From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 11): Maute death toll now at 191 — AFP
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Sunday announced that it has so far neutralized 191 Maute Group terrorists in the ongoing operations to clear Marawi City of the lawless elements.
"The AFP has greatly diminished the number of the terrorists. So far 191 were confirmed dead while undetermined number of them killed were being validated," AFP public affairs office chief Col. Edgard Arevalo said.
A total of 158 firearms were also seized in the ongoing operations, he added.
Government losses as of Saturday stands at 58 troops with 20 civilians executed by the terrorists.
"However, the recalcitrant remnants of the Maute-ISIS continue their stiff resistance while holed in fortified buildings and structures," Arevalo pointed out.
Using these defensive positions, the terrorists are using sniper fires, mortar fire, anti-tank rounds, and improvised explosive devices to kill anyone -- government security forces, relief and rescue workers, and civilians -- who get in the way of their fanatical desire to dismember Marawi from the Philippines and establish it as a “Wilayat” or an ISIS province in this part of Asia, the military official said.
"Your AFP and PNP will continue to break the heavy resistance of and clear Marawi from the Maute-ISIS group, restore normalcy in the city, and make way for the rehabilitation and reconstruction of Marawi," he added.
And to be able to fulfill that mission, Arevalo said that there is need to use armor, artillery and air power assets to breach the terrorists stronghold and their underground fortresses.
"This has since become a fight not only of your security forces, but also of every peace-loving Filipino deserving of a peaceful and progressive nation," he pointed out.
"This war is between good and evil. Everyone needs everybody to stand up, unite, fight against, and repulse the onslaught of the forces of evil attempting to establish foothold in our land. We would not and should not surrender even an inch of our soil to the harbingers of doom and perfidy," Arevalo concluded.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/994771
Monday, June 12, 2017
AFP observes Day of Silence & Prayer for fallen soldiers, civilians in Marawi conflict
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 12): AFP observes Day of Silence & Prayer for fallen soldiers, civilians in Marawi conflict
In honor of government security forces and civilians who died in the ongoing efforts to clear Marawi City of remaining Maute Group remnants, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is observing Day of Silence and Prayer starting Sunday until early Monday, AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said.
"For the rest of the day today (Sunday) and early tomorrow (Monday), we shall not be providing updates. The AFP will observe a Day of Silence and Prayer in tribute to the fallen heroes of Marawi and also in remembrance of the innocent lives lost to rebel atrocities," he added.
As of Saturday, the military reported that security troops sustained 58 dead in the ongoing efforts to liberate Marawi City from the terrorists and another 20 civilians executed by the lawless elements early in the conflict which started May 23.
Thirteen of the recent losses were Marine troopers who were killed in a major engagement between Marine units and Maute Group terrorists which lasted for some 14 hours in Barangay Lilot Madaya in Marawi City Friday.
Fighting started 3:30 a.m. and ended 5 p.m. of June 9. Around 40 were also reported wounded.
"Our men served with honor and we ask you to join us in prayer for the repose of their souls, strength for the bereaved families in this moment of grief and for peace in our land," Padilla concluded.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/994772
In honor of government security forces and civilians who died in the ongoing efforts to clear Marawi City of remaining Maute Group remnants, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is observing Day of Silence and Prayer starting Sunday until early Monday, AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said.
"For the rest of the day today (Sunday) and early tomorrow (Monday), we shall not be providing updates. The AFP will observe a Day of Silence and Prayer in tribute to the fallen heroes of Marawi and also in remembrance of the innocent lives lost to rebel atrocities," he added.
As of Saturday, the military reported that security troops sustained 58 dead in the ongoing efforts to liberate Marawi City from the terrorists and another 20 civilians executed by the lawless elements early in the conflict which started May 23.
Thirteen of the recent losses were Marine troopers who were killed in a major engagement between Marine units and Maute Group terrorists which lasted for some 14 hours in Barangay Lilot Madaya in Marawi City Friday.
Fighting started 3:30 a.m. and ended 5 p.m. of June 9. Around 40 were also reported wounded.
"Our men served with honor and we ask you to join us in prayer for the repose of their souls, strength for the bereaved families in this moment of grief and for peace in our land," Padilla concluded.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/994772
US help in Marawi limited to technical assistance only — Abella
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 12): US help in Marawi limited to technical assistance only — Abella
Presidential Spokesperson Ernie Abella on Sunday clarified the "assistance" being provided by United States in the ongoing operations of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in Marawi as only "limited to technical assistance".
"We have standing protocols which are already in place under the Mutual Defense Board-Security Engagement Board with the US under the purview of the PHL-US Mutual Defense Treaty of 1951. It does not involve any boots on the ground nor is there any direct participation in combat operations, a matter prohibited by law," Abella said.
The fight against terrorism, he said, is not only the concern of the Philippines or the United States but it is a concern of many nations around the world.
"The Philippines is open to assistance from other countries if they offer it," he added.
Still on Marawi, Abella said the Palace was deeply saddened by the news on the 13 Marines killed in action during a firefight in Marawi City.
"This incident, albeit unfortunate, gives us greater impetus to clear Marawi of lawless elements, save the trapped civilians, and restore order, security and normalcy to the city and its residents," he stressed.
He went on to enjoin every one to continue showing strong support to our "courageous and heroic men and women in uniform fighting for Marawi and defending the Republic".
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/994776
Presidential Spokesperson Ernie Abella on Sunday clarified the "assistance" being provided by United States in the ongoing operations of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in Marawi as only "limited to technical assistance".
"We have standing protocols which are already in place under the Mutual Defense Board-Security Engagement Board with the US under the purview of the PHL-US Mutual Defense Treaty of 1951. It does not involve any boots on the ground nor is there any direct participation in combat operations, a matter prohibited by law," Abella said.
The fight against terrorism, he said, is not only the concern of the Philippines or the United States but it is a concern of many nations around the world.
"The Philippines is open to assistance from other countries if they offer it," he added.
Still on Marawi, Abella said the Palace was deeply saddened by the news on the 13 Marines killed in action during a firefight in Marawi City.
"This incident, albeit unfortunate, gives us greater impetus to clear Marawi of lawless elements, save the trapped civilians, and restore order, security and normalcy to the city and its residents," he stressed.
He went on to enjoin every one to continue showing strong support to our "courageous and heroic men and women in uniform fighting for Marawi and defending the Republic".
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/994776
Respect for IHL, HR reasons for high military losses in Marawi City - AFP
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 12): Respect for IHL, HR reasons for high military losses in Marawi City - AFP
Respect for International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and Human Rights (HR) is the reason why the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is taking heavy casualties in the ongoing operations to clear Marawi City of the remaining Maute Group terrorists.
In the same vein, the military puts premium on civilian lives, unlike the lawless elements who indiscriminately fires weapons, regardless of the targets.
"Our losses are because we put premium on saving more civilian lives and complete respect for IHL/HR," AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said late Sunday.
However, to avoid more losses, he added that many adjustments will be made in the conduct of military operations in the remaining areas of Marawi City still being held by the Maute Group terrorists.
As of this posting, there are 58 government troops killed and around 120 wounded in the fighting which is now entering its fourth week.
Thirteen of the recent losses were Marine troopers who were killed in a major engagement which lasted for some 14 hours, erupted between Marine units and Maute Group terrorists at Barangay Lilot Madaya in Marawi City Friday.
Fighting started 3:30 a.m. and ended 5 p.m. of June 9. Around 40 were also reported wounded.
"Our men served with honor and we ask you to join us in prayer for the repose of their souls, strength for the bereaved families in this moment of grief and for peace in our land," Padilla concluded.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/994822
Respect for International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and Human Rights (HR) is the reason why the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is taking heavy casualties in the ongoing operations to clear Marawi City of the remaining Maute Group terrorists.
In the same vein, the military puts premium on civilian lives, unlike the lawless elements who indiscriminately fires weapons, regardless of the targets.
"Our losses are because we put premium on saving more civilian lives and complete respect for IHL/HR," AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said late Sunday.
However, to avoid more losses, he added that many adjustments will be made in the conduct of military operations in the remaining areas of Marawi City still being held by the Maute Group terrorists.
As of this posting, there are 58 government troops killed and around 120 wounded in the fighting which is now entering its fourth week.
Thirteen of the recent losses were Marine troopers who were killed in a major engagement which lasted for some 14 hours, erupted between Marine units and Maute Group terrorists at Barangay Lilot Madaya in Marawi City Friday.
Fighting started 3:30 a.m. and ended 5 p.m. of June 9. Around 40 were also reported wounded.
"Our men served with honor and we ask you to join us in prayer for the repose of their souls, strength for the bereaved families in this moment of grief and for peace in our land," Padilla concluded.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/994822
President Duterte honors soldiers killed in Marawi siege
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 12): President Duterte honors soldiers killed in Marawi siege
President Rodrigo Duterte on Sunday led the arrival honors at the Villamor Air Base for the eight soldiers killed in hours-long gun battle between government forces and Maute militants in Marawi last Friday.
President Duterte arrived at the Air Base grandstand around 7:50 p.m. where he personally condoled with the families of the slain soldiers.
The bodies of the slain Marines were flown to Manila from Laguindingan Airport in Cagayan de Oro City on Sunday afternoon.
Upon the arrival of the President, the metal caskets covered with the Philippine flag, were carried by soldiers out of the C-130 plane and were placed on high-lift ramps in front of the grandstand.
The slain soldiers were accorded arrival honors. The President then approached each family member to express his sympathies and condolences.
