MILF: MILF 1st Vice Chairman Jaafar passes away

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Website (Mar 12, 2019): MILF 1st Vice Chairman Jaafar passes away



In photo- MILF 1st Vice Chairman Ghazali Jaafar in a huddle with MILF Peace Implementing Panel Chair Mohagher Iqbal during the Bicam deliberations on Bangsamoro Organic Law in Congress

MILF 1st Vice Chairman, and Speaker of Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) Ghazali Jaafar, 76 years old passed away last night at about 1:00AM in Davao City, according to a text message sent to Luwaran by one of his comrades who refused to be identified.
Jaafar suffered from a stroke in July 2018 while in Metro Manila after the Bicameral Conference Committee of Congress agreed on the final version of Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL).

Like those MILF officials who returned to His Creator ahead of him, Jaafar died a martyr (Saheed)

Messages of sympathy, and condolences are pouring in to the family of Vice Chairman Jaafar whose services to the Moro Struggle will be written in history.

While still alive, Jaafar was frank and straight forward in his conversations with government officials relative to the Bangsamoro Law.

He once said in the presence of Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, that the MILF were trained to fight and not to talk.

It is recalled that in the late 60’s, Jaafar organized the Mandharul Islam, a convergence of Moro Youth aimed to defend Moro villages from marauding ILAGA fanatics who at that time were burning Moro houses, Mosques, and kill those on their sight.

Jaafar, like the rest of MILF leaders spent almost his entire life in the Moro Struggle for right to self-determination.

His body will be brought today to his residence in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao.

http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1759/milf-1st-vice-chairman-jaafar-passes-away

MILF: Bangsamoro gov't success 'most important goal' vs terrorism in PH – report

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Website (Mar 12, 2019): Bangsamoro gov't success 'most important goal' vs terrorism in PH – report

Ensuring the success of the Bangsamoro government in fostering peace and development in the new autonomous region is the "single most important goal" of counter-terrorism efforts in the Philippines, a Jakarta-based think tank said.

This is among the findings of the Institute for Policy Analysis of Conflict (IPAC) in its report released on Tuesday, March 5, titled "The Jolo Bombing and the Legacy of ISIS in the Philippines."

"The single most important goal of counter-terrorism programs and funding in the Philippines now should be trying to ensure that BARMM succeeds in meeting the huge challenges it faces," the report said.

The report said failure to establish a functioning government Bangsamoro Autobnomous Region in Muslim Mindanao where there may be corruption, dispute over access to jobs, resources, and land, among others could leave residents disillusioned and give Islamic State-inspired groups "a new lease on life."

"Stronger support for pro-ISIS components is only one of several possible outcomes of a failed BARMM but it could be the deadliest…. The key to reducing the appeal of Islamic State is to produce a more attractive alternative for Mindanao’s Muslims," said IPAC.

High hopes, higher stakes: Many residents in the Bangsamoro region have pinned their hopes of peace and security, reduced poverty, and better opportunities on the new Bangsamoro region.

It’s a huge challenge the interim government, known as the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA), will need to deliver on as Moros and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) claimed it could be their last chance at peace.

The establishment of BARMM, IPAC said, was also the "point of no return."

"At every other juncture during the long years of negotiation, if the process broke down, it was always possible to pick up the pieces because the final goal of genuine autonomy had never been reached. Now both sides have no choice but to make it work because there are no other options on the table," it said.

IPAC said the deadly Jolo Cathedral bombing in February showed the Philippines "will be living with the impact of ISIS for years to come, regardless of what happens in the Middle East." The bombing turned what was a place of worship to a site of ripped bodies where at least 23 people were killed and 109 others injured.

IPAC said the Islamic State (IS, formerly known as ISIS or the Islamic State in Syria and Iraq) left behind not only remaining members of ISIS-linked groups who tried to take over Marawi in 2017, but also the option of a “pure” Islamic state as an alternative to the status quo.

Cooperation is crucial: Given the challenge ahead, IPAC said the Philippine government and BTA should tap the expertise of MILF base commanders who have knowledge on why individuals may choose to join militant groups.

"Both the BTA and the national government should seek out their views on workable strategies to prevent alienation as the new government finds its way. The obstacles to success are formidable but the consequences of failure could be devastating," IPAC said.

It added that "serious attention" should be given to preventing recruitment efforts by ensuring communities, schools, and universities know what to do when they suspect recruitment among the youth.

IPAC said BARMM officials should also work with the military to end the bounty system, which placed rewards on the heads of wanted extremists. It said the set up caused competition for reward money that encouraged the killing of suspects over capturing them alive to get information on their networks.

Aside from this, attention should also be given to the rebuilding of Marawi City to avoid recruitment there. Rehabilitation in the city has been slow and many residents remain displaced despite the war declared over in October 2017.

"The Philippines needs to move beyond military operations aimed at killing known extremist leaders, because that only produces a new generation bent on vengeance," said IPAC director Sidney Jones.

"The Duterte government needs to be thinking more about why the ISIS message resonated so strongly in Mindanao at the time of Marawi and why it still exerts a pull today," she added. – Rappler.com

http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1758/bangsamoro-gov-t-success--most-important-goal--vs-terrorism-in-ph-----report

WESCOM: Awards Ceremony For Troops Deployed to KIG

Posted to the Western Command (WESCOM) Website (Mar 9): Awards Ceremony For Troops Deployed to KIG

Early this morning, COMMO DORVIN JOSE L LEGASPI AFP, Deputy Commander of Western Command awarded the Military Merit Medal and Kalayaan Island Group (KIG) Campaign Medal and Ribbon to the outstanding military troops who were deployed in the KIG, West Philippine Sea. The awarding was held during the Flag Raising Ceremony at Headquarters Western Command.
#TeamWESCOM #OneWESCOM
#SaludosaKawalPilipino

 

https://www.facebook.com/wescom/photos/pcb.1280601192072039/1280594762072682/?type=3&theater



https://www.facebook.com/wescom/photos/pcb.1280601192072039/1280600008738824/?type=3&theater

https://www.facebook.com/wescom/

WESTMINCOM: WestMinCom troops, MILF engage in sports competitions in Maguindanao

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Website (Mar 12, 2019): WestMinCom troops, MILF engage in sports competitions in Maguindanao



Combined troops of the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion and the 63rd Division Reconnaissance Company competed with members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front’s Task Force Itihad in a friendly basketball tournament in Barangay Old Maganoy, Datu Abdullah Sangki, Maguindanao on March 7.

“Winning is not the most important part of this event, but it is bringing people from different sectors to work together as a team for peace and development in the area,” said Lieutenant Colonel Alvin Iyog, the 2MechBn Commanding Officer.



The event is a continuing peace initiative of our troops to connect people and to show everybody that we are all partners.

“The friendship game is our opportunity to exchange thoughts, to discover a new friendship, and to join together for our common aspiration to create a peaceful environment with love and understanding,” said Major General Cirilito Sobejana, the JTF Central Commander.

On February 18, a peace dialogue was orchestrated in the said town after fake news and rumors circulated that the military would attack the MILF community. It was further resolved and agreed that a military patrol base would be established.



