Member of terror group Dawlah Islamiyah arrested in Batangas City

From the Manila Bulletin (Sep 29, 2019): Member of terror group Dawlah Islamiyah arrested in Batangas City

Joint police and military operatives have arrested a suspected member of the Dawlah Islamiyah in a raid in his house in Batangas City, Friday.

Brig. Gen. Edward Carranza, director of the CALABARZON (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon) regional police, said they also received information that Jafar Dia Abdul Nazer was linked to the Marawi City siege.

Carranza said the operation against Nazaer started from a military information that a member of the Dawlah Islamiyah has been hiding in Batangas City.

“Accordingly, members of the AFP received information that said suspect is keeping high explosives and hand grenade inside his residence,” said Carranza.

Based on the investigation as a result of police surveillance, Nazer has been hiding his identity as the owner of a cellular phone accessory shop at the Batangas City public market.

Carranza said that Nazer is affiliated with Abu Dar and Abu Zacaria, the current Amir of Dawlah Islmiyah.

It was also said that Nazer serves as intelligence officer of a the Dawlah Islamiyah in Lanao which operates in Calanugas-Pagayawan-Malabang Area all of Lanao Del Sur.

“The suspect was observed to be very evasive since he frequently transfers from one stall into another from his cellphone accessories shop,” said Carranza.

“Upon surveillance near the apartment of the suspect, he was seen carrying a black pouch inadvertently tucked on his waist containing hand grenade leaving the premises riding his black motorcycle,” he added.

Armed with a search warrant, joint police and military operatives arrested Nazer on Friday.

Seized from him were 1 1/2 pound of TNT high explosives, a grenade and a black pouch.

Authorities are now subjecting the suspect to interrogation.

https://news.mb.com.ph/2019/09/29/member-of-terror-group-dawlah-islamiyah-arrested-in-batangas-city/

Opinion: Big security issue looms in Mindanao

Opinion piece posted to the Philippine Star: Big security issue looms in Mindanao (By Marichu A. Villanueva)

The initial success in setting into motion the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) is facing yet another potential peace spoiler. The creation of the BARMM is the centerpiece of the peace and development thrusts of President Rodrigo Duterte when he signed into law the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) in July last year. The BOL replaced the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) that PNoy committed with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) peace agreement entered into in 2014.

During campaign President Duterte promised to respect and sustain the previous administration’s peace pact with MILF. The peace pact required the passage of a law to create a new Bangsamoro and expand the existing Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

The ARMM was the product of the 1996 peace agreement of the government under then former president Fidel V. Ramos with the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF). Both ARMM and BARMM include the provinces of Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi.

Only last Sept. 7, no less than President Duterte led the ceremonial decommissioning of the first batch of the armed component of MILF combatants in rites held at Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao. The President lauded the MILF headed by chairman Murad Ebrahim who is now the Chief Minister of the BARMM in honoring their commitment to put their weapons out of use and disbanding their secessionist bid as stipulated in their peace deal with the government.

However, these significant developments in the BARMM are threatened by the developing situation in Maguindanao where at least 600 former MILF and MNLF rebels face losing their source of livelihood. This looming peace spoiler arose from the failure of the Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) and the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) to deliver the loan support to a peace and development project in the province.

Sadly, the imminent job and economic losses would further impoverish Maguindanao, one of the poorest BARMM provinces in our country.

The former MNLF and MILF rebels were wooed into working for Al Sahar Agri-Ventures Inc., an exporter of cavendish bananas grown and raised in Maguindanao. Al Sahar announced its cessation of business operations purportedly because the company’s financial capability was debilitated by loans that never came from two government banks.

Al Sahar, which has a banana plantation in the municipalities of Talayan, Buldon and Datu Odin Sinsuat in Maguindanao, had 400 of its 600-hectare banana plantation harvested for export. This project was envisioned to be a 1,500-hectare banana plantation on which the company invested a little over P500 million in starting the project last November 2014.

Led by its chairman and CEO John Perrine, Al Sahar responded to the call of Murad for companies to engage in agricultural ventures to employ former rebels as they rejoin the peaceful way of life of the rest of Muslim people. Perrine quoted Murad calling this project as “beacons of hopes,” aimed at offering livelihood programs for the Muslim rebel returnees. He echoed Murad’s belief there can be no peace without development in Mindanao.

Perrine is credited for his profitably managing La Frutera, a 1,200-hectare banana plantation in the municipalities of Datu Paglas and Buluan, all located also in Maguindanao. Having an American father and a Filipina mother, Perrine considers himself a Filipino and has been living in Mindanao for more than two decades already. In fact, he had given up his American citizenship and passport in 1975 when he decided to live in Bukidnon and has since then been married to a Filipina.

Perrine has found himself being actively involved in the peace and development initiatives of the government that recruited him to become a member of the Peace Council in 2015 following the passage into law of the BBL.

To help entice businessmen to put up business ventures in the Bangsamoro provinces, the Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) provided the Philippine government $125 million as official development assistance (ODA) during the Aquino administration. Dubbed as “Harvest Fund” to serve as financing facility to encourage private sector investment in the BARMM, the LBP was the designated implementing agency.

When President Duterte came into office in 2016, LBP informed Al Sahar that the “Harvest Fund” will no longer be available for his project. Instead, the LBP offered Al Sahar to secure the financing needed for the project from its regular commercial window in lieu of the “Harvest Fund” loan facility.

On Feb. 7, 2017, the LBP Board of Directors approved a P1.6-billion loan for 1,333 hectares that bear standard conditions for commercial loans. However, Al Sahar finds the loan facility too restrictive for their project development-oriented project. Perrine sought out a meeting with then LBP president Alex Buenaventura in Oct. last year to discuss the viability of the project. However, for undisclosed reason, Al Sahar received subsequently through verbal and informal advice of regrets that LBP will no longer proceed to extend any financing to the project.

Still not losing hope, Al Sahar applied for a loan for the project with DBP in December last year. DBP advised Al Sahar that it is eligible to secure a P2-billion loan for the same project and that it is prepared to extend financing. For the next six months the loan application went through the approval processes. Al Sahar, however, has not received until now any formal and official letter from DBP for the reason why their loan was being withheld.

During his state of the nation address in July this year, President Duterte called the attention of LBP for losing its sight on its original mandate to provide low cost financing to agriculture projects. The cessation of this banana plantation project employing former Muslim rebels could create big security issues that President Duterte surely would not wish to complicate the transition to peace at the BARMM.

https://www.philstar.com/opinion/2019/09/30/1956075/big-security-issue-looms-mindanao

7 Negros Oriental armed farmers surrender to Sinas; turn over firearms

From Cebu Daily News (CDN) (Sep 29, 2019): 7 Negros Oriental armed farmers surrender to Sinas; turn over firearms



The seven firearms surrendered by farmers to Police Brig. Gen. Debold Sinas, Police Regional Office in Central Visayas (PRO-7) director, are put on display following the surrender held in Guihulngan, Negros Oriental on Sept. 28, 2019.| CDND Photo/Florence Baesa

GUIHULNGAN, Negros Oriental — Seven members of a farmers’ organization in Vallehermoso, Negros Oriental surrendered last Saturday, September 28, to Police Regional Office in Central Visayas (PRO-7) director Police Brigadier General Debold Sinas during a dialogue in Barangay Buenavista, Guihulngan City.

