army/VLG/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1017831

EDCA warehouse activated in Pampanga

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 30, 2019): EDCA warehouse activated in Pampanga

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and US Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Y. Kim on Tuesday led the inauguration of an Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) multipurpose warehouse at Basa Air Base, Floridablanca, Pampanga.

“I am delighted that we have finally undertaken the first among the many activities and projects under the EDCA,” Lorenzana told reporters.

The warehouse will be used for the prepositioning of equipment and infrastructure needed for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) missions, enabling the two countries to respond efficiently to both traditional and non-traditional defense and security challenges.

The defense chief said the HADR warehouse will surely boost the Philippines’ efforts to become disaster-resilient.

Meanwhile, Kim highlighted the strength of the partnership between the Philippines and the US.

“This project illustrates not only our commitment to the US-Philippine alliance, but also both countries’ dedication to peace and stability in the larger Indo-Pacific region,” the American envoy added.

Humanitarian assistance and disaster response is one of the main aspects of cooperation between Manila and Washington under the EDCA, along with interoperability, capacity building, maritime security, and maritime domain awareness, among others.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1060465

Airstrikes being conducted vs. ASG targets in Sulu: DND

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 30, 2019): Airstrikes being conducted vs. ASG targets in Sulu: DND

The military has conducted airstrikes against Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) targets in Sulu on Tuesday.

"(Yes), we did airstrikes yesterday (Tuesday). (I'm) not sure if there are (any) now," Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said in a message to the Philippine News Agency (PNA) Wednesday.

Lorenzana said the airstrikes were in retaliation for the twin bombings in the province's capital town of Jolo, which left 21 persons dead and 97 others wounded last Sunday.


"(I) don't know how many sorties (were conducted)," the Defense chief said when asked how many bombing missions were carried out by the military against the ASG rebels.

Reports said government troops launched airstrikes against the ASG in the towns of Patikul and Indanan in Sulu, following President Rodrigo Duterte's order to pulverize the terror group.

Calls for calm

Meanwhile, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) called on the public to exercise sobriety and calm in the light of the recent attacks.

“Let us not be swayed by the recent developments that seem to project a religious complexion in the recent tragic incidents: in Jolo on Sunday (January 27) and on January 30, 2019 (Wednesday) around 20 minutes past midnight," AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo said in a statement.

Three days after the deadly attack at the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Cathedral in Jolo, a grenade blast inside a mosque in Zamboanga City killed two persons and injured three others.

“The AFP Chief of Staff, Gen. Benjamin Madrigal Jr., conveys the sincere condolences and deep sympathies of soldiers, airmen, sailors and marines to the victims of the attack against civilians inside a mosque at Barangay Talon-Talon in Zamboanga City," Arevalo said.

He assured that government troops are currently conducting an investigation to determine the motive of the attacks and bring the perpetrators to justice.

“Your security forces have assisted the victims even as the investigation is ongoing to get to the bottom of this incident. We exhort our citizens, for your help and cooperation with your government security forces in addressing these evolving challenges," Arevalo said.

Arevalo also urged citizens to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity or the presence of unfamiliar persons in their areas.

"Gen. Madrigal assures that the best AFP commanders are on the ground and that, in cooperation with the PNP and other agencies of government, are firmly committed to neutralizing these threats. But we can best attain that if we have the unequivocal support of our people in every sitios and barangays since they are more familiar in their localities,” he said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1060474

CA confirms Madrigal appointment as AFP chief

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 30, 2019): CA confirms Madrigal appointment as AFP chief

The Commission on Appointments (CA) on Wednesday confirmed the appointment of Gen. Benjamin Madrigal Jr. as Armed Forces of the Philippines chief of staff.



Zamboanga Rep. Seth Jalosjos, chairman of the CA committee on national defense, recommended the approval of Madrigal's appointment at the plenary. There was no opposition to his appointment.


Madrigal was installed as AFP chief in December last year, replacing now Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process, Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr.

Madrigal, the 51st AFP chief-of-staff, served notably as 4th Infantry Division commander, Southern Luzon Command and Eastern Mindanao Command chief.

