From the Philippine Star (Nov 14): Gunmen abduct teacher in Zamboanga
Heavily armed men, disguising as military forces, abducted a government teacher Tuesday night in a coastal village west of this city, officials said. The victim was identified as Flordeliza Ongchua, a public school teacher and wife of a businessman operating fleets of motorboat and a sand and gravel business in Barangay Labuan. Police reported the gunmen numbering about 10 to 15 onboard two “jungkung” type of pumpboats equipped with two M60 machine guns each on its bows landed at the shore about 6 p.m. just near the police action center (PAC) and the house of Barangay Labuan Chairman Oning Maravilla, first cousin of the victim. “Jungkung” is a Malaysian-design type of shallow hulled pumpboat that can slice through shallow waters. The gunmen declared to PO3 Romeo Quillo, who was the lone police assigned at the PAC, that they were maritime military forces. “After they declared as members of the military forces, at gunpoint they seized the service 9 mm handgun of the police,” said Maravilla. “They gunmen were on full battle gear,” Maravilla said quoting Quillo. Maravilla said the gunmen proceeded to his house compound, which is located just 30 meters from the shore, and also disarmed the security guard of his M16 armalite while they were searching for him. After finding he was not around, the gunmen then jumped on the other side of the fence within the compound and barged into the house of Ongchua. “The gunmen hatched the abduction within five to 10 minutes and escaped with my cousin as their captive,” Maravilla added. He said the gunmen have not made any contact yet to the victim’s family to determine the motive of the abduction. “I believe he was the target of the abduction and I believe the intention was kidnap-for-ransom,” Maravilla said.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2012/11/14/866585/gunmen-abduct-teacher-zamboanga
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
NPA rebel killed in Mindanao encounter with Scout Rangers
From InterAksyon (Nov 14): NPA rebel killed in Mindanao encounter with Scout Rangers
A New People's Army (NPA) rebel was killed and several others wounded following an encounter at the boundary of Magsaysay, Davao del Sur and Tulunan, North Cotabato Tuesday afternoon, the Philippine Army's 6th Infantry Division said. Col. Prudencio Asto, 6th ID spokesman, said troops from the 6th Scout Ranger Company, 2nd Scout Ranger Battalion, were scouring the hinterlands following a complaint by local residents of supposed NPA threats and extortion when they clashed with an undetermined number of rebels. Asto did not name the slain rebel but he said a certain Reynante Soliman Dalon, an alleged NPA rebel, was wounded in the clash and airlifted by the military to the Camp Siongco Station Hospital in Maguindanao. Several other rebels were reportedly wounded, Asto said. Government troops also recovered two high-powered firearms at the encounter site. There were no reported casualties on the side of the military.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/47973/npa-rebel-killed-in-mindanao-encounter-with-scout-rangers
A New People's Army (NPA) rebel was killed and several others wounded following an encounter at the boundary of Magsaysay, Davao del Sur and Tulunan, North Cotabato Tuesday afternoon, the Philippine Army's 6th Infantry Division said. Col. Prudencio Asto, 6th ID spokesman, said troops from the 6th Scout Ranger Company, 2nd Scout Ranger Battalion, were scouring the hinterlands following a complaint by local residents of supposed NPA threats and extortion when they clashed with an undetermined number of rebels. Asto did not name the slain rebel but he said a certain Reynante Soliman Dalon, an alleged NPA rebel, was wounded in the clash and airlifted by the military to the Camp Siongco Station Hospital in Maguindanao. Several other rebels were reportedly wounded, Asto said. Government troops also recovered two high-powered firearms at the encounter site. There were no reported casualties on the side of the military.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/47973/npa-rebel-killed-in-mindanao-encounter-with-scout-rangers
Probe into soldiers’ killing in Davao starts
From the Sun Star-Davao (Nov 14): Probe into soldiers’ killing in Davao starts
THE Philippine government has started investigation on complaints against communist rebels who allegedly killed four unarmed soldiers in Davao City last week, a senior official said Tuesday. The Government of the Philippines-Monitoring Committee (GPH-MC) tasked to monitor the human rights situation under the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL) between the government and the National Democratic Front (NDF), the political wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (NPA), is the one conducting the probe, said lawyer Jaime Arroyo, head of GPH-MC Secretariat. Arroyo confirmed that the MC has received and reviewed the complaints filed by the relatives of the victims.... He said that in accordance with the CARHRIHL, the GPH-MC will furnish its counterpart, the NDF-MC, with a copy of the complaints.
Arroyo clarified that the MC is “not a court or an investigative body but it provides an important venue for victims of violations of human rights and International Humanitarian Law (IHL) that take place in the context of the conflict between the security forces of the GPH and the NPA to file their complaints, especially when there is a scarcity of available information.” The MC receives the complaints and refers them to government agencies that are mandated to investigate and prosecute the crimes. To expedite the filing of appropriate cases and monitoring their progress, the GPH-MC organized a Case Monitoring Working Group (CMWG) composed of representatives from the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Department of Justice (DOJ), and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). The CMWG was organized to process complaints of alleged human rights violations associated with the armed conflict between the government and the CPP/NPA/NDF.
