Phil. Army soldiers, Reds clash in Negros

From Panay News (Aug 15, 2020): Phil. Army soldiers, Reds clash in Negros (BY DOMINIQUE GABRIEL BAÑAGA)

Philippine Army soldiers and suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels clashed in Barangay Quintin Remo, Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental.

Troops of 12th Infantry Battalion (62IB) figured in a 15-minute firefight against 15 alleged NPA insurgents Wednesday morning.

Lieutenant Colonel Melvin Flores, 62IB commander, said they were tipped off by local residents in Sitio Uway-way of Barangay Quintin Remo that armed men were in the area extorting food supplies from residents.

According to Flores, the rebels may have suffered some casualties. They spotted the fleeing insurgents dragging their wounded companions and blood stains were also seen along the insurgents’ withdrawal route.

Government troops recovered cooking utensils, mobile phones, flashlights, a camera, and the rebels’ personal belongings.

Flores said the NPA insurgents may be suffering from hunger in the mountains.

The extortion, Flores added, may have also been triggered by restrictions imposed by local government units to curb the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 and these limited, too, the rebels’ ability to procure vital supplies.

http://www.panaynews.net/phil-army-soldiers-reds-clash-in-negros/

Rebels injured in gunbattle

From the Visayan Daily Star (Aug 14, 2020): Rebels injured in gunbattle

Armed skirmishes between Army soldiers and suspected New People’s Army rebels took place yesterday in Sitio Uway-Uway, Brgy. Quintin Remo, Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental.

Lt. Col. Melvin Flores, 62nd Infantry Battalion commander said he, believes that some of the 15 NPA rebels fleeing from the encounter site were injured as indicated by bloodstains seen by pursuing government troopers along their withdrawal routes.

Recovered from the encounter site were two rice pots with cooked rice believed to be taken from the populace, cellular phones, flashlights and personal belongings.
Flores said the running gunbattle, which lasted for almost 15 minutes, took place after residents in the area, who were complaining of rebel extortion activities, reported their presence to the 62IB.

He also reported that NPA rebels are now suffering from hunger and exhaustion as their emissaries encountered difficulties in finding supplies of foods and other basic needs because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

https://www.visayandailystar.com/2020/August/14/topstory10.htm

How a “wanted” Abu Sayyaf leader who flew to Davao with Nur on Sunday was arrested in his house on Thursday

From MindaNews (Aug 14, 2020): How a “wanted” Abu Sayyaf leader who flew to Davao with Nur on Sunday was arrested in his house on Thursday

DAVAO CITY (MindaNews / 14 August) – Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) founding chair Nur Misuari flew out of Jolo, Sulu on Sunday morning on board a private aircraft bound for this city, in the company of a notorious Abu Sayyaf leader wanted by the governments of the Philippines and Malaysia for a series of cross-border kidnappings.

Abu Sayyaf commander Abduljihad “Edang” Susukan, who allegedly surrendered to Misuari in Sulu in April, left Jolo with the MNLF leader on a Bombardier Challenger 350 aircraft with tail number RP-C7588 on Sunday, anticipating he would meet President Rodrigo Duterte here and undergo a procedure for a prosthetic left arm.

Four days later, on Thursday evening, he was “handed over” by Misuari in his house in an otherwise quiet subdivision in Ma-a, whose neighbors, most of them preparing dinner, were disrupted by the sudden arrival of police, including SWAT teams and an armored personnel carrier.

Photographs at the Jolo airport on Sunday morning showed Sulu Governor Sakur Tan and Joint Sulu Task Force chief, Maj. Gen. Corleto Vinluan sending off Misuari. It is not clear if Tan and Vinluan knew Susukan was with Misuari. MindaNews asked Tan in a text message on Friday but he sent no reply. Vinluan could not be reached.

An MNLF source in Jolo told MindaNews Susukan may not have been recognized because he was clean shaven and now wore his hair short.

MNLF founding chair Nur Misuari and party board this aircraft in Jolo, Sulu, on Sunday morning, 9 August 2020, en route to Davao City. Misuari’s party included Abu Sayyaf leader Abduljihad “Edang” Susukan, who is wanted by the governments of the Philippines and Malaysia for cross-border kidnappings. Photo courtesy of MNLF

According to flightaware.com, the private jet left Jolo at 9:47 a.m. on Sunday, August 9, and arrived at 10:43 a.m. in Davao City, hometown of the President who has been staying in the city since August 3.

The aircraft bearing that tail number has been used several times by President Duterte in his domestic travels and in travels to neighboring ASEAN countries.

The private jet with tail number RP-C5788 has been used several times by President Rodrigo Duterte in his domestic travels and travels to neighboring ASEAN countries. ABS-CBN News showed photographs of the plane when the President arrived in Bali in October 2018.

Susukan’s arrival here was not made public until Thursday although photographs of Misuari landing at the airport on Sunday were initially posted on social media by his followers but the photographs, accompanied by a note from the chief of the MNLF in Davao thanking an official close to the President for facilitating the use of the aircraft, could no longer be viewed on Thursday. The contents of hashtag #MaasArrival are gone as well.

MindaNews sent a query to the official who was thanked for the use of the aircraft but the official has yet to reply as of 4 p.m. Friday.

From presentation to arrest

MindaNews checked with Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Carlito Galvez on the status of Susukan given that he is wanted by the Philippine and Malaysian governments and he is with Misuari. They sent no reply.

