81st Inf Bn: Encounter between the army and a terrorist group in the town of Bula

From the Philippine Army 81st Infantry Battalion Facebook Page (Feb 13, 2024): Engkwentro sa pagitan ng kasundaluhan at teroristang grupo sa Bayan ng Bula (Encounter between the army and a terrorist group in the town of Bula)

Isang sagupaan ang naganap sa pagitan ng teroristang grupo at 81st Infantry Battalion sa Brgy. La Purisima, Bula, Camarines Sur ngayong araw, ika-12 ng Pebrero, taong kasalukuyan.

Dahil sa mga sumbong ng mga mamamayan ukol sa presensya ng mga teroristang grupo sa lugar, agad na kumilos ang kasundaluhan na nagresulta sa isang engkwentro laban sa teroristang grupo. Nakatakas ang mga ito sa iba't ibang direksiyon matapos ang bakbakan na tumagal ng humigit-kumulang dalawampung minuto at naiwan nila ang isang improvised explosive device (IED), kalahating sako ng bigas, mga kagamitang panluto, at iba pang mga gamit.

Nagpasalamat naman si Lt. Col. Julio D. Binuhhi, Commanding Officer ng 81IB, sa tulong at kooperasyon ng mga residente sa pagbibigay ng agarang impormasyon sa kinaroroonan ng mga nasabing terorista. Dagdag pa niya ang panawagan sa mga natitirang miyembro ng mga teroristang grupo na sumuko at magbalik loob na sa ating gobyerno, tangkilikin ang programang E-CLIP ng pamahalaan, at mamuhay ng mapayapa kasama ang kanilang pamilya.

https://www.facebook.com/81InfantryBatallion/posts/pfbid0MWGxpCFX2CfgGaK6ByPLUfsnjcHuNknWyEZM7eTD5vt76YEaz6cKFtApeiHDGwsRl?fbclid=IwAR0IFhX2sAoQoOqFa73DwUYylsI5akxK3bhorZQfSYkG6_09kEbIgKSpZ5U

https://www.facebook.com/81InfantryBatallion

AFP: U.S. aircraft deliver more relief packs to Mindanao

From the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Facebook Page (Feb 15, 2024): U.S. aircraft deliver more relief packs to Mindanao

CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City – The United States Marine Corps, in collaboration with the Armed Forces of the Philippines and other government agencies, delivered more Family Food Packs to the landslide-affected areas in Davao de Oro.

 
As of February 15, a total of 15,400 Family Food Packs from the Department of Social Welfare and Development were transported using two (2) USMC KC-130J Hercules aircraft, which ensured the prompt delivery of aid to communities in need.

As the relief mission progressed in Mindanao, the presence of the allied forces offered hope and support to those affected and demonstrated the enduring bond between the US and the Philippines in times of need.

"We are deeply thankful for the support rendered by the US in our relief operations. Their assistance truly helped aid the affected communities in Mindanao," Gen. Brawner Jr. said, as he emphasized the prepositioning of HADR equipment, supplies and relief goods in the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) sites in similar situations in the future.

"Through EDCA, the improvements in our bases and the prepositioned US assets will allow us to respond quickly and more efficiently in the future. Together with our ally and fellow Filipinos, we will strive to ensure that no one is left behind in our journey toward recovery and resilience," Gen. Brawner added.///

#OneAFPOnePHILIPPINES
#StrongAFPStrongPHILIPPINES
#AFPyoucanTRUST

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=767950402034039&set=pcb.767950955367317

https://www.facebook.com/armedforcesofthephilippines

Woman accused of being terror fund facilitator arrested in Sulu

From Rappler (Feb 15, 2024): Woman accused of being terror fund facilitator arrested in Sulu (By JOHN SITCHON)

The woman is identified as a ‘specially designated global terrorist’ by the US and listed by the United Nations Security Council for her alleged links to the Al-Qaeda

CEBU, Philippines – Authorities arrested a 32-year-old woman, identified as a terrorist in the United States and suspected of facilitating the transfer of funds to Islamic State (IS) forces in the Philippines, in Sulu province on Thursday, February 15.

The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) identified the suspect as Myrna Mabanza, who is facing five counts of terrorism financing based on the Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2012 and the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020.

Members of various law enforcement and military groups arrested Mabanza during an operation conducted in Barangay Pasil, Indanan town at around 5:50 am, based on warrants issued by Judge Shaldilyn Bara Bangsaja of Branch 33 of the Regional Trial Court in Region IX in Zamboanga City on December 20, 2023. No bail bond was recommended.

Authorities immediately took Mabanza from Sulu to Zamboanga City for presentation to a court which ordered her arrested.

The PAOCC and PNP said Mabanza was involved in facilitating the transfer of up to US$107,000 with the late Isnilon Hapilon, then the “emir” of the IS in Southeast Asia, in January 2016.

Authorities alleged that Hapilon had also given her instructions to deliver funds to an ISIS member.

Hapilon, who was on the list of most wanted terrorists in the US, was killed along with Maute Group leader Omar Maute during the 2017 Marawi Siege.