"The purpose of this working group is to update cases with new information from the ground as it becomes available,” Arroyo said....
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/breaking-news/2012/11/14/probe-soldiers-killing-davao-starts-253251
THE Philippine government has started investigation on complaints against communist rebels who allegedly killed four unarmed soldiers in Davao City last week, a senior official said Tuesday. The Government of the Philippines-Monitoring Committee (GPH-MC) tasked to monitor the human rights situation under the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL) between the government and the National Democratic Front (NDF), the political wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (NPA), is the one conducting the probe, said lawyer Jaime Arroyo, head of GPH-MC Secretariat. Arroyo confirmed that the MC has received and reviewed the complaints filed by the relatives of the victims.... He said that in accordance with the CARHRIHL, the GPH-MC will furnish its counterpart, the NDF-MC, with a copy of the complaints.
Arroyo clarified that the MC is “not a court or an investigative body but it provides an important venue for victims of violations of human rights and International Humanitarian Law (IHL) that take place in the context of the conflict between the security forces of the GPH and the NPA to file their complaints, especially when there is a scarcity of available information.” The MC receives the complaints and refers them to government agencies that are mandated to investigate and prosecute the crimes. To expedite the filing of appropriate cases and monitoring their progress, the GPH-MC organized a Case Monitoring Working Group (CMWG) composed of representatives from the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Department of Justice (DOJ), and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). The CMWG was organized to process complaints of alleged human rights violations associated with the armed conflict between the government and the CPP/NPA/NDF.
"The purpose of this working group is to update cases with new information from the ground as it becomes available,” Arroyo said....
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/breaking-news/2012/11/14/probe-soldiers-killing-davao-starts-253251
BAYAN: Malacanang is the omnishambles in Subic toxic waste incident
Posted to the pro-CPP Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (BAYAN-New Patriotic Alliance) Website (Nov 14): Malacanang is the omnishambles in Subic toxic waste incident
The umbrella group Bagong Alyansang Makabayan today led protesters in front of the US embassy to denounce the dumping of toxic wastes in Subic. The wastes are believed to have come from a US Navy ship which were collected and disposed by a private contractor. The group pressed for the junking of the Visiting Forces Agreement which allows US troops and their vessels to enter the Philippines. “However Malacanang tries to assuage the public’s concerns regarding the toxic wastes dumped in Subic, there can be no denying that the incident has raised serious issues regarding the presence of US troops and the materials they bring in,” said Bayan secretary general Renato M. Reyes, Jr. “Malacanang is the omnishambles when it comes to national sovereignty and the environment. Not only has it shown a lack of seriousness in going after the perpetrators, it obfuscates the facts on what constitutes toxic wastes and goes to great lengths to defend the VFA. Its position is untenable. It’s like national interest has zero-value for this administration,” he added. “There will be no toxic wastes dumped if there are no US warships entering our territory and bringing in these waste materials. Malacanang can split-hairs on what it considers as toxic, but the fact remains, test results show that the toxicity levels of the materials exceed acceptable levels,” Reyes asked....
http://www.bayan.ph/site/2012/11/malacanang-is-the-omnishambles-in-subic-toxic-waste-incident/
The umbrella group Bagong Alyansang Makabayan today led protesters in front of the US embassy to denounce the dumping of toxic wastes in Subic. The wastes are believed to have come from a US Navy ship which were collected and disposed by a private contractor. The group pressed for the junking of the Visiting Forces Agreement which allows US troops and their vessels to enter the Philippines. “However Malacanang tries to assuage the public’s concerns regarding the toxic wastes dumped in Subic, there can be no denying that the incident has raised serious issues regarding the presence of US troops and the materials they bring in,” said Bayan secretary general Renato M. Reyes, Jr. “Malacanang is the omnishambles when it comes to national sovereignty and the environment. Not only has it shown a lack of seriousness in going after the perpetrators, it obfuscates the facts on what constitutes toxic wastes and goes to great lengths to defend the VFA. Its position is untenable. It’s like national interest has zero-value for this administration,” he added. “There will be no toxic wastes dumped if there are no US warships entering our territory and bringing in these waste materials. Malacanang can split-hairs on what it considers as toxic, but the fact remains, test results show that the toxicity levels of the materials exceed acceptable levels,” Reyes asked....