The farmers also turned over their illegal firearms to the authorities.

However, Sinas requested not to divulge the identities of the surrenderers.

The surrendered firearms were as follows: one KG9 sumpak, a shotgun, one cal. 45 pistol, one cal. 22 and four pieces of 38 caliber guns.

The firearms are now in the custody of Police Colonel Rizalito Gapas, acting provincial director of the Negros Oriental Provincial Police Office ( NOPPO).

The surrenderers are members of a farmers organization called Bagawines, Ulay, Kabulihan Farmers Association (BUCFA). An organization of Certificate Landowners Award or CLOA beneficiaries of Hacienda Leila of Vallehermoso owned by the Lopez family.

One of the surrenderees said that the land they occupied has not been divided and distributed to the farmer beneficiaries, which resulted to friction and chaos among its members. Some of the members armed themselves for protection.

According to Malaya (not her real name), after the friction among the member-farmers erupted another farmers group that allegedly has linked with the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) intervened and promised to settle the dispute among the farmers.

However, the leader of BUCFA became a subject of a search warrant for illegal possession of firearms. The raid was positive and after six months in prison, the leader of BUCFA posted bail.

It was the leader of BUCFA who convinced the members to surrender their firearms to authorities, according to Malaya.

Sinas has directed Gapas to process the surrenderers’ reintegration to mainstream society.

https://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/261102/7-negros-oriental-armed-farmers-surrender-to-sinas-turn-over-firearms

Cuerpo named new 103rd Infantry Brigade chief

From the Sun Star-Zamboanga (Sep 28, 2019): Cuerpo named new 103rd Infantry Brigade chief

THE Army’s 1st Infantry Division has installed Colonel Jose Maria Cuerpo, II, 103rd Infantry Brigade deputy commander, as the acting commander of the brigade.

Major General Roberto Ancan, Army’s 1st Infantry Division commander, installed Cuerpo to his new post on Friday, September 27, in a ceremony held at the brigade headquarters in Marawi City.

Cuerpo has succeeded Brigadier General Romeo Brawner, Jr. who was appointed by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) as commandant of cadets of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA).

Cuerpo vowed to uphold the priorities and directions of the previous commanders, as the unit’s guide to maintain the cohesiveness efforts in the pursuit of peace and development in Lanao del Sur.

He also pledged to vigorously continue render assistance to the Task Force Bangon Marawi, who’s in charge of the recovery, reconstruction and rehabilitation of the most affected area of the city

Ancan has thanked and congratulated Cuerpo for his designation.

“I am confident that with your leadership experience and dedication to work, you will steer this unit to greater heights,” Ancan said.

“To the Haribon troopers, let us always act with outmost professionalism, respect to human rights, rule of law and international humanitarian law. Continue to progress as a professional, capable and responsive officers and leaders of our armed forces,” Ancan added.

Ancan also commended the unit for its aggressive performance in sustaining peace and order in the area of responsibility.

Cuerpo, a of the PMA class of 1990, is an Airborne, Special Forces and well-rounded military officer with expertise in operations, intelligence and managerial acumen.

He is a graduate of Master in Development Management in Asian Institute Management in Makati City, Command and General Staff Course in AFP Command and General Staff College.

https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1825212/Zamboanga/Local-News/Cuerpo-named-new-103rd-Infantry-Brigade-chief

Guam Guard reinforces ties with Philippine military

From the Guam Daily Post (Sep 29, 2019): Guam Guard reinforces ties with Philippine military



STATE PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM: Maj. Gen. Esther Aguigui, the Adjutant General of the Guam National Guard, poses for a photo with Marine Corps. Maj. Gen. Dante Hidalgo, commander, Naval Reserve Command, Armed Forces of the Philippines, during a visit on Sept. 10, at Muelle Del Codo, Port Area, Manila. The office call is part of the National Guard Bureau’s State Partnership Program, in which the Armed Forces of the Philippines is a partner with the Guam National Guard and Hawaii National Guard. Guam National Guard photo by Maj. Josephine Blas



INSPECTION: Maj. Gen. Esther Aguigui, the Adjutant General of the Guam National Guard, marching on right, conducts an inspection of Philippine Air Force members, during a visit on Sept. 10 at Villamor Air Base, Manila. The visit is part of the National Guard Bureau’s State Partnership Program, in which the Armed Forces of the Philippines is a partner with the Guam National Guard and Hawaii National Guard. Guam National Guard photo by Maj. Josephine Blas




VISIT: Maj. Gen. Esther Aguigui, the Adjutant General of the Guam National Guard, left, poses for a photo with Philippine Army Gen. Benjamin Madrigal Jr., chief of staff, Armed Forces of the Philippines, during a visit on Sept. 10 at Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City, Manila. The visit is part of the National Guard Bureau’s State Partnership Program, in which the Armed Forces of the Philippines is a partner with the Guam National Guard and Hawaii National Guard. Guam National Guard photo by Maj. Josephine Blas




PASS AND REVIEW: Maj. Gen. Esther Aguigui, the Adjutant General of the Guam National Guard, left, and Philippine Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Rodylyn Manzano, Armed Forces of the Philippines Reserve, commander, 7th Marine Brigade Reserve, salute during the playing of the national anthems and a pass and review ceremony on Sept. 11 at Fort Andres Bonafacio, Manila. The visit is part of the National Guard Bureau’s State Partnership Program, in which the Armed Forces of the Philippines is a partner with the Guam National Guard and Hawaii National Guard. Guam National Guard photo by Maj. Josephine Blas



BILATERAL EXCHANGE: Maj. Gen. Esther Aguigui, the Adjutant General of the Guam National Guard, front center, poses for a photo with State Partnership Program participants at the Bilateral Exchange Calendar Board on Sept. 9 at the Marco Polo Hotel, Ortigas, Philippines. Participants included leadership from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Guam National Guard and Hawaii National Guard, and their staffers, who were on hand to present briefings and after-action reviews of Subject Matter Expert Exchanges from the last six months, and talk about plans for the next five years. Guam National Guard photo by Maj. Josephine Blas
Members of the Philippine military and the Guam and Hawaii National Guard recently met to plan upcoming training activities.

The three forces have worked together for almost 20 years under the State Partnership Program. The program is “a key U.S. security cooperation tool, facilitating cooperation across all aspects of international civil-military affairs and encouraging people-to-people ties at the state level,” according to a Guam Guard news release.

Since its start in 2000, the partnership has increased its activities from four per year to more than 30 per year.

From 2015 to 2017, the State Partnership Program paved the way for Guam and Hawaii soldiers and airmen to work together with the Armed Forces of the Philippines to rebuild and renovate three schools damaged by typhoons and earthquakes in the Philippines. They've also provided medical, dental, search-and-rescue, and engineering responses that have helped thousands of people, the release states.

