AFP Radio DWDD: Rebels suffer Setback in Bukidnon; Government Troops Recover Firearms

Posted to AFP Radio DWDD (May 23, 2022): Rebels suffer Setback in Bukidnon; Government Troops Recover Firearms

MAWAB, Davao De Oro – The 10th Infantry “Agila” Division unearthed an arms cache that contains six (6) high-powered firearms and war materiel at Brgy Sinaysayan, Kitaotao, Bukidnon on May 20, 2022.

 
Two (2) M16A1 rifles, two (2) M4 Carbines, one (1) M653 rifle, one (1) M14 rifle, four (4) M16 magazines, and four (4) bandoliers were recovered by the troops of the 72nd Infantry “Gabay” Battalion stationed in Arakan, North Cotabato.

 
Lieutenant Colonel Jose C Regonay Jr., Commanding Officer of 72IB, said that the location of the arms cache was revealed by Mayunie Man-inday Sayad alias “King”, 31 years old and a full-time member of Guerilla Front 57, who surrendered to their unit on May 19. He also said that Sayad surrendered because of fear and hunger caused by the sustained Focus-Military Operations (FMO) conducted by the troops. He added that it was Brgy Chairman Thelma Hilaria of Brgy New Kabalantian who helped Sayad in surrendering peacefully to the government forces.

 
Moreover, according to Sayad, they decided to bury the said firearms due to exhaustion from carrying it while they were escaping from the FMO launched by 72IB.

 
Meanwhile, Agila Division Commander MGen Nolasco A Mempin lauded 72IB for their relentless effort to end the Communist Insurgency in their area of operations. He also thanked the community, especially the local leaders in the area, for their continuous support to the government forces.

 
“To the remaining Communist NPA Terrorists, we again call for your surrender. Just like Sayad, you can choose to peacefully surrender and avail of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program. However, if you choose otherwise, rest assured that 10ID will use its military might to destroy the Communist Terrorist Group that brought violence and fear to our countrymen for the past five decades.” MGen Mempin added.

 
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AFP Radio DWDD: NPA leader surrenders in Mt Province

Posted to AFP Radio DWDD (May 23, 2022): NPA leader surrenders in Mt Province

FORT MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija -- The Commander of the 7th Infantry (KAUGNAY) Division, Philippine Army MGEN ANDREW D COSTELO PA, welcomed the surrender of a Squad Uno Team leader of Komiteng Larangang Guerrilla - Abra-Mt.Province-Ilocos Sur (KLG-AMPIS) on May 21, 2022.

 
MGEN COSTELO identified the NPA personality as Jerome Calsiyao alias “Dennis” a native of Brgy. Basao, Tinglayan, Kalinga. The said NPA leader surrendered with his firearms in possession, which were identified as one 5.56mm M16A1 rifle and one Cal .30 M1 Carbine.

Alias Dennis' surrender was facilitated by the troops of the 69th Infantry (COUGAR) Battalion, Philippine Army, spearheaded by LTC MARCELO VALDEZ JR and some personnel from 1st Mountain Province PMFC.

“We welcome the decision of alias Dennis to surrender to the authorities. There are benefits under the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) that he can avail to help him live a new life. Our call remains for those KLG-AMPIS members to surrender and give peace a chance,” said MGEN COSTELO.

 
In connection to this concession, it can be remembered that last May 16, a member of KLG-AMPIS identified as alias “Lito” a resident of Brgy. Kili, Tubo, Abra also surrendered to 69IB with one Elisco M16A1 rifle, one Garand rifle, one short magazine, and nine 5.56mm live ammunition.

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AFP Radio DWDD: 5 Former Rebels Receive Livelihood Assistance in Ilocos Sur

Posted to AFP Radio DWDD (May 23, 2022): 5 Former Rebels Receive Livelihood Assistance in Ilocos Sur

FORT MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija -- As part of the government’s efforts to assist and give hope to the Former NPA Rebels, in their reintegration to the mainstream society, the Department of Labor and Employment Ilocos Sur in partnership with the 71st Infantry (KAIBIGAN) Battalion, Philippine Army, distributed livelihood starter kits to five FRs at the 71IB Headquarters, Paraesus Berde, Barangay Poblacion Norte, Lidlidda, Ilocos Sur on May 20, 2022.

According to the Commander of the 7th Infantry (KAUGNAY) Division, Philippine Army, MGEN ANDREW D COSTELO PA, said that the program was made successful through the concerted efforts of the 71IB, 69IB, 702nd Infantry (Defender) Brigade, and the Department of Labor and Employment of Ilocos Sur. In addition, the program is affirmatively intended to benefit the former members of the Kilusang Larangang Gerilya South Ilocos Sur (KLG-SIS) who returned to the folds of the law.
Each FR received 20,000 pesos worth of livelihood starter kits which includes sari-sari store packages, e-loading with sari-sari store, and fish ball retailing. 

“We are grateful to our DOLE Ilocos Sur headed by Ms. Charity A. Ubilas for their livelihood program benefiting our FRs. Malaking bagay po ito para makapagsimula na silang mamuhay ng mapayapa at malayo sa karahasan. That is why we are urging you to use this livelihood opportunity to help yourselves and your family for a better future,” said MGEN COSTELO. 

Meanwhile, alias ‘Juan’, one of the recipients, expressed his deepest gratitude to the Army, DOLE, and other government agencies who welcomed them openly upon their voluntary surrender and provided them with various assistance to help them start a new life. 

“Kahit kami ay galing sa kabila, na naging kalaban ng gobyerno, laking pasasalamat namin sa tulong ng Philippine Army at ng ibat’ibang ahensya ng gobyerno na nagbibigay sa amin ng pag-uumpisahan. Ito ay isa sa mga magagandang proyekto ng gobyerno at nakikita at nararamdaman namin iyon.

 Nagsurrender kami, nagbalik-loob kami, hindi pa nila kami pinabayaaan. Iba’t-ibang mga ahensya ng gobyerno ay nagtutulungan upang kami ay magabayan sa aming pagbabagong-buhay. Kaya nanawagan pa ako sa mga natitira naming mga kasama sa kabundukan na hindi pa huli ang lahat. Ang mga kasundaluhan ay mababait at totoong aalalay sa ating pagbabalik-loob. Totoo ang mga proyekto ng ating gobyerno para sa ating mga naligaw ng landas,” said Alias Juan.

Meanwhile, LTC MICHAEL BAUTISTA, Commanding Officer of 71IB, on behalf of Brigadier General Krishnamurti A Mortela PA, 702BDE Commander recognized the cooperation of the FRs to return to the folds of the law and start their lives anew away from hardships and risks in the terrorist organization.
Further, he expressed his gratitude to the Department of Labor and Employment for the agency’s unwavering support of the NTF-ELCAC.