A member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1985, Madrigal was the most senior among the Board of Generals’ recommendees and also among the most competent in terms of distinct professionalism, leadership and character.

Madrigal held key positions in the Philippine Army (PA), which includes command of the 4th Infantry Division based in Cagayan De Oro.

He also served as assistant division commander and later acting head of the 10th Infantry Division in Compostela Valley before becoming Army chief.

Madrigal is set to retire on September 28, 2019.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1060499

DND won't recommend BOL poll suspension despite Jolo blasts

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 30, 2019): DND won't recommend BOL poll suspension despite Jolo blasts

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said Wednesday he would not recommend the postponement of the second Bangsamoro Organic Law plebiscite on February 6 despite the twin explosions that hit a church in Jolo, Sulu over the weekend.

"No. Because malayo naman ito sa mga pinangyarihan. Malayo sa Zamboanga, malayo sa Basilan, plus remember these six municipalities in Lanao del Norte. Wala namang nakikitang kaguluhan diyan, in connection with the BOL plebiscite. Pati na yung 67 barangays sa North Cotabato, we don’t see any problems there (The area where the blasts occurred is far from where the plebiscite will be held. It is far from Zamboanga, far from Basilan, plus remember these six municipalities in Lanao del Norte. We don't see unrest there, in connection with the BOL plebiscite. And also the 67 barangays in North Cotabato. We don’t see any problem there)," Lorenzana said in a press briefing.

He said a more solid reason for the Jolo bombing is the fact that military units in Sulu are cracking down hard on Abu Sayyaf elements in the province.

"Wala naman sigurong connection sa BOL. Ang isang reason na binigay sa atin ng military sa Sulu ay continuous operation sa kabundukan ng Jolo at nako-corner natin yung mga Abu Sayyaf doon (It has nothing to do with the BOL. One reason which was given to us by the military in Sulu is the continuous operation in the mountains of Jolo where they were able to corner Abu Sayyaf brigands). It could be diversionary tactics," the defense chief said.

Meanwhile, Lorenzana said he has yet to see any connection between the twin bombings in Jolo, Sulu and the grenade-throwing incident at the Zamboanga City mosque at 12:20 a.m. Wednesday that left two persons dead and three others wounded.

"Wala naman kaming makitang connection kasi dahil even in the past na binobomba yung mga churches natin sa Davao and Cotabato. Wala namang naggagantihan after that. Yung connection na baka may gantihan, wala. Sabi naman ni Presidente nun sa Jolo, Christians and Muslims have been co-existing for almost 100 years. Wala namang alitan dun (We do not see any connection because even in the past, there had been incidents of church bombings in Davao and Cotabato and there was no retaliation afterwards. As the President said before, in Jolo, Christians and Muslims have been co-existing for almost 100 years. There has been no dispute there)," he added.

Sunday's twin blasts at the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Cathedral occurred barely a week after the first BOL plebiscite on January 21.

Sulu was the only province of the Autonomous Region Muslim Mindanao that voted against the measure which seeks to create the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

The second BOL plebiscite will be held in the province of Lanao del Norte, except Iligan City; the municipalities of Aleosan, Carmen, Kabacan, Midsayap, Pikit, and Pigkawayan in the province of North Cotabato; and the 28 barangays to be included in the region.

The military has deployed more than 10,000 troops and support units to help secure the BOL plebiscite, alongside the Philippine National Police.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1060507

Suicide bombing angle in Jolo blast ‘questionable’: DND chief

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 31, 2019): Suicide bombing angle in Jolo blast ‘questionable’: DND chief

The theory that suicide bombers are behind Sunday's bloody twin bombings in Jolo, Sulu remains hanging as the alleged terrorist groups that might be behind the attack are yet to claim responsibility for the incident.

“The theory of being a suicide bombing or not is (still) hanging in the air. It appears to be a suicide bombing dahil maraming (there were so many) body parts but we are still waiting for confirmation, kasi normally yung mga (because normally, the) ISIS (Islamic State), they will immediately identify the person, martyr, the cause,” Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said during a press briefing in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City Wednesday.

The DND chief admitted that he was initially poised to believe that the attack was done by suicide bombers.