But Lorenzana told the Defense Press Corps in Manila that he had spoken with the Eastern Mindanao Commander and “he was also unaware why Misuari and Susukan are together in Davao.” Lorenzana added: “Susukan is wanted by the military.”

Republic Act 11479 or the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 which was approved last month, is on its first month of implementation.

MindaNews sources in Davao City and Sulu said arrangements were being made for a meeting between President Duterte and Misuari, who was expected to present Susukan to him. Strict health protocols imposed on visitors of the President require COVID-19 RT-PCR testing so no presentation could be done immediately.

An exclusive report in The Star newspaper in Malaysia datelined Kota Kinabalu alerted Philippine authorities on the presence of Abu Sayyaf leader Abdujihad “Edang” Susukan in Davao City, “spotted with Misuari.”

But something happened on Thursday that completely altered the plan: Susukan’s presence in Davao City was made public by Malaysia’s The Star newspaper, in an “exclusive report” from Kota Kinabalu titled “Militant spotted moving freely.”

The report said the terrorist, wanted for murder, kidnapping, etc.. was “spotted with” Misuari in Davao City.

In December last year, Duterte appointed Misuari as Special Economic Envoy on Islamic Affairs to the Organization of Islamic Cooperation to “foster further lasting relationships with the leaders of the Islamic countries.”

The President has been based for nearly two weeks in this city where he served as mayor for 22 years. His daughter Sara, is the incumbent mayor.

MindaNews checked with the mayor Thursday night on the reported presence of Susukan in the city, through City Information Office Jefry Tupas. The mayor said Susukan was in the custody of the Davao City Police Office and police chief, Col. John Kirby Kraft would issue a statement shortly.

MindaNews sent a text message to Kraft if his office arrested Susukan or Misuari surrendered Susukan to them. He sent no reply.

Shortly before 11 p.m. Thursday, Kraft sent MindaNews a copy of a press release titled “PNP Chief Gamboa: Misuari hands over Abu Sayyaf leader in Davao; 39 warrants of arrest served” with accompanying photos of Susukan in custody.

Mayor Sara

According to the press release, officials of the Philippine National Police (PNP) “initiated the negotiation after finding out that Susukan was brought to Davao City to seek medical attention.”

“The PNP immediately advised Mayor Inday Sara Duterte who assured us her full cooperation and assistance, to ensure the peaceful handover and orderly transfer of custody to appropriate authorities,” it said.

Abduljihad “Edang” Susukan, Abu Sayyaf leader, arrived with Moro National Liberation Front chair Nur Misuari in Davao City on Sunday, 9 August 2020. He was arrested in Misuari’s residence on Thursday evening, 13 August 2020. Photo courtesy of Davao City Police Office

It added that Susukan was served 39 warrants of arrest — 23 cases of Murder, 10 for kidnapping and serious illegal detention, and six for frustrated murder – in Misuari’s Davao City residence in Ma-a and after his “handover” to Kraft Thursday night, was to undergo a medical check up in Camp Quintin Merecido Hospital in the PNP’s regional camp in Catitipan.

Susukan, the press release said, would then be brought to the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ main headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo.

“We thank Chairman Nur Misuari for facilitating the negotiation between the PNP, headed by PCol Kirby John Kraft, Davao City Police Director, and Edang Susukan,” Gamboa said.

An MNLF source in Jolo told MindaNews that Misuari, whose closeness with the President is public knowledge, was going to present Susukan to his friend, the President, but “did not foresee Mayor Sara and did not think how firm and strong she is” in having Susukan arrested as soon as she found out he was in the city.

Two-hour negotiation

Kraft told MindaNews on Friday morning that the negotiations for Susukan’s arrest started at 6 p.m. Thursday and by 8 p.m. they had taken him in.

Was there resistance from Misuari, MindaNews asked. Kraft replied, “wala naman kasi pinaliwanag namin na maraming warrants of arrest” (because we explained there were many warrants of arrest) for Susukan.

He clarified that there were 34 warrants of arrest, not 39, as indicated in Gamboa’s press release, as five bore the same case numbers. Out of 34, he said, 23 were for murder, five for kidnapping and serious illegal detention and the rest were for frustrated murder.

Warrant of arrest served on Abduljihad “Edang” Susukan, a “wanted” Abu Sayyaf leader, outside the residence of MNLF chair Nur Misuari in Davao City on Thursday evening, 13 August 2020. Col. John Kirby Kraft, city police chief, led the arresting team. Photo courtesy of Davao City Police Office

Kraft said they learned about Susukan’s presence Thursday afternoon when reporters asked about The Star’s report.

He said they immediately launched operations to locate Susukan and serve him the warrants of arrest. Kraft said he coordinated with the national headquarters in Camp Crame and in Sulu for copies of the warrants of arrest.

He said they were not aware of Susukan’s arrival on Sunday. “Kung Sunday pa, baka Sunday pa yan na-arrest” (if we had known Sunday, he would have been arrested Sunday), Kraft said.

Kraft led the police team that went to Misuari’s residence in Ma-a.

He said the armored personnel carrier was brought by the military under Task Force Davao.

He explained that although it was “purely law enforcement,” it is usual in Davao City that the Task Force Davao accompanies them.