DOLE Ilocos Sur OIC Ubilas, signified their assistance and support to Army under Executive Order No. 70. 

“The Department of Labor and Employment of Ilocos Sur is always open and willing to provide the necessary assistance to our brethren who chose to live peacefully and end the local communist armed conflict. This is our way to perform our task as one of the PRLEC member agencies to support the thrusts of the NTF-ELCAC so that peace and development will be achieved in our province,” said Ubilas.

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Navy to order 6 more patrol vessels from South Korea

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (May 23, 2022): Navy to order 6 more patrol vessels from South Korea (By: Frances Mangosing)

The Philippines picks South Korean shipbuilder Hyundai Heavy Industries to build six offshore patrol vessels for the Philippine Navy for P30 billion. The HHI’s OPV offer is based on HDP-1500 Neo design. (HHI)

The Philippines will order six offshore patrol vessels (OPVs) for P30 billion from South Korean shipbuilder Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) to boost its capability to protect national interests, particularly in the West Philippine Sea.

“I’m waiting for the Navy to finalize the terms of reference….We are close to issuing (the notice of award). I hope I can sign the contract before I leave office [on June 30]. The Navy has chosen Hyundai Heavy Industries to build the OPVs,” Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana told reporters on the sidelines of the Philippine Navy anniversary on Friday.

Boost inadequate fleet

Hyundai’s OPV offer is based on the HDP-1500 Neo design, which was presented at the Asia Defense and Security 2022 exhibition held in Manila last month. With an overall length of 81 meters, a displacement of 1,700 tons and a maximum speed of 21 knots, the new patrol ships are expected to be armed with 76mm naval guns and autocannons in remote controlled weapon stations.

They will also have provisions for antiship missile launchers, torpedo launchers, and a short range air defense system. They are seen as a boost to the Navy’s inadequate fleet, which saw the decommissioning of World War II-era vessels starting in 2020 without immediate replacements. The ships will be delivered yearly in batches of two, with the first batch expected to arrive four years after the contract signing.

Lorenzana said he hoped the incoming administration would continue the military’s modernization program.

The South Korean government is expected to hand over an additional refurbished Pohang-class corvette with the purchase of the OPVs, said a security official with knowledge of the deal’s details but not authorized to speak to the media. The Navy is also awaiting the transfer of a decommissioned Pohang-class corvette after the Philippines ordered two corvettes from HHI in December.

Hyundai—one of the world’s largest shipbuilders—beat Turkey’s ASFAT, its biggest rival for the Navy’s OPV acquisition project. Australian shipbuilder Austal was initially the preferred supplier since 2018, but the Department of Defense scrapped its plans in March after the former raised the price from P30 billion to P42 billion due to rising production costs.

The security official told the Inquirer that from May 10 to 14, the Navy conducted a postqualification inspection for the OPVs in South Korea and a recommendation to the special bids and awards committee was made on Friday.

Third contract

The impending contract with HHI will be the third for the Philippine government, following a deal in December for two corvettes worth P25 billion. The first deal, signed six years ago for two missile-capable frigates now known as Jose Rizal-class frigates worth P16 billion, was marred with controversies over the selection of combat management systems, prompting South Korea’s Ministry of Defense to settle the dispute.

The Korean government is also expected to turn over a refurbished K136 Kooryong multiple launch rocket system to the military next month.

A 10-man contingent from the Philippine Army and Philippine Marine Corps—the end users of the system—left for South Korea early this month to undergo training on its maintenance, operation and live firing, a defense official told the Inquirer.

Seoul is donating 22 K1361A rocket launchers, 22 KM809A1 rocket launcher trucks, 22 M60 ammunition carrier trucks and over 50,000 rocket ammunition to the military as excess defense articles.

Newest addition

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), on the other hand, will be getting an addition to its maritime assets with the arrival of its second 97-meter multirole response vessel (MRRV) next month.

The newest arrival will be named BRP Melchora Aquino. The first one, the BRP Teresa Magbanua, was recently commissioned into service.

According to the PCG, the second vessel is now at Shimonoseki Shipyard in Yamaguchi Prefecture in Japan, undergoing the last “harbor acceptance test and inspection.”

An inspection team will assess its functionality, quality and acceptability of works, equipment, machinery, parts and systems to ensure that technical specifications in the contract have been fully complied with.

The vessel will leave Japan on May 27 and is expected to arrive in the country on June 1.

Like BRP Teresa Magbanua, BRP Melchora Aquino was modeled after the Kunigami-class vessel of the Japanese Coast Guard, with a speed of 24 knots.

Able to withstand harsh weather conditions, it has also a maximum endurance of 7,408 kilometers (4,000 nautical miles), which makes it capable of conducting sustained maritime patrols in the country’s maritime jurisdiction.

The MRRVs will be used to strengthen the PCG’s maritime security, safety, law enforcement, search and rescue, and marine environmental protection capabilities.

In an earlier interview, PCG spokesperson Commodore Armand Balilo said that part of the new ships’ deployment would be the West Philippine Sea.

They can be deployed for longer period of time, around 15 to 20 days, compared to three to five days for the PCG’s other ships.

The new vessels were acquired by the Department of Transportation for the PCG under the Maritime Safety Capability Improvement Project Phase II project, funded by an Official Development Assistance loan from the Japan International Cooperation Agency.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1601162/navy-to-order-6-more-patrol-vessels-from-south-korea

Acting 6ID commander named

From the Manila Bulletin (May 23, 2022): Acting 6ID commander named (By Martin Sadongdong)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has identified Brig. Gen. Eduardo Gubat as the acting commander of the Philippine Army’s (PA) 6th Infantry Division based at Camp Siongco in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao.

Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., commanding general of the Philippine Army, presides over the joint retirement and change of command ceremony for Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy (middle), outgoing commander of 6th Infantry Division, and Brig. Gen. Eduardo Gubat (left), incoming 6ID commander, at Camp Siongco in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao on May 21, 2022. (Photo courtesy of 6th Infantry Division)

Gubat replaced Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy who retired from the military service on Saturday, May 21.

Prior to the designation, Gubat served as the commander of the 603rd Infantry Brigade under the 6ID.

He also held other key leadership posts including as commander of the Task Force GenSan in General Santos City; and deputy commander of the 1002nd Infantry Brigade under the 10th Infantry Division (10ID).

Gubat is a product of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) “Sambisig” Class of 1991.

Brig. Gen. Eduardo Gubat (Photo courtesy of 6th Infantry Division)

Meanwhile, Uy officially bowed out of service after reaching the mandatory retirement age of 56 years old. He served for 37 years in the military profession.