“It appears to be a suicide bombing and I was also convinced immediately na baka (that it might be a) suicide bombing. But kapag kasi sa suicide bombing na yan (if it really is a suicide bombing), somebody will immediately claim na itong tao ito, naging martir (that this person became a martyr). Wala naman tayong nakikitang ganon (We do not see anything like that), although the ISIS, in their website claimed that the 21 Filipino crusaders died, hindi naman niya sinasabi na si taong ito, ganito martir siya (it did not say that this person became a martyr),” Lorenzana said.


As this developed, the DND chief added that they are still trying to identify a half-blown face recovered in the crime scene.

“(May) kalahati ng mukha ng tao nasa (There is this halved face which is at) SOCO (Scene of the Crime Operations) (that) you cannot identify, nobody (is claiming him yet). Wala pa eh (There is no update yet). So we’re trying to have his DNA tested para malaman natin (so we will know) how we’re going to find out. Maybe we can find out the nationality, Pilipino ba o (Is it a Filipino or) foreigner, kasi may nagsasabi na foreigner daw yung nag-suicide bombing diyan. Wala pa namang Pilipino na nag-suicide bombing eh (because there are those who say it a foreigner conducted a suicide bombing there. No Filipino has ever done a suicide bombing). So questionable pa yan (That is still questionable),” Lorenzana said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1060542

Confirmation of military officers sign of mature democracy

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 31, 2019): Confirmation of military officers sign of mature democracy

The confirmation of ranking military officers is a clear demonstration that the country's democracy is a mature one, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen. Benjamin Madrigal said Wednesday.

Madrigal's remarks came shortly after the Commission on Appointments (CA) confirmed his appointment as AFP chief and the country's highest ranking military officer with a four-star rank.


Madrigal, who received his ad interim appointment as AFP chief on Dec. 12, 2018, got his fourth star last January 10.

"The process of confirmation is a reminder of our place in a mature democratic society and our unbreakable subservience to civilian authority," Madrigal said in a statement.

Also confirmed were the ad interim appointments of Lt. Gen. Noel Clement as AFP Central Command head and Brig. Gen. Virgilio Bartolome as Philippine Army Headquarters and Headquarters Service Group commander.

The AFP chief reminded his fellow appointees of the high expectations that come with their ranks and positions in the military.

"I congratulate my fellow appointees for this confirmation. I hope that this will further inspire us to work hard in the performance of our duties and responsibilities to the Filipino and our country," he added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1060587

2 killed, 3 hurt in Zambo mosque grenade explosion

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 30, 2019): 2 killed, 3 hurt in Zambo mosque grenade explosion



ZAMBO MOSQUE BLAST. Two people died while three others were injured when an unidentified person tossed a grenade around 12:20 a.m. Wednesday into a mosque in Barangay Talon-Talon, Zamboanga City. (Photo by Ely E. Dumaboc)

ZAMBOANGA CITY -- Two people were killed while three others were wounded in a grenade explosion shortly after midnight at a mosque in an east coast barangay of this city, police disclosed Wednesday.

Senior Supt. Thomas Joseph Martir, Zamboanga City Police Office (ZCPO) director, disclosed that the incident happened at the Maharlika mosque in Sitio Logoy Diutay, Barangay Talon-Talon, this city at about 12:20 a.m. Wednesday.
Martir identified the two fatalities as Hadji Sattal Bato, 47, of Barangay Marketsite, Isabela City; and, Rex Habil, 46, a councilor in Barangay Matatag, Lamitan City.

Martir said wounded were Palson Asgali, 44; Alnizkar Sabbaha, 30; and Jikilani Albani, 60. They were rushed to the hospital.

He said investigation showed the victims, who are members of Tablig, were asleep inside the mosque when an unidentified person tossed a grenade.
He said investigation continues in a bid to unmask the people behind the grenade attack.
 http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1060457

ASG bandit slain as troops hunt down Jolo church bombers

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 30, 2019): ASG bandit slain as troops hunt down Jolo church bombers

Troops have neutralized a member of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in a firefight as an operation was launched against the culprits behind the twin bombing of a Catholic church in Jolo, Sulu, military officials said Wednesday.