http://www.bayan.ph/site/2012/11/malacanang-is-the-omnishambles-in-subic-toxic-waste-incident/
Clarifying the party-list issue
From the Manila Standard Today (Nov 12): Clarifying the party-list issue
The Supreme Court en banc is scheduled to discuss the issue of the disqualification of the number-one party list group Ako Bicol tomorrow. The decision should clarify the muddled party-list issue. AKB, which garnered more than 1.5 million votes in the 2010 elections, was disqualified by the Commission on Elections. The Comelec’s October 10 resolution cancelled the group’s party-list registration and prevented it from running in the 2013 mid-term elections. The decision of the high court would help clear various issues involving the disqualification not only of AKB but some 60 other party list groups, including others which, like AKB, have sitting members in the current Congress. The party-list confusion was apparent in the hearing called last week by Senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III of the Senate committee on electoral reforms. The hearing served to underscore the lack of clear definition of who are “marginalized and underrepresented” and who are allowed to participate in the party-list elections....Brillantes said their only guide was a 2001 Supreme Court decision which said: “The political party, sector, organization or coalition must represent the marginalized and underrepresented groups identified in Section 5 of RA 7941. Majority of its membership should belong to the marginalized and underrepresented”..... University of the Philippine National College of Public Administration and Governance (UP-NCPAG) Dean Edna Co crystallized the issue when she observed that while the Comelec should be lauded for its effort to sift the party-list system to take out the dubious and illegitimate organizations, the cleansing process adopted by Comelec was arbitrary and chaotic....
http://manilastandardtoday.com/2012/11/12/clarifying-the-party-list-issue/
The Supreme Court en banc is scheduled to discuss the issue of the disqualification of the number-one party list group Ako Bicol tomorrow. The decision should clarify the muddled party-list issue. AKB, which garnered more than 1.5 million votes in the 2010 elections, was disqualified by the Commission on Elections. The Comelec’s October 10 resolution cancelled the group’s party-list registration and prevented it from running in the 2013 mid-term elections. The decision of the high court would help clear various issues involving the disqualification not only of AKB but some 60 other party list groups, including others which, like AKB, have sitting members in the current Congress. The party-list confusion was apparent in the hearing called last week by Senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III of the Senate committee on electoral reforms. The hearing served to underscore the lack of clear definition of who are “marginalized and underrepresented” and who are allowed to participate in the party-list elections....Brillantes said their only guide was a 2001 Supreme Court decision which said: “The political party, sector, organization or coalition must represent the marginalized and underrepresented groups identified in Section 5 of RA 7941. Majority of its membership should belong to the marginalized and underrepresented”..... University of the Philippine National College of Public Administration and Governance (UP-NCPAG) Dean Edna Co crystallized the issue when she observed that while the Comelec should be lauded for its effort to sift the party-list system to take out the dubious and illegitimate organizations, the cleansing process adopted by Comelec was arbitrary and chaotic....
http://manilastandardtoday.com/2012/11/12/clarifying-the-party-list-issue/
Thomas says US Navy contractor to respect Phl laws
From the Philippine Star (Nov 14): Thomas says US Navy contractor to respect Phl laws
US Ambassador Harry Thomas Jr. said yesterday that the US Navy contractor Glenn Defense Marine Asia – accused of dumping waste into Subic Bay – was expected to respect Philippine laws although it is not covered by the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA). Thomas said the US will wait for the results of a full investigation by the Philippine government and the Senate into the alleged dumping of wastes. “I want to be clear. We oppose economic, environmental degradation. We oppose illegal dumping. We are aware of the allegations against Glenn Defense Marine. We will wait and see what the results are of that investigation,” Thomas said during the weekly Bulong Pulungan at Sofitel Philippine Plaza.... “This is a firm that the US Navy hired and we expect them to respect and perform in accordance with Philippine law. They are not under VFA,” Thomas added....
http://m.philstar.com/314191/show/d87dc000d9ead634825dabca703d4ab2&t=0m9h5tcdaap4ni6ksgdckujtu5
US Ambassador Harry Thomas Jr. said yesterday that the US Navy contractor Glenn Defense Marine Asia – accused of dumping waste into Subic Bay – was expected to respect Philippine laws although it is not covered by the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA). Thomas said the US will wait for the results of a full investigation by the Philippine government and the Senate into the alleged dumping of wastes. “I want to be clear. We oppose economic, environmental degradation. We oppose illegal dumping. We are aware of the allegations against Glenn Defense Marine. We will wait and see what the results are of that investigation,” Thomas said during the weekly Bulong Pulungan at Sofitel Philippine Plaza.... “This is a firm that the US Navy hired and we expect them to respect and perform in accordance with Philippine law. They are not under VFA,” Thomas added....