The eight Marines who were honored were First Lieutenant Raymond M. Abad, First Lieutenant John Frederick S. Savellano, Staff Sergeant. Joven Q. Triston, Sergeant Simeon I. Plares, Corporal Rolan H. Sumagpang, Private First Class Marvin Russel D. Gomez, Private Bernie Jhon B. Lunas, and Private First Class Gener C. Tinangag.
The President extended financial assistance to the families of the fallen soldiers.
He then proceeded to the Marines headquarters in Fort Bonifacio to visit the wake of another two soldiers who were also killed in action in Marawi.
The two were Corporal Romula Garcia and Private First Class Eddie Cardona Jr. whose remains lie in state at the Acero Hall inside the Philippine Marine Headquaters.
The President’s last stop was at the Libingan ng mga Bayani where he paid his last respects to Corporal Reymond Paracuelles, who was killed on June 9 during a firefight with members of Maute group.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/994829
President Rodrigo Duterte on Sunday led the arrival honors at the Villamor Air Base for the eight soldiers killed in hours-long gun battle between government forces and Maute militants in Marawi last Friday.
President Duterte arrived at the Air Base grandstand around 7:50 p.m. where he personally condoled with the families of the slain soldiers.
The bodies of the slain Marines were flown to Manila from Laguindingan Airport in Cagayan de Oro City on Sunday afternoon.
Upon the arrival of the President, the metal caskets covered with the Philippine flag, were carried by soldiers out of the C-130 plane and were placed on high-lift ramps in front of the grandstand.
The slain soldiers were accorded arrival honors. The President then approached each family member to express his sympathies and condolences.
The eight Marines who were honored were First Lieutenant Raymond M. Abad, First Lieutenant John Frederick S. Savellano, Staff Sergeant. Joven Q. Triston, Sergeant Simeon I. Plares, Corporal Rolan H. Sumagpang, Private First Class Marvin Russel D. Gomez, Private Bernie Jhon B. Lunas, and Private First Class Gener C. Tinangag.
The President extended financial assistance to the families of the fallen soldiers.
He then proceeded to the Marines headquarters in Fort Bonifacio to visit the wake of another two soldiers who were also killed in action in Marawi.
The two were Corporal Romula Garcia and Private First Class Eddie Cardona Jr. whose remains lie in state at the Acero Hall inside the Philippine Marine Headquaters.
The President’s last stop was at the Libingan ng mga Bayani where he paid his last respects to Corporal Reymond Paracuelles, who was killed on June 9 during a firefight with members of Maute group.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/994829
DOJ mulls financial aid for gov't troops in Marawi
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 12): DOJ mulls financial aid for gov't troops in Marawi
Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II on Monday vowed to look into the possible granting of financial assistance from the Board of Claims to soldiers who were either wounded or killed in action in clashes against the Maute terror group in Marawi City.
Aguirre made the statement during when he visited some injured soldiers at Camp Evangelista Army Hospital in Cagayan De Oro City.
Joining Aguirre in his visit to the city are Justice Undersecretaries Antonio Kho Jr., Renante Orceo and Deo Marco.
For this purpose, Orceo, who is in Charge of the Board of Claims was tasked to determine the processing of the possible claims of the soldiers and of their families.
Aside from promising financial assistance by way of the Board of Claims, Aguirre also gave PHP50,000 from his personal funds to the Directress of the Camp Evangelista Station Hospital for the needs of the wounded and recuperating soldiers.
"We cannot thank our soldiers enough for their bravery and gallant acts in the defense of our people in Marawi City. This is least we can do for them," Aguirre said.
Aguire flew to Cagayan De Oro City on Monday to personally oversee the inquest proceedings against arrested members and supporters of the Maute group.
“As we celebrate our Independence Day, we are starting the inquest proceedings for the personalities allegedly involved in the violent attacks on Marawi City and its residents," he explained
"When the perpetrators are brought to justice and are made to suffer the full measure of our laws, the Filipino people can once again be free from fear... Those responsible will be brought to justice," the DOJ chief vowed.
Aguirre said he also met with local prosecutors and checked on their preparations for their temporary office.
The DOJ chief bared that after the inquest proceedings, the high-value suspects would be transferred to Manila for better security.
Last week, the Supreme Court (SC) has designated the Cagayan De Oro regional trial court to handle cases filed against the Maute members and supporters while the military's Camp Evangelista will serve as the detention of the arrested suspects.
Aguirre said that he will request to the high court to reconsider its earlier order and allow the transfer of the trial of the rebellion and other cases to Metro Manila due security concerns and lack of adequate detention facilities.
He made another request after the conduct of ocular inspection by the DOJ delegations in Cagayan de Oro City on Monday.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/994935
Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II on Monday vowed to look into the possible granting of financial assistance from the Board of Claims to soldiers who were either wounded or killed in action in clashes against the Maute terror group in Marawi City.
Aguirre made the statement during when he visited some injured soldiers at Camp Evangelista Army Hospital in Cagayan De Oro City.
Joining Aguirre in his visit to the city are Justice Undersecretaries Antonio Kho Jr., Renante Orceo and Deo Marco.
For this purpose, Orceo, who is in Charge of the Board of Claims was tasked to determine the processing of the possible claims of the soldiers and of their families.
Aside from promising financial assistance by way of the Board of Claims, Aguirre also gave PHP50,000 from his personal funds to the Directress of the Camp Evangelista Station Hospital for the needs of the wounded and recuperating soldiers.
"We cannot thank our soldiers enough for their bravery and gallant acts in the defense of our people in Marawi City. This is least we can do for them," Aguirre said.
Aguire flew to Cagayan De Oro City on Monday to personally oversee the inquest proceedings against arrested members and supporters of the Maute group.
“As we celebrate our Independence Day, we are starting the inquest proceedings for the personalities allegedly involved in the violent attacks on Marawi City and its residents," he explained
"When the perpetrators are brought to justice and are made to suffer the full measure of our laws, the Filipino people can once again be free from fear... Those responsible will be brought to justice," the DOJ chief vowed.
Aguirre said he also met with local prosecutors and checked on their preparations for their temporary office.
The DOJ chief bared that after the inquest proceedings, the high-value suspects would be transferred to Manila for better security.
Last week, the Supreme Court (SC) has designated the Cagayan De Oro regional trial court to handle cases filed against the Maute members and supporters while the military's Camp Evangelista will serve as the detention of the arrested suspects.
Aguirre said that he will request to the high court to reconsider its earlier order and allow the transfer of the trial of the rebellion and other cases to Metro Manila due security concerns and lack of adequate detention facilities.
He made another request after the conduct of ocular inspection by the DOJ delegations in Cagayan de Oro City on Monday.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/994935
Hapilon, Mautes had orders to set up ISIS base in Mindanao: Duterte, AFP chief
From InterAksyon (Jun 11): Hapilon, Mautes had orders to set up ISIS base in Mindanao: Duterte, AFP chief
Okinta Romato Maute, also known as Farhana, mother of the brothers who founded the extremist group battling government forces in Marawi, is seen in a police handout after her capture Friday. (PRO-ARMM/News5)
President Rodrigo Duterte and Armed Forces chief Lt. Gen. Eduardo Año said separately that the head of the Islamic State in the Middle East, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, had instructed Isnilon Hapilon to set up a base for ISIS in the Philippines.
Duterte said this in remarks while visiting soldiers wounded in the fighting in Marawi City, where the Maute Group with which Hapilon had closed ranks laid siege to starting May 23 – putting up a tough, urban guerrila style warfare against government forces despite punishing attacks from the ground and air.
Duterte visited the Camp Evangelista Station Hospital at the weekend and pinned medals on the wounded soldiers and gave out cash assistance.
In the ensuing press conference, Duterte said the Philippine government had confirmed information that al-Baghdadi had given the orders to the Maute brothers and Hapilon to sow chaos in Mindanao, which the President placed under martial law through Proclamation 216 which he signed on the evening of May 23.
The information they got was that ISIS wanted Lanao de Sur to be their base in Asia, and then expanding to nearby areas like Iligan City, where most of Marawi’s 200,000 population have fled.
“Lumabas na si Bagdadi mismo, the leader of ISIS, has physically ordered terroristic activities in the Philippines,” said Duterte.
The bigger, long-term plan of the terrorist group was detailed by AFP chief of staff Año. The government got further information with the capture last week of the Maute brothers’ father, Cayamora Maute – who has since been flown to Metro Manila – and subsequently their mother Okinta Romato Maute alias Farhana.
The latter was arrested with several men Friday, but four of the suspected members who were being transported separately to Cagayan de Oro died when the government convoy bearing them was ambushed Saturday.
The instructions received by the Mautes and Hapilon, according to Año, was that “once they occupied Marawi, they will go to Iligan and kill as many as they can, non-Muslims. To show to the world that there is an existing ISIS in the Philippines, that they have a base in Asia and they chose Mindanao, Lanao Sur.”
US help confirmed
The military confirmed at the weekend that the United States was providing “technical assistance” to government in fighting the extremists in Marawi, but insisted that all operational matters were being handled by Philippine defense and military.
Duterte said in Cagayan de Oro he was not aware of this, but acknowledged that the Philippine military was still handicapped in terms of technical expertise.
Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez, Jr explained the situation: “[The US] contribution is more on training and technical assistance. Kasi yung ginagamit nating equipment ay similar sa kanila. But basically lahat ng operational matters, sa amin lahat yun. Walang Amerikanong involved [The equipment we’re using is similar tp theirs, so they’re helping out on technical matters. But there are no Americans involved in operational matters. All of that is ours].”