“It was a negotiated arrest,” MindaNews said. Kraft replied: “kahit naman di sila pumayag, ise-serve pa rin natin” (even if they did not agree, we would still serve the warrants).

“Nakaready kami. Marami tayong police pati SWAT pina-ready ko” (We were ready.There were many police and I also asked the SWAT to be ready).

He said he could not say if there were firearms in Misuari’s house but he was glad the arrest was “peaceful.”

Kraft said Susukan would be flown to Manila “anytime today” and will be brought to Camp Aguinaldo.

Cross-border abductions

The Star said Susukan was involved in a spate of cross-border abductions in Sabah’s east coast since 2013, among them Chinese national Gao Huayun and Filipina Marcy Darawan in Singamata Reef Resort on Semporna waters on April 2, 2014; Chinese national Yang Zai Lin in Wonderful Terrace Fish in Lahad Datu on May 6, 2014; Malaysian Chan Sai Chun from his fish farm in Kampung Sapang in Kunak on June 16, 2014; Sarawakian tourist Bernard Then and Sabahan restaurant owner Thien Nyuk Fan from Ocean King Seafood Restaurant in Sandakan on May 14, 2015.

MNLF chair Nur Misuari shakes the hand of Sulu Governor Abdusakur Tan on Sunday, August 9, 2020 at the airport in Jolo, Sulu before boarding a private aircraft that would bring him to Davao City. Photo courtesy of MNLF

MNLF chair Nur Misuari shakes the hand of Maj. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, commander of Joint Task Force Sulu, at the airport in Jolo, Sulu on 9 August 2020, before boarding the aircraft that would take him to Davao City. Among Misuari’s party was his wife Tarhata (extreme right) and as later revealed, Abu Sayyaf leader Abduljihad “Edang” Susukan who is wanted by the governments of the Philippines and Malaysia. Photo courtesy of MNLF

It said Susukan was “involved in many direct and indirect negotiations for the release of hostages kidnapped from Sabah waters over the years” and was involved in the beheading of Then in Sulu on November 17, 2015.

According to The Star, Misuari and Susukan arrived in Davao City on Tuesday. Misuari and Susukan actually arrived here on Sunday, not Tuesday.

Citing “regional intelligence sources,” The Star reported that Misuari brought Susukan with him here “to have him fitted with a prosthetic replacement for his left arm, which he lost during a gun battle with the Philippine armed forces in Jolo Island early last year.”

Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, who was Western Mindanao Command chief until he assumed the post of Army Chief on August 4, told MindaNews on Friday that Susukan “had realized that being a member of the ASG does not do good at all.”

But on his criminal liabilities, Sobejana stressed “the rule of law should be given due course to give justice to the victims of his atrocities.”

“I welcome (Susukan) to the society of peace-loving Filipinos,” Sobejana added.

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2020/08/how-a-wanted-abu-sayyaf-leader-who-flew-to-davao-with-nur-on-sunday-was-arrested-in-his-house-on-thursday/

Families of Inopacan Purging victims receive P3.463-M worth of livelihood assistance from DOLE

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 14, 2020): Families of Inopacan Purging victims receive P3.463-M worth of livelihood assistance from DOLE (By Olive P. Tiu)

AMGUHAN, Baybay City, Aug. 13 (PIA) - It was a happy and ‘moving on’ day for the surviving families of the victims of the Inopacan Atrocity in the '80s, when they received some P3.463 Million livelihood assistance from the Department of Labor and Employment Region 8.

The surviving families in four Baybay City barangays, two barangays in Mahaplag and one barangay in Inopacan formed themselves into associations with the assistance from the LGUs, DOLE and other government agencies.

The associations themselves identified the livelihood activities they want to engage in. So far, the Associations in the four barangays of Baybay City have completed the requirements and were ready to receive their financial assistance.

The distribution was conducted during the Convergence Activity of the Leyte Task Force-ELCAC PRLE Cluster at Amguhan, Baybay City on August 10.

No less than DOLE Region 8 Director Yahya Centi led in the ceremonial distribution of Financial Assistance to the Associations of the surviving families.

The Regional Director presented to the Amguhan Association the amount of P997,350 for its egg-laying livelihood project.

The Monterico Association, being a rice producing community was given P990,600 for its farm machineries project.

The Ampihanon Association received P478,000 for egg-laying project; while the Kabunga-an Association received P997,250 for its swine production project.

The DOLE Regional Director said the other three barangays, two from Mahaplag and one in Inopacan have yet to complete their requirements.

It is hoped that the assistance together with those from the Local Government Unit of Baybay City and other government agencies, will improve the economic status of these families and the community they are living in.

Meanwhile, the LGUs and the other agencies will continue to monitor and assist the members of the seven associations comprising the surviving families of the victims of CTG atrocities in the '80s. (PIA-8)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1050215

Northern Samar opens PTF-ELCAC Operation Center

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 14, 2020): Northern Samar opens PTF-ELCAC Operation Center (By Ailene N. Diaz)



CATARMAN, Northern Samar, 13 August (PIA) -- The province of Northern Samar opens the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict PTF-ELCAC Operation Center in a simple gathering on August 11, 2020.

“This may be the first OpCen in the province and in the whole island of Samar and I thank the Governor Edwin Marino Ongchuan for giving us the location to put up this Operation Center,” said DILG Provincial Director Danilo Laguitan.