http://m.philstar.com/314191/show/d87dc000d9ead634825dabca703d4ab2&t=0m9h5tcdaap4ni6ksgdckujtu5
Saudi-funded Maguindanao road to be constructed
From the Philippine Star (Nov 12): Saudi-funded Maguindanao road to be constructed
The government will start constructing in December, with the help of Saudi Arabia, a 14-kilometer “peace diversion artery” as an alternate route connecting the city to the southern side of Maguindanao province. The Saudi Fund for Development has earmarked P709.3 million for the project, which would include three long bridges that would interconnect riverside villages the diversion road is to traverse. Peace activists here, among them senior officials of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), said the assistance from Saudi Arabia was committed several years ago in support of Malacañang’s Southern Mindanao peace process. Representatives of the Department of Public Works and Highways, led by Maguindanao First District Rep. Sandra Sema, inspected on Saturday portions of the proposed route. The project will connect a strategic stretch of the Cotabato-Gen. Santos Highway in Barangay Daiwan in Datu Odin Sinsuat town to Cotabato City. Sema said sectors in her district are grateful to Saudi Arabia, to President Aquino and to Public Works Secretary Rogelio Singson for having downloaded the road construction package to the central office of the Department of Public Works and Highways, which will implement the project. Saudi Arabia is a member of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), a bloc of more than 50 Muslim countries, which helped broker the September 2, 1996 peace accord between the MNLF and the national government. The OIC has also been helping push forward the government’s separate peace overture with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. Sema said the Saudi-assisted road project complements the peace and development initiatives of her office for the city and the 11 towns in the first district of Maguindanao that are funded out of her Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF). “We in the first district of Maguindanao are very grateful to the Saudi Development Fund,” Sema said. The Saudi Development Fund has also reportedly earmarked P421.6 million for the Lake Lanao circumferential road connecting Marawi City to Bayang, Lanao del Sur; and P420.3 million for the road connecting Bayang to Ganassi, in the same province. The Arab donor also allocated P414.9 million for the concreting of the Basilan circumferential, connecting Tumahubong area to Isabela City; and P415.2 million more for the Sumisip-Isabela City route in the island province. The P709.3-million peace diversion route here will cut the travel time from the town center of Datu Odin Sinsuat to Cotabato City by about 30 minutes, according to engineers from the DPWH.
http://m.philstar.com/314190/show/3727b65c6e8f9bd9b7b1aa0d17450a27&t=0m9h5tcdaap4ni6ksgdckujtu5
The government will start constructing in December, with the help of Saudi Arabia, a 14-kilometer “peace diversion artery” as an alternate route connecting the city to the southern side of Maguindanao province. The Saudi Fund for Development has earmarked P709.3 million for the project, which would include three long bridges that would interconnect riverside villages the diversion road is to traverse. Peace activists here, among them senior officials of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), said the assistance from Saudi Arabia was committed several years ago in support of Malacañang’s Southern Mindanao peace process. Representatives of the Department of Public Works and Highways, led by Maguindanao First District Rep. Sandra Sema, inspected on Saturday portions of the proposed route. The project will connect a strategic stretch of the Cotabato-Gen. Santos Highway in Barangay Daiwan in Datu Odin Sinsuat town to Cotabato City. Sema said sectors in her district are grateful to Saudi Arabia, to President Aquino and to Public Works Secretary Rogelio Singson for having downloaded the road construction package to the central office of the Department of Public Works and Highways, which will implement the project. Saudi Arabia is a member of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), a bloc of more than 50 Muslim countries, which helped broker the September 2, 1996 peace accord between the MNLF and the national government. The OIC has also been helping push forward the government’s separate peace overture with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. Sema said the Saudi-assisted road project complements the peace and development initiatives of her office for the city and the 11 towns in the first district of Maguindanao that are funded out of her Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF). “We in the first district of Maguindanao are very grateful to the Saudi Development Fund,” Sema said. The Saudi Development Fund has also reportedly earmarked P421.6 million for the Lake Lanao circumferential road connecting Marawi City to Bayang, Lanao del Sur; and P420.3 million for the road connecting Bayang to Ganassi, in the same province. The Arab donor also allocated P414.9 million for the concreting of the Basilan circumferential, connecting Tumahubong area to Isabela City; and P415.2 million more for the Sumisip-Isabela City route in the island province. The P709.3-million peace diversion route here will cut the travel time from the town center of Datu Odin Sinsuat to Cotabato City by about 30 minutes, according to engineers from the DPWH.