Authorities said Mabanza served as an intermediary between the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) and Hapilon’s group in early 2016.

In 2018, the US labeled Mabanza a ”specially designated global terrorist” for allegedly participating in financing activities in support of ISIL. She was also included in the list of the United Nations Security Council for her alleged associations with ISIL and Al-Qaeda.

They also alleged that Mabanza had facilitated the travel of a Jamaah Ansharut Daulah (JAD) representative from Indonesia to the Philippines to meet with Hapilon.

The IS-inspired JAD is an Indonesian group that has been linked to bomb attacks, including the Jolo Cathedral bombing in 2019.

“The JAD representative traveled to the Philippines to purchase arms for ISIS-aligned forces in Indonesia and to set up training courses for pro-ISIS recruits from Indonesia with ISIS-Philippines,” the report read.

In a 2019 Rappler report, Mabanza was identified as a teacher in a public school in Zamboanga City who was married to the late Malaysian bomb maker and Ansar al-Shariah Battalion head Mohammad Najib Hussein, also known as Abu Anas.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/mindanao/woman-terror-fund-facilitator-arrested-sulu-february-15-2024/

Gov’t assistance for 38 former rebels in Negros

From the Visayan Daily Star (Feb 16, 2024): Gov’t assistance for 38 former rebels in Negros (By  GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

Mayor Rogelio Raymund Tongson turns over financial assistance of P10,000 to a former rebel, in the presence of Col. Victor Llapitan, 303IB deputy commander, Lt. Col. Van Donald Almonte,94IB commander, PLt. Col. Anthony Grande, Himamaylan City police chief.* PA photo

Thirty-eight former New People’s Army rebels received financial and educational assistance of P10,000 each on February 14 from the Task Force ELCAC (Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict) of Himamaylan City, in Negros Occidental.

In a statement, the 303rd Infantry Brigade said the giving of the financial assistance, through the AICS (Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation) program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development, as facilitated by the administration of Mayor Rogelio Raymund Tongson. It intends to provide immediate support to the families affected by the local armed conflict who are displaced from their homes.

Through this intervention, the P10,000 financial assistance given to former rebels will serve as initial support to sustain their daily needs while their Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) benefits are being processed, the statement of 303IB further said.

Tongson was assisted by Col. Victor Llapitan, deputy commander of the 303rd Infantry Brigade, Lt. Col. Anthony Grande, Himamaylan City police chief, Lt. Col. Van Donald Almonte, 94IB commander, and Social Welfare and Development Officer Ever Grace Castro, in the distribution of financial assistance to former rebels, which was held at the Himamaylan City Hall.

The former rebels also received social hygiene, family, sleeping and kitchen kits.

Llapitan lauded the unwavering support of the Himamaylan City government to the former rebels and congratulated them for making the right decision in returning to the folds of the law.

“The financial and educational assistance extended by the local government unit and the City TF-ELCAC is a solid proof that the Himamaylan LGU is sincere in its commitment to allowing former rebels to start anew, reintegrate with the community, live normal lives again, and be united with their families and loved ones,” he added.

Llapitan also urged former rebels to help in convincing NPA remnants to surrender.*

https://visayandailystar.com/govt-assistance-for-38-former-rebels-in-negros/

Japanese envoy attends Mindanao project launch for peace and security

From the Mindanao Times (Feb 15, 2024): Japanese envoy attends Mindanao project launch for peace and security (By CONTRIBUTOR)

 


JAPANESE Ambassador Koshikawa Kazuhiko attended the launch of the project “Enhancing and Sustaining Peace and Security Mechanisms in Mindanao, Philippines” on Feb. 14 with Sr. Usec. Isidro L. Prisima, deputy presidential advisor on peace, reconciliation and unity, Cesar Yano, peace implementing panel co-chair, and International Organization for Migration (IOM) Chief of Mission Tristan Burnett.

Also in attendance were co-chairs of the Joint Peace and Security Committee (JPSC) Francisco Ariel Felicidario III and Abunawas Maslamama.

The Government of Japan will provide a total of USD 2.58 million to further capacitate the Joint Peace and Security Team (JPST), which is a peace-keeping force composed of members from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Philippine National Police (PNP), and the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF) of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) established with a mission to maintain peace and order in Mindanao during the transitional period.

Under the 12-month project, the IOM will develop modules for refresher training of JPST members and training of trainers (ToT), provide vehicles, motorcycles, and communications/logistics tools for JPSTs, rehabilitate at least 4 JPST stations, and provide livelihood training and kits for at least 4 CBOs/Cooperatives to improve the vulnerable community members and JPST-MILF members.

The project is expected to have a positive impact on the peace and security in the communities where a total of 24 JPSTs are deployed, not to mention the direct beneficiaries of approximately 720 JPST members.

Back in 2019, the Government of Japan supported the establishment of 10 JPST stations under the project “Assistance for the Normalization Process of the Decommissioning of MILF Combatants and for Security Enforcement in the Peace Process” through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).



In his speech, Ambassador Koshikawa conveyed the hope “that the strengthened JPSTs will be able to perform their duties with more ease and confidence, especially with the approach of the 2025 Bangsamoro Parliament election.”