Lt. Col. Gerry Besana, Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) information officer, said the firefight ensued around 5:40 a.m. in Barangay Latih, Patikul, Sulu.

Besana identified the slain ASG bandit as
Ommal Usop, a follower of the ASG’s Ajang-Ajang group led by Ben Saudi.


Besana said the firefight ensued as Usop resisted arrest, prompting the joint military and police forces to return fire in a raid in Sitio Kalimayahan.

Besana said the troops recovered a .45-caliber pistol with five live ammunitions and a sniper scope.

He said the target of the raid was a certain Kamah, a member of the Ajang-Ajang group, who was one of the four suspects behind Sunday's blasts that rocked the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Cathedral in Barangay Walled City, Jolo, Sulu.

He said Kamah, who is the logistics officer of the ASG, has eluded arrest during the raid.

“As of this posting, troops continue to pursue Kamah,” he said.

The Joint Task Force Sulu troops have turned over the remains of Usop to the barangay officials of Latih for proper disposition.

The raid was launched two days after the President Rodrigo Duterte left a marching order for government troops to crush the ASG in Sulu.

“Military forces are on pursuit to capture Kamah and the rest of the militants, who are now hiding from the government troops. Expect that, with the pronouncement of the Commander-in-Chief, we will intensify our focused military operations to pound down the remaining terrorists and penetrate strongholds of the Abu Sayyaf in Sulu,” Westmincom chief, Lt. Gen. Arnel Dela Vega said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1060501

2 NorMin 'activists' arrested, not missing: Cops

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 30, 2019): 2 NorMin 'activists' arrested, not missing: Cops

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- Two members of leftist organizations here who were thought to be missing since Monday turned out to have been arrested by police for various criminal charges.

In a statement Wednesday, Chief Supt. Timoteo Pacleb, Police Regional Office-10 director, said Ireneo Udarbe and Jomorito Goaynon were arrested for four counts of attempted murder and frustrated murder.

Human rights group Karapatan reported Goaynon, chairman of the Kalumbay Regional Lumad Organization, and Udarbe, chairperson of the Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas-Northern Mindanao Region, as missing since they left their office here.
Pacleb said Udarbe and Guaynon are members of the New People's Army, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines, which is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States and the European Union.

“They are not missing. Udarbe and (Guaynon) were arrested in Barangay Patag by virtue of a court-issued arrest warrant according to our records,” he said, adding that the arrest warrants were issued by Judge Emmanuel Pasal of the Regional Trial Court Branch 38 in this city.

Pacleb said arresting policemen seized from Udarbe and Goaynon several firearms, fragmentation grenades, and subversive documents during their arrest.

Prior to the arrest, Guaynon filed a complaint against the Army’s 65th Infantry Battalion for “harassment and forced surrender.”

Karapatan Secretary General Kristina Palabay condemned the duo's arrest, describing it as "harassment against leaders of militant groups, especially peasants and tribal peoples."

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1060566

ARMM, OPAPP, MILF leaders meet for smooth Bangsamoro transition

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 31, 2019): ARMM, OPAPP, MILF leaders meet for smooth Bangsamoro transition



PEACEFUL TRANSITION. Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Governor Mujiv Hataman (left) suggests a point for the smooth transition of the current ARMM set up to the new Bangsamoro political entity during a meeting with Moro Islamic Liberation Front chief Al Haj Murad (center) and Office of the Presidential Assistant to the Peace Process Secretary Carlito Galvez (right) in Cotabato City on Wednesday (Jan. 30, 2019. (Photo by BPI-ARMM)

Key peace leaders met here Wednesday to ensure the smooth transition of the regional government from the current Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) to the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman, Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim, and Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. sat together at the ARMM executive building inside Shariff Kabunsuan Complex, the provisional seat of the ARMM in this city, to discuss the region’s shift to the new Bangsamoro government.


Following the ratification of Republic Act 11054, Hataman had hoped for autonomy that makes full use of good governance to make a positive impact on the lives of the region’s constituents.

“We must put a premium on the welfare of our people and ensure open and transparent governance if we are to build a lasting peace that benefits all,” Hataman said.