“Initiatives that bridge convergence and common understanding among security and various sectors always produce viable solutions because peace and development are inclusive aspirations of every Filipino,” said Lieutenant General Arnel Dela Vega, the commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

“In working for internal security in Mindanao, the Western Mindanao Command complements its combat and intelligence operations with its civil-military operations, employing the holistic approach in combating terrorism in the area of operations,” he added.

“We will continue to pursue peaceful engagements with peace advocates and organizations that are working with us for the realization of lasting peace here in Mindanao,” said Lieutenant General Dela Vega.



http://www.westmincom.com/westmincom-troops-milf-engage-in-sports-competitions-in-maguindanao/

WESTMINCOM: 2 Maute fighters slain, rifle seized in Lanao offensives

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Website (Mar 12, 2019): 2 Maute fighters slain, rifle seized in Lanao offensives



Two Maute fighters under Abu Dar died in the tactical offensives launched yesterday, March 11, by military troops in Lanao del Sur.

Soldiers from the 55th Infantry Battalion also seized a carbine rifle and a lower receiver of an M16 rifle of terrorists in Barangay Calaludan, Pagayawan, Lanao del Sur at 4:20pm yesterday.

Operating troops heavily engaged 22 Maute fighters in a ferocious gunfight, yielding to the deaths of alias Abu Tahir and Abu Jihad.

Soldiers retrieved Abu Tahir’s remains from the encounter site, while residents reported Abu Jihad’s death.



“We received information from the populace on the presence of Daesh-inspired group in the area and we responded to their call,” said Colonel Romeo Brawner, the 103rd Infantry Brigade Commander.

“We are sustaining our focused military operation in order to destroy the remnants of this group (DI-Lanao) and free the province from terrorists,” added Brawner.

Meanwhile two soldiers died and another one sustained wounds in the said encounter.

“We extend our deepest sympathies to the bereaved families and friends of our soldiers who paid the ultimate sacrifice in protecting our people against the terrorist group,” said Brigadier General Roberto Ancan, the Joint Task Force ZamPeLan Commander.

“Their sacrifices were borne out of their dedication to protect the Meranaos in pursuit of peace and development,” added Ancan.

Additional forces pursued fleeing terrorists and ensured the populace’s safety and security in the area.

Responding troops promptly extricated the wounded for medical attention.

Lieutenant General Arnel Dela Vega, the commander of the Western Mindanao Command, said, “We are determined to disintegrate terrorists’ factions in order to prevent their reemergence in Lanao province.”

“Rest assured that we will pursue deliberate offensives to repress Maute remnants, neutralize terrorists’ leaders, and eventually purge Lanao province of terror ploys,” he added.

http://www.westmincom.com/2-maute-fighters-slain-rifle-seized-in-lanao-offensives/

WESTMINCOM: Gov’t forces capture Sayyaf’s firearms, motorboat in Sulu

Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM) Website (Mar 12, 2019): Gov’t forces capture Sayyaf’s firearms, motorboat in Sulu



Government troops captured Abu Sayyaf militants’ motorboat and firearms in Sulu on March 10.

Combined forces of the Joint Task Force Sulu and the Philippine National Police seized from an Abu Sayyaf coddler an M16A1 rifle, a Caliber .45 pistol, magazines, and a motorized bangka of the militants following a joint operation in Barangay Tainga Bakkao, Banguigui at 11:30am on Sunday.

The JTF Sulu said the Abu Sayyaf utilized the motorized bangka to transport militants that evaded government forces in several armed engagements in mainland Sulu.

Security forces acted on a tip-off from a civilian in the area.

Brigadier General Divino Rey Pabayo, Jr., the JTF Sulu Commander, said the recent involvement of the populace in its campaign is a clear indication that terrorists are losing the support of the public.

“With the active support of the Tausug communities, I am confident that the problem with the Abu Sayyaf will soon be over,” added Pabayo.

Military troops continue to launch combat operations against Abu Sayyaf militants hiding in the hinterlands of Sulu.

“Our joint task force in Sulu is stepping up its campaign to hound terrorists by building up its intelligence and combat operations,” said Lieutenant General Arnel Dela Vega, the commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

“While sustaining that, military troops work with the police and the Suluanons to pursue militants and their coddlers in the area,” he added.

http://www.westmincom.com/govt-forces-capture-sayyafs-firearms-motorboat-in-sulu/

Include AFP in planning dev’t projects: Official

From the Sun Star-Cebu (Mar 12, 2019): Include AFP in planning dev’t projects: Official

THE 302nd Brigade of the Philippine Army (PA) proposed during the joint Regional Development Council (RDC) and Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) meetings to include the security sector in development planning.

Brigadier General Ignacio Madriaga, 302nd Brigade commander in Region 7, said if they are involved in development planning, they can harmonize development and security programs especially in rebel-infested areas. The RDC chaired by international designer Kenneth Cobonpue and RPOC chaired by Cebu Gov. Hilario Davide III held a joint meeting on March 11 to tackle not only the anti-illegal drug campaign as a matter of National Security Policy, but several government projects that remained unimplemented due to security problems.

“Normally, the biggest gap is that economic planners and security officials have different indicators. Of course, the planners look at economic indicators, while the security sector looks at the security aspect,” Madriaga said.

The official suggested economic development, with the support of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), must be brought to areas infested by the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) to uplift the lives of the people.

“We must counter the CPP-NPA propaganda that an area has no development because the government has forgotten and neglected them,” Madriaga said.

In the same RDC-RPOC meeting, Cobonpue said they will request the PA’s 53rd Engineering Brigade to undertake the construction of schools in various areas because contractors will not participate in bidding due to security reasons.

Madriaga said that if the engineering brigade will take over projects like school buildings, this is subject to Commission on Audit rules and regulations.

He added the AFP at present has added engineering brigades to help the government in implementing projects in areas with communist threats.

https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1796587

Albayalde gets invited by FBI for counter-terrorism talks

From the Manila Bulletin (Mar 12, 2019): Albayalde gets invited by FBI for counter-terrorism talks

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Oscar Albayalde on Tuesday went to the United States (US) to attend meetings and seminars on counter-terrorism efforts upon the invitation of the powerful Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).



PNP chief Director General Oscar Albayalde (KEVIN TRISTAN ESPIRITU / MANILA BULLETIN)

“The CPNP (Chief, PNP) is out of the country for a 10-day official mission to attend working meetings, discussion and seminar on counter-terrorism upon the invitation of the FBI and counterparts in the US,” Senior Superintendent Bernard Banac, PNP spokesperson, said in an advisory.

According to Banac, the series of talks and meetings will run from March 12 to 22.

It is no secret that the Philippines and the United States have years-long history of cooperation in terms of strategic security engagement and police inter-operability operations.

Terrorism, Albayalde said in previous interviews, has become a global threat and the cooperation between countries is a must to defeat it.

In the Philippines, terrorist and militant groups such as Abu Sayyaf, Maute and other Islamic State (IS)-inspired groups based in the southern part of the Philippines have been a long-time cause of problems for the national government.

“The threat on terrorism and extremism is global. It is inevitable that’s why there is a need to unite and cooperate to end threats in Mindanao,” Albayalde said during a press briefing in October 2018 after the first year anniversary of the liberation of Marawi City from the hands of the terrorists.