Maj. Gen. Esther Aguigui, adjutant general of the Guam National Guard, said, “The work we are doing today will help to build and strengthen our two great countries as we continue to work together in the fight against terrorism and respond to man-made or natural disasters – for the betterment of our people.

https://www.postguam.com/news/local/guam-guard-reinforces-ties-with-philippine-military/article_d610497e-e0e4-11e9-a9c6-5ff6d13dfd1a.html

China ships making their presence felt at disputed shoals –AMTI

From GMA News Online (Sep 29, 2019): China ships making their presence felt at disputed shoals –AMTI

Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) ships have been purposely making their near-constant presence at Ayungin and Panatag Shoals in the West Philippine Sea felt, according to the Washington-based think tank Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative (AMTI).

In a September 26 report, AMTI explained that the presence of the Chinese vessels at the Luconia, Second Thomas Shoal (Ayungin), and Scarborough (Panatag) Shoals highlighted how the CCG’s access to newly-built port facilities on artificial islands in the Spratlys allowed then to sustain such deployments.

AMTI had identified 14 CCG vessels broadcasting automatic identification system (AIS) signals while patrolling the West Philippine Sea features over the last year.

CCG ships did not usually open their automatic identification systems (AIS) during patrols, but they frequently broadcast their presence in these WPS areas.

“There was at least one ship broadcasting from Luconia on 258 of the last 365 days. At least one was broadcasting at Second Thomas on 215 days, and from Scarborough for 162 days,” the think tank added.

Between September 2018 and September 2019, AIS signals showed that there had been 3308 CCG patrols around the Ayungin and Panatag Shoals.

GMA News Online had sought comment from both the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and Department of National Defense, but neither had replied as of posting time.

https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/nation/709779/china-ships-deliberately-making-their-presence-felt-at-disputed-shoals-amti/story/

AFP-CRS: CPP-NPA Kill IPs Who Support Government Projects: Tribal Leaders (3)

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Sep 29, 2019): CPP-NPA Kill IPs Who Support Government Projects: Tribal Leaders (3)



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2730171527001554/?type=3&theater

[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/

AFP-CRS: CPP-NPA Kill IPs Who Support Government Projects: Tribal Leaders (2)

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Sep 29, 2019): CPP-NPA Kill IPs Who Support Government Projects: Tribal Leaders (2)



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2730177827000924/?type=3&theater

[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/

AFP-CRS: CPP-NPA Kill IPs Who Support Government Projects: Tribal Leaders

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Sep 29, 2019): CPP-NPA Kill IPs Who Support Government Projects: Tribal Leaders (1)



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2730174837001223/?type=3&theater

[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo

AFP-CRS: Laguna is Now 'Insurgency Free'

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Sep 29, 2019): Laguna is Now 'Insurgency Free'



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2730187063666667/?type=3&theater

[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/?fref=photo

AFP-CRS: Armed Forces of the Philippines declares Laguna 'Insurgency Free'.

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Sep 29, 2019): Armed Forces of the Philippines declares Laguna 'Insurgency Free'



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2730195386999168/?type=3&theater

[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/

AFP-CRS: Abra LGUs Declare CPP-NPA 'Persona-Non-Grata'

Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Sep 29, 2019): Abra LGUs Declare CPP-NPA 'Persona-Non-Grata'



https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/photos/a.182240175128048/2730191203666253/?type=3&theater

[The Civil Relations Service (CRS) is the unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that engages the public through its public information and community relations programs “to create a favorable atmosphere between the community and the AFP. The CRS is the equivalent of the Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs units of the US Army.]

https://www.facebook.com/CivilRelationsServiceAFP/

CPP/NPA-Camarines Norte: Pamamaslang ng 83rd IBPA ng mga sibilyan sa Catanduanes, pasistang atake sa ilalim ng rehimeng US-Duterte

NPA-Camarines Norte propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Sep 29, 2019): Pamamaslang ng 83rd IBPA ng mga sibilyan sa Catanduanes, pasistang atake sa ilalim ng rehimeng US-Duterte

CARLITO CADA

NPA-CAMARINES NORTE

ARMANDO CATAPIA COMMAND

NEW PEOPLE'S ARMY

SEPTEMBER 29, 2019

Mariing kinokundena ng Armando Catapia Command (ACC) – NPA Camarines Norte ang pamamaslang ng 83rd IB PA sa dalawang mangingisda sa Jose Panganiban, Catanduanes nitong Setyembre 23, 2019 . Marubdob na nakikidalamhati ang ACC sa pamilya ng mga biktima at kanilang mga naulila at kaisa sa kanilang paghahangad ng katarungan.

Para pagtakpan ang krimen, pinalabas ng militar na isang engkwentro ang naganap sa pagitan nila at ng yunit ng NPA na mariin namang pinabulaanan ng Nerissa San Juan Command. Hindi na bago ang katulad na senaryo sa ilalim ng rehimeng US-Duterte. Ang laganap na pagpatay sa hanay ng sibilyang populasyon ay nagiging pangkaraniwan sa ilalim ng rehimeng US-Duterte na walang paggalang sa karapatang-tao. Hindi pa nga nabibigyan ng katarungan ang mga pinaslang ng militar sa iba’t ibang panig ng Kabikulan , katulad ng brutal na pagpatay ng 96th IBPA sa 3 magsasaka sa Patalunan, Ragay Camarines Sur noong Mayo 2018, matapos ang engkwentro sa NPA, ito ay dagdag na naman sa mahabang listahan ng pamamaslang ng militar sa hanay ng mga sibilyang protektado ng Komprehensibong Kasunduan sa Paggalang sa Karapatang-tao at Internasyunal na Makataong Batas. Kung saan nakasaad sa napagkasunduang batas ng GRP at NDFP na:

“Ang sibilyang populasyon at mga sibilyan ay itatrato bilang sibilyan at ipag-iiba sa mga mandirigma at, kasama ang kanilang ari-arian, ay hindi maaaring atakihin. Sila ay pangangalagaan laban sa walang habas na pambobomba mula sa himpapawid, istraping, panganganyon, pagmomortar, panununog, pambubuldoser at iba pang katulad na anyo ng pagwasak sa mga buhay at ari-arian, paggamit ng mga pampasabog gayundin ng pag-iipon ng baril, bala, pampasabog atbp. sa malapit sa kanila o sa gitna ng hanay nila, at sa paggamit ng mga sandatang kemikal at bayolohikal kung saan nasaad na walang sibilyan na dapat madamay sa mga armadong tunggalian”.

Ang karahasan at brutalidad ng militar at pulis ay ibinunga ng reaksyunaryong sistema at umiinog sa loob mismo ng sistemang ito. Ang mga opisyal ng AFP at PNP ay hinuhubog sa mekanismo ng karahasan. Ipinakita ito sa masaklap na pangyayari sa isang kadete ng PMA na si Darwin Dormitorio na nasawi dahil sa matinding pahirap sa kamay ng kapwa niya kadete. Ang PMA ay tila isang makinaryang lumilikha ng animo’y mga “halimaw” , na sa kalauna’y magwawasiwas ng karahasan sa sibilyang populasyon sa panahong makapagtapos na sila sa pamantasang militar at maging bahagi ng liderato ng reaksyunaryong armadong pwersa ng Pilipinas.