http://m.philstar.com/314190/show/3727b65c6e8f9bd9b7b1aa0d17450a27&t=0m9h5tcdaap4ni6ksgdckujtu5
PA: NPA behind the beheading of barangay official in Guinobatan, Albay
Press release from the 9th Infantry Division posted to the Philippine Army Public Affairs Office Facebook page (Nov 13): NPA behind the beheading of barangay official in Guinobatan, Albay
CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, Camarines Sur - Barangay officials of the interior barangay of Cabaloaon in the municipality of Guinobatan, Albay reported the beheading of Brgy Kagawad Ely Oguis to an Army Peace and Development Team (PDT) in the barangay at 0630am Monday, November 12. "We condemn the brutal beheading of Brgy Kagawad Oguis by the NPA," said Colonel Ricardo Visaya, Commander of the 901Bde in Daraga, Albay. "While he is working hard for a living for his family, the NPA rebels are extorting money from him," Visaya added. He said the report came after the PDT in the barangay was fired upon by the NPA rebels at 11:10pm of Sunday, Novemeber 11. No one was hurt during the attack. Initial investigation revealed that the victim had six gunshot wounds in his body. The PNP SOCO is already investigating the matter. "In coordination with the PNP, we have dispatched soldiers to track down the perpetrators," said Ltc Audrey Pasia, Commanding Officer of the 2nd Infantry Battalion stationed in Ligao City, Albay. "We will assist the bereaved family of Brgy Kagawad Oguis in the filing of criminal and human rights charges against the NPA rebels." (PR from the 9th Infantry Division)
http://www.facebook.com/notes/hukbong-katihan-ng-pilipinas/npa-behind-the-beheading-of-barangay-official-in-guinobatan-albay/390030397738149
CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, Camarines Sur - Barangay officials of the interior barangay of Cabaloaon in the municipality of Guinobatan, Albay reported the beheading of Brgy Kagawad Ely Oguis to an Army Peace and Development Team (PDT) in the barangay at 0630am Monday, November 12. "We condemn the brutal beheading of Brgy Kagawad Oguis by the NPA," said Colonel Ricardo Visaya, Commander of the 901Bde in Daraga, Albay. "While he is working hard for a living for his family, the NPA rebels are extorting money from him," Visaya added. He said the report came after the PDT in the barangay was fired upon by the NPA rebels at 11:10pm of Sunday, Novemeber 11. No one was hurt during the attack. Initial investigation revealed that the victim had six gunshot wounds in his body. The PNP SOCO is already investigating the matter. "In coordination with the PNP, we have dispatched soldiers to track down the perpetrators," said Ltc Audrey Pasia, Commanding Officer of the 2nd Infantry Battalion stationed in Ligao City, Albay. "We will assist the bereaved family of Brgy Kagawad Oguis in the filing of criminal and human rights charges against the NPA rebels." (PR from the 9th Infantry Division)
http://www.facebook.com/notes/hukbong-katihan-ng-pilipinas/npa-behind-the-beheading-of-barangay-official-in-guinobatan-albay/390030397738149
Army to file lawsuit for Paquibato ambush
From the Sun Star-Davao (Nov 14): Army to file lawsuit for Paquibato ambush
MILITARY authorities are determined to file charges before the City Prosecutor’s Office against the suspects of the four soldiers who were killed in Barangay Mapula, Paquibato District last November 4. The victims were identified as Ahian Dolero, Marvin Lauronal, Noel Sigan and Marcelo Himaya -- members of the Army’s 69th Infantry Battalion. The soldiers were ambushed on their way back to their detachment from the Panabo market to buy some supplies. Lieutenant Colonel Inocencio Pasaporte, commander of the Army’s 69th Infantry Battalion, in an interview, said his battalion under the 10th Infantry Division is now coordinating with the Paquibato Police Station for the charges to be filed against Ryan Pitao and other members of the 1st Pulang Bagani Command of the New People’s Army (NPA). “As of now, we are still gathering information and evidences that would support the charges to be filed against Ryan and his members,” Pasaporte said, adding they are still clueless on the identities of the members although they believe Pitao led the group. Superintendent Johnson Almazan, chief of the Davao City Police Office’s Investigation and Detection Management Branch (DCPO-IDMB), in an interview, said their personnel in Paquibato Police Station are still conducting investigation on the matter. “We have a conference this (Tuesday) morning… and Chief Inspector (Romeo) Abler was asking us to give them more time for the investigation. Kasi mahirap yan eh, we are still looking and waiting for someone who is willing to attest the truth," Almazan said. On the other hand, a source from the Commission on Human Rights (CHR)-Davao, who refused to be identified for lack of authority to speak, said their office is also conducting investigation on the incident as well as the earlier accusation of the communist rebels towards the soldiers. The CHR-11 was also thankful after the NPA admits killing the soldiers, as this will aid their investigation, adding that the bureau also awaits the victim's relatives to file their complaint against the suspects.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/local-news/2012/11/14/army-file-lawsuit-paquibato-ambush-253195
MILITARY authorities are determined to file charges before the City Prosecutor’s Office against the suspects of the four soldiers who were killed in Barangay Mapula, Paquibato District last November 4. The victims were identified as Ahian Dolero, Marvin Lauronal, Noel Sigan and Marcelo Himaya -- members of the Army’s 69th Infantry Battalion. The soldiers were ambushed on their way back to their detachment from the Panabo market to buy some supplies. Lieutenant Colonel Inocencio Pasaporte, commander of the Army’s 69th Infantry Battalion, in an interview, said his battalion under the 10th Infantry Division is now coordinating with the Paquibato Police Station for the charges to be filed against Ryan Pitao and other members of the 1st Pulang Bagani Command of the New People’s Army (NPA). “As of now, we are still gathering information and evidences that would support the charges to be filed against Ryan and his members,” Pasaporte said, adding they are still clueless on the identities of the members although they believe Pitao led the group. Superintendent Johnson Almazan, chief of the Davao City Police Office’s Investigation and Detection Management Branch (DCPO-IDMB), in an interview, said their personnel in Paquibato Police Station are still conducting investigation on the matter. “We have a conference this (Tuesday) morning… and Chief Inspector (Romeo) Abler was asking us to give them more time for the investigation. Kasi mahirap yan eh, we are still looking and waiting for someone who is willing to attest the truth," Almazan said. On the other hand, a source from the Commission on Human Rights (CHR)-Davao, who refused to be identified for lack of authority to speak, said their office is also conducting investigation on the incident as well as the earlier accusation of the communist rebels towards the soldiers. The CHR-11 was also thankful after the NPA admits killing the soldiers, as this will aid their investigation, adding that the bureau also awaits the victim's relatives to file their complaint against the suspects.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/local-news/2012/11/14/army-file-lawsuit-paquibato-ambush-253195