Banac said Albayalde’s official mission abroad will further enhance the understanding between the Philippines and the US’ police forces, thus, will be beneficial for both countries.

Joining Albayalde for the said mission is Police Deputy Director General (PDDG) Fernando Mendez Jr., the deputy chief for administration (TDCA).

In his absence, Albayalde has designated PDDG Archie Francisco Gamboa, the deputy chief for operations (TCO), as the officer-in-charge (OIC) of the PNP.

The FBI is the domestic intelligence, security service and principal federal law enforcement agency of the United States of America.

https://news.mb.com.ph/2019/03/12/albayalde-gets-invited-by-fbi-for-counter-terrorism-talks/

Palace disturbed by report Mindanao is new IS base

From the Manila Times (Mar 13, 2019): Palace disturbed by report Mindanao is new IS base

Malacañang on Tuesday expressed concern over a report that the Philippines is turning into a base of Islamic State (IS) fighters.



Palace spokesman Salvador Panelo

“Definitely, then we should undertake measures to prevent that from happening,” Palace spokesman Salvador Panelo said in a news conference.

“I will have to ask the Department of National Defense because they are the ones monitoring the movements of these people,” he added.

The New York Times reported that after losing their territories they controlled in Iraq and Syria, IS fighters were eyeing Mindanao as their new base, calling the region its “East Asia province.”

“But far from defeated, the movement has sprouted elsewhere. And here in the Mindanao island group of southern Philippines, long a haven for insurgents because of dense wilderness and weak policing, the Islamic State has attracted a range of militant jihadists,” the report said.

“An illustration circulated days later on Islamic State chat groups, showing President Rodrigo Duterte of the Philippines kneeling on a pile of skulls and a militant standing over him with a dagger. The caption on the picture sounded a warning: ‘The fighting has just begun,’” it added.

Mindanao has been under martial rule since May last year in response to IS-inspired Maute rebels that laid siege to Marawi City and allegedly attempted to establish a caliphate for the terror group.

Duterte, in his speech in February, warned of more terrorist attacks by the IS, which he described as “insane” and “made in hell.”

“We have this insane IS that they would kill. And I expect that they would do some bombings here and bombings there ‘cause that’s what they get in the Middle East,” the President had said.

Duterte earlier ordered government troops to annihilate terrorists and enemies of the state after the twin explosions at the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Cathedral in Jolo, Sulu, that killed at least 20 people and injured almost 100.

The IS had claimed credit for the attack, saying two suicide bombers detonated a belt of explosives.

The Philippine military was not discounting this claim but said the Ajang-Ajang, a sub-group of the bandit Abu Sayyaf Group, might be behind the blasts.

The Philippine National Police had declared the Jolo cathedral bombing “case closed” after the alleged bombers surrendered separately to authorities in Sulu.

https://www.manilatimes.net/palace-disturbed-by-report-mindanao-is-new-is-base/524807/

22 IS-linked rebels killed in 2-day raids

From the Manila Standard (Mar 13, 2019): 22 IS-linked rebels killed in 2-day raids

Islamic State-inspired terror groups suffered a major blow as the military launched massive air strikes and ground attacks that killed 22 terrorists in two separate battles in Maguindanao and Lanao del Sur.

 

RIFLE SHELLS. Soldiers find empty rifle bullet shells in an erstwhile flaming site in Barangay Tuka, Mamasapano, Maguindanao where the military says the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters launched an attack against troops. Two 60-mm mortar explosives (inset) were handed by a civilian to the Army in Guindulungan, Maguindanao. 6th ID PA Photo

 

In Maguindanao, two days of air raids, artillery shelling and a ground assault on a terrorist stronghold in the hinterlands of Shariff Saydona Mustapha killed 20 fighters, including some high-value targets, said Maj. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana.

 

Sobejana could not yet ascertain whether Singaporean Jihadist Muhamad Ali Abdul Rahiman, alias Mauwiyah and Salahudin Hassan, both leaders of the Daulah Islamiya, were among those killed.

 

During the campaign, Sobejana said assaulting ground troops met stiff resistance but the terrorists were overwhelmed by a bomb run that forced them to retreat.

One soldier died from enemy fire.

In Lanao del Sur fighting, two members of the IS-linked Maute group and two soldiers were killed in a battle that lasted hours in Barangay Padas in Pagayawan town Monday afternoon.

Col. Romeo Brawner, commander of the Army’s 103rd Infantry Brigade, said the two dead terrorists wereAbu Jihad and Abu Tahir who were part of the 24-man contingent under Maute chieftain Abu Dar.

The Palace on Tuesday said it would take measures to prevent ISIS from turning the Philippines into a base for its operations.

 

Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo said the Palace remains “definitely concerned” about the terrorist group’s activities in the country, especially those involving establishing a foothold in Mindanao.

Panelo’s remark came after the New York Times reported that the Islamic State group is “rising” in the Philippines as its fortunes dwindle in the Middle East.

“Across the islands of the southern Philippines, the black flag of the Islamic State is flying over what the group considers as its East Asia province,” the New York Times’ article released on Saturday said.

 

“Men in the jungle, two oceans away from the arid birthplace of the Islamic State, are taking the terrorist brand name into new battles,” it added.

The report also pointed out the recent terrorist attacks that rocked several parts of Mindanao in early 2019.

The report also said the Islamic State has sprouted in the southernmost region of the country and took Mindanao as a “haven for insurgents because of dense wilderness and weak policing.” In this way, the Islamic State has attracted a range of militant jihadists, it added.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenza shrugged off the report, saying it was just an opinion.

“That’s just speculation,” Lorenzana told the Manila Standard in a text message.

Last month, Interior Secretray Eduardo Año said Abu Sayyaf Group sub-unit commander Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan remains the recognized overall leader of the Islamis State-linked groups in the country.

He said, however, that Sawadjaan was not the replacement of Isnilon Hapilon as the “emir” of the Islamic State terrorist group in Southeast Asia. Hapilon was killed in military operations in October 2017.

President Rodrigo Duterte has declared an all-out war against the ASG, an ISIS-inspired militant group following the bombing of a Catholic church in Jolo, Sulu. ISIS claimed responsibility for the attack.

 

http://www.manilastandard.net/news/top-stories/289936/22-is-linked-rebels-killed-in-2-day-raids.html

Sabah security forces on full alert for Abu Sayyaf gunmen

From Asia One (Mar 12, 2019): Sabah security forces on full alert for Abu Sayyaf gunmen

KOTA KINABALU - Security forces in eastern Sabah have gone on full alert amid reports that at least 17 Abu Sayyaf gunmen led by three notorious sub-leaders are on the hunt for "value kidnap" targets.

The group, believed led by sub-commanders Salip Mura, Majan Sahidjuan at Apo Mike and Abu Radin, left their stronghold in Jolo two days ago and headed towards the Tawi-Tawi chain of islands that borders Sabah's east coast to take hostages.

Intelligence reports in the Philippines stated that the group was going to team up with its Tawi- Tawi-based criminal elements who acted as spotters or lookouts for hostages in the eastern Sabah sea border.

Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom) commander Datuk Huzani Ghazali said they were aware of the information about the movement of the gunmen along the sea border.

"We remain on full alert and have deployed all available forces into the area," he said when contacted yesterday.