Sa gitna ng ganitong kalagayan dapat maghanda ang mamamayan dahil walang pinipiling biktima ang tila asong ulol na AFP at PNP na ikinukumpas ng kanilang among si Duterte. Ang panghahalihaw ng AFP sa mga lugar kung saan naroon ang kanilang pokus ng operasyong militar, kaakibat ang Peace and Development Teams (PDT) at Community Support Program (CSP) sa mga komunidad at patuloy na naghahasik ng karahasan sa mga sibilyang populasyon. Ang pagkakabuo ng Joint task Force ng AFP at PNP sa ambisyong wakasan di umano ang local communist armed Conflict ay mangangahulugan ng ibayong karahasan at magdudulot ng higit pang panganib at bulnerabalidad ng mamamayan.

Dapat magkaisa ang mamamayang Bikolano na labanan ang sistema ng pagbalewala sa likas at lehitimong mga karapatan ng mamamayan. Nanawagan ang ACC sa mga nasa midya, taong simbahan, mga propesyunal at sa lahat na maging mapagbantay at maging alerto laban sa mga karahasan at mga paglabag karapatang-tao. Dapat panagutin at singilin ang rehimeng US- Duterte sa napakahabang listahan ng paglabag sa mga karapatang-tao at Internasyunal na Makataong Batas.

83rd IB PA, Berdugo!

Rehimeng US-Duterte No.1 Terorista!

CARHRIHL , Ipatupad!

Isulong ang Demokratikong Rebolusyong Bayan!

https://cpp.ph/statement/pamamaslang-ng-83rd-ib-pa-ng-mga-sibilyan-sa-catanduanes-pasistang-atake-sa-ilalim-ng-rehimeng-us-duterte/

CPP/NDF-Negros: Intimidation and forced surrender, massive corruption of the AFP!

NDF-Negros propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Sep 29, 2019): Intimidation and forced surrender, massive corruption of the AFP!

BAYANI OBRERO

SPOKESPERSON

NDF-NEGROS

NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC FRONT OF THE PHILIPPINES

SEPTEMBER 29, 2019

Intimidation and the forced surrender of 2,510 individuals alleged as supporters and supposed members of the New People’s Army (NPA) is nothing new to Negrosanons especially in Northern Negros. This is a hackneyed and stale scheme of the AFP/PNP under the “counter-insurgency” campaign of Oplan Kapanatagan of the dictator-fascist regime to silence and impede the struggling exploited classes and other democratic sectors aspiring for genuine peace based on social justice. This is the grandest fictional drama of the AFP directed by BGen. Benedict Arevalo of the 303rd Brigade.

The truth is the 2,510 individuals were threatened and coerced to make them appear as surrenderees egging on BGen. Arevalo’s fantasy of winning their anti-NPA campaign. Massive corruption has been a vice in the ranks of AFP/PNP top officials. AFP/PNP officials pocketed and milked for corruption the P163,150,000 (P65,000 per surrenderee) reward money while the 2,510 individuals they intimidated into surrendering and accused as NPA supporters did not receive even a five peso coin. They mislead the people with their triad operations (intelligence operation, combat operation and civil military operation) using relief and medical missions, giving projects through the Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA), constructing roads and infrastructures, free internet/wifi and other pretences of addressing the issues of the masses to lure them into attending assemblies which cover their deceptive intent of turning the attendees into NPA surrenderees, forcing civilians to sign and pledge as returnees to the reactionary government.

Even local governments are victims of intimidation and were forced to declare the NPA as persona non grata and if they refuse the AFP/PNP/DILG’s dictate they will be subject to trumped-up charges and will be tagged as NPA supporters.

The malicious instigation of 300 civilians tagged as NPA surrenderees in Northern Negros that they can capture any NPA member and be used in red-tagging mass leaders, progressive organizations and other allies supportive of the struggle of the people aims to break the ranks of the Negrosanons who, in truth, is already filled with outrage and dismay over the injustices and the deluge of blood under the Duterte regime.

The NDF-Negros together with the revolutionary forces and Negrosanons vehemently condemn the intimidation, deception and massive corruption perpetrated by AFP/PNP officials that worsen the hunger and poverty of exploited classes. These generate terror and devastation of livelihood and abuse of human rights. In the midst of brazen sowing of intrigues and deception of the AFP/PNP, the people are very aware of the stench of the military and police forces and no longer believe the filth streaming from their worm-rotten mouths.

BGen. Eric Vinoya, Joint Task Force (JTF)- Negros commander and 3ID Assistant Division Commander, and BGen. Arevalo’s heads are swollen with the illusion of destroying local “insurgency” in Negros by the end of 2019. The priority of JTF-Negros is to annihilate the Northern Negros and Central Negros NPA fronts. This only indicates further spread and intensification of militarization in the countryside and cities causing worse cases of human rights violations simultaneous with the sharpening of the socio-economic and political crisis. Because of this, a lot more will take the path of armed struggle. The revolutionary forces are ever-ready to confront the tyranny and anti-people policies of the Duterte regime imposed in Negros Island. The doom of the AFP/PNP, their commander-in-chief Duterte and his dictator-fascist regime is guaranteed.

All democratic forces are called on to strengthen their ranks. Shatter terror in order to fight for our democratic rights. To the ranks of local government, stand for the welfare of the people rather than using your authority against people’s interests. To all Negrosanons, unite, be courageous in resisting and exposing the bloody “counter-insurgency” plans under Oplan Kapanatagan and the deceptive Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTF-ELCAC). Push for the resumption of peace talks between the GRP and NDFP to address the root cause of armed conflict in the Philippines.

Advance the just people’s war into a higher stage to achieve genuine democracy, national liberty and just and lasting peace in Negros Island and the whole country.###

https://cpp.ph/statement/intimidation-and-forced-surrender-massive-corruption-of-the-afp/

CPP/NPA: 50th IB ambushed in Mountain Province

NPA propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (Sep 29, 2019): 50th IB ambushed in Mountain Province

The Chadli Molintas Command (NPA-Ilocos-Cordillera) congratulates the Leonardo Pacsi Command of NPA-Mountain Province for the successful ambush of a platoon of the Charlie Company 50th Infantry Battalion headed by Lt. Pulalonan in Aguid, Sagada, Mountain Province. The battle took place at around 11:30 AM on September 26, 2019. Based on initial reports, killed in action was one soldier while another was wounded. Contrary to the pronouncement of Brig. Gen. Henry Doyaoen, 503rd Infantry Brigade commander, there are no casualties on the side of the NPA.

Currently ongoing is a Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM) directed focused military operation (FMO) of the AFP covering five municipalities of Mountain Province (Bontoc, Sagada, Besao, Tadian and Bauko) and one adjacent town of Abra (Tubo). Employed in the large scale combat operation are around two battalion size forces coming from units under the 5th and 7th Infantry Divisions of the Philippine Army, namely the 50th IB, 54th IB, 24th IB, 81st IB and the 51st and 52nd DRCs.