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/japanese-envoy-attends-mindanao-project-launch-for-peace-and-security/

Soldiers carry sacks of food packs for six hours for isolated community

From the Mindanao Times (Feb 15, 2024): Soldiers carry sacks of food packs for six hours for isolated community (By RHODA GRACE)

 


SOLDIERS from the 25th Infantry Battalion walked for six hours and delivered 71 sacks of 355 food packs to Sitio Cagan, Barangay Andap in New Bataan, Davao de Oro on Tuesday.

The soldiers painstakingly carried the relief goods, according to Brig Gen Ronnie Babac, commander of 1001st Infantry Brigade.

Sito Cagan was isolated after its road networks were buried by the landslide due to the weather disturbances affecting the province.

“Your sacrifices and willingness to help the people in need is worthy of emulation. Indeed, you have shown that we as soldiers are not only defenders of freedom but also an active partner of the LGUs and humanity, especially during these trying times,” Babac said, addressing the troops.

It can be recalled that the provinces of Davao de Oro and Davao del Norte were stricken by two weather disturbances starting in the early part of the year – a shear Line on Jan. 15 and a trough of the low-pressure area on Jan. 29.

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/soldiers-carry-sacks-of-food-packs-for-six-hours-for-isolated-community/

NTF-ELCAC vital in govt. peace efforts

From the Mindanao Examiner (Feb 15, 2023): NTF-ELCAC vital in govt. peace efforts

CEBU CITY – Localized peace dialogues organized by the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) are a big boost in gaining the people’s trust in the government, said Army Lt. General Benedict Arevalo, chief of the Visayas Command.

Arevalo said the task force empowers citizens to take the lead to pursue their community’s peace and development.



Army Lt. Gen. Benedict Arevalo (left), chief of the Visayas Command, and his deputy commander Commodore Oscar Canlas Jr. during a news briefing in Cebu. (Photo by Visayas Command)

“Much of what we have accomplished is attributed to the Task Force through its peace dialogue mechanism, community development initiatives, and local government empowerment endeavors,” he said.

Arevalo underscored the need for a platform for the whole-of-government approach in solving the decades-old insurgency problem. He even cited that through the localized peace dialogues of NTF-ELCAC, over 200 communist rebels surrendered last year.

He said just recently, over a dozen members of the New People’s Army also returned to the fold of the law and yielded eight firearms.

The government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Localized Integration Program also greatly helped former rebels to smoothly transition and reintegrate into mainstream society, according to Arevalo.

He said the 562 Barangay Development Program - an initiative spearheaded by the local government units in the country to promote development in the grassroots level - in the former NPA-infested communities in the entire Visayas region intends to bring sustainable development programs to conflict-prone and conflict-affected communities.

One of the main goals of the Barangay Development Program is to improve the quality of life for residents in conflict-prone and conflict-affected barangays by implementing various projects and programs. (John Rey Saavedra and Cebu Examiner)

https://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2024/02/ntf-elcac-vital-in-govt-peace-efforts.html

U.S. to provide P70-M in aid to calamity areas

From the Mindanao Examiner (Feb 15, 2023): U.S. to provide P70-M in aid to calamity areas

DAVAO DE ORO - The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is providing nearly P70 million ($1.25 million) in humanitarian aid to respond to the needs of communities affected by severe flooding and landslides in Mindanao.

It said this new funding will provide emergency food, shelter, water, sanitation, and essential hygiene items to support disaster-affected communities in Davao de Oro, Davao del Norte, and Davao City in Mindanao.



U.S. Marines and Philippine Air Force service members load Department of Social Welfare and Development family food packs into a C-130 provided by the United States government to support disaster response efforts in Mindanao.

USAID will partner with Catholic Relief Services and Action Against Hunger to ensure this life-saving assistance reaches the most vulnerable groups, including single-parent households, persons with disabilities, pregnant and lactating women, the elderly, low-income families, and indigenous peoples.

In addition, and at the request of the Philippine government, the U.S. Department of Defense, through the III Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF), provided two C-130s to assist the Philippines Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the Philippines Office of Civil Defense, and USAID in delivering 15,000 DSWD food packs to affected families.

Earlier this month, USAID partnered with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development and the International Organization for Migration to provide emergency shelter for more than 5,000 affected persons. USAID also supported the World Food Programme to transport DSWD food packs to 65,000 families.

The United States government issued a “Declaration of Humanitarian Need” on February 8 that will facilitate support for the Philippine government’s response efforts in Mindanao.

“We are proud to partner with the Philippine government to support the immediate needs of Mindanaoans in the areas hardest hit by the flooding and landslides. This support will help ensure that food and other life-saving supplies reach communities most in need,” USAID Mission Director Ryan Washburn said.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Roger Turner, MEF commanding general, said: “Support to our Allies and partners, and their people in a time of need, is a non-negotiable,” said “Working in direct coordination with USAID and the Government of the Philippines, we stand ready to support those who need urgent assistance.”

Between January 28 and February 2, extensive rainfall in Mindanao caused significant flooding and landslides, impacting nearly 1.2 million people. An estimated 795,000 people were displaced with more than 97,600 people sheltering in 380 evacuation centers across Mindanao.