He said the focus of operation was across the east coast sea border with southern Philippines that included Semporna, Lahad Datu and Sandakan.

According to intelligence sources, Salip, who is responsible for at least two kidnappings late last year in the east coast, was among the group using two 75HP speedboats as they left Jolo two days ago.

"With him this time around was sub-leader Mike Apo, who was actively behind the kidnappings in Sabah between 2014 and 2016," the sources said.

They were looking for higher value targets as they had failed to gain much attention following the kidnappings of Indonesian and Malaysian fishermen.

After a lull of nearly two years, the kidnap groups resurfaced in September last year amid talk that certain powerful political groups in Sulu were against the new expanded Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao that replaced the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

The Philippine military has also stepped up operations against the Abu Sayyaf whom they believe were behind the deadly bombing of a cathedral in Jolo in January this year.

Abu Sayyaf gunmen are still holding a Malaysian and two Indonesian fishermen snatched from the Pegasus Reef in the Kinabatangan area on Dec 5.

Meanwhile, the dawn-to-dusk curfew in Sabah's east coast has been extended for another two weeks from today.

Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Omar Mammah said the extension till March 27 was necessary due to the continuing threat of kidnap-for-ransom groups and other criminals from neighbouring Philippines.

https://www.asiaone.com/malaysia/sabah-security-forces-full-alert-abu-sayyaf-gunmen

‘NPA demanding fees, favors from WV bets’

From the Visayan Daily Star (Mar 12, 2019): ‘NPA demanding fees, favors from WV bets’

The campaign of the New People’s Army to collect access fees and to ask for favors from Western Visayas political candidates to be allowed to conduct political campaigns within their claimed territories, has already started.

This was after Chief Supt. John Bulalacao, regional police director of Western Visayas, reported yesterday that they intercepted copies of extortion letters from the CPP-NPA addressed to political candidates demanding fees from them.

Chief Supt. John Bulalacao, regional police director of Western Visayas, yesterday warned candidates, as well as local officials, not to give in to the extortion demands of the New People’s Army, as they may face sanctions such as disqualification for possible violations of the Revised Penal Code and provisions of the Omnibus Election Code for doing so.

Col. Benedict Arevalo, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, yesterday said that local communist rebels also started to coordinate with candidates in Negros seeking their help in supporting party-list groups and candidates, in alliance with the CPP-NPA, instead of demanding permit to campaign fees from them.

Arevalo, however, did not identify those party-list groups and candidates, although he reported earlier that more than 30 local government officials in Negros are supporting the CPP-NPA.

He said part of the CPP-NPA strategy is to use the law against government forces, as well as to infiltrate the government to weaken it.

Negros Occidental Gov. Alfredo Marañon Jr. and Vice-Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson earlier challenged Arevalo to identify publicly local officials allegedly supporting the rebel group.

The NPA supporters, whom Arevalo did not identify, allegedly include mayors, vice mayors, while majority of them are councilors.

Extending support to communist rebels, Bulalacao said will make the CPP-NPA stronger, and the money they collect will be used to finance arms procurement, to be used in killing military and police personnel, politicians, businessmen, and other innocent civilians campaigning against them.

“We will not allow them to continue this evil act of extortion, which is detrimental to the peace and order of the country”, Bulalacao said, as he ordered the PNP intelligence units and Regional Mobile Forces, in coordination with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, to intensify the campaign against the extortion activities of the CPP-NPA.

Bulalacao added that incumbent officials and civilians, who are running for an elected positions, are entitled to a maximum of two security personnel, either from PNP or from private security agencies, as long as these are authorized by the Comelec.

Depending on the situation, Bulalacao said they can provide more police personnel, not as bodyguards, but area security, if they campaign in the hinterlands claimed by rebels as their “controlled areas”.

He added that the AFP and PNP, in tandem with other law enforcement agencies, are exerting maximum efforts to ensure peace and order in all areas of Western Visayas, to ensure that there will be no intimidation or manipulation by any lawless group, such as the CPP-NPA.

Arevalo said exposing those who are supporting the NPA, is not meant to judge them. “We would like to remind them not to support the CPP-NPA”, he added. Stressing that the rebel group has already been categorized by the European Union (EU), as a terrorist organization.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2019/March/12/topstory7.htm

Officers behind 'Morong 43' detention allowed to seek dismissal of cases

From Rappler (Mar 12, 2019): Officers behind 'Morong 43' detention allowed to seek dismissal of cases

The military and police officers charged over the detention of the 'Morong 43' workers in 2010 get the chance to push for outright dismissal of their cases, without presenting their own evidence

DEMURRER. Seven law enforcement officers charged for violating the rights of detained health workers get approval to file a demurrer which could potentially lead to the dismissal of charges against them.

Seven law enforcement officers charged for the alleged illegal detention of the "Morong 43" health workers in 2010 were given clearance by the court to seek an outright dismissal of their cases.

The Sandiganbayan's 7th Division granted the motion for leave to file demurrer to evidence of army generals Jorge Segovia, Aurelio Baladad, Joselito Reyes, and Cristobal Zaragoza; and police officers Marion Balonglong, Allan Nobleza, and Jovily Cabading.

It means that the court will allow the officers to try and have their cases dropped without even presenting their own evidence. The pleading is called a demurrer, and serious enough that it cannot be filed without the clearance of the court.

If the demurrer itself is granted, the officers would be acquitted of violation of Republic Act No. 7438, which defines the rights of persons arrested, detained, or under custodial investigation. If the demurrer is denied, the officers would have to proceed to the presentation of evidence.

Why was it granted?

The health workers, collectively known as the "Morong 43," were detained for 10 months after they were arrested for allegedly conducting explosives training inside a house in Morong, Rizal. The military accused the health workers of being communist rebels. (READ: NPA rebel killed in clash one of 'Morong 43' – military)

Torture charges against the officers have since been dropped at the Ombudsman level, but the charges for violating the rights of an arrested or detained person pushed through.

The officers said the health workers were not able to prove the identities of their lawyers when they were arrested and detained, therefore the officers could not be faulted for violating the workers' right to a counsel.

"The prosecution failed to prove that any of the individual accused obstructed, prevented, or prohibited the complainants' alleged lawyer of choice from conferring with them during their detention," the officers said.

In its comment, the prosecution said there were lawyers outside the camp who wanted to speak to the workers but were not allowed.

Even then, said the prosecution, "for complainants to be able to choose a counsel of their choice, they should have been given access first to any lawyer to choose from...being first-time detainees, they cannot be expected to readily have a counsel of choice."

The National Union of Peoples’ Lawyers (NUPL) said in a statement on Tuesday, March 12, that they themselves were the ones turned away when they tried to confer with the workers during detention.

"For the record, we were there during [that] harrowing period, first knocking hard on deaf ears and given the runaround for seemingly endless days and then being continuously subjected to all difficulties, circumvention, and harassments when our legal assistance was grudgingly recognized even belatedly," said NUPL president Edre Olalia.

Although the clearance does not guarantee anything for the officers yet, Olalia said it can "validate the public's cynicism whether our courts are the best arenas for redress by the powerless especially at this present time and context."