Soldiers, Cafgus accused of mauling teener
From the Sun Star-Davao (Nov 14): Soldiers, Cafgus accused of mauling teener
A TEENAGER filed Tuesday a complaint before the Commission on Human Rights (CHR)-Davao against members of Philippine Army (PA) for allegedly mauling and tagging him as a member of the New People’s Army (NPA). The 19-year-old victim, who refused to be identified for security reasons, was accompanied by militant group Karapatan at the CHR office at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday. The complainant said around nine soldiers and two Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit (Cafgus) mauled and tagged him as NPA member in Barangay San Isidro, Compostela Valley last November 5, 2012. Of the 11 members of the Army’s 66th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army (PA), he identified two of them as William Bautista and Alfred Ocbit. “It was 6 o'clock in the morning when the soldiers approached and asked me several questions. They insisted that I'm a communist rebel saying I looked like them, I said no but they didn't believe and instead mauled me,” he narrated in the vernacular. He added that after he was mauled, he was forced to eat a raw fish and drink water that had the strong taste of rust. He said he was able to flee after shouting for help from his mother Leah. “I was in the house preparing our breakfast when I heard him (Bob) calling me. I was about to run towards the area but I didn’t hear his voice again. I was worried, but thankful that he is still alive,” Leah said. Reverend Jaime Jurie, spokesperson for the Karapatan, said the victim was accompanied by his mother when he arrived at their office on F. Torres Street on Monday to seek their assistance. “As a spokesperson and representative for the Karapatan, I accompanied the victim and his mother here (CHR) so they could file proper complaint against the accused,” Jurie said. Asource from the CHR-11, who refused to be named for lack of authority to speak, said the bureau will conduct further investigation about the complaint of the victim. Lieutenant Colonel Lyndon Paniza, spokesperson for the Army’s 10th Infantry Division, in a text message, asked the victim to file their complaint before a proper forum so that the accused can answer the accusations filed against them. “Had he filed his complaint before the police? So that we can also conduct an investigation on the matter,” Paniza said. He did not say anything about forum shopping that a person who files similar complaints in several venues of redress may face.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/local-news/2012/11/14/soldiers-cafgus-accused-mauling-teener-253197
A TEENAGER filed Tuesday a complaint before the Commission on Human Rights (CHR)-Davao against members of Philippine Army (PA) for allegedly mauling and tagging him as a member of the New People’s Army (NPA). The 19-year-old victim, who refused to be identified for security reasons, was accompanied by militant group Karapatan at the CHR office at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday. The complainant said around nine soldiers and two Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit (Cafgus) mauled and tagged him as NPA member in Barangay San Isidro, Compostela Valley last November 5, 2012. Of the 11 members of the Army’s 66th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army (PA), he identified two of them as William Bautista and Alfred Ocbit. “It was 6 o'clock in the morning when the soldiers approached and asked me several questions. They insisted that I'm a communist rebel saying I looked like them, I said no but they didn't believe and instead mauled me,” he narrated in the vernacular. He added that after he was mauled, he was forced to eat a raw fish and drink water that had the strong taste of rust. He said he was able to flee after shouting for help from his mother Leah. “I was in the house preparing our breakfast when I heard him (Bob) calling me. I was about to run towards the area but I didn’t hear his voice again. I was worried, but thankful that he is still alive,” Leah said. Reverend Jaime Jurie, spokesperson for the Karapatan, said the victim was accompanied by his mother when he arrived at their office on F. Torres Street on Monday to seek their assistance. “As a spokesperson and representative for the Karapatan, I accompanied the victim and his mother here (CHR) so they could file proper complaint against the accused,” Jurie said. Asource from the CHR-11, who refused to be named for lack of authority to speak, said the bureau will conduct further investigation about the complaint of the victim. Lieutenant Colonel Lyndon Paniza, spokesperson for the Army’s 10th Infantry Division, in a text message, asked the victim to file their complaint before a proper forum so that the accused can answer the accusations filed against them. “Had he filed his complaint before the police? So that we can also conduct an investigation on the matter,” Paniza said. He did not say anything about forum shopping that a person who files similar complaints in several venues of redress may face.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/local-news/2012/11/14/soldiers-cafgus-accused-mauling-teener-253197
Nov. 15 a Muslim Holiday
From the Daily Zamboanga Times (Nov 13): Nov. 15 a Muslim Holiday
The National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) regional office wishes to announce that November 15, Thursday, 2012 is considered as Muslim legal holiday as provided for under P.O. 1083 in celebration of Islamic New Year (Amun-Jaded), the birth of Hijra Calender. The announcement was made by Prof. Ilkhab A. Salahuddin, NCMF regional office officer-In-charge in consultation with the Manila office and the Ulamas of Region 9 which date is fixed and a need to sight the moon is not necessary. An announcement can now be published this early to make sure that the public is properly informed....