The joint retirement and change of command ceremony was presided by Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. at Camp Siongco.

In his speech, Brawner thanked Uy for his “dedicated and outstanding service to the Philippine Army and the Filipino people.”

Among the significant accomplishments of the 6ID under Uy’s leadership was the neutralization of Asim Karinda alias Abu Azim, the newly appointed “emir” of the Islamic State (IS)-linked Daulah Islamiyah, in December 2021.

Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy (Photo courtesy of 6th Infantry Division)

Aside from being the 6ID commander, Uy also served as the internal auditor and assistant chief of staff for intelligence of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP); commander of Joint Task Force Zamboanga; and assistant division commander of 6ID.

Uy is a member of the PMA “Makatao” Class of 1989.

https://mb.com.ph/2022/05/23/acting-6id-commander-named/

Philippine military: 2 suspected Muslim militants killed in Mindanao shootout

From BenarNews (May 19, 2022): Philippine military: 2 suspected Muslim militants killed in Mindanao shootout

Armed militants with the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, a group aligned with the so-called Islamic State extremist group, are shown in this file photograph taken in 2014 during a trip to BIFF’s remote hinterland encampment in Datu Unsay town in Maguindanao, southern Philippines.  Jeoffrey Maitem

Government forces killed two fugitive militants, who were suspected of supplying firearms to Muslim extremist groups in the southern Philippines, during a shootout in Mindanao and arrested two other suspects afterwards, military officials said Thursday.

The Army’s 6th Infantry Division, based in southern Maguindanao province, identified the slain suspects as Datu Romah Malang Mastura (alias Mamako) and Ebrahim Samama.

They died in a brief firefight that broke out as government soldiers and drug enforcement agents conducted a counter-narcotics operation in the town of Pigcawayan on Wednesday, said Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy, the regional military chief.

“The exchange of fire lasted for about five minutes which resulted in the death of Mastura and Samama and the enemy withdrew towards the south direction,” Uy told BenarNews.

The military identified the two suspects who were taken into custody after the shootout as Guiahed Akmad Toting and Ali Kamsa Guilay.

Mastura and Samama were among several inmates who had escaped from a heavily secured prison facility in nearby Kidapawan City in 2017. Intelligence operatives had tracked their movements since then, and their group allegedly had widened its criminal operation to include drug trafficking and selling firearms to local groups allied with Islamic State extremists.

The military said the two slain were among its list of “high-value targets” in the war against drugs. Authorities recovered from the scene an assortment of rifles and guns as well as six heat-sealed plastic sachets, containing meth drug paraphernalia.

The group to which the suspects belonged also was “providing finances and arms and other logistics support” to the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters and Daulah Islamiyah militant groups in the province, military officials said.

BIFF is a splinter group from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), a separatist group that has signed a peace pact with Manila, while the DI is the local arm of so-called Islamic State group.

The incoming administration of President-elect Ferdinand Marcos Jr. should expect a persistent presence of armed groups trying to advance their cause for a separate Islamic state in the Mindanao region, according to Rommel Banlaoi, a counter-terrorism analyst at the Philippine Institute for Peace, Violence and Terrorism Research.

“There are still few Muslim personalities opposing the government. They want full separation,” Banlaoi told BenarNews.

“Those active militants are remnants but there are new emerging leaders still aligned with the Islamic State,” he added.

However, Banlaoi noted that the numbers of BIFF and Daulah Islamiyah members are dwindling due to efforts to counter the financing of terrorism to mount attacks.

Other Daulah Islamiyah cells have worked with a faction that was behind a five-month siege of Marawi, a city in the southern Philippines, by pro-IS Filipino fighters and militants from other countries in 2017.

https://www.benarnews.org/english/news/philippine/militant-suspects-killed-05192022145031.html

6th ID’s popular commander retires from military service

From the Philippine Star (May 21, 2022): 6th ID’s popular commander retires from military service (John Unson)

Major Gen. Juvymax Uy is flanked by members of his family during special retirement honors for him on May 21, 2022.  Philstar.com / John Unson

Peace activists on Saturday bade goodbye to the retiring commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division who was instrumental in the surrender of 314 religious extremists in the past 18 months.

Army Major Gen. Juvymax Uy, who graduated from the Philippine Military Academy in 1989, was succeeded by Brig. Gen. Eduardo Gubat, who shall, meantime, lead the 6th ID as acting commander.

The retirement rite for Uy in this Army camp Saturday was led by the commander of the Philippine Army, Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr.

The event was attended by many members of PMA’s Class ’89 and leaders of various sectors in central Mindanao.

Susana Anayatin, a member of the Bangsamoro regional parliament, said she is grateful to Uy for his peace-building initiatives focused on propagation of unity among Muslims, Christians and indigenous people in provinces covered by 6th ID.

Anayatin is chairperson of the 6th ID’s multi-sector advisory board, whose members include Muslim and Christian religious leaders and representatives from the business sector, civic groups and the media.

The 6th ID covers the provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, South Cotabato and North Cotabato and the cities of Cotabato, Tacurong, Koronadal and General Santos.

Uy, in a message, acknowledged the support of the local communities to his peace-building programs while 6th ID commander.

He said among those who had supported the 6th ID’s peace and development initiatives while he was at the helm of the division were North Cotabato’s Vice Gov. Emmylou Taliño-Mendoza and Gov. Suharto Mangudadatu of Sultan Kudarat.

“I shall cherish the good days I had while in 6th ID,” Uy, who had served in the Army for 37 years, said.

Uy became popular in central Mindanao for having worked out, along with local government units and Moro datus in the region, the surrender of 314 members of the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters and the Dawlah Islamiya since his assumption as 6th ID commander in September 2020.

Local officials present in Saturday’s event here took turns thanking Uy for his pacification campaign that paved the way for the return to mainstream society of hundreds of BIFF and Dawlah Islamiya members in recent months.

Both terror groups, fashioned from the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, were tagged in all deadly bombings in central Mindanao since 2014.

Members of both groups who have returned to the fold of law have jointly been reintroduced to mainstream society by the 6th ID and different agencies of the government.

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2022/05/21/2182735/6th-ids-popular-commander-retires-military-service

8 more BIFF members surrender in Maguindanao

From the Philippine Star (May 21, 2022): 8 more BIFF members surrender in Maguindanao (John Unson)

Officials inspect the weapons of the eight members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters who surrendered Friday in Pagalungan, Maguindanao.  Philstar.com / John Unson

Eight more gunmen renounced Friday their membership with the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom and pledged allegiance to the government.

Two from the eight BIFF members were experts in fabrication of powerful improvised explosive devices.