"If this is a foreboding of an eventual acquittal of these military officials who said and acted as if they were the law that time, then this will again put a premium on impunity and reward human rights violators, many of whom are back in the saddle of power or are salivating if not already savoring their retirement bonanzas," Olalia said.

The 7th Division did not discuss the merits.

Instead, it just said in a resolution promulgated on March 5: "After carefully reviewing accused's motion for leave and the prosecution's evidence, and further finding the issues and arguments relied by accused to be substantial and not merely to delay the proceedings, the court resolves to grant the same."

The resolution was penned by Associate Justice Zaldy Trespeses, with concurrences from Associate Justices Maria Theresa Dolores Gomez Estoesta and Georgina Hidalgo.

Charges for illegal possession of explosives against the health workers were ordered to be dropped by then-president Benigno Aquino III on December 10, 2010, Human Rights Day. The workers were freed later that month.

 

https://www.rappler.com/nation/225519-officers-behind-detention-morong-43-allowed-seek-dismissal-cases

TESDA to train former rebels in South Cotabato

From MindNews (Mar 12, 2011): TESDA to train former rebels in South Cotabato

At least 100 former New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in South Cotabato province are set to undergo skills trainings as part of the national government’s enhanced reintegration program.

Rafael Abrogar II, regional director of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, said Tuesday preparations are ongoing for the training of the rebel returnees in partnership with the Army’s 27th Infantry Battalion (IB) based in Tupi town, South Cotabato.

He said they have scheduled the profiling of the prospective beneficiaries this week to determine their training needs.

“They will be gathered and preferably undergo training on construction,” Abrogar told reporters.

He said the returnees could later gain employment in various infrastructure projects in the province under the national government’s flagship “Build, Build, Build” program.

The official said the move is the agency’s response to President Rodrigo R. Duterte’s calls for the hiring of more local skilled workers to fast track the program’s implementation.

Abrogar said the training program, which is supported by TESDA Director General Isidro Lapeña, is part of the agency’s mandate to assist former rebels gain “life-changing economic opportunities” through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program.

He said it is aimed to provide the returnees with proper technical skills for employment and livelihood.

The trainings are expected to increase the productivity of the beneficiaries, enable them to become self-reliant and become entrepreneurs or productive citizen-workers, he said.

Citing discussions with 27IB commander, Lt. Col Jones Otida, Abrogar said the trainings can either be provided in an accredited training center or in a venue convenient for the rebel returnees.

He said they will involve local government units and national government agencies in the program’s rollout.

These include the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Labor and Employment and the Department of Trade and Industry.

Abrogar said the beneficiaries could avail of other support assistance from these agencies in the form of livelihood starter kits and further entrepreneurial trainings.

“This will provide better opportunities to the beneficiaries for employment and livelihood after the trainings,” he added.

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2019/03/tesda-to-train-former-rebels-in-south-cotabato/

Army deploys more troops to battle pro-ISIS group

From the Mindanao Examiner (Mar 12, 2011): Army deploys more troops to battle pro-ISIS group

The Philippine Army said it deployed more troops to run after a group of pro-ISIS militants who killed 2 soldiers and wounded another in fierce fighting in the restive Muslim province of Lanao del Sur.

It said the fighting also killed two militants, but soldiers only recovered one body in the remote village of Calaludan in Pagayawan town. Monday’s clashes were the result of a tipoff from villagers on the presence of Dawlah Islamiya members, according to Captain Clint Antipala, a spokesman for the 1st Infantry Division.
Quoting a report from Colonel Romeo Brawner, commander of the 103rd Infantry Brigade, Antipala said “Additional troops were sent (to the province) in order to pursue the fleeing terrorists as well as to ensure the safety and security of the local populace in the area.”

Antipala said soldiers from the 55th Infantry Battalion were pursuing the militants, whose leaders pledged allegiance to ISIS and vowed to fight for the establishment of a caliphate in the troubled South.

“We are sustaining our focused military operation in order to destroy the remnants of this group DI-Lanao and make the province free from terrorists,” Brawner said in his report.

Brigadier General Roberto Ancan, the division commander, condoled with the families of the slain soldiers “who paid the ultimate sacrifice in protecting our people against the terrorist group.”

Security was also tightened in the province and more checkpoints were established to ensure safety of residents in Lanao del Sur.

https://mindanaoexaminer.com/army-deploys-more-troops-to-battle-pro-isis-group/

Ex-NPA rebels in NegOr receive E-CLIP aid

From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 12, 2011): Ex-NPA rebels in NegOr receive E-CLIP aid



Gov. Roel Degamo (3rd from left) welcoming a female rebel returnee during turnover cermony of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) assistance with (l-r) Lt. Gen. Noel Clement, Commander of Central command of Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Usec Reynaldo Mapagu, Chair of the Task Force Balik Loob of the Department of National Defense. (EV/PIA Negros Oriental)

NEGROS ORIENTAL -- Four former rebels of the New People’s Army (NPA) from the towns of Mabinay and Zamboanguita received financial assistance amounting to P312,000 under the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP).

Each ex-rebel received P78,000 representing P15,000 cash and check of P50,000 livelihood aid plus an additional of P10,000 as the personal support of Gov. Roel Degamo and P3,000 from the province's assistance to individual in crisis situation (AICS).

The formal turnover of the cash and livelihood assistance was led by Chair of the Task Force Balik Loob of the Department of National Defense (DND) Usec. Reynaldo Mapagu along with Degamo, Commander of Central command of Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Lt. Gen. Noel Clement, and Department of Interior of Local Government (DILG) Provincial Director Dennis Quiñones.

The government officials recognized the former rebels’ decision to return to mainstream society and formally welcomed them to renew their lives.

Clement said the former rebels were victims of the Communist Terrorist Groups’ (CTGs) "deceptive strategy."

"Instead of being in school and taking care of their family, they were tricked to join the combat in the mountains," he said.

The AFP aims to work with local government units together with development partners and private sectors to achieve holistic program towards peace, development, and governance to give the needed solutions for the residents in the province, added Clement.

Degamo called on other NPAs to surrender to the authorities and take advantage of the government's programs.

He vowed that the province will add P50,000 financial support on top of the E-CLIP assistance, especially to those who will bring in their firearms.

“I reiterate that we cannot win peace by bullets or armed struggle and because of the false belief that NPAs give to members to go against the government,” said Degamo.

He congratulated the rebel returnees for their willingness and courage in surrendering to the government.

“Peace and order is important because without it we cannot fully developed and progress, thus I want the people of this province to be healthy, happy and peaceful,” the governor said.

For his part, Mapagu urged other NPA members to return to the fold of the law and avail of the benefits of the government’s program.

“It is high time to end this communist insurgency problem as the government is serious in the program to win them back and ensure their well-being to become productive Filipino citizens,” said Mapagu.

The rebel returnees shared some stories of their plights and thanked the government for the opportunity to change their lives and the chance to live peacefully with their families.

Mapagu reported that in 2018, a total of 7,797 formers rebels surrendered or “nagbalik loob” and of that number, 1,700 were original members of Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), NPA and the rest were Militia Ng Bayan or paramilitaries and all of them were given assistance.

E-CLIP is one of the flagship programs of the Duterte administration that seek to address social healing and national unity towards the higher objective of having just and lasting peace.