“More than just the facility, this represents the collective efforts of the Nortehanon under the leadership of Governor Ongchuan for our quest for sustainable peace,“ added Laguitan.

DILG said, the center will be the coordination and consolidating area of PTF-ELCAC activities of the province for its daily, monthly and quarterly reports collated from different clusters and 24 LGUs Municipal Task Force.

In concept, the reporting hub for the PTF-ELCAC activities which will be manned 24/7 by the representatives coming from the 12 clusters.

During the short program, DILG presented the guidelines in the establishment and management of the operation center and acquainted the task force on the functions, organization structure and staffing pattern, duties and responsibilities and details on the submission of reports.

Governor Edwin Ongchuan led the ribbon cutting to officially open the center for operation, assisted by DILG Provincial Director Danilo Laguitan with Board Member Florencio “Fawa” Batula, chair of Peace and Order/Public Safety and a representative of 803rd Brigade Commander, Philippine Army.

The Operation Center is located at the ground floor of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office within the New Capitol Compound, Catarman, Northern Samar. (ADiaz/PIA-Northern Samar)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1050213

Convergence effort for insurgency-affected villages in Iloilo unveiled

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 14, 2020): Convergence effort for insurgency-affected villages in Iloilo unveiled (By Lilibeth A. French)



ILOILO CITY, Aug. 14 (PIA) - - A convergence effort that would harmonize the delivery of government services and programs on poverty reduction, livelihood and employment in identified insurgency-affected villages in the province of Iloilo was unveiled on Tuesday, August 11.

The convergence effort between member agencies of the Iloilo Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist (PTF-ELCAC) Poverty Reduction, Livelihood and Employment Cluster (PRLEC) and the local government units commenced in Tubungan town with Project TAMPAD (Tampad nga Serbisyo alay sa Masa Paadto sa Asenso kag Dunang Pag-ugwad) aimed at implementing various skills training for livelihood development program of identified farmers, indigenous peoples and former rebels in Barangay Boloc.

Boloc is the model target barangay in the implementation of the Retooled Community Support Program and pilot barangay for ELCAC activities in the municipality.

Technical Education and Skills Development Authority 6 (TESDA) Regional Director and PRLEC Head Gaspar Gayona said the skills training expected to start this month is just an initial program under the convergence effort during the launching activity held at Tubungan covered gym.

Some 125 slots for five skills trainings worth P2.6 million were made available by TESDA for program recipients in Boloc under its Training for Work Scholarships Program. The skills training courses include organic agriculture production, grains production, masonry NCI, carpentry NCII and shielded metal arc welding NCI.

Gayona urged recipients to own and take care of the program intended to improve their living condition.

“Gina-challenge namon kamo nga dapat tampad man ang partisipasyon ninyo, kanugon ang oras ninyo kay inyo dya nga programa” (We are challenging you to participate sincerely, your time is precious since this is your own program), he said.

In his short message, Boloc Punong Barangay Alejo Capio, Jr. expressed his gratitude to officials and representatives of PRLEC member agencies for their effort and determination to pursue the implementation of the program despite the problems on COVID 19.

He sought the cooperation of constituents to make the program successful so that their gratitude will also be appreciated by the government.

“Kung sarigan naton ang bulig sang gobyerno kon indi magtinguha kag indi magsuccessful, waay it pulos ang pagpasalamat ta kag indi maappreciate kang gobyerno. Ang tanan nga programa dya alalay da sanda kag kita mismo matigayon nga kon paano ang pag-umwad ang aton pangabuhi. Pero kun pabay-an lang naton kag waay sang kooperasyon kag indi magsuccessful, indi maapresyar sang aton nga gobyerno ang aton pagpasalamat” (If we rely on the help of the government and will not exert effort and will not succeed, our expression of gratitude will be useless and will not be appreciated by the government. All government programs are only a support and it is use who will work to uplift our lives. But if will just put it aside without cooperation and it will not succceed, the government will not appreciate our gratitude), said Capio.

Program recipients who attended the activity received face masks from TESDA and an alcohol dispenser to be placed in their barangay hall.

National Intelligence Coordinating Agency 6 led by Director Aldred Limoso distributed 50 packs containing face masks, alcohol, soap and face shields.

Aside from Gayona and Limoso, the launching activity was also attended by DILG Iloilo Director Teodora Sumagaysay, PA 61st IB 3ID Commanding Officer LTC Joel Benedict Batara, Mayor Roquito Tacsagon and representatives of PRLEC member agencies such as NCIP, DA, PCA, PIA, DENR, DPWH and DOLE, among others.

PRLEC is one of the 12 clusters or lines of effort of the NTF-ELCAC to implement the “Whole of Nation Approach” in solving local insurgency. (JSC/laf/PIA6 Iloilo)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1050226

Kinaray-a News: Anay mga rebelde nagbalik sa sabak kang gobyerno

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 14, 2020): Kinaray-a News: Anay mga rebelde nagbalik sa sabak kang gobyerno (By Liez'l Marie Lamasan)



SAN JOSE, Antique, Agosto 14 (PIA) -- Ginpresentar kang Philippine National Police (PNP) kag Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) kay Governor Rhodora Cadiao ang walo ka anay nga mga rebelde nagikan sa Northern kag Central Front kang probinsya nga nagsungka sa sabak kang gobyerno.