The United States will continue to partner with the Philippine government to respond to natural disasters and support the people of the Philippines in their recovery efforts, according to the U.S. Embassy in Manila. (Mindanao Examiner)

https://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2024/02/us-to-provide-p70-m-in-aid-to-calamity.html

ISIS woman captured in the Philippines

From the Mindanao Examiner (Feb 15, 2023): ISIS woman captured in the Philippines

ZAMBOANGA CITY - Security forces captured Thursday a Filipino woman wanted by the United States and the United Nations for her links to the Islamic State (IS) also known as the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), and its local counterpart, the Dawlah Islamiya or ISIS-Philippines in the southern province of Sulu, officials said.

Officials said Myrna Ajijul Mabanza was tracked down by operatives from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Philippine National Police and the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency, including the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission in her hideout in Pasil in the town of Indanan.

Mabanza is the 32-year old widow of Malaysian terrorist Muhammad Najib bin Hussien alias Abu Anas, a fighter of the Islamic State who introduced IS and brougt foreign fighters in the Southern Philippines, according to Brigadier General Allan Nobleza, the regional police commander.

He said Mabanza is on top of the regional police list of most wanted persons in South and is facing a string of criminal charges, including violation of Republic Act No. 10168 otherwise known as The Terrorism Financing Prevention Act of 2012.

“She was declared by the United States as a specially designated global terrorist along with ISIL founder Abu Bakr Al Baghdadi, and DI-ASG and Emir of IS-Philippines Isnilon Hapilon. In 2016, she served as an intermediary between Hapilon and ISIL elements in the Syrian Arab Republic,”Nobleza said.

Hapilon was killed on Oct. 16, 2017 during the battle of Marawi that started in May of the same year.

“The PNP personnel in the Bangsamoro region are determined to bring those criminals and terrorist groups to the bar and be held accountable for their crimes. I also encourage the public to help the PNP and other law enforcement agencies in BARMM to help in the peace and development efforts of the government authorities,” Nobleza said.

In April 30, 2018, The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) was named as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 13224 for assisting in, sponsoring, or providing financial, material, or technological support for, or financial or other services to or in support of ISIS-Philippines.

“Mabanza has facilitated substantial financial activity on behalf of senior ISIS-Philippines leadership and has been an intermediary between extremist groups in Southeast Asia that are recruiting, training, and deploying radical terrorists,” said Sigal Mandelker, Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence. “The United States continues to map and disrupt ISIS financing networks in Southeast Asia and is resolved to cut their access to the international financial system.”


On February 28, 2018, the U.S. Department of State designated ISIS-Philippines as a Foreign Terrorist Organization pursuant to Section 219 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, as amended, and as an SDGT pursuant to E.O. 13224.

In January 2016, Mabanza was involved in the transfer of up to $107,000 with then-ISIS-P leader Isnilon Hapilon. He also instructed Mabanza to deliver money to an ISIS-Philippines member.

In February 2016, Mabanza served as an intermediary between Hapilon and ISIS elements in Syria. In March 2016, Mabanza coordinated another transfer of funds with Hapilon. Also in March 2016, a senior ISIS official in Syria planned to send financial support to ISIS-Philippines through Mabanza.

In April 2016, Mabanza helped facilitate the travel of a Jamaah Ansharut Daulah (JAD) representative who traveled from Indonesia to the Philippines. Mabanza accompanied the JAD representative to Basilan, Philippines to meet Hapilon.

The JAD representative traveled to the Philippines to purchase arms for ISIS-aligned forces in Indonesia and to set up training courses for pro-ISIS recruits from Indonesia with ISIS-Philippines. After Hapilon agreed to the plan, the recruits from Indonesia who eventually attended the terrorist training camps were trained in firearm use and basic bomb-making.

On January 10, 2017, the U.S. Department of State designated JAD as an SDGT pursuant to E.O. 13224. JAD is a terrorist group based in Indonesia that was formed in 2015 and is composed of almost two dozen Indonesian extremist groups that had pledged allegiance to ISIS leader Abu Bakr Al Baghdadi.

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) also listed Mabanza on June 18, 2018 for her association with ISIL and for “participating in the financing, planning, facilitating, preparing, or perpetrating of acts or activities by, in conjunction with, under the name of, on behalf of, or in support of” and “supplying, selling or transferring arms and related material to” Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant, listed as Al-Qaida in Iraq.

It said Mabanza acted for or on behalf of and assists in, sponsors, or provides financial, material, or technological support for, or financial or other services to or in support of ISIL.

In February 2016, Mabanza served as an intermediary for an individual who wanted to provide funding to ISIL’s network in the Philippines on behalf of ISIL. In April 2016, Mabanza helped facilitate travel for and accompanied a representative of an undesignated armed group to Basilan to meet Hapilon and another individual.

“The armed group representative travelled to the Philippines to purchase arms for ISIL-aligned forces in Indonesia and to set up training courses for pro-ISIL recruits from Indonesia with ISIL’s network in the Philippines. After Isnilon Totoni Hapilon agreed to the plan, the recruits from Indonesia who eventually attended the terrorist training camps were trained in firearm use and basic bomb-making instructions,” the UNSC said.