It aims to provide social equity to former members of the NPA, CPP, National Democratic Front of the Philippines, and the Militia ng Bayan to reintegrate them into mainstream society.



https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1019512

Troops foil Reds’ arson try in Quezon town

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 12, 2011): Troops foil Reds’ arson try in Quezon town

CAMP GEN. CAPINPIN, Tanay, Rizal -- Joint military and police forces preempted another arson attempt by the New People’s Army (NPA) during their strike operations in Sitio Salok, Barangay Magsaysay in Infanta, Quezon province.

Brig. Gen. Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos Jr., commander of the 202nd Infantry "Unifier" Brigade said government forces encountered an undetermined number of rebels at about 8 a.m. Friday.

Burgos said the 30-minute firefight took place some 3 km. away from the compound of Northern Builders, the Kaliwa Dam project contractor whose equipment were torched by suspected NPA members last February 7.

Kaliwa Dam is one of the 76 ongoing flagship and developmental projects in Region 4-A (Calabarzon).

“The encounter is a result of our continuing operations to punish the enemies of the state who are terrorizing helpless private companies that refuse to give in to the rebels’ extortion activities,” Burgos said.

Initial reports said four government security forces were wounded. The names of the wounded soldiers have been kept under wraps pending notification of their kin.

Casualties were expected among the rebels as bloodstains were traced along their escape route.

Lt. Col. Christopher Diaz, commander of the 80th Infantry Battalion, disclosed that the operation stemmed from a tip that a group of NPA rebels would conduct atrocities in Infanta, specifically the burning of construction equipment belonging to Northern Builders.

He said additional forces have been deployed to pursue the fleeing rebels, who might belong to the same group behind the arson activities in Luisiana, Laguna on Valentine’s Day.

The February 14 encounter has claimed the life of John Carlo Alberto, alias “Damian/Iñigo”, a University of the Philippines - Los Baños student recruited and deceived to join the NPA, tagged by the United States and the European Union as a terrorist group.

Maj. Gen. Rhoderick Parayno, commander of the Philippine Army’s 2nd Infantry “Jungle Fighter” Division expressed gratitude to the Infanta townsfolk for providing information about the rebels' activities.

“This is not only a testament of their trust to their soldiers but a manifestation that they are already tired of the NPA's anti-people and anti-development terroristic actions,” Parayno said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1064215

6 militants killed as military raids BIFF lairs in Maguindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 12, 2011): 6 militants killed as military raids BIFF lairs in Maguindanao

Six members of the Islamic State-inspired Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) were killed while two other militants were wounded during a day-long military operation in Shariff Saydona Mustapha, Maguindanao on Monday.

Maj. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Army’s 6th Infantry Division (6ID) commander, said a soldier was also killed while another was wounded during the clashes.

He declined to identify them pending proper notification of their respective families.

“Expect a continuing military operation in the coming days to flush out the BIFF in the peripheries of communities near the Liguasan marshland,” the military official told newsmen here Tuesday.

Sobejana confirmed the casualties on the BIFF side based on body counts at the main site of the battle in Barangay Inaladan, Shariff Saydona Mustapha.

“We are in the process of confirming their identities,” he said, adding that the two wounded radicals were also monitored being carried away by their fleeing comrades.

Military helicopter gunships, backed by artillery fire, pounded on the BIFF pinpointed lairs in the Liguasan Marsh area, which prompted the evacuation of villagers from Inaladan.

Military ground troops also noted evacuations in the neighboring areas of Barangay Pagatin, Datu Salibo and Barangay Tuka in Mamasapano town.

Sobejana identified the targets of the operation as the BIFF factions of Karialan, Bongos, and Abu Toraife.

“We are doing this operation (against the BIFF) fast because of the psychological impact it might have on civilians in the area,” he said.

Sobejana said he looks forward to neutralizing for good the BIFF the soonest time, possibly before the conduct of the May 13 elections this year.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1064269

100 ex-NPA rebels in SoCot to undergo skills trainings

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 12, 2011): 100 ex-NPA rebels in SoCot to undergo skills trainings

GENERAL SANTOS CITY -- At least 100 former New People's Army (NPA) rebels in South Cotabato province are set to undergo skills trainings as part of the national government's enhanced reintegration program for them.

Rafael Abrogar II, regional director of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), said Tuesday that preparations are ongoing for the training of the rebel returnees, in partnership with the Army's 27th Infantry Battalion (27IB) based in Tupi town, South Cotabato.

He said they have scheduled the profiling of the prospective beneficiaries this week to determine their training needs.

"They will be gathered and preferably undergo training on construction," Abrogar told reporters.

He said the returnees could later gain employment in various infrastructure projects in the province under the national government's flagship "Build, Build, Build" program.

The official said the move is the agency's response to President Rodrigo R. Duterte's calls for the hiring of more local skilled workers to fast track the program's implementation.

Abrogar said the training program, which is supported by TESDA Director General Isidro Lapeña, is part of the agency's mandate to assist former rebels gain "life-changing economic opportunities" through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program.

He said it is aimed to specifically provide the returnees with proper technical skills for employment and livelihood.

The trainings are expected to increase the productivity of the beneficiaries, enable them to become self-reliant and become entrepreneurs or productive citizen-workers, he said.

Citing discussions with 27IB commander, Lt. Col Jones Otida, Abrogar said the trainings are either provided in an accredited training center or in a venue convenient for the rebel returnees.

He said they will involve local government units and national government agencies, such as the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Labor and Employment and the Department of Trade and Industry, in the program's rollout.

Abrogar said the beneficiaries could avail of other support assistance from these agencies in the form of livelihood starter kits and further entrepreneurial trainings.

"This will provide better opportunities to the beneficiaries for employment and livelihood after the trainings," he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1064284

Samar cops’ attack sparks online outrage vs. NPA

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 12, 2011): Samar cops’ attack sparks online outrage vs. NPA



TORCHED. A burning police squad car seen after the New People's Army rebels set it on fire during an attack Monday morning (March 11, 2019) in Motiong, Samar. The attack killed a policeman and injured another police personnel. (Contributed photo)

TACLOBAN CITY -- The savage attack on a patrol car in Motiong, Samar on Monday has sparked online outrage against the New People’s Army (NPA) among relatives and friends of the slain police officer.

Lottie Salarda, cousin of the slain Police Staff Sgt. Glenn Meniano, said on Tuesday the ideology of communist rebels is senseless since they brutally attacked a policeman working to secure poor communities.

“Why kill people? Was it really necessary to advance your ideology? He was murdered and not killed in action since there was no gun battle between the NPA and the police that time,” Salarda, a former journalist based in Leyte, said in an interview.

She pointed out that murder is a heinous crime and should be strongly condemned. She told rebels not to use the stalled peace talks to justify the killing.

“He was killed because the NPA sprayed the bullet and it has nothing to do with your ideology. Now, if murder plays a big role in your ideology, I guess you might re-evaluate it. You tolerate murder by telling people that it is part of the process of achieving whatever you want. Stop your propaganda. Many lives have been lost,” she said.

Meniano, a native of Jiabong, Samar, was driving a patrol car heading back to Motiong police station Monday morning after fetching water from the nearby police station in Paranas town when rebels detonated an anti-personnel mine and attacked the two police officers along the national road in Motiong town.