Sa sangka interbyu, ginpahayag ni Lt.Col. Joel Benedict Batara, Commander kang 61st Infantry Battalion, nga luyag kang kadya nga mga former rebels nga magbalik sa normal ang andang pangabuhi kaimaw kang anda nga pamilya.

Sa mensahe naman ni House Deputy Speaker kag Antique Lone District Loren Legarda, ana ginatib-ong ang importansya kang kalinong kag paghidaet ilabi na ang paghiwat kang peace talks sa mga rebelde.

Dugang pa, ana man nga ginarespeto ni Legarda ang kinamatarung kang tawo kag nagpahanumdom nga dapat paga-tratuhon kang mayad ang mga former rebels.

Sa bahin ni Gov. Cadiao, ana nga ginpasiguro ang pagtugro kang bulig sa mga anay nga mga rebelde.

"Siguro nakita ninyo na ngayon ay may pag-asa na para tayo ay magsama-sama kasi nakita ninyo na ang panahon ngayon ay iba na, kasi makabuol dun kamo ka ubra kag kang mga ayuda ", hambal ni Cadiao.

Angot kadya, ang mga nagkalain lain nga mga ahensya kang gobyerno kasubong kang Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) kag Provincial Planning and Development Office (PPDO) magahatag man kang bulig kananda. (JSC/LML-PIA6 Antique)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1050172

Army’s 3ID reaffirms commitment to IHL

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 14, 2020): Army’s 3ID reaffirms commitment to IHL (By Jemin B. Guillermo)

ILOILO CITY, Aug. 14 (PIA) -- The Philippine Army's 3rd Infantry Division reaffirmed its commitment to the International Humanitarian Law (IHL) as the country celebrated the IHL Day, August 12, 2020.

WEBINAR ON IHL. Personnel of 303rd Infantry Brigade in Negros Occidental participate in Webinar on International Humanitarian Law, one of the lined-up activities of the National Headquarters during the commemoration of IHL Day on August 12, 2020. (Photo by 3ID-DPAO)

As part of the month-long celebration, the military lined up a series of activities aimed at enhancing the understanding of the principles of IHL of its officers, enlisted personnel, and civilian employees, a media release from the Division’s Public Affairs Office said.

This includes participation in a webinar on IHL that was organized by its national headquarters and an online talk show which caters to the discussion on the International Humanitarian Law Violations of the communist terrorist NPAs against the Indigenous People Youth dubbed as "Magsasalaysay ang Katutubo at Kabataan, Makikinig ang Bayan."

Executive Order No. 134, s. 1999 declares every 12th day of August IHL Day to enhance the understanding of and enforce the adherence of public officials and law enforcement agencies to the principles of IHL.

The Philippines is a party to the Four Geneva Conventions of 12 August 1949 and accepts direct responsibility for the application of IHL.

TARPAULIN DISPLAY. Army’s 301st Infantry Brigade displays tarpaulin with collage of photos depicting troops’ full respect to human rights as part of the commemoration of the International Humanitarian Law (IHL) Day. (3ID-DPAO photo)

"We will continue to carry out our duties and responsibilities to protect our vulnerable citizens from possible human rights violations especially those caught in the middle of armed conflicts and assure total respect to their human rights as stipulated in the International Humanitarian Law," 3ID Spokesperson Major Cenon Pancito III said in a statement.

This year's theme "Preserving Human Dignity in Times of Armed Conflict: A Shared Human Responsibility" reminds us that as a member of a community, we shall continue to work hand in hand with the rest of the society to pursue an environment that has fullest regard and respect even to the least or our colleagues, Pancito said.

Meanwhile, the military condemned the communist terrorist group for its continued atrocities against civilians and non-combatants.

Very recent of which is when a minor was hastily shot by the NPAs in Tacayan, Tapaz, Capiz last month.

"We are one with the Visayan's fervent desires for genuine peace and complete victory against the New People's Army and its front organizations that continue to exploit and put the lives of innocent people at risk," Pancito added. (JBG-PIA6/With report and photos from 3ID-DPAO)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1050351

76 ex-Dawla Islamiya combatants receive livelihood starter kits

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 14, 2020): 76 ex-Dawla Islamiya combatants receive livelihood starter kits  (By Lou Ellen L. Antonio)

Seventy-six former members of the ISIS-linked Dawla Islamiya Local Terrorist Group (LTG) in Butig, Lanao del Sur will start a new beginning after receiving livelihood starter kits from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). (Angelo Dologmandin/ PIA ICIC) 

BUTIG, Lanao del Sur, Aug. 13 - Seventy-six former members of the ISIS-linked Dawla Islamiya Local Terrorist Group (LTG) here will start a new beginning after receiving livelihood starter kits from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

The distribution is part of DTI's support to promote social healing and peacebuilding including the reintegration of rebel returnees to the community.

Sixty-one sari-sari store starter kits and 15 school supply starter kits were awarded to the former rebels (FRs).

Dimnatang Radia, DTI-Task Force Bangon Marawi (TFBM) consultant, encouraged the rebel returnees to form a cooperative so that the assistance from the government will continue. He also called for their cooperation to achieve peace and progress.

“Magtulungan tayo. Tulungan natin ang programa ng ating pamahalaan sa usaping pangkapayapaan at kaunlaran. Inshallah, tuluy-tuloy ang inyong negosyo at magandang kabuhayan,” said Radia.