They belonged to a group led by Imam Bongos, who is facing more than 30 cases in different courts for deadly bombings in central Mindanao, extortion and multiple murders.

Col. Jovencio Gonzales, commander of the Army’s 602nd Infantry Brigade, said Saturday the eight BIFF men agreed to return to the fold of law through the efforts of the local government unit of Pagalungan municipality in Maguindanao and officials of the 90th Infantry Battalion.

The BIFF, fashioned from the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, is tagged in all bomb attacks since 2014 in the adjoining provinces of Region 12 and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

The eight gunmen yielded assault rifles, improvised explosive devices, a B40 anti-tank rocket and grenade launchers to Pagalungan Vice Mayor Abdillah Mamasabulod and Lt. Col. Rommel Mundala of the 90th IB in the presence of Gonzales.

“We ought to thank the LGU of Pagalungan for helping convince them to return to mainstream society,” Gonzales said.

More than 300 members of the BIFF and the equally notorious Dawlah Islamiya terror group in central Mindanao have surrendered to different units of the 6th Infantry Division, where the 603rd Infantry Brigade and the 90th IB belong, in the past 24 months.

Many of them have been reintroduced to the local communities with the help of LGUs and different government agencies, now thriving peacefully as farmers, tricycle drivers, carpenters, fishermen and entrepreneurs.

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2022/05/21/2182756/8-more-biff-members-surrender-maguindanao

7 BIFF members yield in North Cotabato

From the Manila Times (May 22, 2022): 7 BIFF members yield in North Cotabato

NO longer content with their life as insurgents, seven members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) surrendered to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in North Cotabato on Friday, a ranking official said.

Philippine Army (PA) Public Affairs Office Chief Col. Jorry Baclor identified the BIFF members as Mamao Abdurahman, Barager Amella Akmad, Norolam Zacaria Akmad, Sandoto Mamental Guialil, Abdul Hamid Malawi, Emran Kugang Alimama and Jehad Samad who yielded to the Army's 90th Infantry Battalion (90IB) under the 602nd Infantry Brigade of the 6th Infantry Division in Pikit, North Cotabato.

They turned in a Garand rifle with ammunition, a Carbine rifle, three homemade M14 Barrett rifles with two magazines, a homemade Caliber 50 Barrett rifle with one magazine, and one homemade M203 grenade launcher with ammunition.

The surrenderers, who are currently under the custody of 90IB for an interview and proper disposition, were subsequently presented to Mayor Sumulong Sultan of Pikit, North Cotabato, and Col. Jovencio Gonzales, commander of 602nd Infantry Brigade.

BIFF, also known as the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Movement, is an Islamist militant organization based in Mindanao.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2022/05/22/news/regions/7-biff-members-yield-in-north-cotabato/1844567

'Malaysian' terror suspect nabbed in the Philippines not on wanted list, says Esscom commander

From The Star (May 17, 2022): 'Malaysian' terror suspect nabbed in the Philippines not on wanted list, says Esscom commander (By STEPHANIE LEE)

KOTA KINABALU: The "Malaysian" man, who was recently barred from entering Manila for alleged terror links and later discovered to be part of the notorious militant Abu Sayyaf group (ASG), was not under Sabah’s latest list of wanted criminals, say police.

Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom) commander Deputy Comm Hamzah Ahmad said the 53-year-old man who goes by the name "Omar Harun" on his Malaysian passport was not on their list of wanted people.

The man also goes by the Filipino name of "Airola @ Satar".

There are 21 names in Esscom’s latest list of wanted people as revealed earlier this year including Ahadin Hussein, Ellam Sajirin @ Nasirin, Ismurah Jirah, Madjid Said @ Ammah Pattit and Mudzrimar @ Mundi Sawadjaan.

Three of these five – Ahadin, Ellam and Ismurah – were suspected of involvement in a kidnapping case in Tambisan waters two years ago.

DCP Hamzah said Madjid Said was the most senior head of the Sulu-based Daulah Islamiyah and also served as the commander of the ASG in Sulu and a sub-leader intended as a replacement for its slain leader Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan.

Mudzrimar is a nephew of Hatib and sub-leader in Abu Sayyaf and has expertise in making bombs and had planned the explosion at the Our Lady Of Mount Carmel Cathedral in Jolo on Jan 27, 2020, and another incident there on Aug 24 that year.

Others on the wanted list are: Salip Mura; Al Munjir Yadah; Ben Tatoh Quirino; Basaron Arok; Mujimar Sawadjaan; Rasad; Marajan @ Manajan Asiri; Jul Aksan Abdurajan @ Halimaw; Jul @ Jun Hasan; Barak Undog @ Alvin; Hamsan Pakkan @ Black Cobra; Sabri Madrasul @ Salip Jul; Hadji Wahad @ Talip; Tampi @ Bunju; Haibin Mubin @ Apo Kuhambo; and Sangbas Parisko.

Asked if Omar was being monitored or under investigation for any cases in Sabah under his Malaysian or Filipino name, he said "we will not reveal even if he was under probe".

Recently, a local newspaper reported that Omar was named as one of the 20 people wanted for kidnap for ransom activities in Sabah.

On Friday (May 13), Philippines's Southern Police District (SPD) director Brig General Jimili Macaraeg said the suspect has been placed under arrest after it was found that he was a Filipino citizen who used a Malaysian passport to hide his real identity.

He said a witness, who was also a kidnap victim in August 2002, had positively identified Airola through a photograph as one of her Abu Sayyaf abductors.

He said they were conducting a thorough investigation and intelligence gathering to determine the reason for his (Airola) return to the country considering he is a fugitive wanted by the law.

Regional intelligence sources also said that he was listed on the terror list for his involvement in facilitating five Malaysians linked to Jemaah Islamiah activities involved in the failed 2017 Marawi siege.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2022/05/17/039malaysian039-terror-suspect-nabbed-in-the-philippines-not-on-wanted-list-says-esscom-commander

Abu Sayyaf member nabbed at NAIA possibly assumed identity

From the Sun Star-Pampanga (May 17, 2022): Abu Sayyaf member nabbed at NAIA possibly assumed identity (By REYNALDO G. NAVALES)

THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) said the suspected Abu Sayyaf Group member arrested recently possibly held an assumed identity.

BI Commissioner Jaime Morente disclosed that Omar Bin Harun, 52, who was intercepted last May 10, 2022 at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 2 after arriving via a Philippine Airlines flight from Kuala Lumpur, presented a Malaysian passport that authorities suspect to have been fraudulently-acquired.

“While his passport seems to be genuine, we believe he might have procured it through illegal means or by misrepresentation,” said Morente.

BI said intelligence sources reveal that Omar, a Filipino national, is reportedly a member of the ASG.