Stressing the importance of Wednesday’s meeting, Hataman said “It was a fruitful meeting, we discussed substantial steps on how to go about the transition from ARMM to BARMM’s Bangsamoro Transition Authority.”

The meeting ensured the next steps to a historic transition, where the new autonomous political entity BARMM will replace the 29-year-old ARMM.

Murad welcomed the efforts of OPAPP to ensure a smooth transition of governance from the current ARMM leadership to the leaders of the MILF, as provided for in the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro and the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1060585

NDF consultant shot dead in Nueva Vizcaya

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 30, 2019): NDF consultant shot dead in Nueva Vizcaya

BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya -- National Democratic Front Philippines (NDFP) peace consultant Randy Felix P. Malayao was shot dead inside a bus in Aritao, Nueva Vizcaya before dawn Wednesday, the Cagayan Valley Region police said.

Investigators said Malayao, 49, was on board a Victory Liner bus, which made a stop at CCQ bus stop at 2:30 a.m. in Aritao town, when a gunman reportedly boarded, approached the sleeping victim and shot him at close range, according to witnesses.

The victim died on the spot while the gunman fled on board a black motorcycle.

"We will immediately form a task force to solve the killing of Malayao as we condemn any act of atrocities," Chief Supt. Jose Mario Espino, Cagayan Valley regional police director, told reporters on Wednesday.

Malayao was on his way back to his hometown in San Pablo, Isabela from Manila when the attack took place.

Malayao attended formal peace negotiations in Europe as a consultant from Cagayan Valley prior to the cancellation of the peace talks. He also acted as one of the spokespersons of the NDFP Negotiating Panel in Europe.

He represented the NDFP in peace forums abroad and in the country, along with government negotiators Secretary Silvestre Bello III, lawyer Angela Librado Trinidad and others.

Malayao was a former political prisoner, spent more than four years in jails in Cagayan and Isabela provinces, and was freed after he had been acquitted of the charges against him.

Bello once served as Malayao’s legal counsel when he was then in private practice.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1060488

A writer-contributor of various local publications and former college publication editor-in-chief, Malayao earned his Bachelor of Science in Fisheries degree from the University of the Philippines Visayas-Miag-ao in the 1990s.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1060488

Cop slain in NoCot NPA attack set to marry pregnant fiancƩe

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 30, 2019): Cop slain in NoCot NPA attack set to marry pregnant fiancƩe



BOMBED. The ill-fated police patrol car driven by slain Police Officer 1 Christopher Anadon after the NPA roadside bombing and ambush in Magpet, North Cotabato on Monday (Jan. 28). (Photo courtesy of North Cotabato PPO)

A police officer slain on Monday in a North Cotabato roadside bombing by communist rebels was set to marry his girlfriend next month.

The girlfriend of PO1 Christopher Anadon, 28, told reporters she and the slain policeman were engaged and set to get married in February this year.

She asked not to be named but added she was three months pregnant.

She briefly spoke to media at a funeral parlor here, saying she was grief-stricken that “the marriage will no longer take place.”

Senior Supt. Maximo Layugan, North Cotabato police director, said Anadon was with about 20 other police officers heading for Kidapawan City from Barangay Poblacion, Magpet when a roadside bomb went off in Purok Kabisig at 6 p.m. Monday.

Anadon, a resident of Parang, Maguindanao, was the driver of one of two police vehicles used by the North Cotabato Provincial Police Mobile Force that were hit by an anti-personnel landmine planted by New People’s Army (NPA) militants.

Eleven other police officers were injured, two of them still confined at the Amas Provincial Hospital in Kidapawan City.

Chief Supt. Eliseo Rasco, police director for Region 12, condemned the communist rebels’ use of anti-personnel landmines.

Rasco lauded other police officers who stood their ground following the explosion by trading bullets with the NPA ambushers.

Police in Magpet believed the NPAs also suffered fatalities but carried their comrades as they fled deep into the forest.