MDT standing protocols
In Malacañang, Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella explained to reporters: “The United States is assisting the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in its operations in Marawi but this is limited to technical assistance.
“We have standing protocols which are already in place under the Mutual Defense Board-Security Engagement Board with the US under the purview of the PH-US Mutual Defense Treaty of 1951. It does not involve any boots on the ground nor is there any direct participation in combat operations, a matter prohibited by law.”
Apparently referring to concerns about US intervention in Mindanao, Abello pointed out that “the fight against terrorism, however, is not only the concern of the Philippines or the United States but it is a concern of many nations around the world. The Philippines is open to assistance from other countries if they offer it.”
Duterte acknowledged that the Philippine military still lacked technical expertise. “I am not aware of it. And since martial law, I gave powers to the defense department. [There is a war] …We are not that powerful. We do not have technical expertise, that is why most of the officers of the Philippine Army had their schooling in America,” Duterte said, adding, “ang sentimyento nito pro-American. That I cannot deny.”
He appealed to the people of Marawi to hold on: “I do not want to fight. I simply cannot wage a war against my own people. I pray that there will be a short war, I expect it to be over soon.”
The government, Duterte added, would extend all necessary assistance to the people of Marawi, whose once-bustling city – deemed one of the most progressive Muslim-dominated places in Mindanao – has suffered extensive damage from the 3-week-old siege.
http://www.interaksyon.com/hapilon-mautes-had-orders-to-set-up-isis-base-in-mindanao-duterte-afp-chief/
Okinta Romato Maute, also known as Farhana, mother of the brothers who founded the extremist group battling government forces in Marawi, is seen in a police handout after her capture Friday. (PRO-ARMM/News5)
President Rodrigo Duterte and Armed Forces chief Lt. Gen. Eduardo Año said separately that the head of the Islamic State in the Middle East, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, had instructed Isnilon Hapilon to set up a base for ISIS in the Philippines.
Duterte said this in remarks while visiting soldiers wounded in the fighting in Marawi City, where the Maute Group with which Hapilon had closed ranks laid siege to starting May 23 – putting up a tough, urban guerrila style warfare against government forces despite punishing attacks from the ground and air.
Duterte visited the Camp Evangelista Station Hospital at the weekend and pinned medals on the wounded soldiers and gave out cash assistance.
In the ensuing press conference, Duterte said the Philippine government had confirmed information that al-Baghdadi had given the orders to the Maute brothers and Hapilon to sow chaos in Mindanao, which the President placed under martial law through Proclamation 216 which he signed on the evening of May 23.
The information they got was that ISIS wanted Lanao de Sur to be their base in Asia, and then expanding to nearby areas like Iligan City, where most of Marawi’s 200,000 population have fled.
“Lumabas na si Bagdadi mismo, the leader of ISIS, has physically ordered terroristic activities in the Philippines,” said Duterte.
The bigger, long-term plan of the terrorist group was detailed by AFP chief of staff Año. The government got further information with the capture last week of the Maute brothers’ father, Cayamora Maute – who has since been flown to Metro Manila – and subsequently their mother Okinta Romato Maute alias Farhana.
The latter was arrested with several men Friday, but four of the suspected members who were being transported separately to Cagayan de Oro died when the government convoy bearing them was ambushed Saturday.
The instructions received by the Mautes and Hapilon, according to Año, was that “once they occupied Marawi, they will go to Iligan and kill as many as they can, non-Muslims. To show to the world that there is an existing ISIS in the Philippines, that they have a base in Asia and they chose Mindanao, Lanao Sur.”
US help confirmed
The military confirmed at the weekend that the United States was providing “technical assistance” to government in fighting the extremists in Marawi, but insisted that all operational matters were being handled by Philippine defense and military.
Duterte said in Cagayan de Oro he was not aware of this, but acknowledged that the Philippine military was still handicapped in terms of technical expertise.
Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez, Jr explained the situation: “[The US] contribution is more on training and technical assistance. Kasi yung ginagamit nating equipment ay similar sa kanila. But basically lahat ng operational matters, sa amin lahat yun. Walang Amerikanong involved [The equipment we’re using is similar tp theirs, so they’re helping out on technical matters. But there are no Americans involved in operational matters. All of that is ours].”
MDT standing protocols
In Malacañang, Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella explained to reporters: “The United States is assisting the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in its operations in Marawi but this is limited to technical assistance.
“We have standing protocols which are already in place under the Mutual Defense Board-Security Engagement Board with the US under the purview of the PH-US Mutual Defense Treaty of 1951. It does not involve any boots on the ground nor is there any direct participation in combat operations, a matter prohibited by law.”
Apparently referring to concerns about US intervention in Mindanao, Abello pointed out that “the fight against terrorism, however, is not only the concern of the Philippines or the United States but it is a concern of many nations around the world. The Philippines is open to assistance from other countries if they offer it.”
Duterte acknowledged that the Philippine military still lacked technical expertise. “I am not aware of it. And since martial law, I gave powers to the defense department. [There is a war] …We are not that powerful. We do not have technical expertise, that is why most of the officers of the Philippine Army had their schooling in America,” Duterte said, adding, “ang sentimyento nito pro-American. That I cannot deny.”
He appealed to the people of Marawi to hold on: “I do not want to fight. I simply cannot wage a war against my own people. I pray that there will be a short war, I expect it to be over soon.”
The government, Duterte added, would extend all necessary assistance to the people of Marawi, whose once-bustling city – deemed one of the most progressive Muslim-dominated places in Mindanao – has suffered extensive damage from the 3-week-old siege.
http://www.interaksyon.com/hapilon-mautes-had-orders-to-set-up-isis-base-in-mindanao-duterte-afp-chief/
Maute Group suspects slain in ambush on PNP convoy eyed as witnesses vs ‘queen’ of terror network
From InterAksyon (Jun 11): Maute Group suspects slain in ambush on PNP convoy eyed as witnesses vs ‘queen’ of terror network
Photos of suspected members of the Maute group with (left to right) Cayamora and Okinta, and their sons, alleged founders Abdullah and Omarkhayam on the top row. On the bottom row, from left to right, are Mohammadkhayam Maute, Abdulrahman Maute, Abdul Azis Maute, and Hamza Maute. (Photos released by the Cebu City Police Office)
MARAWI CITY/CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – Authorities released the names of four suspected Maute Group members killed in an ambush on a government convoy Saturday night, adding that they could have been silenced by certain forces to prevent them from testifying against Okinta Romato Maute alias Farhana, mother of the Maute brothers leading the siege of Marawi.
The Joint Task Group of the Philippine National Police under Task Force Marawi identified the alleged members as:
1. Zulkifli Risales Maute
2. one Alias Gar Hadji Suluman
3. Salah Gasim Abbas
4. Allan Capal Sulaiman
They had been arrested at 2 pm Friday in Masiu, Lanao del Sur with Okinta alias Farhana, dubbed the “queen” – because she was allegedly helping raise funds and recruit members of the Maute Group set up by her sons Omar and Abdullah Maute.
Three days earlier, the Mautes’ patriarch, Cayamora Maute, was arrested at a check point in Davao City and flown to Metro Manila.
Also arrested with Farhana were several wounded men and seven women.
Authorities seized from their group high-caliber firearms and some explosives.
The PNP said Farhana’s group was on board a gray Toyota Revo when apprehended by police in Barangay Kormato in Masiu town.
The PNP learned he group had earlier sought refuge in Brgy. Dayawan, also in Masiu, where they bought several vehicles and arms that they had meant to use as they exited Lanao del Sur.
‘Queen’ was financier, recruiter
Farhana was tagged the “queen” and financier of the Maute Group, and together with her husband Cayamora had recruited members for the terrorist group that linked up with Abu Sayyaf Group leader Isnilon Hapilon in the mission to set up an ISIS “wilayat” or province in Mindanao.
Before the arrest of Farhana, several suspected Maute Group members had been spotted in Marawi’s neighboring towns, prompting a warning from ARMM governor Mujiv Hataman that anyone supporting the terrorist group will be made to answer, especially if they are elements of the local government units.
“Kung meron sumusuporta.. . definitely may pananagutan sila kahit LGU, local government,” said Hataman.
Dead on arrival
The four captured Maute Group members who were ambushed Saturday night as they were being transported separately from Farhana were rushed to the Dr. Uy Hospital in Iligan City, but three died on arrival. The fourth succumbed to injuries later.
A police officer on the convoy was also injured after unknown elements fired at them as the convoy reached Barangay Kalanganan in Pantar, Lanao del Sur enroute to Cagayan de Oro, where charges would have been filed against the terror suspects.
Senior Supt. Rolly Anduyan, commander of the PNP Joint Task Group, explained that they had to airlift sensitive personalities” could not do so for the rest, because there were simply too many of them and “we have to take them by land.”
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and AFP chief Lt. Gen. Eduardo Año confirmed the slain men were with Farhana’s group. “May wounded na isang PNP personnel. The four [suspected members of] Maute were killed during the ambush.” He could not give further details on the ambush, adding, “we shall wait for the report of the PNP.”
Año raised the possibility that fellow Maute members were behind the ambush, to prevent the men from testifying against Farhana or giving information to authorities.
JTG commander Anduyan noted that, “actually matataas yung hinahawakan nilang hierarchy ng Maute.” He said that apprehension was crucial in the bid to crush the terrorists because Farhana was deemed the “queen,” adding that the men were “within the network of the queen, kumbaga parang anay –nandun sila sa network ng queen [like termites, they are within the queen’s network].”
What ambush?
Meanwhile, some residents of Barangay Kalalangan in Pantar, however, appeared unconvinced the men were killed in an ambush.