He was allegedly involved in the 2001 Lamitan Siege that took over a church and a hospital, and held priests, medical staff, and patients as their hostage.

BI NAIA Anti-Terrorist Group (ATG) chief Bienvenido Castillo III said they received intelligence information about Omar’s arrival last week and have coordinated with other law enforcement agencies to arrest him.

“Omar was also said to have links with the terrorist group ISIS,” said Castillo.

“We were informed then that there was also a warrant for his arrest from the Philippine National Police Southern Police District,” he added.

Castillo bared that Omar was turned over to the PNP who implemented his arrest.

Morente thanked other law enforcement agencies for the cooperation which led to the successful arrest of Omar.

“Coordination among law enforcement agencies, both here and abroad, is necessary to curb terrorist activities that attempt to destroy the peace and order in our country.

"We will remain vigilant to ensure that these criminals are brought to justice,” he added.

https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1929231/pampanga/local-news/abu-sayyaf-member-nabbed-at-naia-possibly-assumed-identity

‘Malaysian’ ASG member not on Sabah’s wanted list

From The Star (May 18, 2022): ‘Malaysian’ ASG member not on Sabah’s wanted list (By STEPHANIE LEE)

KOTA KINABALU: The “Malaysian” man barred from entry to Manila for suspected terror links and later confirmed to be a member of the notorious Abu Sayyaf militant group (ASG) was not on Sabah’s latest list of wanted criminals, it was revealed.

Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom) commander Deputy Comm Hamzah Ahmad said the 53-year-old man, who is believed to be a Filipino, went by the name “Omar bin Harun” on his fake Malaysian passport.

Asked if Omar or his Filipino name Airola @ Satar was being monitored or under investigation for any case in Sabah, he said: “We will not reveal even if he was under probe.”

Recently, local media reported that Omar was named as one of the 20 people wanted for kidnap-for-ransom activities in Sabah.

On Friday, Philippines Southern Police District director Brig-Jen Jimili Macaraeg said the suspect had been placed under arrest after it was found that he is a Philippine citizen who used a Malaysian passport to hide his real identity.

He said a witness, who was a kidnap victim in August 2002, had positively identified Airola through a photograph as one of her Abu Sayyaf abductors.

They are conducting a thorough probe and intelligence gathering to determine the reason for Airola’s return to the country, considering he is a fugitive wanted by the law.

Regional intelligence sources also said he was on the terror list for his involvement with facilitating five Malaysians linked to Jemaah Islamiah in the failed 2017 Marawi siege.

There are 21 names on Esscom’s “wanted list” as revealed earlier this year. Among them are Ahadin Hussein, Ellam Sajirin @ Nasirin, Ismurah Jirah, Madjid Said @ Ammah Pattit and Mudzrimar @ Mundi Sawadjaan.

Three of them – Ahadin, Ellam and Ismurah - are suspected of involvement in a kidnapping case in Tambisan waters two years ago.

DCP Hamzah said Madjid Said was the most senior head of the Sulu-based Daulah Islamiyah and also served as commander of the ASG in Sulu and sub-leader as replacement for its slain leader Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan.

Mudzrimar is a nephew of Hatib and sub-leader in Abu Sayyaf and has expertise in making bombs and planned the explosion at the Our Lady Of Mount Carmel Cathedral in Jolo on Jan 27, 2020 and another incident there on Aug 24 that year.

Others still on the wanted list are Salip Mura; Al Munjir Yadah; Ben Tatoh Quirino; Basaron Arok; Mujimar Sawadjaan; Rasad; Marajan @ Manajan Asiri; Jul Aksan Abdurajan @ Halimaw; Jul @ Jun Hasan; Barak Undog @ Alvin; Hamsan Pakkan @ Black Cobra; Sabri Madrasul @ Salip Jul; Hadji Wahad @ Talip; Tampi @ Bunju; Haibin Mubin @ Apo Kuhambo; and Sangbas Parisko.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2022/05/18/malaysian-asg-member-not-on-sabahs-wanted-list

JTF-Sulu fetes 2 soldiers for gallantry

From the Sun Star-Zamboanga (May 20, 2022): JTF-Sulu fetes 2 soldiers for gallantry

ZAMBOANGA. The Joint Task Force (JTF)-Sulu awards the Wounded Personnel Medal to two soldiers for gallantry in a clash against Abu Sayyaf bandits on May 15 in Tumatangis village, Indanan, Sulu. A photo handout shows Major General Ignatius Patrimonio, JTF-Sulu commander (3rd from left), pinning a medal to one of the two wounded soldiers when he visited them Thursday, May 19, at Camp General Teodulfo Bautista Station Hospital. (SunStar Zamboanga)

THE Joint Task Force (JTF)-Sulu has awarded medal to two soldiers for gallantry in the latest clash with Abu Sayyaf bandits in the province of Sulu.

Major General Ignatius Patrimonio, JTF-Sulu commander, awarded the Wounded Personnel Medal (WPM) to two soldiers when he visited them Thursday, May 19, at the Camp General Teofulfo Bautista Station Hospital in Busbus village, Jolo, Sulu.

The recipients of the WPM were Private Al-Shaif Awang and Private Jesus Langyon, who were among the three soldiers injured in the May 15 clash against the Abu Sayyaf bandits in Tumatangis village, Indanan.

The third injured soldier, whose identity was not immediately available, was taken to Camp Navarro General Hospital of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) in Zamboanga City.

“Private Awang and Private Langyon belong to the operating troops of the 100th Infantry Battalion who conducted pursuit operations against the ASG (Abu Sayyaf Group) bandits following a tip-off from a concerned citizen of the bandits’ presence in Barangay Tumatangis,” Patrimonio said.

He lauded the soldiers for their gallantry, dedication and commitment in performing their duties and responsibilities as member of the operating troops of the 100th Infantry Battalion.

“I salute you of your dedication, commitment, and sacrifices in performing your task. You are the epitome of true gallant soldiers who are willing to sacrifice in order to attain lasting peace,” he said.

“I also commend the continuous efforts of our troops on the ground in pursuing the remaining members of the ASG bandits. The tipping-off of the ASG bandits’ presence manifests the sincere desire of the community to end terrorism. Let us therefore intensify our efforts until we finally neutralize these ASG bandits,” he added.