http://zamboangatimes.ph/top-news/6019-nov-15-a-muslim-holiday-.html
The National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) regional office wishes to announce that November 15, Thursday, 2012 is considered as Muslim legal holiday as provided for under P.O. 1083 in celebration of Islamic New Year (Amun-Jaded), the birth of Hijra Calender. The announcement was made by Prof. Ilkhab A. Salahuddin, NCMF regional office officer-In-charge in consultation with the Manila office and the Ulamas of Region 9 which date is fixed and a need to sight the moon is not necessary. An announcement can now be published this early to make sure that the public is properly informed....
http://zamboangatimes.ph/top-news/6019-nov-15-a-muslim-holiday-.html
Abu nabbed in Labuan
From the Daily Zamboanga Times (Nov 13): Abu nabbed in Labuan
A member of the Abu Sayyaf Group was arrested in Barangay Labuan last Saturday afternoon. Arrested was Jamiri Jawali Hamid alias Abu Gabby. A police report disclosed that Hamid was nabbed by government forces composed of the City Police Office’s Intelligence Section, Special Weapon and Tactics (SWAT), Zamboanga City Public Safety Company, Regional Intelligence Division and Regional Public Safety Company, during an operation around 1 p.m. Policemen held Hamid on the strength of warrant of arrest for kidnapping and serious illegal detention with case number 3551400. The warrant was issued by Judge Leo jay Principe of the Regional Trial Court Branch 1 of Isabela City. Hamid was brought to the Headquarters of the Police Regional Office-9 for tactical interrogation. He was reported to have been involved in some kidnappings in Isabela City some years ago.
http://zamboangatimes.ph/top-news/6024-abu-nabbed-in-labuan.html
A member of the Abu Sayyaf Group was arrested in Barangay Labuan last Saturday afternoon. Arrested was Jamiri Jawali Hamid alias Abu Gabby. A police report disclosed that Hamid was nabbed by government forces composed of the City Police Office’s Intelligence Section, Special Weapon and Tactics (SWAT), Zamboanga City Public Safety Company, Regional Intelligence Division and Regional Public Safety Company, during an operation around 1 p.m. Policemen held Hamid on the strength of warrant of arrest for kidnapping and serious illegal detention with case number 3551400. The warrant was issued by Judge Leo jay Principe of the Regional Trial Court Branch 1 of Isabela City. Hamid was brought to the Headquarters of the Police Regional Office-9 for tactical interrogation. He was reported to have been involved in some kidnappings in Isabela City some years ago.
http://zamboangatimes.ph/top-news/6024-abu-nabbed-in-labuan.html
Gunmen take teacher, child in Zamboanga City
From the Mindanao Examiner (Nov 13): Gunmen take teacher, child in Zamboanga City
At least a dozen gunmen barged into a house late Tuesday and abducted a government teacher and her child in the southern Filipino port city of Zamboanga, reports said. Radio station dxRZ Radyo Agong said security forces are tracking down Flordeliza Ongchua Ramones, who is a teacher in Labuan school, and her still unidentified child. No individual or group claimed responsibility for the latest abduction that occurred in the village of Labuan. Police and military officials were not immediately available to make a statement about the incident, but kidnappings-for-ransom is not uncommon in Zamboanga City. In 2009, suspected Abu Sayyaf rebels also kidnapped three government teachers - Freires Quizon, Janette delos Reyes and Rafael Mayorada - in Zamboanga City. And three more teachers - Jocelyn Enriquez, Jocelyn Inion and Noime Mande – in the town of Naga in the neighboring province of Zamboanga Sibugay also in the same year.