One village leader said, “may dumaan na trak ng PNP sa Lanao del Sur; pagdating dito biglang may pumutok at wala namang kontra. Dapat kung may kalaban maraming putukan [a PNP truck passed by, and gunshots were heard. There was no counterfire. If there was an enemy, there would have been much gunfire].”
Residents did not see any force that ambushed the PNP convoy, added the village official.
http://www.interaksyon.com/maute-group-suspects-slain-in-ambush-on-pnp-convoy-eyed-as-witnesses-vs-queen-of-terror-network/
The Joint Task Group of the Philippine National Police under Task Force Marawi identified the alleged members as:
1. Zulkifli Risales Maute
2. one Alias Gar Hadji Suluman
3. Salah Gasim Abbas
4. Allan Capal Sulaiman
They had been arrested at 2 pm Friday in Masiu, Lanao del Sur with Okinta alias Farhana, dubbed the “queen” – because she was allegedly helping raise funds and recruit members of the Maute Group set up by her sons Omar and Abdullah Maute.
Three days earlier, the Mautes’ patriarch, Cayamora Maute, was arrested at a check point in Davao City and flown to Metro Manila.
Also arrested with Farhana were several wounded men and seven women.
Authorities seized from their group high-caliber firearms and some explosives.
The PNP said Farhana’s group was on board a gray Toyota Revo when apprehended by police in Barangay Kormato in Masiu town.
The PNP learned he group had earlier sought refuge in Brgy. Dayawan, also in Masiu, where they bought several vehicles and arms that they had meant to use as they exited Lanao del Sur.
‘Queen’ was financier, recruiter
Farhana was tagged the “queen” and financier of the Maute Group, and together with her husband Cayamora had recruited members for the terrorist group that linked up with Abu Sayyaf Group leader Isnilon Hapilon in the mission to set up an ISIS “wilayat” or province in Mindanao.
Before the arrest of Farhana, several suspected Maute Group members had been spotted in Marawi’s neighboring towns, prompting a warning from ARMM governor Mujiv Hataman that anyone supporting the terrorist group will be made to answer, especially if they are elements of the local government units.
“Kung meron sumusuporta.. . definitely may pananagutan sila kahit LGU, local government,” said Hataman.
Dead on arrival
The four captured Maute Group members who were ambushed Saturday night as they were being transported separately from Farhana were rushed to the Dr. Uy Hospital in Iligan City, but three died on arrival. The fourth succumbed to injuries later.
A police officer on the convoy was also injured after unknown elements fired at them as the convoy reached Barangay Kalanganan in Pantar, Lanao del Sur enroute to Cagayan de Oro, where charges would have been filed against the terror suspects.
Senior Supt. Rolly Anduyan, commander of the PNP Joint Task Group, explained that they had to airlift sensitive personalities” could not do so for the rest, because there were simply too many of them and “we have to take them by land.”
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and AFP chief Lt. Gen. Eduardo Año confirmed the slain men were with Farhana’s group. “May wounded na isang PNP personnel. The four [suspected members of] Maute were killed during the ambush.” He could not give further details on the ambush, adding, “we shall wait for the report of the PNP.”
Año raised the possibility that fellow Maute members were behind the ambush, to prevent the men from testifying against Farhana or giving information to authorities.
JTG commander Anduyan noted that, “actually matataas yung hinahawakan nilang hierarchy ng Maute.” He said that apprehension was crucial in the bid to crush the terrorists because Farhana was deemed the “queen,” adding that the men were “within the network of the queen, kumbaga parang anay –nandun sila sa network ng queen [like termites, they are within the queen’s network].”
What ambush?
Meanwhile, some residents of Barangay Kalalangan in Pantar, however, appeared unconvinced the men were killed in an ambush.
One village leader said, “may dumaan na trak ng PNP sa Lanao del Sur; pagdating dito biglang may pumutok at wala namang kontra. Dapat kung may kalaban maraming putukan [a PNP truck passed by, and gunshots were heard. There was no counterfire. If there was an enemy, there would have been much gunfire].”
Residents did not see any force that ambushed the PNP convoy, added the village official.
http://www.interaksyon.com/maute-group-suspects-slain-in-ambush-on-pnp-convoy-eyed-as-witnesses-vs-queen-of-terror-network/
Lorenzana: US forces in Marawi coordinated communications link
From MindaNews (Jun 11): Lorenzana: US forces in Marawi coordinated communications link
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Sunday said the three US Special Forces servicemen in Campo Ranao in Marawi City on Friday were coordinating communications link between the P3 Orion spay plane and the Philippine military fighting the Maute Group on the ground.
“They just stayed inside the camp and coordinated the technical communications. They did not join the fighting,” Lorenzana told MindaNews after a press briefing in Camp Evangelista.
Standing on the roof of a pick-up truck, this Caucasian male, believed to be from the US Special Forces, seems to be working on signal control inside Camp Ranao’s 103rd Brigade in Marawi City working with Philippine military troops on June 3. The Philippine government recently confirmed it sought the assistance of the US to provide technical support in thewar against the terrorist Maute Group. MindaNews photo by FERDINANDH B. CABRERA
He told the press briefing that Americans sent their own personnel to receive the information from the plane and relay it to us.”
The plane is capable of providing visual images and other sensor data that would assist forces on the ground.
According to globalsecurity.org, the P-3s were active in Afghanistan in late 2001, “where the aircraft used Ku-band packet mux data links to provide video and other sensor data to surface forces. The imagery was very well received by ground forces there, and demand for this type of information is growing as users become aware of its value.”
President Rodrigo Duterte later told reporters that he was not aware that the US government sent a P3 Orion spy plane to help the Philippine military end the siege in Marawi City.
“I was not aware of that until (it) arrived,” he told reporters after visiting 84 injured soldiers at the Camp Evangelista Station Hospital. He added that when he proclaimed Martial Law, he left the tactical decision-making to the Defense Department. Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana is the Martial Law administrator while Armed Forces Chief of Staff Gen. Eduardo Ano is the implementor.
President Rodrigo Duterte is flanked by Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzan and Armed Forces Chief of Staff Gen. Eduardo Sunday while talking to wounded troops at the Camp Evangelista Station Hospital in Cagyan de Oro City Sunday, 11 June 2017. Eighty four injured personnel are recuperating. MindaNwes photo by FroilAN GALLARDO
Duterte also acknowledged that his military officers are basically pro-American, having been trained by the US. “That is why itong mga Philippine Army natin, most of them or all of them, mag-schooling ito sa America. So ito talaga ang sentimento nito, pro-American, pro-American talaga ang mga sundalo natin, that I cannot deny.”
Duterte is known for his anti-American sentiments although he repeatedly clarifies his quarrel was with former US President Barrack Obama and the State Department then and refers to US President Donald Trump as his friend.
Asked how US assistance would impact on his independent foreign policy stand, Duterte said the country is at war “and we are not that powerful. Maybe we do not have the technical expertise to do it.”
Journalists covering the fighting in Marawi City took pictures and videos of the turbo-propped P3 Orion plane and the American servicemen last Friday.
A US embassy official later confirmed the presence of the spy plane and US special forces personnel.
He told Reuters news agency the deployment was made upon “request from the Philippine government.”
Lorenzana told MindaNews that P3 Orion flights in the country fall under the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) signed by the Philippine and US governments.
Given the difficulty of dislodging the Maute Group in Marawi City, Lorenzana said they welcomed any help from the American government.
He told MindaNews the P3 Orion plane flew from Guam to Marawi City but added that even without Marawi, the P3Orion has been helping the Philippines monitoring what is happening. “Kahit wala pa itong Marawi City, lumilipad na iyan. South China Sea, West Philippines Sea, Sulu Sea, Mindanao,” he said.
He said a small American unit in Zamboanga City is controlling the P3 Orion flights over the Philippines.
http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2017/06/lorenzana-us-forces-in-marawi-coordinated-communications-link/
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Sunday said the three US Special Forces servicemen in Campo Ranao in Marawi City on Friday were coordinating communications link between the P3 Orion spay plane and the Philippine military fighting the Maute Group on the ground.
“They just stayed inside the camp and coordinated the technical communications. They did not join the fighting,” Lorenzana told MindaNews after a press briefing in Camp Evangelista.
Standing on the roof of a pick-up truck, this Caucasian male, believed to be from the US Special Forces, seems to be working on signal control inside Camp Ranao’s 103rd Brigade in Marawi City working with Philippine military troops on June 3. The Philippine government recently confirmed it sought the assistance of the US to provide technical support in thewar against the terrorist Maute Group. MindaNews photo by FERDINANDH B. CABRERA
He told the press briefing that Americans sent their own personnel to receive the information from the plane and relay it to us.”
The plane is capable of providing visual images and other sensor data that would assist forces on the ground.
According to globalsecurity.org, the P-3s were active in Afghanistan in late 2001, “where the aircraft used Ku-band packet mux data links to provide video and other sensor data to surface forces. The imagery was very well received by ground forces there, and demand for this type of information is growing as users become aware of its value.”
President Rodrigo Duterte later told reporters that he was not aware that the US government sent a P3 Orion spy plane to help the Philippine military end the siege in Marawi City.
“I was not aware of that until (it) arrived,” he told reporters after visiting 84 injured soldiers at the Camp Evangelista Station Hospital. He added that when he proclaimed Martial Law, he left the tactical decision-making to the Defense Department. Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana is the Martial Law administrator while Armed Forces Chief of Staff Gen. Eduardo Ano is the implementor.