The WPM is awarded to a military personnel or civilian citizens who are serving with the Armed Forces of the Philippines for having been wounded in action against an enemy of the state or as a direct result of an enemy act, provided such wound necessitates treatment of a medical officer.

 
https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1929561/zamboanga/local-news/jtf-sulu-fetes-2-soldiers-for-gallantry

Kalinaw News: 45 Former NPA Supporters receive livelihood assistance from DSWD, Army in Ilocos Sur

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 23, 2022): 45 Former NPA Supporters receive livelihood assistance from DSWD, Army in Ilocos Sur



FORT MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija — At least 45 former members of the NPA’s Underground Mass Organizations (UGMO) from Brgy Caparian, Sta Cruz, and Brgy Paoc Norte, Sta Lucia of Ilocos Sur received 10,000 pesos as a starting capital for their chosen livelihood. This financial assistance was distributed by the Department of Social Welfare and Development Region 1 with the assistance of Army’s 71st Infantry (KAIBIGAN) Battalion on May 18-19, 2022.

According to MGEN ANDREW D COSTELO, Commander of the 7th Infantry (KAUGNAY) Division, Philippine Army, the financial assistance to former UGMO members is an initiative to the sustained efforts of the NTF-ELCAC in the Ilocos Region.

Before the distribution of the financial assistance, the beneficiaries underwent a Social Preparation to capacitate, inculcate and reiterate their responsibilities, as well as the role of their Local Government Unit in the project.

“Ang tulong pinansiyal na ito ng gobyerno ay naglalayong magkaroon kayo ng panimula sa inyong napiling hanapbuhay. Kalimutan niyo na ang inyong mapait na karanasan sa kamay ng teroristang grupo at mag focus na lamang sa pagpapabuti ng kinabukasan ng inyong pamilya. Huwag ninyong sayangin ang pagkakataong binigay sa inyo ng gobyerno,” said MGEN COSTELO.

Meanwhile, Alias Nena, a former UGMO member expressed her deepest gratitude to the 71IB, DSWD, and the government for their concerted efforts in assisting them and sustaining the efforts of NTF ELCAC in their community.

“Kami ay lubos na nagpapasalamat sa DSWD, sa Army at sa ating mahal na gobyerno dahil sa ibinigay nilang tulong pinasyal para sa ating pag-uumpisa ng isang maliit na negosyo kahit kami ay dating tumalikod at kumalaban sa ating gobyerno. Pinatutunayan lamang nito na totoong may gobyerno na palaging umaalalay sa mga komunidad tungo sa pagkamit ng kapayaan at kaunlaran. Totoo ang EO70, at ang mga pagtutulay ng Philippine Army para sa aming minsan ay tumalikod sa ating gobyerno,” said Alias Nena, former UGMO member.

In order to emphasize the sincerity and support for this effort, various public servants assisted in the said event. Present during the activity were Mr. Roger Jimenez, DSWD-R1 Special Concerns Coordinator, Ms. Anna Mae Palaroan, DSWD-R1 Ilocos Sur Team Leader, respective Municipal Social Welfare and Development Officers of Sta Cruz and Sta Lucia, Maj Bethuel N Barber, 71IB Executive Officer and the different barangay functionaries of the partner communities.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/45-former-npa-supporters-receive-livelihood-assistance-from-dswd-army-in-ilocos-sur/

Kalinaw News: 5 Former Rebels Receive Livelihood Assistance in Ilocos Sur

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 23, 2022): 5 Former Rebels Receive Livelihood Assistance in Ilocos Sur



FORT MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija — As part of the government’s efforts to assist and give hope to the Former NPA Rebels, in their reintegration to the mainstream society, the Department of Labor and Employment Ilocos Sur in partnership with the 71st Infantry (KAIBIGAN) Battalion, Philippine Army, distributed livelihood starter kits to five FRs at the 71IB Headquarters, Paraesus Berde, Barangay Poblacion Norte, Lidlidda, Ilocos Sur on May 20, 2022.

According to the Commander of the 7th Infantry (KAUGNAY) Division, Philippine Army, MGEN ANDREW D COSTELO PA, said that the program was made successful through the concerted efforts of the 71IB, 69IB, 702nd Infantry (Defender) Brigade, and the Department of Labor and Employment of Ilocos Sur. In addition, the program is affirmatively intended to benefit the former members of the Kilusang Larangang Gerilya South Ilocos Sur (KLG-SIS) who returned to the folds of the law.

Each FR received 20,000 pesos worth of livelihood starter kits which includes sari-sari store packages, e-loading with sari-sari store, and fish ball retailing.

“We are grateful to our DOLE Ilocos Sur headed by Ms. Charity A. Ubilas for their livelihood program benefiting our FRs. Malaking bagay po ito para makapagsimula na silang mamuhay ng mapayapa at malayo sa karahasan. That is why we are urging you to use this livelihood opportunity to help yourselves and your family for a better future,” said MGEN COSTELO.

Meanwhile, alias ‘Juan’, one of the recipients, expressed his deepest gratitude to the Army, DOLE, and other government agencies who welcomed them openly upon their voluntary surrender and provided them with various assistance to help them start a new life.

“Kahit kami ay galing sa kabila, na naging kalaban ng gobyerno, laking pasasalamat namin sa tulong ng Philippine Army at ng ibat’ibang ahensya ng gobyerno na nagbibigay sa amin ng pag-uumpisahan. Ito ay isa sa mga magagandang proyekto ng gobyerno at nakikita at nararamdaman namin iyon. Nagsurrender kami, nagbalik-loob kami, hindi pa nila kami pinabayaaan. Iba’t-ibang mga ahensya ng gobyerno ay nagtutulungan upang kami ay magabayan sa aming pagbabagong-buhay. Kaya nanawagan pa ako sa mga natitira naming mga kasama sa kabundukan na hindi pa huli ang lahat. Ang mga kasundaluhan ay mababait at totoong aalalay sa ating pagbabalik-loob. Totoo ang mga proyekto ng ating gobyerno para sa ating mga naligaw ng landas,” said Alias Juan.

Meanwhile, LTC MICHAEL BAUTISTA, Commanding Officer of 71IB, on behalf of Brigadier General Krishnamurti A Mortela PA, 702BDE Commander recognized the cooperation of the FRs to return to the folds of the law and start their lives anew away from hardships and risks in the terrorist organization.

Further, he expressed his gratitude to the Department of Labor and Employment for the agency’s unwavering support of the NTF-ELCAC.

DOLE Ilocos Sur OIC Ubilas, signified their assistance and support to Army under Executive Order No. 70.

“The Department of Labor and Employment of Ilocos Sur is always open and willing to provide the necessary assistance to our brethren who chose to live peacefully and end the local communist armed conflict. This is our way to perform our task as one of the PRLEC member agencies to support the thrusts of the NTF-ELCAC so that peace and development will be achieved in our province,” said Ubilas.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/5-former-rebels-receive-livelihood-assistance-in-ilocos-sur/

Kalinaw News: 91st IB tapped Aurora media personalities to build strong partnership in serving the community

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 23, 2022): 91st IB tapped Aurora media personalities to build strong partnership in serving the community



BALER, Aurora-The Philippine Army’s 91st Infantry “Sinagtala” Battalion of the 7th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division official tapped the media personalities in the province of Aurora to build strong partnership in serving the community.