Rasco appealed to the public in Region 12 to help the police eradicate the terrorists and remain extra vigilant against terrorism. The Communist Party of the Philippines/NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States and the European Union.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1060479

6 rebels killed in CamSur clash with gov't troops

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 30, 2019): 6 rebels killed in CamSur clash with gov't troops

Six New People's Army (NPA) rebels were killed in a clash with Philippine Army (PA) soldiers in Barangay Tierra Nevada, a remote area in Tinambak, Camarines Sur on Wednesday morning.

The troops were on patrol when they chanced upon the group of NPA rebels at around 6 a.m. in the said village, according to 1Lt. Felise Solano, Philippine Army-Southern Luzon spokesperson.

A 20-minute firefight ensued, resulting in the killing of six insurgents and the recovery of four M16 rifles, a grenade launcher and personal belongings, Solano said.

She said as the rebels fled the encounter site, they left behind the bodies of their slain companions.

The identities of the killed guerrillas were not yet available. Their bodies were brought to the town police station for documentation.

Pursuit and clearing operations are still ongoing as of press time.

Meanwhile, Capt. Joash Pramis of the Army's 9th Infantry Division said the entire region is still under full alert following the Jolo bombing.

The said directive was issued by the higher headquarters, Pramis said.

Tinambac was identified as among the towns of Camarines Sur where there had been sightings of rebels.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1060460

2019 Pacific Partnership Program thrills Tacloban

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 30, 2019): 2019 Pacific Partnership Program thrills Tacloban



Officials from the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Tacloban city government meet for the 2019 Pacific Partnership Program on Monday (Jan. 28, 2019). (Photo courtesy of city government)

TACLOBAN CITY -- American soldiers will soon start arriving in the city before the end of February for the upcoming two-week 2019 Pacific Partnership Program.

Maria Lumen Tabao, Tacloban City Information Office head, said Wednesday that meetings have been conducted for the Pacific Partnership Program on the second event after 2014.


Pacific Partnership is an annual deployment of forces from the Pacific Fleet US Navy, in cooperation with regional governments and military forces, along with humanitarian and non-government organizations. This year’s event will be held from March 10 to 24.

The first meeting was held on Monday and was presided by Armed Forces of the Philippines Assistant Deputy Chief of Staff for Civil-Military Operation Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo, 546th Engineer Construction Battalion Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Ronilo Cudal, and Dr. Gloria Fabregas, representing the city government.

Tentative activities include beach and coastal cleanup and tree planting, press engagements, visits to school and orphanages, medical missions, refurbishment of a rehabilitation center, and construction of an evacuation center in northern Tacloban.

“Some ground works, especially on construction, will start this February by personnel from the army engineers, but the official program will last for two weeks from March 10 to 24,” Tabao said.

“This has a big impact on us. We will gain more by learning from their expertise,” he said.

In 2014, more than 300 servicemen from the United States, Japan and Australia landed in Tacloban to participate in the Pacific Partnership Program, just few months after the devastation of Super Typhoon Yolanda. Their works included engineering, medical, veterinary and other aid work.

Among the engineering works they did was the construction of two-classroom buildings at the Castilla Elementary School in Palo, Leyte, four-classroom buildings and two-science buildings at the San Fernando Central Elementary School in this city and repair of the orthopedic building at the Tacloban City Hospital.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1060534

4 persons of interest in Jolo church bombing surrender

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 30, 2019): 4 persons of interest in Jolo church bombing surrender

Four persons of interest in the double bomb attack on a church in Jolo, Sulu have surrendered to authorities to clear their names, a military official said Wednesday.

Lt. Col. Gerry Besana, Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) information officer, identified them as Alshaber Arbi, 18; Gerry Isnajil, whose age was not provided; Alsimar Mohammad Albi, 24; and a 17-year old male.


Besana said Arbi, a Grade 11 student of the Kalingalan Caluang National High School, and Isnajil, a teacher in the same school, were among those caught on closed-circuit television (CCTV) camera after Sunday's twin blasts at the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Cathedral in Barangay Walled City, Jolo, Sulu.

On the CCTV footage, Arbi was the person in a ponytail while Isnajil was the man in maroon baseball cap with a red backpack.