[We should work hand-in-hand. Let us help the program of our government to pursue peace and development. God willing, your business will prosper and continue.]

Wahab (not his real name), one of the rebel returnees, shares his sentiments and concerns during an open forum during the distribution of livelihood starter kits by the Department of Trade and Industry. ( Lou Ellen Antonio/ PIA ICIC)

Commitment for coordination with concerned agencies
TFBM Field Office Manager Assistant Secretary Felix Castro Jr. shared that there are rules and regulations that the government follows such as procurement processes which can affect the delivery of services for them.

“May mga pangako ang gobyerno pero hindi lahat nasusunod agad kasi hindi ganon kabilis ang sistema sa gobyerno dahil may rules and regulations,” Castro said.

[The government has promises that are not provided immediately because the system is not that fast due to rules and regulations.]

However, Castro emphasized that the government does not forget the promises to the FRs.

“Hindi nakakalimot ang gobyerno. Iyong pinangako niya as much as possible ay tutuparin iyan. Kaya kami nandito dahil isa sa pangako ng gobyerno na kayo ay tulungan,” he added.

[The government does not forget. It will fulfill its promises as much as possible. This is why we are here because it is one of the government’s promises to help you.]

He also reiterated the commitment of TFBM in coordinating with concerned agencies which promised to give them livelihood and other assistance after they have returned to the folds of the law.

He also said that it is not the TFBM that will provide assistance to them, the TFBM's role is to follow-up and coordinate with the agencies as to how they will be supported.

An open forum was also held wherein the FRs were able to voice out their sentiments and concerns.

Wahab (not his real name), one of the returnees, thanked the local government for, DTI, TFBM, and other key agencies for the assistance given to them.

“I’m very happy and thankful to this program especially to the local government, DTI, TFBM, and some agencies. We are very thankful because of their help. At saka nasagot yung mga katanungan namin. Ngayon ko naramdaman na maganda ang pagsagot sa akin [Because our questions were answered. I felt how good my questions were answered,” he said.

Meanwhile, Saga Pagariongan, DTI-TFBM consultant said that he will relay to the DTI Central Office the sentiments of the FRs which is to have a sustainable livelihood program.

The 55th Engineering Brigade provides manpower and hauling assistance for the distribution of livelihood starter kits by the Department of Trade and Industry to the former members of the ISIS-linked Dawla Islamiya Local Terrorist Group (LTG).

Call for unity and perseverance

Butig Mayor Dimnatang Pansar has called for unity in achieving peace.

“Pagtulung-tulungan na makamit natin ang kapayapaan hindi lang sa Butig kundi sa buong Bangsamoro para maisulong ang pagbabago at kaunlaran ng ating region at bansa,” said Pansar.

[We should work hand-in-hand so that we will achieve peace not only here in Butig but in the whole Bangsamoro region to promote change and development in the region and our country.]

Meanwhile, LTC. Romulus B. Rabara, battalion commander of the 5th Infantry Battalion, encouraged the FRs to utilize the assistance provided to them properly.

“Pahalagahan ang effort ng gobyerno para magkaroon ng kabuhayan at kapayaapan. Huwag hayaan na mabalewa ito at mapabayaan ang kabuhayan at bumalik sa pakikidigma,” said Rabara.

[Appreciate the government's effort for you to have a livelihood and peace. Do not let it be neglected that will force you to return to war.]

Rabara also urged them to be serious about having a new life.

“Sa mga former rebels, seryosohin ang pagbabahong buhay. Habang tinutulungan kayo tulungan niyo din sarili ninyo,” he added.

[To the former rebels, take seriously your new lives. While help is given to you, help yourself also.]

Asec. Pendatun Disimban of Cooperative Development Authority has also called on the perseverance of the FRs in using the assistance given to them.

To recall, the rebel returnees were profiled by the 103rd Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army through its unit battalions.

The 55th Engineering Brigade also provided hauling assistance for the said starter kits.

DTI also targets to distribute the same assistance to FRs in Piagapo. (LELA/PIA ICIC)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1050245

Top Abu Sayyaf leader arrested in Davao

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 14, 2020): Top Abu Sayyaf leader arrested in Davao (By Che Palicte)



Mugshot of Abu Sayyaf leader Abduljihad "Edang" Susukan. (Photo courtesy of Davao City Police Office)

The Davao City Police Office (DCPO) arrested a top leader of the terrorist Abu Sayyaf Group here on Thursday evening.

Col. Kirby Kraft, DCPO director, said they served the warrant of arrest to Abduljihad "Edang" Susukan at the residence of Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) chairman Nur Misuari in Yñigue Subdivision in Barangay Ma-a.
Susukan is also wanted in Malaysia for cross-border kidnappings on the east coast of Sabah and other criminal activities in Jolo, Sulu.

He said police officers initiated the negotiation after finding out that Susukan was brought to the city to seek medical attention.

Kraft told Philippine News Agency Friday that upon receiving an intelligence report that Susukan was in the city, they immediately secured his warrant of arrest from Sulu and Camp Crame.

Susukan has standing arrest warrants for 23 counts of murder, 10 counts of kidnapping and serious illegal detention, and six counts of frustrated murder.

“He is in our custody right now and we are processing his transfer. Anytime today he will be transferred to Manila,” Kraft said.