It added that in March 2016, a senior ISIL official in the Syrian Arab Republic planned to send financial support to ISIL’s network in the-Philippines through Mabanza. She coordinated the transfer of funds with Hapilon. In February 2016, Mabanza served as an intermediary between Hapilon and ISIL elements in the Syrian Arab Republic.

In January 2016, Mabanza coordinated the transfer of approximately $7000 with Hapilon. Additionally, Mabanza was instructed by Hapilon to deliver money to a member of ISIL’s network in the Philippines. In January 2016, Mabanza coordinated the transfer of up to $100,000 with Hapilon.

Philippine authorities did not provide further details on Mabanza, but said she is now under the custody of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group of the Philippine National Police in Zamboanga City. (Mindanao Examiner)

https://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2024/02/isis-woman-captured-in-philippines.html

AFP deploys assets, troops to assist Davao, Caraga rescue ops

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 15, 2023): AFP deploys assets, troops to assist Davao, Caraga rescue ops (By Priam Nepomuceno)

HELPING HAND. Philippine Army rescuers and government responders recover a cadaver at ground zero of the landslide in Barangay Masara, Maco, Davao de Oro on Feb. 12, 2024. The AFP said it has deployed all of its available search-and-rescue personnel and assets to help with ongoing humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations in Davao and Caraga. (Photo courtesy of the Philippine Army)

MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) announced that it has deployed all of its available search-and-rescue personnel and assets to aid ongoing humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR) operations in flood and landslide-hit areas in the regions of Davao and Caraga.

In a statement Wednesday night, AFP public affairs office chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad said the Philippine Air Force – particularly the 505th Search and Rescue Group, 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing, and the 220th Airlift Wing – used six helicopters, one C-130, and one C-295 aircraft and have transported 88,444 pounds of relief goods, equipment, and personnel as of Feb. 13.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Navy also deployed BRP Davao Del Sur (LD-602) and the Marine Battalion Landing Team 9 to facilitate the delivery of 40,000 family food packs provided by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

The ship departed the Manila South Harbor on Feb. 13.

On Feb. 4, the BRP Tagbanua (LC-296) arrived in Davao Oriental with more than 19,000 DSWD family food packs.

Three disaster response teams of the Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao were also deployed on Feb. 2.

Meanwhile, Philippine Army units under the 10th Infantry Division, including its emergency response company; the 701st, 402nd, and 1001st Infantry Brigades; the 66th, 67th, 25th, and 60th Infantry Battalions; and the 534th and 525th Engineer Construction Battalions assisted on the ground in the search, rescue, and retrieval operations and in ensuring the safety of the affected communities.

On Feb. 5, soldiers from the 25th Infantry Battalion, delivered on foot, 71 sacks containing 355 food packs to Sitio Cagan, Barangay Andap in New Bataan town in Davao de Oro.

The walk to Sitio Cagan took six hours after it was isolated by landslides in the area.

A total of 29 search, rescue, and retrieval teams and 31 land mobility assets were deployed, with 62 more on standby in the Eastern Mindanao Command joint area of operations.

Meanwhile, AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said the military is committed to assisting HADR efforts to support the affected population in the calamity-hit regions.

"It is without doubt that our troops are ready to go beyond the call of duty to deliver aid wherever and whenever it is needed. I am proud of every soldier, airman, sailor, and marine for their commitment and sacrifice in these trying times," Brawner added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1218897

ISIS female financial conduit nabbed in Sulu

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 15, 2023): ISIS female financial conduit nabbed in Sulu

Myrna Ajijul Mabanza (Photo courtesy of PNP Public Information Office)

MANILA – Authorities on Thursday nabbed a female terrorist who served as a financial conduit and coordinator for international terrorist groups.

In a press conference at Camp Crame, Quezon City, Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) director Maj. Gen. Romeo Caramat Jr. said the suspect, 32-year-old Myrna Ajijul Mabanza, was nabbed in an operation in Barangay Pasil, Indanan, Sulu shortly before 6 a.m.

Caramat said Mabanza is wanted for charges of terror financing under Republic Act 10168 (Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2012) and RA 11479 (Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020) issued by a Zamboanga court in December 2023.

She was declared by the United States Defense Department as a specially designated global terrorist along with the Islamic State (ISIS) founder Abu Bakr Al Baghdadi and the late Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) leader and ISIS emir in the Philippines Isnilon Hapilon.

She is the widow of a Malaysian terrorist who was believed to have influenced her into engaging in terrorism, Caramat said.

Caramat said Mabanza facilitated the transfer of funds from international financiers to local terrorist leaders including Hapilon since 2016.

These include the transfer of funds worth US$107,000 to Hapilon in January 2016.

“In February 2016, Mabanza served as an intermediary between Hapilon and ISIS elements in Syria while in March 2016, Mabanza coordinated another transfer of funds with Hapilon. Also in March 2016, a senior ISIS official in Syria planned to send financial support to ISIS-(Philippines) through Mabanza,” he added.