This focused military operation is part of the US-Duterte regime’s desperate effort to quell the armed revolutionary movement before the end of Duterte’s term in 2022. The Duterte regime is waging a vicious all out war through its counter-insurgency program Oplan Kapanatagan currently directed by the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) headed by Duterte himself.

The massing of fascist troops in this part of the Cordillera is intended to clear the area of NPA presence, thwart the Cordillera people’s resistance to and pave the way for the entry of plunderous foreign and comprador interests over the much coveted resources of the region. Indeed, the Igorots’ heroic struggle to defend their land, life and resources that the NPA steadfastly supports is labeled by the fascist Duterte regime as a terroristic act that has to be crushed, whatsoever the political and social cost. Hence, the brutal military offensive. What counts most for the traitor and corrupt Duterte is the unobstructed sell-out of our national patrimony to his similarly greedy local cohorts and foreign masters.

At present, applications of two gigantic foreign and local mining and energy companies threaten a wide area of the Ilocos-Cordillera region. Chevron, a US transnational company, and its local partner Aragorn Power and Energy Corporation of the Sy family’s SM Group, plan to set up a huge geothermal plant that would cover seven municipalities including three in Kalinga (Pasil, Tinglayan and Lubuagan), two in Mountain Province (Sadanga and Bontoc), one in Benguet (Buguias) and one in Ifugao (Tinoc). In the three towns of Kalinga alone, the project would cover 25,682 hectares. On the other hand, Nickel Asia, a large mining firm of the Zamora family, and its subsidiary Cordillera Exploration Company Inc (CEXCI) has a mining application that covers 15 municipalities in the region including three in Benguet (Bakun, Mankayan, Buguias), one in Ifugao (Tinoc), six in Mountain Province (Sadanga, Sagada, Besao, Tadian, Sabangan, Bauko), one in Abra (Luba) and four in Ilocos Sur (Quirino, Suyo, Gregorio del Pilar at San Emilio).

Moreover, many other large and mini hydro projects are also currently in different stages of processing to be forced upon communities amidst the people’s opposition such as the 390-MW Alimit Dam in Ifugao, the 190-MW Karayan Dam in Kalinga and the 150-MW Gened Dam in Apayao. Also included are large irrigation projects that require the construction of huge dams and the diversion of rivers such as the ongoing construction of the Chico River Pump Irrigation Project (CRPIP) in Kalinga by a Chinese firm, China CAMC Engineering Company Ltd., and the Iteb Transbasin Dam in Quirino, Ilocos Sur, as an alternative to the Gregorio Del Pilar Impounding Project (GDPIP) or Salcedo Dam that has been opposed by residents of the five affected municipalities in Ilocos Sur.

Ultimately, it is the marginalized masses who will bear the brunt of this ruthless assault on the Cordillera heartland by the despotic regime. It is the peasants, national minorities, workers and other ordinary people who continue to become victims of the already long list of human rights violations in the form of coercion, harassment, illegal arrests, indiscriminate bombings, extra-judicial killings and other heinous crimes of the AFP-PNP and para-military forces. But amidst worsening crisis, poverty and endless sufferings under a tyrannical rule, the masses are more than ever determined to pursue their struggles against their oppressors and exploiters.

Amidst these plunderous projects of imperialist corporations and the local ruling class secured by intensified militarization, the people of Ilocos and Cordillera shall resolutely stand their ground and persevere in the struggle to defend their lands and communities and fearlessly fight the fascist onslaught, deception and psywar of the US-Duterte regime. All the NPA units under the Chadli Molintas Command will always be on the side of the people’s courageous fight. We outlasted the US-Marcos fascist dictatorship and triumphed in our fight against the Chico dam and Cellophil Resources. Together, we are confident to prevail over the US-Duterte tyranny. As with previous counter-insurgency schemes, Oplan Kapanatagan and the NTF-ELCAC are doomed to fail. ###

Ka Martin Montana
Spokesperson

https://cpp.ph/statement/50th-ib-ambushed-in-mountain-province/

Kalinaw News: Army Offensives in Bukidnon Kill NPA Terrorist Leader

Posted to Kalinaw News (Sep 29, 2019): Army Offensives in Bukidnon Kill NPA Terrorist Leader

Malaybalay City, September 28, 2019- Army units in Bukidnon intensified offensive combat operations following the recent instruction of President Duterte to the AFP. As an initial result, a terrorist leader of the New People’s Army (NPA) died after being fatally hit by pursuing special skilled soldiers of the 88th Infantry Battalion. The gunfight transpired in an uninhabited and forested area believed within the jurisdiction of Sitio Bangkalawan, Brgy Lumintao, Quezon, Bukidnon around 9:30 in the morning on September 28, 2019.

The terrorist NPA leader was later identified by former rebels as Joven Manggatawan aka “Amana”. He was said to be the leader of Sentro de Grabidad (SDG) platoon of CPP-NPA’s Company Thunder, Subregional Command 2 of NCMRC terrorizing southern Bukidnon areas. This NPA group made earlier claims of being responsible for attacks and atrocities on civilian farm compounds and destruction of civilian-owned equipment in southern Bukidnon.

“We have exhausted ways to reach out to NPA as we tried to convince them to return to the folds of law and live a peaceful life with their families. We have so far convinced 110 regular NPAs, but there are still those who opted to remain. They would have to face the might of the military. While we extend our hands to offer peace, we are also duty-bound to use sufficient military force against those who continue to terrorize civilians and destroy civilian properties. The constitution mandates the AFP to protect the people, and we will not remiss with that mandate” Brig Gen Edgardo De Leon, Commander, 403rd Infantry Brigade said.

“I commend the soldiers of 88th Infantry Battalion for their gallantry in defeating the NPA terrorists. Somehow they have given justice to the many civilian victims of NPA atrocities. But it is not enough. The NPA leaders must be prosecuted in courts for violating the International Humanitarian Law (IHL) which is punishable under Republic Act 9851. The victims must be indemnified by the CPP-NPA. The NDF must investigate and explain to the public why the NPA keeps on attacking civilians” said MGen Franco Nemesio Gacal, Commander of 4th Infantry Division.

The fleeing NPA terrorists left behind one (1) M16 rifle; two (2) anti-personnel mines which are banned by the Ottawa Conventions; One (1) rifle grenade; two (2) ammunition magazines for M16 rifle; one (1) ammunition magazine for AK47 rifle; one (1) Baofeng brand commercial radio; six (6) 20-liter water containers filled with rice grain; assorted personal belognings and, subversive documents.

403rd Infantry "Peacemaker" Brigade 4 Infantry Division Philippine Army
Cpt Marcelito Quijano
CMO Officer, 403Bde, 41D, PA
Malaybalay City, Bukidnon
09564177497

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
Contact us: contact@kalinawnews.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/army-offensives-in-bukidnon-kill-npa-terrorist-leader/

EASTMINCOM: Eastmincom ready to expand security checkpoints to quarantine checkpoints

Posted to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) Website (Sep 26, 2019): Eastmincom ready to expand security checkpoints to quarantine checkpoints



NSFA, Panacan, Davao City - Lt. General Felimon T. Santos Jr., Commander of Eastern Mindanao Command offers existing security checkpoints to expand into quarantine checkpoints, as part of the measure of preventing the entry of African Swine Fever (ASF) in Eastern Mindanao.