President Rodrigo Duterte is flanked by Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzan and Armed Forces Chief of Staff Gen. Eduardo Sunday while talking to wounded troops at the Camp Evangelista Station Hospital in Cagyan de Oro City Sunday, 11 June 2017. Eighty four injured personnel are recuperating. MindaNwes photo by FroilAN GALLARDO
Duterte also acknowledged that his military officers are basically pro-American, having been trained by the US. “That is why itong mga Philippine Army natin, most of them or all of them, mag-schooling ito sa America. So ito talaga ang sentimento nito, pro-American, pro-American talaga ang mga sundalo natin, that I cannot deny.”
Duterte is known for his anti-American sentiments although he repeatedly clarifies his quarrel was with former US President Barrack Obama and the State Department then and refers to US President Donald Trump as his friend.
Asked how US assistance would impact on his independent foreign policy stand, Duterte said the country is at war “and we are not that powerful. Maybe we do not have the technical expertise to do it.”
Journalists covering the fighting in Marawi City took pictures and videos of the turbo-propped P3 Orion plane and the American servicemen last Friday.
A US embassy official later confirmed the presence of the spy plane and US special forces personnel.
He told Reuters news agency the deployment was made upon “request from the Philippine government.”
Lorenzana told MindaNews that P3 Orion flights in the country fall under the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) signed by the Philippine and US governments.
Given the difficulty of dislodging the Maute Group in Marawi City, Lorenzana said they welcomed any help from the American government.
He told MindaNews the P3 Orion plane flew from Guam to Marawi City but added that even without Marawi, the P3Orion has been helping the Philippines monitoring what is happening. “Kahit wala pa itong Marawi City, lumilipad na iyan. South China Sea, West Philippines Sea, Sulu Sea, Mindanao,” he said.
He said a small American unit in Zamboanga City is controlling the P3 Orion flights over the Philippines.
http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2017/06/lorenzana-us-forces-in-marawi-coordinated-communications-link/
Muslim religious scholars wage ‘ideological war’ vs. extremist groups
From the Mindanao Examiner (Jun 12): Muslim religious scholars wage ‘ideological war’ vs. extremist groups
BASILAN PROVINCE – Ulama or Muslim religious scholars are waging an ideological war against the spread of radicalism and extremism through a holistic approach in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).
“We are engaging all sectors to address the spread of religious extremism and radicalism in the country,” said Abdulmuhmin Alyakanie Mujahid, the executive director of the Darul Ifta, or the Fatwa Council of the ARMM.
On June 8, Islamic scholars on the island province of Basilan forged several agreements with the regional and provincial governments, as well as with different agencies, to carry-out “multi approaches” in an effort to stop the spread of extremist ideology.
The effort, Muhajid said, is an offshoot of the Ulama Summit that was held in Cotabato City in May. During the summit, the Ulama issued a declaration against terrorism, saying that “It is Haram (forbidden and unlawful) to use Islam to justify or legitimize violent extremism and terrorism.”
The Ulama also challenged themselves “to reeducate (their) constituents to rediscover Islamic faith for justice, compassion, harmony and peace.”
“It is imperative upon us all to cooperate and collaborate with the stakeholders in preventing and countering violent extremism and terrorism in its many forms and manifestations,” the declaration said. Mujahid said they are now proactively engaging all stakeholders to overcome the challenges of extremism as what is happening in Marawi City.
“These extremist groups are using the creed of Islam. As a matter of fact, they are using the so-called 13 doctrines of Islam and citing verses of the Holy Quran in justifying their criminal and inhumane acts. We can’t allow that and we will not allow that. Our call is to fight against violent extremism and terrorism,” Mujahid said.
Alih Aiyub, Secretary-General of the Ulama Council of the Philippines, said what they are employing is multi-disciplinary approaches in “preventing and countering violent extremism.” He said they have identified seven interventions to address the threat.
“Ulama will handle the spiritual aspect to combat terrorism targeting the youth and winning the hearts and minds of those radicalized through sermons in the mosques and other means,” he said.
Aiyub said one of the interventions includes working “with educational institutions to provide a primer, or module, as reference material and train teachers for effective prevention of violent extremism among their students.
“Scholarships will also be provided on skills training for out-of-school youth by tapping the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) as a partner,” he said.
The effort will include “psychological intervention” such as values formation that will be carried out by local government units and the Department of Social Welfare and Development targeting the youth sector.
“The program will also have a component for social intervention, which will help mold an individual to be productive and peaceful through trainings. This will also be implemented along with economic intervention such as providing livelihood programs for the youth through government line agencies like the Department of Agriculture and TESDA, among others,” Aiyub said.
Part of the program, he said, is to engage with the security sector to “shield the youth from being recruited” by extremist groups, and “to provide peace and security in the community.” Mujahid said the program will be piloted in Basilan
“We are going to implement it in the different parts of the region. We are piloting this initiative in Basilan. We will conduct an assessment and fine-tune it before implementing it in other provinces,” he said.
ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman has instructed the Department of the Interior and Local Government in the ARMM to initiate forums for local government officials across the region to understand the complexity of the problem and how to combat it.
“When the masses, the religious leaders, and the political leaders are united to work together for the betterment of our society, we can succeed, In Shaa Allah,” he said.
Gov. Hataman has earlier said that Muslim scholars can contribute in the advocacy against terrorism by educating people about the true teachings of Islam, most especially on the principles of justice, compassion, peace, and harmony. (Bureau of Public Information)
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/muslim-religious-scholars-wage-ideological-war-vs-extremist-groups/
BASILAN PROVINCE – Ulama or Muslim religious scholars are waging an ideological war against the spread of radicalism and extremism through a holistic approach in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).
“We are engaging all sectors to address the spread of religious extremism and radicalism in the country,” said Abdulmuhmin Alyakanie Mujahid, the executive director of the Darul Ifta, or the Fatwa Council of the ARMM.
On June 8, Islamic scholars on the island province of Basilan forged several agreements with the regional and provincial governments, as well as with different agencies, to carry-out “multi approaches” in an effort to stop the spread of extremist ideology.
The effort, Muhajid said, is an offshoot of the Ulama Summit that was held in Cotabato City in May. During the summit, the Ulama issued a declaration against terrorism, saying that “It is Haram (forbidden and unlawful) to use Islam to justify or legitimize violent extremism and terrorism.”
The Ulama also challenged themselves “to reeducate (their) constituents to rediscover Islamic faith for justice, compassion, harmony and peace.”
“It is imperative upon us all to cooperate and collaborate with the stakeholders in preventing and countering violent extremism and terrorism in its many forms and manifestations,” the declaration said. Mujahid said they are now proactively engaging all stakeholders to overcome the challenges of extremism as what is happening in Marawi City.
“These extremist groups are using the creed of Islam. As a matter of fact, they are using the so-called 13 doctrines of Islam and citing verses of the Holy Quran in justifying their criminal and inhumane acts. We can’t allow that and we will not allow that. Our call is to fight against violent extremism and terrorism,” Mujahid said.
Alih Aiyub, Secretary-General of the Ulama Council of the Philippines, said what they are employing is multi-disciplinary approaches in “preventing and countering violent extremism.” He said they have identified seven interventions to address the threat.
“Ulama will handle the spiritual aspect to combat terrorism targeting the youth and winning the hearts and minds of those radicalized through sermons in the mosques and other means,” he said.
Aiyub said one of the interventions includes working “with educational institutions to provide a primer, or module, as reference material and train teachers for effective prevention of violent extremism among their students.
“Scholarships will also be provided on skills training for out-of-school youth by tapping the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) as a partner,” he said.
The effort will include “psychological intervention” such as values formation that will be carried out by local government units and the Department of Social Welfare and Development targeting the youth sector.
“The program will also have a component for social intervention, which will help mold an individual to be productive and peaceful through trainings. This will also be implemented along with economic intervention such as providing livelihood programs for the youth through government line agencies like the Department of Agriculture and TESDA, among others,” Aiyub said.
Part of the program, he said, is to engage with the security sector to “shield the youth from being recruited” by extremist groups, and “to provide peace and security in the community.” Mujahid said the program will be piloted in Basilan
“We are going to implement it in the different parts of the region. We are piloting this initiative in Basilan. We will conduct an assessment and fine-tune it before implementing it in other provinces,” he said.
ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman has instructed the Department of the Interior and Local Government in the ARMM to initiate forums for local government officials across the region to understand the complexity of the problem and how to combat it.
“When the masses, the religious leaders, and the political leaders are united to work together for the betterment of our society, we can succeed, In Shaa Allah,” he said.
Gov. Hataman has earlier said that Muslim scholars can contribute in the advocacy against terrorism by educating people about the true teachings of Islam, most especially on the principles of justice, compassion, peace, and harmony. (Bureau of Public Information)
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/muslim-religious-scholars-wage-ideological-war-vs-extremist-groups/
Is ISIS looking to expand its toehold in Southeast Asia?
From Defense News (Jun 12): Is ISIS looking to expand its toehold in Southeast Asia?
The prospect of the Islamic State expanding into Southeast Asia has become a much more distinct possibility in the last few weeks, as Philippine government forces make heavy going of an operation to oust militants who have seized a city in the country’s south.
The prospect of the Islamic State expanding into Southeast Asia has become a much more distinct possibility in the last few weeks, as Philippine government forces make heavy going of an operation to oust militants who have seized a city in the country’s south.
Granted, there is virtually no possibility of the ISIS-linked militants successfully holding on to an ever-shrinking part of Marawi City in the Lanao del Sur province on the southern island of Mindanao against the ongoing military assault. But regional defense and security watchers fear that the perceived success of the Maute group in keeping the Philippine military at bay for even a protracted period could raise the group’s profile, making it a more attractive proposition to potential donors and recruits.