Lt. Col. Julito B. Recto, Jr., acting commander of 91st IB said in an interview on Monday that he personally presided the Kaugnay Media Defense Corps Incorporated (KMDCI-Aurora) Aurora Chapter headed by the newly elected President Rommel G. Espinosa, Station Manager of Radyo TV Baler together with the other media practitioners in the province.

Recto said that the gatherings is to meet and to greet the KMDCI-Aurora Officers and members 2022 wherein the group discussed the future plans and programs of KMDCI-Aurora in partnership with 91st IB.

The meeting was held on weekend (Saturday) at the Sinagtala coffee bar, Headquarters of 91st IB, Camp Jaime Bitong Jr., in Barangay Calabuanan, Baler, Aurora.

“Our media is part of our lives and has an enormous influence in every aspect of our society. Through our close collaboration and tie-ups all activities of the battalion will be read, watched and aired on what happening in our area of jurisdictions. I am very thankful for their fullest support to us,” Recto said.

The KMDCI was created patterned to the defense press corps organized by the public affairs office of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (PAO-AFP) and the office of the army chief for public affairs (OACPA).

KMDCI, the defense press corps of 7th infantry division, was organized through the efforts of Major Mark Anthony B Ruelos, the then chief of the Division Public Affairs Office (DPAO), in coordination with Ronald M. Leander, the then president of Central Luzon Media Association Incorporated (CLMAI) on May 24, 2013 at the Pahingahan complex, Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija.

An election was held and some of CLMAI members were elected as KMDCI officers.

Major General Gregorio Pio P. Catapang Jr., previous commander of 7th ID, Philippine Army, led the oathtaking ceremony.

On January 11, 2014, an election was held because of the desire of KDCI officers and members to have a new set of officers and to formally recognize the new set of officers of KMDCI for current year 2014.

Brigadier General Vic C. Castro, the then acting commander of 7thID presided the oath taking held at kaugnay officers club house on February 25, 2014.

Colonel wilfredo M. Villahermosa, the then G7 of 7th ID presided the oath taking.

The KMDCI was registered at the securities and exchange commission (sec) with company registration number, CN201435331.

KMDCI Aurora chapter, the first provincial chapter ever organized since the establishment of KMDCI had its election on march 27, 2015, presided by the former battalion commander of 56th Infantry Battalion, Lt. Col. Joey A. Escanillas led the oath taking ceremony of the newly installed officers at headquarters, 56th IB in Baler, Aurora.

Mr. Jason de Asis of Philippine News Agency and News5 was elected as the first President of the KMDCI Aurora chapter.

Since then, the KMDCI and the Battalion had successfully conducted several activities from the day it was organized.

Back to Recto, he said that the oath taking of officers will be on June 5, 2022 at the Laang Sibol Building of 91st IB.

“I am hoping that more media practitioners will join in the noble initiatives of the KMDCI Aurora, as they are really helping to bring increased peace, security, development and stability in communities throughout our areas of concern. They are here to help us in info drive to bring the message of hope to the far-flung areas,” Recto said.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City Contact us: kalinawnews@cmoregiment.com]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/91st-ib-tapped-aurora-media-personalities-to-build-strong-partnership-in-serving-the-community/

Marcos says he discussed defense deal with US envoy

From Rappler (May 23, 2022): Marcos says he discussed defense deal with US envoy (By REUTERS)

'We would welcome any assistance for the economy that we can get from the United States,' says presumptive president Ferdinand Marcos Jr in news conference

Presumptive president Ferdinand Marcos Jr said on Monday, May 23, he discussed the extension of a joint military agreement with an envoy of defense ally the United States, after meetings with senior diplomats of four countries.

Ambassadors of Japan, India and South Korea and the US Chargé d’Affaires made courtesy calls Monday on Marcos, the son and namesake of the notorious late dictator, following his landslide election victory this month.

Marcos, 64, who take office late in June, said he discussed with the US envoy the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) and how it would be redefined amid a changing regional landscape, plus funding for climate change mitigation.

“We would welcome any assistance for the economy that we can get from the United States,” Marcos told a news conference. “Trade, not aid.”

The VFA, which provides a legal framework by which US troops can operate on Philippine soil, was a bone of contention for incumbent President Rodrigo Duterte, who repeatedly threatened to scrap it.

“Security concerns of course has always been a big part of our relationship with the United States,” Marcos said.

Analysts expect Marcos to pursue close China ties, which could complicate relations with former colonial power Washington, his military, and the Philippine public, with which the United States is popular.

He last week spoke with Chinese President Xi Jinping and said he wanted bilateral ties to “shift to a higher gear”.

Marcos said he discussed aid projects with Japan’s ambassador, microfinance with India and with South Korea, information technology, regional security and the possible reactivation of a disused nuclear plant.

The plant was intended by his late father to be part of his economic modernization legacy, but was mothballed after his overthrow in a 1986 “people power” uprising, two years after completion.

Marcos said he asked Arsenio Balisacan, the national anti-trust agency chief, to be economic planning minister, a role he held from 2012 to 2016 under an administration that was a rival to the influential Marcos family.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/marcos-says-discussed-defense-deal-with-united-states-envoy/

6ID gets new commander, Negrense head retires

From the Visayan Daily Star (May 23, 2022): 6ID gets new commander, Negrense head retires (BY GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

Maj. Gen. Juvy Max Uy and Brig. Gen. Eduardo Gubat, right*

Negrense Maj. Gen. Juvy Max Uy, who officially retired from the military service on May 21, was replaced by Brig. Gen. Eduardo Gubat, also an Ilonggo, as acting commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division in central Mindanao.

Gubat, who used to serve as executive officer of 303rd Infantry Brigade and later as commander of the 62nd Infantry Battalion stationed in Brgy. Bato, Sagay City, Negros Occidental, had been the Assistant Division Commander of 6ID prior to his appointment.

Military records show that Gubat got his star rank while serving as commander of the 603rd Infantry Brigade, which is under the supervision of 6ID.

The retirement ceremony and 6ID change of command on Saturday was presided over by Army chief Lt. Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., who once served as its key officer when he was still a lieutenant colonel.

“I shall cherish the good days I had while in 6th ID,” Uy, who had served Philippine Army for 37 years, said.

Uy became popular in central Mindanao for having arranged, along with the help of local government units and Moro datus in the region, the surrender of 314 members of the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters and the Dawlah Islamiya since his assumption as 6th ID commander in September 2020.