The offer came after Regional Director (RD) Engineer Ricardo Oñate of the Department of Agriculture (DA) Region XI, together with the members of the Surveillance Team from Meat Inspection Service (MIS), Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI), and some Hog Raisers in Davao Region visited the Headquarters Eastern Mindanao Command, Naval Station Felix Apolinario, Panacan, Davao City on September 23, 2019.



Their visit aims to seek the assistance of the military in the biological battle of preventing zoonotic and infectious diseases to enter the region, which might affect the animal industry and the economy as a whole.

"Our fixed security checkpoints can be used as a point of convergence in carrying out the best interest of the government and of the communities, hence, can accommodate other capabilities and be expanded or converted to a "whole of government" platform like that of quarantine checkpoint," Lt. Gen. Santos said.

As of this date, the checkpoints of Task Force Davao under Col. Consolito Yecla have already been expanded into quarantine checkpoints after the City Government of Davao, through the City Veterinary and Agriculture Office (CVAO) deployed quarantine personnel.

They will be assisted by the 65 personnel of Task Force Davao who were also oriented on animal and meat quarantine.

Lt. Gen. Santos, likewise, recommended that the issue be leveled to different levels of Peace and Order Councils (POCs) to encourage the participation of different Law Enforcement Agencies and the crafting of local and regional plans, to include biosecurity protocols.

"Taking off from the initiative of Davao City and Task Force Davao checkpoints as a template, we are asking the concerned agencies to level the issue to the different POCs to consolidate and synchronize efforts in this biological battle," he added.

Source: Public Information Office, Eastern Mindanao Command, AFP

https://www.eastmincomafp.com.ph/2019/09/eastmincom-ready-to-expand-security.html

Brawner bares tools in PMA war vs hazing: Mental healthcare, honor code

From Rappler (Sep 28, 2019): Brawner bares tools in PMA war vs hazing: Mental healthcare, honor code

Brigadier General Romeo Brawner, the new PMA Commandant of Cadets, bares his battle plan for his so-called war against hazing



COMMANDANT. Brigadier General Romeo Brawner speaks to reporters at the Philippine Military Academy. Photo by Nappy Manegdeg/Rappler

BAGUIO, Philippines – The Philippine Military Academy new Commandant of Cadets Brigadier General Romeo Brawner Jr on Saturday, September 28, bared his solutions to hazing in the PMA following the death of another cadet.

"I immediately declared a war against hazing. I told all cadets that I expect every one of them to tow the line, so we should all declare a war against hazing," Brawner told reporters in an ambush interview at Fort del Pilar

According to Brawner, this so-called war on the culture of violence would be stopped with the help of a renewed honor code, trusted seniors, and better mental health. Brawner is a member of the PMA Class of 1988.

Empowering trusted seniors: Brawner said he wil first "empower" first class cadets (4th year cadets) to facilitate the regimented life of their younger counterparts. He said that this means the cadets would have more control more than tactical officers – graduates who handle cadet companies.

"We will empower the first-class men so that they themselves are the ones administrering and taking care of the corps," Brawner said.

Asked whether he was sure that none of these first classmen were complicit in hazing, he said none of them have been proven to be a part of any maltreatment or hazing, even in the case of cadet Darwin Dormitorio.

Mental healthcare: Brawner said that he wants to improve their counseling office so that cadets would remain "mentally fit."

The counseling, he said, would also help cadets who have been "traumatized" by hazing so that they would not carry violent tendencies inside and outside the academy.

The PMA cadets are set to undergo a physical examination after Dormitorio's death. If anyone is found to have been injured, Brawner said inquiries would follow immediately.

Remembering the honor code: Lastly, Brawner said the PMA's honor code must be drilled into the mind of every aspiring soldier.

He noted that throughout the years, teachings about the PMA's honor code have varied per class and company.

"We will make it uniform and we will make sure to [follow] that one," he added.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/241251-brawner-solutions-pma-hazing-mental-healthcare-honor-code

Alleged Maute Group member nabbed in Batangas

From Rappler (Sep 29, 2019): Alleged Maute Group member nabbed in Batangas

Jafar Dia Abdul Nazer, also known as Muhajir or Diya, is arrested for illegal possession of explosives



BATANGAS, Philippines – An alleged member of the terrorist Maute Group was arrested during the implementation of a search warrant on Friday evening, September 27, at his residence in Batangas City.

Brigadier General Edward Carranza, Calabarzon police regional director, identified the suspect as Jafar Dia Abdul Nazer, also known as Muhajir or Diya. He was arrested for illegal possession of explosives.

According to reports, the Armed Forces of the Philippines received information that Nazer was keeping explosives and hand grenades in his residence. Operatives then conducted surveillance operations to locate him.

Nazer, a native of Lanao del Sur, was allegedly hiding his identity while running a mobile phone accessories shop at the Batangas City Public Market.

Authorities said Nazer served as the Maute Group's intelligence officer operating in the Calanogas-Pagayawan-Malabang area in Lanao del Sur.

"[As Nazer was] considered armed and dangerous, my men immediately requested for a search warrant which was later granted and approved by [Judge] Dorcas Ferriols Perez, [Regional Trial Court] Branch 84, Batangas City," Carranza said.

The search, jointly conducted by police and soldiers, resulted in the confiscation of 1/2 pound of explosives and an M67 grenade.

"We shall not remain complacent.... We shall protect the citizens of this region from any act of terrorism," Carranza said.

"I also appeal to the public to remain calm and report suspicious persons and actions."

https://www.rappler.com/nation/241331-alleged-maute-group-member-nabbed-batangas

NPA leader killed in Bukidnon clash

From Politiko Mindanao (Sep 29, 2019): NPA leader killed in Bukidnon clash

A leader of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) was killed in an encounter with the military in Bukidnon.

Brig. Gen. Edgardo de Leon, commander of the 403rd Infantry Brigade (IB), identified the slain rebel as Joven Manggatawan, alias Amana, alleged leader of Sentro de Grabidad platoon of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP)-NPA’s Company Thunder, Subregional Command 2 operating in southern Bukidnon areas.

Manggatawan was fatally hit by pursuing soldiers of the 88th Infantry Battalion during a gunfight in Sitio Bangkalawan, Barangay Lumintao in Quezon town Saturday, September 28.

Recovered from the fleeing Maoist members were one M16 rifle; two anti-personnel mines which are banned by the Ottawa Conventions; one rifle grenade; two ammunition magazines for M16 rifle; one ammunition magazine for AK47 rifle; one Baofeng brand commercial radio; six 20-liter water containers filled with rice grain; assorted personal belongings and, subversive documents.

“We have exhausted ways to reach out to NPA as we tried to convince them to return to the folds of law and live a peaceful life with their families,” De Leon said.