Besana said Arbi and Isnajil surrendered to Senior Supt. Pablo Labra II, Sulu police director, around 10 a.m. Wednesday to clear their names.

He said that Alsimar and his 17-year old brother submitted themselves to Labra around 3 p.m. Wednesday, for the same reason.

He said the investigation showed that prior to the explosion the two went to a pharmacy to buy medicine for Alsimar’s mother who is confined at the Integrated Provincial Health Office hospital.

After they bought the medicine, a loud explosion occurred at the church and Julius immediately went near the vicinity when secondary explosion occurred.

According to Besana, Alsimar called his younger brother to stay away just as the suspects who were seen behind him fled the vicinity.

According to the brothers' statements, the two did not know the identities of the suspects and that they came out for fear that authorities will hunt them down.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1060573

Kin of 2 soldiers killed in Jolo blast plead for justice

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 30, 2019): Kin of 2 soldiers killed in Jolo blast plead for justice



FALLEN 'HERO'. The coffin bearing the remains of one of the two soldiers killed in last Sunday's church blast in Jolo -- identified as Sgt. Mark Dres Simbre and Cpl. John Mangawit -- is carried by their fellow soldiers upon arrival in Cauayan City from Zamboanga City, January 29, 2019 . (Photo by Villamor Visaya Jr.)

CAUAYAN CITY -- The families of two soldiers who were killed in the deadly church blasts in Jolo, Sulu last Sunday, cried for justice as the Philippine flag-draped coffins of the victims arrived at the Cauayan airport here on board a C-130 plane, Tuesday afternoon.

The remains of Army Sgt. Mark Des Simbre of San Isidro, Isabela and Corporal John Mangawit of Tanudan, Kalinga were met with arrival honors by their colleagues and were later brought to the 5th Infantry Division for necrological services before they would be brought to their hometowns on Wednesday.

Simbre and Mangawit belong to the 41st Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army who were deployed in Jolo in 2017 to beef up the military contingent there.

“It pains to see my husband in a coffin but I cannot bring him back to life anymore. He is a hero for the country,” Simbre’s wife, Rosemarie, said as she was comforted by her relatives.

Mangawit’s coffin was also met by some his relatives from Kalinga while his wife was still on her way to the military camp in Gamu after staying in Abra.

Major Gen. Perfecto Rimando, 5th Infantry Division commander, described the slain soldiers as “heroes who lost their lives and limbs” in the quest for peace.

“We honor their service in the military as exemplary for sacrificing their lives for service,” he added.

Simbre and Mangawit were among the 22 people killed and more or less 100 others wounded in the bomb blasts.

Their colleagues who were wounded in the incident were identified as Staff Sgt. Victor Ubaldo, Corporal Jonel Ngitit, Corporal Timothy Bigot, Private First-Class Jonathan Magguia, and Private Cliver SerquiƱa.  
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1060489

DSWD, AFP to build 105 housing units in Zambales

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 30, 2019): DSWD, AFP to build 105 housing units in Zambales

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) 3 (Central Luzon) has collaborated with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in implementing a core assistance shelter project.

Under the agreement, the AFP will send 20 troops to construct 105 housing units in Kainomayan village of this town.

The project, dubbed "KiSLAP ng CSAP" (Kikilos ang Sandatahang Lakas, Aagapay sa Pabahay ng Core Shelter Assistance Program), was launched here Monday, during which representatives of the two government agencies signed a pledge of commitment.

“We will do our best efforts. If there is a need for us not to sleep, we will do it in order to finish the construction of the housing units,” said Lt. Col. Fernando G. Balona, AFP staff leader, who will be in charge of the construction of the units.

The shelters are expected to be completed within 30 working days.

Struggling for workforce of the construction, Municipal Social Welfare and Development Officer Edwina Sibug said she is very thankful for the project.

"Actually, we have a difficult time mobilizing the beneficiaries, especially the elders and those who do not have relatives to work, thus it is indeed a big help,” Sibug said.

The Core Shelter Assistance Program is one of the interventions of DSWD in disaster response and rehabilitation, aiming to provide environment-friendly, structurally strong shelter units for victims of disasters or those living in hazardous areas.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1060556