The result is that regional defense ministers and other security officials and professionals that lost territory in Iraq and Syria for ISIS might spur trained foreign fighters from the Middle East to make their way to the southern Philippines in an attempt to regroup.
Roots of the crisis
The current round of fighting in Marawi began on May 23, when the Philippine military and police mounted an operation to capture Isnilon Hapilon, named by an Islamic State newsletter in 2016 as "emir of all Islamic State forces in the Philippines." The operation failed and a shootout ensued with militants of the Maute group, one of several insurgencies from the area that have pledged allegiance to ISIS. The group then proceeded to seize the city of 200,000 and its weapons, driving out the local police and city administrators.
According to Philippine Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, the ISIS attackers included 260 Maute militants, 100 Abu Sayyaf militants under Isnilon Hapilon and roughly 150 from local militant organizations.
Richard Heydarian, a foreign affairs analyst from the Philippines, suggested to Defense News that the seizure of Marawi might have been timed to coincide with international travel of President Rodrigo Duterte and Philippines’ senior military leadership, and conducted in response to a jibe from Duterte last year challenging the Maute to seize Marawi.
Duterte declared martial law for all of Mindanao soon after Marawi’s seizure, and the military immediately went on the offensive to take back the city. Despite outnumbering the militants and utilizing armoured assets and airstrikes from aircraft and helicopters, progress has been slow, with Heydarian noting that the military “clearly has some struggles with urban warfare” it encountered in Marawi, along with deficiencies in intelligence gathering and coordination between different forces.
This was painfully brought home May 31, when an errant airstrike hit an army position engaged in close combat with the militants, resulting in the deaths of 10 Filipino soldiers and the wounding of several more.
The military has also lost a number of its GKN Simba and Cadillac-Gage V-150 armored cars to RPGs and recoilless rifle fire, spurring improvised armor in the form of cardboard boxes and wooden planks to prematurely detonate the warheads.
International response
Both the United States and regional countries have been quick to react to the sudden turn of events. Local media covering the fighting between troops belonging to the Armed Forces of the Philippines or AFP and militants in the city of Marawi on Mindanao Island have photographed an AeroVironment RQ-20 Puma Unmanned Aerial Vehicle being operated by Western personnel near the battle, as well as a Lockheed-Martin P-3C Orion circling the city on separate occasions.
U.S. Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis, speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue in nearby Singapore on June 3, also said the U.S. would continue to “support the modernization of the Philippines’ armed forces” and “uphold our commitments to the Philippines under the Mutual Defense Treaty.”
This is despite Duterte’s regular outbursts against the United States and overtures to China and Russia, who he has approached for assistance to equip the underfunded and poorly equipped Philippine military.
However, analyst Heydarian noted to Defense News that the “reality is both powers are not in a position to provide in a sufficient proportion the assistance the Philippines needs in order to deal with this problem,” adding that “only one country can provide the high-grade intelligence, advanced equipment, and has a long history of interoperability with the armed forces of the Philippines, and that is the United States.”
[Video report]
[Video report]
Meanwhile, neighboring countries have also indicated they will be pushing ahead with plans to conduct air and naval patrols in the Sulu Sea, which has been used as a conduit for piracy, transnational crime and militancy in the region. At 2016’s Shangri-La Dialogue, the Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia, who all have coastlines with the Sulu Sea, had floated the idea of limited coordinated patrols and signed an agreement to that effect soon after. Since then, things have appeared bogged down as the countries have struggled to develop standardized procedures and supporting infrastructure to mount those patrols. The idea was again brought up in 2017’s Shangri-La Dialogue, with Malaysian defense minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein revealing that maritime patrols will start June 19.
Heydarian warns that the long-term focus of the Philippine government is not just to deal with the problem of insurgency or terrorism in isolation, but also to address the grievances of the local population in Mindanao, which has a Muslim-majority in contrast with majority Catholic Philippines. As it is, Heydarian notes that the destruction in Marawi could already lead to further grievances to be exploited by extremist jihadi groups for recruitment.
Singapore’s defense minister, Ng Eng Hen, has already noted that if the problem in the southern Philippines is not contained, it can affect “all of Southeast Asia and beyond.”
2 NPA fighters surrender in Ilocos Sur
From the Business Mirror (Jun 11): 2 NPA fighters surrender in Ilocos Sur
TWO members of the New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered to the Army’s 81st Infantry (Spartan) Battalion over the weekend at its headquarters in Santa Cruz, Ilocos Sur. Lt. Col. Eugenio Julio C. Osias IV, commander of the 81st IB, said they were temporarily withholding the true names of the rebels pending the processing of their integration into the government. Osias said the rebels, whom he identified through their aliases as “Gunman” and “Batman”, surrendered one M16 rifle and an M1 Garand rifle.
Both are residents of Barangay Tabacda, Tubo, Abra.
“Gunman” is the team leader of Squad Uno, Kilusang Larangang Gerilya (KLG) Montes that operates in the tri-boundaries of Abra, Mountain Province and Ilocos Sur.
“Batman” is the team leader of Squad Dos, KLG Montes.
“What drove Batman to surrender was that the protracted people’s war for almost five decades now, with the future of thousands of young people sacrificed and wasted on that war, is now purposeless,” Osias said. “He said the government’s development projects are now gaining its momentum under the Duterte administration.”
Recently, the 81st IB also facilitated the surrender of five other rebels.
“Spartan Battalion will continue to advocate a peaceful resolution to the internal security problem. Despite the ongoing crisis in Mindanao, we will not cease our efforts in neutralizing the NPA rebels here in Northern Luzon in any way we could,” Osias added.
Osias said 10 former rebels who surrendered in 2016 were awarded with Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP) benefits amounting to P807,000 at the Ilocos Sur Provincial Capitol in Vigan City by Gov. Ryan Luis V. Singson.
Seventh Infantry Division commander Maj. Gen. Angelito de Leon said the snowballing of surrenderees was a result of the persistent efforts of the soldiers in Northern Luzon for a peaceful solution to the Communist insurgency.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/2-npa-fighters-surrender-in-ilocos-sur/
TWO members of the New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered to the Army’s 81st Infantry (Spartan) Battalion over the weekend at its headquarters in Santa Cruz, Ilocos Sur. Lt. Col. Eugenio Julio C. Osias IV, commander of the 81st IB, said they were temporarily withholding the true names of the rebels pending the processing of their integration into the government. Osias said the rebels, whom he identified through their aliases as “Gunman” and “Batman”, surrendered one M16 rifle and an M1 Garand rifle.
Both are residents of Barangay Tabacda, Tubo, Abra.
“Gunman” is the team leader of Squad Uno, Kilusang Larangang Gerilya (KLG) Montes that operates in the tri-boundaries of Abra, Mountain Province and Ilocos Sur.
“Batman” is the team leader of Squad Dos, KLG Montes.
“What drove Batman to surrender was that the protracted people’s war for almost five decades now, with the future of thousands of young people sacrificed and wasted on that war, is now purposeless,” Osias said. “He said the government’s development projects are now gaining its momentum under the Duterte administration.”
Recently, the 81st IB also facilitated the surrender of five other rebels.
“Spartan Battalion will continue to advocate a peaceful resolution to the internal security problem. Despite the ongoing crisis in Mindanao, we will not cease our efforts in neutralizing the NPA rebels here in Northern Luzon in any way we could,” Osias added.
Osias said 10 former rebels who surrendered in 2016 were awarded with Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP) benefits amounting to P807,000 at the Ilocos Sur Provincial Capitol in Vigan City by Gov. Ryan Luis V. Singson.
Seventh Infantry Division commander Maj. Gen. Angelito de Leon said the snowballing of surrenderees was a result of the persistent efforts of the soldiers in Northern Luzon for a peaceful solution to the Communist insurgency.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/2-npa-fighters-surrender-in-ilocos-sur/
Bulatlat: Teachers of Surigao Sur Lumad schools call to dismiss trumped-up charges
From the pro-CPP/NDF online propaganda publication Bulatlat (Jun 12): Teachers of Surigao Sur Lumad schools call to dismiss trumped-up charges
“They executed an affidavit and yet they are in the custody of the military. So what was the motive behind that?”
Graduation in Tribal Filipino Program of Surigao del Sur (TRIFPSS last March this year. (Photo grabbed from TRIFPSS Facebook page.) Almost two years after the “Lianga massacre” – the rampage by paramilitary men who killed three leaders of Lianga, Surigao del Sur province – Lumad schools and community continue to be harassed.
At least 12 teachers and community leaders of the province have been charged with child trafficking and child abuse, allegedly filed by two students and their mother who accused them of teaching children “to fight government” and be “trained by the New People’s Army.”
Those charged are teachers of the Alternative Learning Center for Agricultural and Livelihood Development, Inc. (Alcadev) and the Tribal Filipino Program of Surigao del Sur (TRIFPSS), and leaders of the Malahutayong Pakigbisog alang sa Sumusunod (Mapasu).
Human rights group Karapatan said the trumped-up charges were meant to harass teachers and other key witnesses to the Sept. 1, 2015 massacre in in Sitio (subvillage) Han-ayan, Diatagon village, where paramilitary men belonging to the Magahat-Bagani group routed the whole community, including Alcadev and TRIFPSS teachers and students. The Magahat killed Alcadev school director Emerito Samarca and Lumad leaders Dionel Campos and Datu Juvello Sinzo.