So far, he said 110 NPA rebels have heeded the government’s call to yield to authorities.

https://mindanao.politics.com.ph/npa-leader-killed-in-bukidnon-clash/

BTA creates Special Committee on Marawi; UXOs cleared by end of October

From MindaNews (Sep 29, 2019): BTA creates Special Committee on Marawi; UXOs cleared by end of October

The Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) on Thursday passed Resolution 112 constituting a special committee to “look into the status of the Marawi recovery, reconstruction, and rehabilitation efforts.”

The resolution is a “consolidation of resolutions relevant to the Marawi Siege.” The creation of the Special Committee comes 23 months after President Rodrigo Duterte declared Marawi “liberated from the terrorist influence” on October 17, 2017.

Task Force Bangon Marawi chief Eduardo del Rosario, MindaNews file photo by BOBBY TIMONERA

In March, Housing Secretary Eduardo del Rosario, chair of the Task Force Bangon Marawi (TFBM) chair, announced to displaced residents attending a consultation-dialogue at the provincial gym that residents of the 24 barangays in the 250-hectare ‘Ground Zero,’ the former battleground between government forces and the Maute Group in 2017, can finally return to their villages to repair or rebuild their homes by the first week of September 2019 after the debris clearing is done by August 30.

But residents residing near the bridges, in what he said were the ‘least affected areas’ in ‘Ground Zero’ (also known as Most Affected Area or MAA) like Tolali, can start returning by first week of July to repair their residential and commercial structures provided they seek a permit from City Hall and their structures are still considered safe.

In a press conference after the turnover rites for the Boganga transitory shelters in Marawi on April 12, Del Rosario said the “final timetable” was for the clearing of unexploded bombs by August 30 but residents in Sector 1 can return by July to repair or rebuild their homes provided they secure a permit form the city government to rebuild or repair.

He said residents in Sectors 2 and 3 can return in August; Sectors 4 and 5 in September; Sectors 6 and 7 in October and Sectors 8 and 9 in November.

TFBM Field Manager Assistant Secretary Felix Castro, TFBM Field Manager, told MindaNews on Sunday that the ‘one stop shop’ at City Hall started in July where Ground Zero residents can apply for renovation or building permit “to ensure na OK pa yung structure for repair and sila ang legal owner of the land and building.”

Castro said that when the repair or construction is done, the city government will issue an occupancy permit. He said this process is ongoing, under Kathagombalay.

Detonation of unexploded ordnance in Marawi City’s Ground Zero on 03 August 2019. MindaNews photo by RICHEL V. UMEL

The August 30 deadline for clearing has not been met. Del Rosario told MindaNews on Sunday that the clearing of the UXOs will be “not later than 31 October” while clearing of the debris will be “not later than 30 November” this year.

According to Resolution 112, the Special Committee on Marawi Recovery, Reconstruction, and Rehabilitation or the Special Committee on Marawi, will be the BTA’s mechanism for “gathering data on and monitoring the status of the recovery, reconstruction, and rehabilitation efforts planned and/or implemented for Marawi City and offering recommendations for the Bangsamoro Government’s appropriate action in relation thereto.”

This, as the Senate’s Special Committee on Marawi City Rehabilitation which is tasked to “study, review, assess, examine, investigate and inquire” into the progress or lack of progress of the rehabilitation efforts in Marawi, will hold its organizational meeting and briefing on Monday, September 30. (see other story).

The BTA’s Special Committee, according to the resolution, aims to complement the efforts of the Task Force Bangon Marawi (TFBM), the multi-agency body tasked to oversee the recovery, reconstruction and rehabilitation of Marawi and other affected areas.

TONS OF SCRAP IRON. A soldier sizes up a mountain of scrap iron collected from the ruined buildings in Marawi City on Wednesday (4 September 2019). Task Force Bangon Marawi went on full blast to demolish more than 3,000 buildings destroyed during the 2017 siege in the former battleground of Marawi in time for its 2020 deadline. MindaNews photo by FROILAN GALLARDO

Republic Act 11054 or the Organic Law for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) provides under Section 13 of Article VI (Intergovernmental Relations) that national programs and projects such as the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, Health Facility Enhancement Program, School Building Program, retained hospitals of the Department of Health, PhilHealth, social pension for senior citizens, and “Marawi rehabilitation program shall continue to be funded by the National Government, without prejudice to the power of the Bangsamoro Government to provide for supplemental funding for such programs and projects.”

But any complementary action from the Bangsamoro Government should be based on accurate and complete information on the current status of Marawi City, “including the state of the residents there,” hence the creation of a Special Committee, the resolution said.

The BTA will still discuss who will be the chair and vice chair, as well as members of the Special Committee.

The Special Committee is tasked to: gather data and information on the status of the Marawi recovery, reconstruction, and rehabilitation; invite relevant national, regional, and/or local government agencies, non-government institutions, local government executives, private experts/individuals, humanitarian agencies, development partners and other resource persons which may share information on the status of the Marawi recovery, reconstruction, and rehabilitation and issue subpoenas ad testificandum; as well as request for copies of documents from the above named institutions, and issue subpoenas duces tecum.

The Special Committee is also tasked to conduct public consultations, field interviews, surveys, and inspections as may be necessary in the gathering of relevant information; submit periodic reports to the BTA, “especially on the assistance provided by the agencies of the National Government, humanitarian agencies and development partners, to the affected residents/inhabitants;” and to make these hearings and committee reports accessible to the public.

Uncertainty is written on the face of a resident as he paused briefly to rest in Marawi City’s Ground Zero during the Kambisita sa MAA (Most Affected Area) on May 9, 2018. MindaNews photo by FROILAN GALLARDO

It is also tasked to submit recommendations to the BTA on the financial, technical, or human resource assistance that the Bangsamoro Government can contribute to the rebuilding, restructuring, rehabilitation, and reconstruction efforts in Marawi City; and perform such other functions as may be determined by the Chair or the BTA

In a statement, Member of Parliament Zia Alonto Adiong, said the special committee will exercise purely plenary powers to inquire, coordinate and recommend to different Ministries in the BARMM “to bridge the gaps in the intervention assistance to the victims of the siege.”

The Special Committee assures the separate and independent participation of the BTA without prejudice to the ongoing rehabilitation efforts by TFBM, said Adiong, one of the sponsors of the resolution, who served as spokesperson of the Provincial Crisis Committee during the Marawi Siege in 2017.

“In fact this initiative will supplement the five areas identified as priority intervention under the short and long term master plan adopted by the TFBM. Having to exercise its legislative oversight powers, the Special Committee constitutes an accountability mechanism in order to facilitiate the identification of projects nad programs coming from private partners and international funding institutions to make sure that funds go straight to the target beneficiaries,” Adiong added.

As of September 1, 2019, TFBM records show that out of a total of 5,508 targeted units of transitory shelters, 2,201 have been turned over to beneficiaries. Out of 1,762 completed shelters, 1,462 have been turned over while out of the 3,747 ongoing transitory shelter projects, 739 have been turned over.