The 6ID has been in the frontline of combat against secessionist and communist insurgents as well as ideological extremists in Central Mindanao, playing an active role in sustained strides that helped the government forge with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) major peace deals in 2013 and 2014, where Uy, as the commander, played a vital role.

https://visayandailystar.com/6id-gets-new-commander-negrense-head-retires/

Military launches air strikes in Maguindanao vs. Dawlah Islamiya

From MindaNews (May 23, 2022): Military launches air strikes in Maguindanao vs. Dawlah Islamiya (By FERDINANDH B. CABRERA)

A unit of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF). MindaNews file photo by FERDINANDH CABRERA

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) launched Monday air and artillery attacks against members of the Islamic State-aligned Dawlah Islamiya terrorist group in Datu Salibo town, Maguindanao, prompting hundreds of families to flee for safety.

Brig. Gen. Eduardo Gubat, acting commander of the AFP’s 6th Infantry Division (ID), said the operation against the Dawlah Islamiya headed by Abu Torayfie in the marshland of Datu Salibo was based on information provided by civilians and confirmed by the military.

The group of Abu Torayfie, who is believed to be the Dawlah Islamiya amir (chieftain) in Mindanao, was seen massing up in the marshland, the official said.

The Abu Torayfie group is one of the factions within the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), a splinter of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). The MILF forged a peace deal with the government in 2014 after 17 years of negotiations.

Gubat said the ground and air assaults against the Dawlah Islamiya, using MG-520 attack helicopters and FA-50 fighter jets, commenced at about 7 a.m. Monday.

It happened as the country marked the fifth anniversary of the infamous Marawi siege, which started on May 23, 2017 and lasted for five months. At least 350,000 civilians were uprooted during the bloody siege staged by the Islamic State-aligned Maute and Abu Sayyaf groups that left the core of Marawi in rubbles.

The combined forces of the Maute and Abu Sayyaf groups seized Marawi in a bid to establish the country’s only Islamic city as a wilayah or province of the Islamic State in Southeast Asia.

Gubat, who just assumed as acting 6th ID commander, said he felt the Dawlah Islamiya terrorist group gathered in Datu Salibo “to welcome him.”

“The target of our surgical operation is the local terrorist group led by Abu Torayfie. They were sighted in Datu Salibo. Our ground troops were there as we speak,” Gubat said in a phone interview.

Residents of Datu Salibo said they heard loud explosions from helicopter gunships and artillery attacks.

At least 600 families from Barangay Penditen, Datu Salibo were reportedly displaced by the military operation.

President Duterte earlier issued an order for the military to fully neutralize the Dawlah Islamiya terrorist group in Mindanao.

https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2022/05/military-launches-air-strikes-in-maguindanao-vs-dawlah-islamiya/

767 cops conferred Order of Lapu-Lapu for liberation of Marawi

From the Philippine News Agency (May 23, 2022): 767 cops conferred Order of Lapu-Lapu for liberation of Marawi (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

PNP photo

A total of 767 cops who helped in the liberation of Marawi City during the siege in 2017 were conferred Order of Lapu-Lapu Rank of Kamagi on Monday.

Philippine National Police (PNP) officer-in-charge Lt. Gen. Vicente Danao Jr. presented the award to the police officers in a ceremony at Camp Crame on Monday for their roles in the Marawi siege in recognition of their sacrifice and service.

“These awardees especially those who came from Marawi City really sacrificed themselves even in the risk of leaving their families just to protect our country," Danao said.

“Kung makikita ninyo ang award, pulang-pula, ibig sabihin ay hindi lang ordinaryong sakripisyo ang ginawa ng ating mga men in uniform kundi talagang buwis buhay ang kanilang ibinigay (The award is color red, which means that this is no ordinary sacrifice by our men in uniform. They risked their lives),” he added.

A total of 819 PNP personnel were chosen as recipients of the Order of Lapu-Lapu Rank of Kamagi. The 52 received their awards in 2017.

Established in 2017, the Order of Lapu-Lapu, particularly the Rank of Kamagi, is conferred by the President of the Philippines in recognition of the exemplary service rendered by officials and personnel of the government and private individuals. The recognition is given to those who actively participated in and contributed to an activity relating to a campaign or advocacy of the President and the Philippine government.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1175101

Security execs’ awards to boost PH-Indonesia ties: solon

From the Philippine News Agency (May 23, 2022): Security execs’ awards to boost PH-Indonesia ties: solon (By Wilnard Bacelonia)

File photo

Senator Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa on Monday said the initiative of Indonesian President Joko Widodo to confer awards to security and military officials of the Philippines will boost the two countries’ friendship.

This, after the Senate adopted House Concurrent Resolution No. 23 granting consent to Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, former Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief-of-Staff Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, and 53 other AFP personnel to receive awards to be conferred by Widodo.

According to the resolution, Lorenzana and Sobejana will be awarded Medals of Peace, along with that other AFP personnel who will be given Dharma Defense Medal for their excellent collaboration with their Indonesian counterparts that led to the recovery of Indonesian fisherfolk who were taken hostage by the Abu Sayyaf Group in 2019 and 2020.

"Let me also take this opportunity to thank President Widodo for this initiative which will certainly strengthen the friendship between the Philippines and Indonesia,” said dela Rosa, former chief of the Philippine National Police, in his manifestation of support for the resolution.

Dela Rosa said he knows that any award is only a "bonus" as it has always been their love for the country that motivates soldiers to perform their mandate.

"An award and commendation extended by the international community, however, takes an exemption. To our men in uniform, this is probably the highest award a soldier can receive. As not only this achievement recognizes them individually, but it is an opportunity for them to raise our flag beyond our country's national territory," dela Rosa said.

In his own manifestation of support, Senator Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel congratulated the Filipino security officials and personnel.

“It would be a great honor and privilege for Secretary Lorenzana and General Sobejana to be the first-ever Filipinos to receive the prestigious Medal of Peace, in recognition of their meritorious achievements, particularly in developing peace, diplomacy, friendship, and brotherhood with Indonesia,” he said.

Senators Risa Hontiveros and Panfilo Lacson also manifested their support to the measure.

Lacson, however, said the names of the officers and soldiers who actually participated in the rescue operations should have been included.

"If not, I would propose an amendment to include their names in the concurrent resolution before we pass it. I would like to think we should include their names in the resolution as proposed. Because they are the men on the ground. They risked their lives more than Sec. Lorenzana and former CS Sobejana. They deserve to be cited in the proposed resolution," he said.

In response, Pimentel said he has the list of the award recipients and vowed to amend the measure and include their names.

Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri said he will sponsor the measure for its speedy approval.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1175123