Read: ‘Soldiers watched as paramilitary attacked us’
Bulatlat interviewed Annabelle Campos, the TRIFPSS literacy coordinator and one of the 12 charged who went to the Department of Justice (DOJ) here in Manila to push for the dismissal of the cases.
Campos said these cases were meant to harass them and the leaders of the community who steadfastly fight against mining projects in their resource rich communities.
“This is what the military has been doing since 2005 because we resist the entry of destructive projects like mining,” she told Bulatlat. In spite of the cases, she said they will not waver in providing education, which is what the Lumad community needs, something that they were deprived of before these schools were built.
Read: Under the Gun: School for Tribal Children in Surigao Bears Brunt of Militarization
Karapatan legal counsel Atty. Sol Taule said that in a dialogue on June 2, DOJ Undersecretary Antonio Co had pledged to withdraw the charges.
‘Used by the military’
Campos said the children, Reneboy Tejero, who was then 17, and his brother Saniboy, 14, were both former students of TRIFPSS. They were among those who evacuated to Tandag City after the massacre.
Since 2008, after their father died, the two boys have been abandoned by their mother. They have since been in the custody of their grandmother, Lourdes Bautista, who enrolled them to TRIFPSS. Just days after the massacre, on Sept. 5, 2015, Bautista was surprised when the boys’ mother, Rosalinda, suddenly showed up at the evacuation center to get her sons. She later learned that the boys were put under the custody of the 401st Brigade of the Philippine Army at New Leyte, Awa village, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur. Campos said they found out that Rosalinda had a live-in partner who is a member of paramilitary group Mahagat. 
Rights groups protesting in front of Department of Justice, June 2, 2017. (Photo from Kasalo Facebook page)
On Dec. 18, 2015, Rosalinda and her sons filed complaints against the teachers and leaders, three months after charges were filed against the perpetrators of Lianga massacre, the paramilitary men of the Magahat-Bagani.
In Reneboy’s affidavit, he alleged that Mapasu leaders taught them to “fight the government.” The brothers also alleged that they were ordered to undergo training by the NPAs in Camarin, which is 700 kilometers away from Alcadev school. They alleged that they were taught how to hold firearms, like M14, AK47, and M203. Reneboy also claimed in his affidavit that he was a student of Alcadev, while Rosalinda claimed that her sons were “kidnapped” in 2010 up to 2015.
But the allegations are not true, said Campos. Although both brothers were students of TRIFPSS, which is an alternative elementary school, Reneboy was never enrolled in Alcadev – an alternative secondary school – because he worked after graduating from TRIFPSS. While studying in TRIFPSS, they went home to their grandmother every day after school, which would prove that they were not kidnapped.
“They executed an affidavit and yet they are in the custody of the military. So what was the motive behind that?” said Campos.
In the Oct. 2015 Senate inquiry on Lianga massacre, the boys sat on the side of the military and spoke out against the teachers and leaders. Campos said they learned that Reneboy had been armed by the military.
Bautista said she is worried sick about her grandchildren. She said she does not believe that Rosalinda is capable of doing such a thing because she could neither read nor write. She also does not believe that her grandchildren wrote the affidavits. She said the military only used her grandsons against TRIFPSS.
“I just want to get them back,” the teary-eyed grandmother told Bulatlat.
Recovering from trauma
Angela Libano, 15, an incoming third year student at Alcadev, also went with the group to Manila to call for the dismissal of the charges. She said because of the martial law imposition in Mindanao, she fears for the teachers and the community. She said she has recovered from the trauma from the massacre, but could not help but be anxious.
“I’m afraid that it will happen again. Even without martial law, that happened; what more under martial law?” she told Bulatlat. She recalled how the Magahat threatened to destroy Alcadev.
Libano was a first year student in 2015. She was right behind Dionel Campos, who was her uncle, when the paramilitary men shot him. It took a week before she recovered, she said, as the images kept ruminating in her mind.
She was able to continue her studies at the evacuation center in Tandag City, and last year, back in Han-ayan, when the people returned home from evacuation on Sep. 3, and started to rebuild the school and community.
Getting back to normal
Campos said everyone in the school and community is still trying to get back to normal. The horrors of that fateful day, Sept. 1, 2015 did not fade away, she said.
“Barking dogs would awaken us at night, and we would anxiously think, the Magahats are back,” she said. News of military operations also terrify them, especially after President Duterte declared martial law in Mindanao. She said the suspension of writ of habeas corpus may be used by the military to conduct warrantless search in Lumad schools and arrest students and teachers.
“Baka lalong gipitin nila iyong mga Lumad schools (They might harass the Lumad schools even more),” she said.
In spite of the grief and trauma in the community, the schools are set to start classes this week.
As proof of recovery, the number of students enrolled in the schools increased. There are more than 200 students enrolled in In Alcadev. The community schools of TRIFPPS also increased, from 21 to 23 in different communities in Surigao Del Sur.
She said since K to 12 is in full swing, more students from the far-flung areas cannot afford to pursue their studies. It would entail transportation expenses to go to school in the city from their mountain communities, Campos said. Add that to the cost of uniform, food and other school needs. “These are not affordable for the Lumad farmer who has no stable income,” she said.
She said Lumad communities have been asking government to build schools, one that is within reach from their houses so that they will not have to travel far. And this is what Alcadev has provided the Lumad youth for many years. Their school projects make use of resources in their surroundings and there is no need to buy.
Read: Alcadev: the school that feeds the minds and communities
Many of the older Lumad generation did not get any schooling, thus urge the younger ones to get an education. “Most of the elders did not finish school. It was very rare that one of the brood will make it to high school,” she said.
It is through the Lumad schools that children can express how they feel and understand why their communities continue to come under attack. “They know their rights and they will fight for it,” Campos said.
After their return to Lianga last year, no soldiers have come to the community. She said when ceasefire between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines and National Democratic Front of the Philippines was lifted in February, the soldiers from 75th IB informed the village chairman that they will resume operation in Lianga. But the village head would not allow the soldiers’ entry, insisting that the residents had just arrived and had barely started to rebuild their community. The soldiers acceded.
For now, she said they remain vigilant, as they do not know what the future holds. http://bulatlat.com/main/2017/06/12/teachers-surigao-sur-lumad-schools-call-dismiss-trumped-charges/
“They executed an affidavit and yet they are in the custody of the military. So what was the motive behind that?”
At least 12 teachers and community leaders of the province have been charged with child trafficking and child abuse, allegedly filed by two students and their mother who accused them of teaching children “to fight government” and be “trained by the New People’s Army.”
Those charged are teachers of the Alternative Learning Center for Agricultural and Livelihood Development, Inc. (Alcadev) and the Tribal Filipino Program of Surigao del Sur (TRIFPSS), and leaders of the Malahutayong Pakigbisog alang sa Sumusunod (Mapasu).
Human rights group Karapatan said the trumped-up charges were meant to harass teachers and other key witnesses to the Sept. 1, 2015 massacre in in Sitio (subvillage) Han-ayan, Diatagon village, where paramilitary men belonging to the Magahat-Bagani group routed the whole community, including Alcadev and TRIFPSS teachers and students. The Magahat killed Alcadev school director Emerito Samarca and Lumad leaders Dionel Campos and Datu Juvello Sinzo.
Read: ‘Soldiers watched as paramilitary attacked us’
Bulatlat interviewed Annabelle Campos, the TRIFPSS literacy coordinator and one of the 12 charged who went to the Department of Justice (DOJ) here in Manila to push for the dismissal of the cases.
Campos said these cases were meant to harass them and the leaders of the community who steadfastly fight against mining projects in their resource rich communities.
“This is what the military has been doing since 2005 because we resist the entry of destructive projects like mining,” she told Bulatlat. In spite of the cases, she said they will not waver in providing education, which is what the Lumad community needs, something that they were deprived of before these schools were built.
Read: Under the Gun: School for Tribal Children in Surigao Bears Brunt of Militarization
Karapatan legal counsel Atty. Sol Taule said that in a dialogue on June 2, DOJ Undersecretary Antonio Co had pledged to withdraw the charges.
‘Used by the military’
Campos said the children, Reneboy Tejero, who was then 17, and his brother Saniboy, 14, were both former students of TRIFPSS. They were among those who evacuated to Tandag City after the massacre.
Since 2008, after their father died, the two boys have been abandoned by their mother. They have since been in the custody of their grandmother, Lourdes Bautista, who enrolled them to TRIFPSS. Just days after the massacre, on Sept. 5, 2015, Bautista was surprised when the boys’ mother, Rosalinda, suddenly showed up at the evacuation center to get her sons. She later learned that the boys were put under the custody of the 401st Brigade of the Philippine Army at New Leyte, Awa village, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur. Campos said they found out that Rosalinda had a live-in partner who is a member of paramilitary group Mahagat.
Rights groups protesting in front of Department of Justice, June 2, 2017. (Photo from Kasalo Facebook page)
On Dec. 18, 2015, Rosalinda and her sons filed complaints against the teachers and leaders, three months after charges were filed against the perpetrators of Lianga massacre, the paramilitary men of the Magahat-Bagani.
In Reneboy’s affidavit, he alleged that Mapasu leaders taught them to “fight the government.” The brothers also alleged that they were ordered to undergo training by the NPAs in Camarin, which is 700 kilometers away from Alcadev school. They alleged that they were taught how to hold firearms, like M14, AK47, and M203. Reneboy also claimed in his affidavit that he was a student of Alcadev, while Rosalinda claimed that her sons were “kidnapped” in 2010 up to 2015.