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2019/09/bta-creates-special-committee-on-marawi-uxos-cleared-by-end-of-october/

Army offensives in Bukidnon kill NPA terrorist leader

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 29, 2019): Army offensives in Bukidnon kill NPA terrorist leader

MALAYBALAY CITY — A terrorist leader of the New People's Army (NPA) died Saturday after being fatally hit by pursuing special skilled soldiers of the 88th Infantry Battalion in an intensified offensive combat operations following the recent instruction of President Rodrigo Duterte to the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

The gunfight transpired in an isolated forested area believed within the jurisdiction of Sitio Bangkalawan, Barangay Lumintao, Quezon, Bukidnon around 9:30 in the morning, 28 September 2019.

The terrorist NPA leader was later identified by former rebels as Joven Manggatawan aka “Amana.” He was said to be the leader of Sentro de Grabidad (SDG) platoon of CPP-NPA’s Company Thunder, Subregional Command 2 of Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SRC2-SMRC) terrorizing southern Bukidnon areas.

This NPA group made earlier claims of being responsible for attacks and atrocities on civilian farm compounds and destruction of civilian-owned equipment in southern Bukidnon.

"We have exhausted ways to reach out to NPA as we tried to convince them to return to the folds of law and live a peaceful life with their families. We have so far convinced 110 regular NPAs, but there are still those who opted to remain. They would have to face the might of the military. While we extend our hands to offer peace, we are also duty-bound to use sufficient military force against those who continue to terrorize civilians and destroy civilian properties. The constitution mandates the AFP to protect the people, and we will not remiss with that mandate," Brig Gen Edgardo De Leon, Commander, 403rd Infantry Brigade said.

The fleeing NPA terrorists left behind one (1) M16 rifle; two (2) anti-personnel mines which are banned by the Ottawa Conventions; one (1) rifle grenade; two (2) ammunition magazines for M16 rifle; one (1) ammunition magazine for AK47 rifle; one (1) Baofeng brand commercial radio; six (6) 20-liter water containers filled with rice grain; assorted personal belongings and subversive documents.

MGen. Franco Nemesio Gacal, Commander of 4th Infantry Division, commended the soldiers of 88th Infantry Battalion for their gallantry in defeating the NPA terrorists.

“Somehow they have given justice to the many civilian victims of NPA atrocities. But it is not enough. The NPA leaders must be prosecuted in courts for violating the International Humanitarian Law (IHL) which is punishable under Republic Act 9851. The victims must be indemnified by the CPP-NPA. The NDF must investigate and explain to the public why the NPA keeps on attacking civilians,” MGen Gacal said. (403rd Infantry Brigade, 4ID, PA/PIA Bukidnon)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1028005

Village councilman, 2 others slain in NoCot gun attack

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 29, 2019): Village councilman, 2 others slain in NoCot gun attack



Google map of Pikit, North Cotabato

COTABATO CITY -- An incumbent village councilor and two others were killed in Pikit, North Cotabato when unidentified gunmen sprayed them with bullets while in a roadside drinking session Saturday night.

Capt. Mautin Pangandigan, Pikit town police chief, identified the fatalities as village councilor Andrew Lumibao, 53, former Takepan village chairperson; Robert Ayona, Lumibao’s cousin; and Michael Arroyo, a member of the Takepan Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team.

“The victims were having a drinking session in Sitio Vilo, Barangay Takepan, Pikit when three gunmen appeared from nowhere and opened fire at them around 6:45 p.m.,” the police official said in a radio interview here Sunday.

Recovered from the scene were empty shells from M14 rifles that were used by the gunmen.

Maugan Mosaid, the municipal administrator, said police personnel are looking at personal grudge as the possible motive in the shooting incident.

Mosaid has called on the family to reveal if Lumibao has known enemies or has been receiving death threats before the shooting.

A police follow-up operation is underway to get the attackers behind the incident.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1081758

IPs on telling world about CPP-NPA: 'We are no longer afraid'

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 29, 2019): IPs on telling world about CPP-NPA: 'We are no longer afraid'



AFRAID NO MORE. Datu Nestor Apas shares his personal experiences with the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People's Army (CPP-NPA) before members of the Filipino community in Berlin on Wednesday (Sept. 25, 2019). Apas said the killing of IP elders has compelled them to push back against the communist movement. (Contributed photo)

A group of indigenous peoples (IPs) emerged determined before members of the Filipino community in Germany, saying fear no longer hinders them from telling the world about what the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People's Army (CPP-NPA) has been doing to their communities.

"Bawat tao natatakot. Kami po natakot, pero kung matakot lang din kami, hanggang kailan? Anong mangyayari sa mga susunod sa amin (Every person is fearful. We ourselves are afraid. But until when are we going to succumb to fear? What will happen to the next generation)?" Datu Nestor Apas said during their engagement with the Filipino community in Berlin on September 25.

"'Di na kami matakot ngayon kasi may Presidente na tayo (We're not afraid anymore because we have our current president)," he added.

Apas said the killings of IP elders have compelled them to push back against the communist movement.

As long as the CPP-NPA continues to harass their community, he said he will continue to campaign for awareness of the problem brought to their land by the group that has been listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

"Malaking problema sa amin 'yon. Pag patayin mo ang isang elder, wala na 'yong mga bata, wala na silang kaalaman. Nangamatay na 'yong magtuturo (The killing of our elders was a major blow to us. If you kill an elder, no one would teach the youth anymore)," he said.

Apas also hailed the imposition of martial law in Mindanao, which he said has helped strengthen security in the region and protect their lives.

"Malaki pong pasasalamat namin kay Pangulo dahil sa martial law sa Mindanao. Sa 50 years na walang martial law, wala talagang nangyari na ganito. Hindi mai-secure ang buhay namin (We are very thankful to the President for martial law in Mindanao. In the 50 years that there was no martial law, nothing like this happened. Our lives were not secure)," he added.

Appeal

Bae Lahong Chiary Balinan, meanwhile, appealed for the Filipino community's support in preserving their identity as IPs as they strive to progress from poverty.

"Sana isang araw, umangat din ang mga tribo sa amin para hindi na kami tawaging taga-bundok, 'di na kami sasabihang mabaho. Gusto natin ng pantay-pantay na trato sa lugar (I hope that one day, we IPs would progress, so that we would no longer be called mountain people, so that people won't mock us anymore. We want to be treated as equals)," she said.

She added that they want progress in a way that would preserve ther identity.

“What we want is development in our community and preserve the culture that is there. That's what we dream for the IPs," she added.

One of the observers, Nelson Jaralve, said the accounts shared by the visiting IPs were an open secret that even he, who is now based in Berlin, knows.

Jaralve wished the group well in their efforts to raise the issue of the CPP-NPA with the international community.

"Ang aking hope lang para sa inyo lahat, sana iyong pag-iikot ninyo ngayon dito, sana marinig ng lahat at saka 'yong mga taong tumutulong sa inyo, malaman nila na ang binibigay nila ay 'di napunta pala sa inyo (My hope is that through your caravan here, everyone would learn about your concerns, and so that people who extend aid to you would know that their assistance does not even reach your group)," he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1081729