Patrolwoman Jane Abejar was hit by shrapnel but managed to escape the attack. Rebels also burned the car.

Citing her experience in joining activism, Salarda asked her nephews, nieces, cousins to never affiliate or support the legal fronts of the Communist Party of the Philippines, NPA, and the National Democratic Front.

“If you join them, it only means you're condoning the crime committed against Kuya Glenn. I've been there and it's not worth it. It's a rotten institution ran by propaganda. Be smart. Do not believe them. If you really want to serve the people, help your parents first. Do not disappoint them,” she added.

On Monday, several friends of the slain police officer changed their Facebook profile pictures demanding justice for their colleague.

Zosilyn Meniano Malate, also the victim’s cousin, condemned the attack saying that rebels not just killed a police officer, but they also took away a friend, an adviser, and a good provider.

“All we want is justice for Glenn Meniano. You discouraged us to enter the police service, but you did to help secure people,” Malate said.

The Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Division vowed to help the Philippine National Police to pursue the terrorists, assist in filing appropriate criminal cases, and “ensure that perpetrators will face the full arm of the law.”

“The Army condemns this treacherous act which only shows that the NPA is not a pro-people organization, but a mere terrorist group which has no agenda aside from sowing fear to the populace,” the army said in a statement issued Tuesday.

Both the United States and the European Union have declared the CPP-NPA as a terrorist group.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1064297

3 killed, 1 hurt as troops, Maute clash in Lanao Sur

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 12, 2011): 3 killed, 1 hurt as troops, Maute clash in Lanao Sur

Government troops are pursuing remnants of the Islamic State for Iraq and Syria (ISIS)-inspired Maute group following a firefight in the hinterlands of Lanao del Sur, a top military official said Tuesday.

Col. Romeo Brawner Jr., the Army’s 103rd Infantry Brigade commander, said the firefight ensued around 4:10 p.m. Monday in Pagayawan, Lanao del Sur when troops on combat operation clashed with some 25 Maute group remnants.

Brawner said the clash resulted in the death of three people -- two soldiers and a Maute group follower, while another soldier was injured.

Brawner, who is also the Joint Task Force Ranao commander, declined to release the identities of the slain and wounded soldiers.

He said the Maute group remnants fled and are being pursued by the troops.

“We launched an operation against the Maute group the other day (two days ago) and we were able to catch them yesterday afternoon (Monday),” he said.

He said the Maute remnants are currently headed by Owaida Marohombsar alias Abu Dar, who surfaced following the death of the Maute leaders, brothers Abdullah and Omar Maute in 2017.

The Maute brothers were killed sometime in October of 2017 during the Marawi battle that broke out on May 23 of the same year.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1064280

2019 Pacific Partnership kicks off in Tacloban

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 12, 2011): 2019 Pacific Partnership kicks off in Tacloban



Pacific Partnership Launching held on Monday (March 11, 2019) in this city attended by Mayor Cristina Romauldez (center), other civic leaders in Tacloban, and top US Navy and Armed Forces of the Philippines officials. (Photo courtesy of the Tacloban City Government)

TACLOBAN CITY -- The two-week 2019 Pacific Partnership Program kicked off here Monday with foreign soldiers, Philippine Army, and non-government organization volunteers taking part in a variety of projects.

“This is Pacific Partnership’s eighth visit to the Philippines,” said Capt. Randy van Rossum, commodore of Destroyer Squadron 1, the mission commander for Pacific Partnership 2019.

“Each visit is a testament to our enduring partnership and collaborative commitment to improving humanitarian assistance and disaster response in the region,” he said.

United States and Philippine soldiers, volunteers, and government officials gathered at Patio Victoria to officially launch the humanitarian mission that runs until March 22.

This is the second stop of the partnership program in this city. In 2014, more than 300 servicemen from the US, Japan, and Australia landed in Tacloban to participate in the Pacific Partnership Program, just a few months after the devastation of Super Typhoon Yolanda. Their works included engineering, medical, veterinary, and other aid work.

“We could not be happier to welcome the Pacific Partnership mission and its team to Tacloban,” said Undersecretary Ricardo Jalad, administrator of the Office of Civil Defense.

“This mission has fostered friendship and cooperation between the Philippines and our partner nations for many years and I know it will do the same this year,” Jalad said.

Mayor Cristina Romualdez thanked the foreign delegation for coming to the city for the second time. “Their mission is a big help to the city and its people who still vividly recalled what happened to them when Super Typhoon Yolanda struck more than five years ago,” she added.

The foreign soldiers, mostly Americans, are part of the 200-strong men and women who comprise the delegation in this year’s Pacific Partnership.

Their activities include first aid training, preventative medicine training, various health care symposiums, veterinary services, engineering projects, disaster response seminars, and a variety of community outreach engagements with the overall goal of improving humanitarian and disaster preparedness in the Philippines.

Pacific Partnership began in response to one of the world’s most catastrophic natural disasters, the December 2004 tsunami that devastated parts of South and Southeast Asia, according to Pacific Partnership website.

The mission has evolved over the years from an emphasis on direct care to an operation focused on enhancing partnerships through host nation subject matter expert and civil-military exchanges.

Working at the invitation of each host nation, Pacific Partnership is joined by partner nations that include Australia, Canada, Japan, Malaysia, Peru, the Philippines, South Korea, Thailand, and the United Kingdom to strengthen disaster response preparedness around the Indo-Pacific region.

Pacific Partnership’s mission is to work collectively with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase stability and security in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships across the Indo-Pacific region.

Pacific Partnership, now on its 14th iteration, is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific region.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1064325

Alleged NPA rebel nabbed in Zamboanga Sur

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 12, 2011): Alleged NPA rebel nabbed in Zamboanga Sur

An alleged member of the New People’s Army (NPA) was arrested in Barangay Ocapan in the nearby town of San Miguel, this province, late Monday, police said.

Police identified the alleged rebel as Saturnino Albacia Calayca, 39, said to be a member of the Section Committee Kara under the NPA’s Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee.

Calayca was arrested by virtue of a warrant of arrest for murder issued by a regional court here in 2009. No bail was recommended.

The suspect is under the custody of the San Miguel Police Station for proper disposition.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1064348

NPOC-RPOC meeting with PRRD set in Davao City

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 12, 2011): NPOC-RPOC meeting with PRRD set in Davao City

A total of 1,294 police personnel have been deployed by the Police Regional Office 11 (Davao region) as this city hosts for the second time the joint National Peace and Order Council - Regional Peace and Order Council (NPOC- RPOC) meeting with President Rodrigo R. Duterte at the Grand Regal Hotel on Thursday.
Police Major Jason Baria, PRO-11 spokesperson, said the deployed personnel consist of security forces of the Regional Standby Support Force, Davao City Police Office, Task Force Davao, Regional Mobile Force Battalion, Regional Health Service, Aviation Security Unit, and other government agencies.

Baria said top-ranking officials of the Department of the Interior and Local Government and regional police directors are set to attend the peace and order meeting.

In his message during the deployment on Tuesday, PRO-11 Director Marcelo Morales vowed to take the "responsibility for serving and protecting the people of Davao and its visitors."

"It is always a challenge for us to maintain and give our populace the best police service we have," he said.