But the allegations are not true, said Campos. Although both brothers were students of TRIFPSS, which is an alternative elementary school, Reneboy was never enrolled in Alcadev – an alternative secondary school – because he worked after graduating from TRIFPSS. While studying in TRIFPSS, they went home to their grandmother every day after school, which would prove that they were not kidnapped.
“They executed an affidavit and yet they are in the custody of the military. So what was the motive behind that?” said Campos.
In the Oct. 2015 Senate inquiry on Lianga massacre, the boys sat on the side of the military and spoke out against the teachers and leaders. Campos said they learned that Reneboy had been armed by the military.
Bautista said she is worried sick about her grandchildren. She said she does not believe that Rosalinda is capable of doing such a thing because she could neither read nor write. She also does not believe that her grandchildren wrote the affidavits. She said the military only used her grandsons against TRIFPSS.
“I just want to get them back,” the teary-eyed grandmother told Bulatlat.
Recovering from trauma
Angela Libano, 15, an incoming third year student at Alcadev, also went with the group to Manila to call for the dismissal of the charges. She said because of the martial law imposition in Mindanao, she fears for the teachers and the community. She said she has recovered from the trauma from the massacre, but could not help but be anxious.
“I’m afraid that it will happen again. Even without martial law, that happened; what more under martial law?” she told Bulatlat. She recalled how the Magahat threatened to destroy Alcadev.
Libano was a first year student in 2015. She was right behind Dionel Campos, who was her uncle, when the paramilitary men shot him. It took a week before she recovered, she said, as the images kept ruminating in her mind.
She was able to continue her studies at the evacuation center in Tandag City, and last year, back in Han-ayan, when the people returned home from evacuation on Sep. 3, and started to rebuild the school and community.
Getting back to normal
Campos said everyone in the school and community is still trying to get back to normal. The horrors of that fateful day, Sept. 1, 2015 did not fade away, she said.
“Barking dogs would awaken us at night, and we would anxiously think, the Magahats are back,” she said. News of military operations also terrify them, especially after President Duterte declared martial law in Mindanao. She said the suspension of writ of habeas corpus may be used by the military to conduct warrantless search in Lumad schools and arrest students and teachers.
“Baka lalong gipitin nila iyong mga Lumad schools (They might harass the Lumad schools even more),” she said.
In spite of the grief and trauma in the community, the schools are set to start classes this week.
As proof of recovery, the number of students enrolled in the schools increased. There are more than 200 students enrolled in In Alcadev. The community schools of TRIFPPS also increased, from 21 to 23 in different communities in Surigao Del Sur.
She said since K to 12 is in full swing, more students from the far-flung areas cannot afford to pursue their studies. It would entail transportation expenses to go to school in the city from their mountain communities, Campos said. Add that to the cost of uniform, food and other school needs. “These are not affordable for the Lumad farmer who has no stable income,” she said.
She said Lumad communities have been asking government to build schools, one that is within reach from their houses so that they will not have to travel far. And this is what Alcadev has provided the Lumad youth for many years. Their school projects make use of resources in their surroundings and there is no need to buy.
Read: Alcadev: the school that feeds the minds and communities
Many of the older Lumad generation did not get any schooling, thus urge the younger ones to get an education. “Most of the elders did not finish school. It was very rare that one of the brood will make it to high school,” she said.
It is through the Lumad schools that children can express how they feel and understand why their communities continue to come under attack. “They know their rights and they will fight for it,” Campos said.
After their return to Lianga last year, no soldiers have come to the community. She said when ceasefire between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines and National Democratic Front of the Philippines was lifted in February, the soldiers from 75th IB informed the village chairman that they will resume operation in Lianga. But the village head would not allow the soldiers’ entry, insisting that the residents had just arrived and had barely started to rebuild their community. The soldiers acceded.
For now, she said they remain vigilant, as they do not know what the future holds.
NPA cadres in Ilocos Sur surrender to military
From the Philippine Star (Jun 13): NPA cadres in Ilocos Sur surrender to military
In this Nov. 23, 2016 photo, a red ribbon is tied to a firearm of a New People's Army guerrilla at a rebel encampment tucked in the harsh wilderness of the Sierra Madre mountains. AP/Aaron Favila
Sta. Cruz, Ilocos Sur — Two communist New Peoples Army cadres turned themselves in to soldiers in Sta. Cruz town in Ilocos Sur, the Ilocos Sur-based 81st Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army said.
Persistent efforts by Lt. Col. Eugenio Julio Osias IV and his men had paid off with the surrender last week of alias “Gunman” and alias “Batman.” The two surrendered an Elisco-made M16A1 assault rifle with a defaced serial number and a .30 caliber Springfield M1 US Garand rifle, respectively.
“Gunman,” according to the miiltary’s 1st Quarter 2016 records, was No. 3 on the “watch list” because he was a team leader of “Squad Uno, KLG (Kilusang Larangan Gerilya MONTES)” that operates in the tri-boundaries of Abra, Mountain Province and Ilocos Sur.
Meanwhile, “Batman” was the team leader of “Squad Dos, KLG MONTES.”
Both “Gunman” and “Batman” are from Barangay Tabacda, Tubo, Abra.
Osias said “Batman” claimed that the “protracted people’s war” sacrificed the future of thousands of young people. He reportedly admitted that the government’s development projects are now gaining momentum under the Duterte administration.
Early this year, the 81st Infantry Battalion already welcomed five communist rebels into the government’s fold.
On February 8, 10 former rebels who surrendered during the 3rd and 4th quarters in 2016 were awarded by Ilocos Sur Gov. Luis Singson their Comprehensive Local Integration Program benefits amounting to P807,000.
Philippine Army’s 7th Infantry Division commander Major General Angelito De Leon said that the “snowballing” of surrenders is the result of the persistent efforts of the soldiers in northern Luzon.
The growing number of NPA members who surrender is a good indicator that there is no more reason to rebel against the government since the latter provides much for their reintegration to the mainstream of society, said Army Col. Henry Robinson Jr., commander of the 702nd Infantry Brigade where the 81st Infantry is attached.
Osias said the military “will continue to advocate peaceful resolution of the internal security problem.” This, despite the ongoing crisis in Mindanao, he added.
In April, a heavy movement of communist rebels in between the boundaries of Ilocos Norte-Abra-Ilocos Sur was monitored, prompting aggressive patrols by soldiers to foil a supposed “big plan” of the rebels to attack government installations or weakly-secured government forces’ stations. No major attack occurred.
2 soldiers, 2 rebels dead in separate encounters
From Tempo (Jun 12): 2 soldiers, 2 rebels dead in separate encounters
Two soldiers were killed in an encounter between forces of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the new People’s Army, the Joint Task Force Haribon said Sunday.
Maj. Ezra Balagtey, spokesperson of the Eastern Mindanao Command, said soldiers from the 16th infantry battalion prevented an attack by consolidating members of the NPA. Another six were wounded.
The firefight occurred at Sitio Bajada, Paradise Embac, Paquibato District, Davao City early morning, June 11 and that the AFP still has to inform the families of the killed soldiers.
The troops were responding to a reported consolidation of NPAs in Paquibato District, Balagtey said.
The troops were able to recover one M653 Colt AR18 with serial number 127538 with one magazine, two jungle bags, one civilian bag, electrical wire; and other belongings.
Meantime two suspected communist guerillas operating in North Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat provinces in south and central Mindanao were killed after engaging the government troops in a running gun battle in a village in Makilala, North CotabatoSaturday.
Lt. Silver Belvis, spokesman for the 39th Infantry Battalion, identified the slain New Peoples’ Army (NPA) rebels as a certain Ka Lupe, platoon leader of Front 72 of the NPA sub-regional committee in Southern Mindanao Region (SRC-SMR), and a certain Ka Radin, also of the same group.
Belvis said their troops proceeded to Barangay Malasila just few hours after they confirmed the presence of at least 30 rebels in the area.
Their troops exchanged fires against the NPAs for about an hour and later the rebels withdrew to the southwest portion of Makilala town, he added.
http://tempo.com.ph/2017/06/12/2-soldiers-2-rebels-dead-in-separate-encounters/
Two soldiers were killed in an encounter between forces of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the new People’s Army, the Joint Task Force Haribon said Sunday.
Maj. Ezra Balagtey, spokesperson of the Eastern Mindanao Command, said soldiers from the 16th infantry battalion prevented an attack by consolidating members of the NPA. Another six were wounded.
The firefight occurred at Sitio Bajada, Paradise Embac, Paquibato District, Davao City early morning, June 11 and that the AFP still has to inform the families of the killed soldiers.
The troops were responding to a reported consolidation of NPAs in Paquibato District, Balagtey said.
The troops were able to recover one M653 Colt AR18 with serial number 127538 with one magazine, two jungle bags, one civilian bag, electrical wire; and other belongings.
Meantime two suspected communist guerillas operating in North Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat provinces in south and central Mindanao were killed after engaging the government troops in a running gun battle in a village in Makilala, North CotabatoSaturday.
Lt. Silver Belvis, spokesman for the 39th Infantry Battalion, identified the slain New Peoples’ Army (NPA) rebels as a certain Ka Lupe, platoon leader of Front 72 of the NPA sub-regional committee in Southern Mindanao Region (SRC-SMR), and a certain Ka Radin, also of the same group.
Belvis said their troops proceeded to Barangay Malasila just few hours after they confirmed the presence of at least 30 rebels in the area.
Their troops exchanged fires against the NPAs for about an hour and later the rebels withdrew to the southwest portion of Makilala town, he added.
http://tempo.com.ph/2017/06/12/2-soldiers-2-rebels-dead-in-separate-encounters/
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