In April 2016, she also helped facilitate the travel of a representative of Indonesian terrorist group Jamaah Ansharut Daulah (JAD) from Indonesia to the Philippines for a meeting with Hapilon.

The JAD representative traveled to the Philippines to purchase arms for ISIS-aligned forces in Indonesia and to set up training courses for pro-ISIS recruits from Indonesia with ISIS-Philippines.

"It will surely paralyze the operation of Islamic State or ISIS, the ISIS' plan to establish itself in the country, and of course in other countries because other governments are also running after financing of terrorism," Caramat told reporters.

Philippine National Police chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. said the arrest of Mabanza was a big blow to the terrorist group.

“With regards to the effects on the operations, most likely with the arrest of Myrna, ang cash flow nila maaapektuhan yan (their cash flow would be affected), definitely their operations will be affected,” Acorda said in a press conference.

Meanwhile, the Anti-Terrorism Council (ATC), chaired by Executive Secretary Lucas P. Bersamin, said the government not only dealt a solid blow to local extremist groups with Mabanza’s arrest but also showed its commitment to address money laundering and terrorism financing.

"Mabanza’s arrest marks another positive note for the Philippines’ whole-of-nation campaign to address terrorism and terrorism financing that will reflect well to contribute in the country’s unyielding efforts to get out of the Financial Action Task Force’s Grey List," the ATC said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1218931

PBBM to PNP: Improve comms capability, interoperability

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 15, 2023): PBBM to PNP: Improve comms capability, interoperability (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan and Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)

GOOD COMMUNICATION. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (left) and Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. (right) attend a command conference in Quezon City on Friday (Feb. 15, 2024). During the conference, the President directed the PNP to establish a good communications system to further improve its interoperability. (Photo courtesy of PCO)

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday directed the Philippine National Police (PNP) to establish a good communications system to further improve its interoperability.

Marcos gave the directive during the first PNP command conference held in Quezon City after PNP chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. raised concerns over the reported low equipment capacity of the national police.

He said the PNP should be more strategic in its procurement of communications equipment to enhance its interoperability, especially in emergency and crisis situations.

“We have to be able to communicate to each other, lalung-lalo na dito sa mga (especially here in) disaster response. Kailangan alam natin kung ano ‘yung (We should be aware of the) situation on the ground. Kailangan ‘yung nandoon na pulis, makapag-report kaagad na may nangyari, ganito yung situation, ito ‘yung kailangan namin (They must be able to immediately report the situation and what they need),” Marcos said.

“We really need to come up with a plan to improve the communications capability of PNP. You cannot do your job without being able to communicate because mag-aantay kayo ng (you are waiting for) instructions, magre-report kayo sa (reporting to the) central office, etc.).”

Marcos told PNP officials to study the use of other communications equipment that may be suited for local situations, noting that access to technology nowadays is “getting cheaper and better.”

He also reminded them to make sure that all communication equipment is standardized to ensure interoperability across the country, adding that there should be a secure network to ensure better communication between units and offices within the PNP.

“So that’s something that, I think, we need to look into very well, kasi ‘yung fill-up mababa masyado (is too low). Even digital radio, tactical – hindi tayo umabot ng (we failed to reach) 40 percent in any of the categories,” Marcos said. “So, tignan ng mabuti (let’s see) what it is that we can do so we can provide our people with the best possible communications equipment.”

Marcos said the PNP may look into the equipment that is being used by its counterparts in other countries.

“Kahit ‘yung pulis malipat sa ibang lugar, pareho pa rin ang gamit, pareho pa rin ang procedure, pareho pa rin ang sistema (If a police officer is transferred to another place, the equipment, procedures, and system must be the same). So, I think that’s very important thing: there has to be consistency," he said.

As of Feb. 14, the PNP is still far from filling up at least half of its requirement for communications equipment, recording a 32.05 percent fill-up for digital radio, 33.98 percent for tactical radio, and 2.48 percent for satellite phones.

The PNP has yet to complete its purchase of 18 units of conventional repeaters amounting to PHP52 million and 80 units of satellite phones amounting to PHP6.5 million under its Capability Enhancement Program (CEP) 2023.

For CEP 2024, the PNP is planning to procure 2,039 units of body-worn cameras, one unit of digital trunked radio system, an additional 18 units of conventional repeaters, and 420 units of VHF low-band handheld radio, costing PHP585 million.

The PNP said the procurement under the CEP 2024 is delayed due to issues in the Terms of Reference.

It, however, assured the public that the issue is being addressed and noted that it is targeting to complete the procurement for CEP 2023 and 2024 within 2024, which will bring its fill-up rate up to 32.07 percent for digital radio, 39.17 percent for tactical radio, and 6.03 percent for satellite radio.

Anti-cybercrime efforts

While he lauded the PNP for its accomplishments to maintain peace and order in the country, Marcos also instructed the agency to beef up its anti-cybercrime efforts given the increase in cybercrime cases to 21,300 in 2023 from 13,890 in 2022.

He said the PNP should improve its prevention, detection and investigation of cases to combat cybercrimes considering the current sophisticated and technology-based crime modalities.