In a statement, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief, Gen. Archie Gamboa has also confirmed the arrest of Susukan being facilitated by DCPO.

He also thanked Misuari for facilitating the negotiation.

“The PNP immediately advised Mayor Sara Duterte who assured us her full cooperation and assistance, to ensure the peaceful handover and orderly transfer of custody to appropriate authorities, ” Gamboa said.

Susukan will undergo a medical checkup at the Camp Quintin Merecido Hospital before being turned over to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

No immunity from arrest despite surrender

Meanwhile, the AFP said the reported surrender of Susukan to Misuari does not make him immune from arrest.

Marine Maj. Gen. Edgard Arevalo, AFP spokesperson, issued the statement on Thursday night following initial information on the sightings of the Abu Sayyaf leader along with Misuari in Davao City early this week.

"His giving himself up to Mr. Misuari is not the surrender contemplated under the law and does not make him immune from arrest," he added.

Susukan, who is wanted for numerous crimes and atrocities, surrendered to Misuari in Jolo, Sulu last April.

"We are aware of the criminal cases that Susukan faces and the felonies he was charged to have committed," Arevalo said.

He added that the AFP has taken "cognizance" of this report and remains committed to the rule of law and legal processes.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1112222

Army recovers NPA arms cache in MisOr

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 14, 2020): Army recovers NPA arms cache in MisOr



ARMS CACHE. Government troops discover an arms cache belonging to the communist New People's Army in the Misamis Oriental town of Claveria on Aug. 9, 2020. The Army's 58th Infantry Battalion says a former NPA combatant provided the location of the firearms and hundreds of ammunition. (Photo courtesy 58IB)

Acting on information provided by a former New People's Army (NPA) rebel, government troops recovered a firearms cache belonging to the communist guerillas in the Misamis Oriental town of Claver last weekend.

In a statement Friday, the Army's 58th Infantry Battalion (59IB) said the arms cache discovered on Aug. 9 in a remote area in Barangay Poblacion, Claveria consisted of high-power firearms and hundreds of ammunition.

Lt. Col. Ricky Canatoy, 58IB commander, said the recovery was made possible after a former NPA rebel divulged the location of the arms cache to authorities.

“This proves that the former rebels are disappointed and tired of the NPA atrocities. Likewise, this indicates that they shifted their support from the CNTs to the government. Now, they want to return and live with their families in a peaceful and harmonious community," Canatoy was quoted as saying.

Further searches in the village also led to the discovery of more ammunition, a high-power firearm, five detonating cords with blasting caps, subversive documents, and medical supplies as well as surgical equipment belonging to the rebels, Canatoy said.

The NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1112261

'NPA' killed, 2 soldiers injured in NegOr clashes

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 14, 2020): 'NPA' killed, 2 soldiers injured in NegOr clashes (By Mary Judaline Partlow)



ENCOUNTERS. Two soldiers of the 62nd IB of the Philippine Army were wounded and one suspected NPA was killed during an encounter at Barangay Sandayao in Guihulngan City around noon Friday (Aug. 14, 2020). Helicopters were deployed for troop insertion in the area. (Photo courtesy of 303rd Brigade)

Two soldiers of the 62nd Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army were wounded while a suspected New People’s Army (NPA) member was killed during two encounters around noon Friday at Sitio Tabago in Barangay Sandayao, Guihulngan City in Negros Oriental.

Col. Inocencio Pasaporte, the 303rd Brigade commander, said two simultaneous encounters transpired in the vicinity of Sitio Tabago, with the government troops encountering two separate groups of suspected NPAs in the hinterlands of Guihulngan City.

The 62nd IB soldiers were on combat security patrol, tracking down the suspected rebels when the encounters ensued.

A 30-minute running gun-battle followed while helicopter gunships were also deployed to the area in Guihulngan City for troops insertion.

The report from the 3rd Infantry Division of the Philippine Army, through Maj. Cenon Pancito, said the first group of soldiers encountered around 15 suspected NPA members of the SYP Platoon, CN1 at Sitio Maluy-a, Barangay Sandayao, while another group of soldiers clashed with more or less 20 suspected NPA members of the SYP Platoon, CN1 at the vicinity of Sitio Tabago in the same barangay.

The report said two soldiers were wounded, one suspected NPA was killed (body count) while another was “being revived” in the encounters.

However, it was unclear from which encounter the casualties came from.

Hot pursuit operations continue as of press time. “The Army is in control of the situation. We assure everyone that despite the pandemic crisis, we will not put our guards down and allow the NPAs to sow fear in the communities,” Pasaporte said.

“We will pursue the NPAs to eradicate them in Negros Island,” he added.

The NPA, together with the Communist Party of the Philippines, is listed as a terrorist organization by the United Kingdom, the European Union, the United States, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1112331

Army fetes local execs for supporting peace, dev’t programs

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 14, 2020): Army fetes local execs for supporting peace, dev’t programs (By Edwin Fernandez)



RECOGNIZED. North Cotabato Governor Nancy Catamco receives a plaque of recognition from the Army’s 6th Infantry Division commander, Maj. Gen. Diosdado Carreon, during a ceremony held at Camp Siongco, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao on Thursday (Aug. 13, 2020). Catamco and other governors in Central Mindanao were recognized for their support for the campaign against criminality and terrorism, as well as peace and development programs in the region. (Photo courtesy of 6ID)

Military authorities in Central Mindanao have recognized the contribution of local government executives in the campaign against criminality, terrorism, and lawlessness and their support for peace and development programs.