Morales also underscored the cooperation of the community and other law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety of everybody.

He urged his personnel to give the public "unequaled police service" in maintaining peace and order to ensure public safety and security in areas of deployment.

"That way, we can claim that during the said activities, Davao City can achieve another zero crime incident," Morales said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1064361

Efforts to prevent NPA from accessing foreign funds underway

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 12, 2011): Efforts to prevent NPA from accessing foreign funds underway

Efforts are now underway to restrict New People's Army (NPA) rebels from accessing funds they have acquired abroad.

This was disclosed by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) public affairs office chief Col. Noel Detoyato when asked on whether the government is doing something to stop the rebels from receiving funding abroad.

"Yes, including foreign funds they are receiving by deceiving the (foreign) donors and diverting the money to further their terroristic activities with the ultimate aim of toppling down the government and changing our way of life," he said in a message to the Philippine News Agency late Monday.

The military official earlier said only a unified and whole-of-government approach will defeat the NPA, which is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States and the European Union.

"We have identified so many factors to eradicate the communist terrorists (and these are) prevent them from accessing funds, counter their mass base recruitment and front organizations," Detoyato said.

And they can only be neutralized effectively if the government will synchronize its efforts to counter them and the threats they pose.

"We can only do this effectively if the whole government will synchronize their efforts towards a common goal (which is aimed at containing these factors that responsible for the continued operation of the NPA movement)," the AFP official added.

Once this is done, Detoyato expressed confidence that the ideology espoused by Communist Party of the Philippines founder Jose Maria "Joma" Sison and his "blind followers" will be defeated once and for all.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1064274

Salvage, submarine capability dev't should go hand-in-hand: Navy

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 12, 2011): Salvage, submarine capability dev't should go hand-in-hand: Navy

Salvage ship capability should go hand-in-hand with the Philippine Navy’s (PN) planned submarine acquisition project, Navy flag-officer-in-command, Vice Admiral Robert Empedrad, said Monday.

"What I am telling our Technical Working Group is when we talk of capability, they should plan out from the time of acquisition of the ship up to the time when we are going to retire it. We should know what expenses will be incurred from it. For example, when we acquire a submarine, we need a salvage ship in case something happens to it. We need some salvage capability (to aid the submarine and its crew)," Empedrad said in Filipino during an interview with DWDD, a radio station run by the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Salvage refers to the process of rescuing a ship, crew and its cargo from accidents in the high seas.

Empedrad also said that a lot of requirements still need to be met before the PN can operate submarines and these include the piers to moor or dock these vessels in.

Since the Navy's modernization is equipment-intensive, the Navy chief said he is pushing for planners to acquire a software that would give pertinent information on how to maintain and operate its newly-acquired ships and platforms for its proposed 30-year service.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana earlier said that for an island-nation like the Philippines, its defense can be considered incomplete without a fleet of submarines.

Lorenzana noted that an effective active submarine force is a great deterrent for would-be aggressors due to its capability to travel underwater unseen, giving it the element of surprise.

The defense chief added that a submarine force is a great morale booster to the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1064273

Court upholds denial of graft raps vs. Misuari

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 12, 2011): Court upholds denial of graft raps vs. Misuari

The Sandiganbayan has upheld its ruling that denied the motion seeking to dismiss the graft and malversation cases against former Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) governor Nur Misuari over the alleged anomalous procurement of more than PHP77-million worth of Information Technology (IT) packages in 2000 and 2001.

“The Court finds the subject motion for reconsideration unmeritorious,” the Sandiganbayan’s 3rd Division said in its resolution dated March 8.

“It bears stressing that accused-movant Misuari merely rehashed the same arguments regarding his alleged non-liability and lack of participation in the offenses charged, which were raised in his omnibus motion to dismiss and defer arraignment,” it added.

“The Court must stress that a comprehensive consideration of the merits of the prosecution's evidence and the defense's arguments, as to the alleged weakness thereof, is premature at this point and better left to trial on the merits. Suffice it to say that the Court has long determined the existence of probable cause and has already resolved to proceed with trial to afford all the parties the full opportunity to present their case,” the court said.

In his motion, Misuari asked the Sandiganbayan to reconsider its ruling dated Nov. 29, 2018, which denied his omnibus motion to dismiss and defer arraignment dated September 12 that year.

He reiterated that the court failed to consider that he only served as ARMM governor until Sept. 30, 2001 and that he was no longer a public officer when the alleged anomalous transactions were consummated in 2003 and 2004.

Misuari added that he was illegally detained from 2001 to 2008 and that he did not receive any money or funds that are subject of the complaint as payment was made when he was no longer ARMM governor.

“These arguments are not evidentiary in nature that require ventilation in a full-blown trial as the Court may take judicial notice of the same,” he said.

In its opposition, the prosecution argued that Misuari merely raised the same arguments or matters that have already been raised in his verified omnibus motion to dismiss and defer arraignment.

It added that for a motion for reconsideration to be given proper judicial cognizance, it "must contain not merely a reiteration of the arguments already submitted to and considered without merit by the Court."

The prosecution argued that "there is no truth to the claim of accused Misuari that he had no participation in the consummation of the transactions subject of the Information".

It cited the following documents that Misuari allegedly signed and approved in his capacity as ARMM governor:

For the transaction with MBJ Learning Tools: requisition issue voucher dated Dec. 21, 2000 for the procurement of PHP31-million worth of 124 sets of IT package for elementary and high schools; purchase order dated Dec. 23, 2000; and disbursement voucher No. 101-01-08-3190 for the payment of the IT package;

For the transaction with CPR Publishing House: requisition and issue voucher dated July 24, 2001 for the procurement of PHP46,261,260 worth of 170 sets of Multi-Media IT package from CPR intended for elementary and high schools; purchase order dated July 30, 2001; and undated disbursement voucher of PHP46,261,260 for the payment of the Multi-Media IT package.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1064323

Fallen heroes of Bataan deserve honor, recognition: AFP

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 12, 2011): Fallen heroes of Bataan deserve honor, recognition: AFP

 

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said it is only proper and fitting that Filipino and American troops who died in the name of freedom be honored.

AFP public affairs office chief, Col. Noel Detoyato made the remark ahead of the country's commemoration of the 77th anniversary of the fall of Bataan on April 9, commonly known as the "Araw ng Kagitingan" (Day of Valor).

"We have to remember the heroism and sacrifices of those who died fighting for the freedom we are now enjoying," Detoyato said when asked when asked why it is important to honor the soldiers who died defending the country against the Japanese invaders during the World War II.

Also, Detoyato said the sacrifices made by Filipino and American troops should be an inspiration for the present-day generation to preserve the freedom they have fought and died for.

"We value their memories and take it as our inspiration to do our part in preserving what they died for.

Underequipped and meagerly supplied American and Filipino forces, fighting in the Bataan frontlines, were forced to surrender in April 9, 1942 after 93 days of gallant resistance against the superior Japanese force equipped with the latest war equipment," Detoyato said.

Some 60,000 Filipino and American troops were made prisoners of war by Japanese forces.

They were made to walk some 112 kilometers from Mariveles, Bataan to Capas, Tarlac under the scorching sun with no food and water for days in what is known the world over as the “Death March”.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1064287