“So, we have to build our cybercrime unit from scratch. Now, we need experts to do this. Magaling ang Pinoy (Filipinos are good). So, for whatever reason, magaling ang Pinoy sa (Filipinos are good) IT (information technology). We seem to have a talent for it,” Marcos told the PNP.

PNP records from July 1, 2022 to Jan. 31, 2024 showed that online scams topped the list of cybercrime cases at 15,937, followed by illegal access at 4,821 and computer-related identity theft cases at 2,384.

The PNP has already proposed the establishment of a Cybersecurity Center for the monitoring, detection, protection and mitigation of and response to cybersecurity issues and incidents in the agency’s ICT infrastructure.

Lesser crimes, safer PH

Acorda, meanwhile, said the President is pleased with the PNP’s performance based on the latest data of crime incidents.

“Bumaba ang crime statistics, yung mga crime solution efficiency binibigyan diin ng pansin (Crime statistics were on a downtrend. He also took note of crime solution efficiency). He (President Marcos) wants us to really focus on our crime solution efficiency, which ni-recognize naman niya yung pagtaas ng crime solution efficiency (he recognized the increase in crime solution efficiency) as a result with the cooperation with the DOJ (Department of Justice), yung (the) Department Circular No. 20,” he said.

The Department of Justice issued in March last year Department Circular No. 20 which required prosecutors to take an active role in the investigation of crimes, particularly during the buildup stage, and work with complainants and law enforcement agencies.

Acorda also said Marcos reminded them to ensure that their proposed amendments in the PNP Reform and Reorganization Bill would be included in the measure's final version.

“They are now giving me opportunity to review the Senate version before the bicam(eral). And they are asking me to write a letter to include all the provisions that we wanted rectified from this Senate version of the reorg(anization) bill,” he said.

Last week, the Senate unanimously passed Senate Bill (SB) 2449, which seeks to amend Republic Act (RA) 6975 or the Department of the Interior and Local Government Act of 1990 and RA 8551 or the PNP Reform and Reorganization Act of 1998.

Marcos has also ordered the police force to speed up the investigation on the attack against a young doctor in Maguindanao, Acorda said.

Bangsamoro regional police office chief Brig. Gen. Allan Nobleza said Pandag, Maguindanao del Sur Mayor Mohajeran Balayman facilitated the surrender of the two suspects in the ambush of Dr. Sharmaine Baroquillo.

The suspects aged 16 and 18 were accompanied by their parents when they surrendered, Nobleza added.

A hunt against a third suspect, a 16-year-old who served as the gunman, is now underway.

The suspects will be charged with attempted robbery and frustrated murder.

“The motive is robbery. From Datu Paglas, she was tailed by these three suspects riding on a motorcycle. When she did not stop, they shot her,” Nobleza added.

Barroquillo, 27, was fired upon by the suspects while traveling along a highway in Paglas, Maguindanao del Sur on the evening of Feb. 3.

Despite sustaining gunshot wounds on his lower back and arms, the victim was able to bring herself to the nearest hospital but hit a tricycle with three persons while on her way.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1218936

DFA: No change in WPS policy; PH to defend sovereign rights

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 15, 2023): DFA: No change in WPS policy; PH to defend sovereign rights (By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo (PNA photo by Avito Dalan)

MANILA – Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo on Thursday said there is no new directive to soften actions in asserting the country’s sovereign rights over the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

In a media forum in Manila, the Filipino top diplomat said the Philippines has always and will maintain a policy to manage disputes diplomatically and peacefully while firmly defending its maritime rights over the area.

“So, our position has not changed, it remains the same. I think that's how we will proceed in whatever future discussions we have,” he said.

Manalo said the government would also sustain a policy of transparency in the WPS, noting that the country's actions have been consistently “hinged on international law”.

The statement was in response to a question whether Manila will retain its so-called "assertive transparency," which involves publicizing illegal and unilateral actions conducted within Philippine waters.

“The Philippines’ role as vanguard of the rule of law, particularly the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) as the fundamental and only arbiter of the overlapping claims and disputes in the South China Sea, can be seen as an extension of Philippine good global citizenship as a peacemaker, rule-shaper and consensus-builder, as much as it is about Philippine territorial integrity and national sovereignty,” he said.

Manalo said Manila’s “principled rules-based approach on the South China Sea/West Philippine Sea” is also a reflection that Manila is championing “nothing less, and nothing more, than what is just”.

“When a state becomes a party to a Treaty, it is under a legal obligation to bring its laws and conduct into conformity with the Treaty,” he said, referring to the UNCLOS.

“Efforts seeking to shape and use rules, going against international law, should be opposed or not accepted,” he added.

In 2016, an Arbitral Tribunal issued a landmark award that invalidated China’s expansive claims in the South China Sea.

The ruling was based on the UNCLOS, which both China and the Philippines are parties.

Last Jan. 17, the two nations met for the 8th Bilateral Consultation Mechanism on the South China Sea (BCM) and discussed ways to “de-escalate the situation in the South China Sea”.

Both sides agreed to “calmly deal with incidents, if any, through diplomacy”.