“We value your contribution, especially in our efforts to save lives and make our communities safe for our people,” said Maj. Gen. Diosdado Carreon, commander of the 6th Infantry Division (6ID), as he handed over a plaque of recognition to North Cotabato Governor Nancy Catamco on Thursday.

Carreon presented the governor with a plaque of recognition and the “6ID Kampilan Box” in recognition of her invaluable contribution to the mission accomplishments of the military unit, during rites held at the 6ID headquarters in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao.

Catamco said she was honored by the recognition.

“Outside the battlefield, there are many ways of manifesting your bravery and heroism without shedding blood or sacrificing your life," she said.

The 6ID operates in the provinces of Maguindanao, Sultan Kudarat, South Cotabato, and parts of North Cotabato, Lanao del Sur, and Sarangani.

Earlier, Carreon also awarded plaques of appreciation to Sultan Kudarat Governor Suharto Teng Mangudadatu, Maguindanao Governor Bai Mariam Sangki-Mangudadatu, South Cotabato Governor Reynaldo Tamayo, and Sarangani Governor Steve Solon.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1112278

Navy engineers to survey Fuga Island for base construction

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 14, 2020): Navy engineers to survey Fuga Island for base construction (By Priam Nepomuceno)



Philippine Navy chief, Vice Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo. (File photo)

The Philippine Navy (PN) on Friday said it will soon deploy engineers to Fuga Island in Cagayan province to determine the best location for the building of a proposed naval detachment and other facilities.

"We are going to send Navy engineers there to survey the area where is the best location for the naval detachment and also for them to get the detailed architectural and engineering plans," said Navy chief, Vice Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo, in an interview with reporters.

Bacordo earlier said President Rodrigo R. Duterte has instructed that some 20 hectares in the area be given to the PN for the construction of a naval detachment.

The Northern Luzon Command on August 8 thru the Naval Forces Northern Luzon established a Marine detachment in the area to constitute and execute the plans of the Armed Forces of the Philippines to build defense facilities on the island, which will include a sheltered pier, a naval station, and a littoral monitoring station.

"So Navy engineers will be going to Fuga Island physically to survey (on where) the littoral monitoring station will be put. It should be ideally (placed at the) highest point of the island," he added.

Bacordo said a littoral monitoring station is a physical structure equipped with radars, radio equipment and electro-optical devices so that all ships in the area are monitored and manned round-the-clock by PN personnel.

"(The) radar and the electro-optical equipment can monitor ships as far as 24 miles out, the higher your location, the better, you go even further, so you can monitor all ships and even communicate with these ships," he added.

Meanwhile, the naval detachment, Bacordo said, should be near the sea and in a protected location so that it will not be exposed to the elements.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1112297

AFP to fly arrested Abu Sayyaf leader to Manila

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 14, 2020): AFP to fly arrested Abu Sayyaf leader to Manila (By Priam Nepomuceno)



Mugshot of Abu Sayyaf leader Abduljihad "Idang" Susukan. (Photo courtesy of Davao City Police Office)

Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) sub-commander Abduljihad “Idang” Susukan will be flown from Davao City to Manila aboard a military aircraft and afterward transferred to police custody, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said on Friday.

In a message to reporters, AFP spokesperson, Marine Major Gen. Edgard Arevalo, said Susukan will be escorted by a contingent of military and police personnel during his transfer.

"Per the arrangement between AFP chief Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay and PNP (Philippine National Police) chief Gen. Archie Gamboa and to facilitate the movement and simplify the processes, Susukan will be handed over by the composite security escort to the PNP upon disembarkation at the airport," Arevalo said.

He added that Susukan will be under the temporary custody of the PNP pending a commitment order from the court as to where he will be detained.

Meanwhile, Gapay said the arrest of Susukan was a major blow on the leadership of this Islamic State-inspired ASG.

One of the Susukan siblings, Mujib, had been neutralized by AFP operating units in May 2003.

Meanwhile, his brother Almujahid was arrested in September 2009 and is currently in jail.

Gapay also said he has directed field unit commanders in Mindanao to further intensify focused military operations to prevent possible retaliation by Idang’s followers.

The operation is also aimed at forcing the surrender or neutralization of terrorists, he added.

"The soldiers will continue to harness the support of the local populace and civilian leaders to degrade the number and capability of these local terrorists who have been gripping ZamBaSulTa (Zamboanga, Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi) residents in fear and panic," Gapay said.

On Thursday night, the Davao City Police arrested Susukan at the residence of Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) chairman Nur Misuari at the Yñigue Subdivision in Barangay Ma-a.

DCPO director, Col. Kirby Kraft said upon receiving an intelligence report that Susukan was in the city, they immediately secured his warrant of arrest from Sulu and Camp Crame.

He said police officers initiated the negotiation after finding out that Susukan was brought to the city to seek medical attention.

Misuari then facilitated the negotiation between the DCPO and Susukan which led to his peaceful arrest and transfer of custody.

Susukan has standing arrest warrants for 23 counts of murder, 10 counts of kidnapping and serious illegal detention, and six counts of frustrated murder.

He is also wanted in Malaysia for cross-border kidnappings on the east coast of Sabah and other criminal activities in Jolo, Sulu. (

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1112314