Not part of US-China rivalry

In the same forum, Manalo reiterated that the South China Sea disputes are not at all centered on the US-China rivalry.

He stressed that the region is composed of a number of nations and is not shaped by just one or two powers.

“Subscribing strictly to the prism of this rivalry does not help in an honest understanding of the situation. Firstly, it puts distinct and legitimate rights and interests of countries such as the Philippines aside, and secondary to the interests of the rivals,” he said.

“Secondly, it purposely obscures good judgment: actions that are clearly illegal in international law and against the UN Charter are sometimes rationalized under the pretext of this rivalry,” he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1218962

NPA leader, 4 others yield in Agusan Norte

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 15, 2023): NPA leader, 4 others yield in Agusan Norte (By Alexander Lopez)

WEARY REBELS. Arnel Bahian (center), leader of the communist New People’s Army Platoon 2, Sub-Regional Sentro De Grabidad Sagay, surrenders, together with his four comrades, to the Army’s 23rd Infantry Battalion on Wednesday (Feb. 14, 2024) in Barangay Alubihid, Buenavista, Agusan del Norte. The group also turned in five high-powered firearms and ammunition. (Photo courtesy of 23IB)

BUTUAN CITY – Five communist New People’s Army (NPA) rebels, including a platoon leader, surrendered to soldiers in the Agusan del Norte town of Buenavista, a military official said Thursday.

In a statement, Lt. Col. Jeffrey Balingao, the Army’s 23rd Infantry Battalion (IB) commander, identified the NPA leader as Arnel Bahian, who heads the Platoon 2, Sub-Regional Sentro De Grabidad Sagay under the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee.

During Wednesday's surrender, Bahian was joined by four of his subordinates– Analyn Mondas, the group’s political officer; Glen Antigulas, Jaquelyn Egtub, and Charilyn Rebita.

They handed over four M16 rifles, an M4A1 rifle, and ammunition.

“The surrender of Bahian and his group was the result of the proactive efforts and negotiations of the 23IB. Bahan was behind the numerous hostile movements and atrocities of the NPA rebels in the area for a long time,” Balingao said.

He said the group opted to surrender following the harsh conditions in the mountains, made more severe by intensified military operations in the hinterlands of Buenavista, particularly in Barangays Simbalan and Sangay, as well as in Barangay Bitan-agan here.

Last month, three armed encounters in these villages resulted in the death of four NPA rebels, the capture of three, the surrender of three others, and the seizure of 14 high-powered firearms.

Brig. Gen. Adonis Ariel Orio, the Army’s 402nd Infantry Brigade, welcomed the surrender of the five rebels and urged the remaining militants in the area to surrender.

“The integration of these individuals into mainstream society symbolizes their commitment to leave behind a life of conflict and embrace a future of peace and prosperity,” he said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1218901

Rebel remnants in Negros Island urged to surrender

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 15, 2023): Rebel remnants in Negros Island urged to surrender (By Nanette Guadalquiver)

AID TO FORMER REBELS. Himamaylan City Mayor Rogelio Raymund Tongson Jr. (right) gives his message to the 38 former New People’s Army rebels who received cash and educational assistance from the government, in the presence of army and police officials, at the City Hall on Wednesday (Feb. 14, 2024). On Thursday (Feb. 15), the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division urged anew the remaining communist rebels in Negros Island to surrender and avail of the government’s integration program. (Photo courtesy of 94th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army)

BACOLOD CITY – The Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division (ID) reiterated its call on Thursday for the remaining communist rebels in Negros Island to surrender as more former rebels have received benefits from the government on their path to reintegration.

All five guerrilla fronts of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) in both Negros provinces have already been dismantled, according to the 3ID.

Maj. Gen. Marion Sison, commander of 3ID, issued the call after 38 former rebels in Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental, received financial and educational assistance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation program through the City Social Welfare and Development Office on Wednesday.

“Follow the footsteps of your comrades. Give up the armed struggle, come forward, avail of the government’s integration program,” Sison said in a statement.

The Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program or ECLIP grants former rebels a financial package for immediate assistance, provision for the reintegration process, starting capital for livelihood, and remuneration for surrendered firearms.

The 3ID chief said that as Negrenses become more aware and committed to their crucial role as stakeholders in achieving stable internal peace and security, they expect that more members of the CPP-NPA will choose to embrace peace and positive transformation.

Col. Victor Llapitan, deputy commander of the 303rd Infantry Brigade, urged the former rebels to help the government convince the remaining rebels to return to the fold of the law and reunite with their families.

The assistance to the 38 former rebels, comprised of PHP10,000 cash assistance for each of the 27 recipients and educational support for 11 others, was turned over during a ceremony led by Mayor Rogelio Raymund Tongson Jr. at the City Hall.

Of the number, 34 surrendered to the 94th Infantry Battalion while two each turned themselves in through the Philippine Air Force and the Philippine National Police.

“The financial and educational assistance extended to the former rebels is solid proof that the Himamaylan local government unit is sincere in its commitment allowing former rebels to start anew and reintegrate with the community,” Llapitan said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1218912