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/news.php?news_id=20121113073053
At least a dozen gunmen barged into a house late Tuesday and abducted a government teacher and her child in the southern Filipino port city of Zamboanga, reports said. Radio station dxRZ Radyo Agong said security forces are tracking down Flordeliza Ongchua Ramones, who is a teacher in Labuan school, and her still unidentified child. No individual or group claimed responsibility for the latest abduction that occurred in the village of Labuan. Police and military officials were not immediately available to make a statement about the incident, but kidnappings-for-ransom is not uncommon in Zamboanga City. In 2009, suspected Abu Sayyaf rebels also kidnapped three government teachers - Freires Quizon, Janette delos Reyes and Rafael Mayorada - in Zamboanga City. And three more teachers - Jocelyn Enriquez, Jocelyn Inion and Noime Mande – in the town of Naga in the neighboring province of Zamboanga Sibugay also in the same year.
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/news.php?news_id=20121113073053
Philippine soldiers kill rebel, save another wounded gunman in clash
From the Mindanao Examiner (Nov 13): Philippine soldiers kill rebel, save another wounded gunman in
clash
Government troops clashed with communist rebels, killing one gunman and wounding another near the town of Tulunan in North Cotabato province in the southern Philippines, officials said. Col. Prudencio Asto, a spokesman for the 6th Infantry Division, said the wounded rebel was airlifted by army soldiers to a military hospital in Maguindanao province to save his life. He said the fighting broke out following a military operation in the town where New People’s Army rebels were harassing civilians and extorting money from villagers. “The encounter came after the 602nd Infantry Brigade launched an operation in the area as a result of information provided by residents to the military. The civilians are fed up with the threats and intimidation, and extortion of the NPA in the town,” Asto told the regional newspaper Mindanao Examiner. He said no soldiers were killed or wounded in the fighting. There were also no reports of civilian casualties. The NPA has been fighting to overthrow the democratic government and install a Maoist state in the country.
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/news.php?news_id=20121113100109
Government troops clashed with communist rebels, killing one gunman and wounding another near the town of Tulunan in North Cotabato province in the southern Philippines, officials said. Col. Prudencio Asto, a spokesman for the 6th Infantry Division, said the wounded rebel was airlifted by army soldiers to a military hospital in Maguindanao province to save his life. He said the fighting broke out following a military operation in the town where New People’s Army rebels were harassing civilians and extorting money from villagers. “The encounter came after the 602nd Infantry Brigade launched an operation in the area as a result of information provided by residents to the military. The civilians are fed up with the threats and intimidation, and extortion of the NPA in the town,” Asto told the regional newspaper Mindanao Examiner. He said no soldiers were killed or wounded in the fighting. There were also no reports of civilian casualties. The NPA has been fighting to overthrow the democratic government and install a Maoist state in the country.
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/news.php?news_id=20121113100109
MILF: Anti-landmine group to start demining in Mindanao
From the MILF Website (Nov 13): Anti-landmine group to start demining in Mindanao
The Philippine Campaign to Ban Landmines and Foundation Suisse De Deminage will start to conduct anti-personnel landmines clearance in the conflict affected zones in Mindanao. This development is contained in the letter jointly addressed to Dean Marvic Leonen and Mohagher Iqbal, chair of the government and MILF peace panels, respectively. The letter was signed by Alfredo Ferrariz Lubang, PCBL National Coordinator, and Craig Willis, FSD Programme Manager. PCBL and FSD informed both panels that the European Union has given financial support towards the implementation of the Joint Landmines/Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) Clearance Project, which is in accordance with the “Guidelines for the Implementation of the PCBL-FSD Project” signed in May 2010 in Kuala Lumpur by both panels. PCBL and FSD also stressed the importance of the implementation of all signed agreements between the government and the MILF towards the benefit of the communities affected by the armed conflict, which the two organizations as a great opportunity to further collaborative work in helping the ongoing peace process by implementing one of the earlier signed agreements. They thanked the European Union that with their support and confidence they (PCBL and FSD) will finally be able to start what they consider their long overdue work. They also sought the immediate convening of the meeting of the Task Force on Joint Mine/UXO Detection and Clearance (Article VII) at an agreed convenient date and time in Cotabato City for the following reasons: 1. Briefing of the project based on the EU approved and supported aspects of the implementation guidelines 2. Development and agreement of the modalities of the coordination mechanism and operations structure towards the full implementation of the Guidelines 3. Public event to officially launch the project
.........
http://www.luwaran.com/home/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2931:anti-landmine-group-to-start-demining-in-mindanao&catid=31:general&Itemid=41
The Philippine Campaign to Ban Landmines and Foundation Suisse De Deminage will start to conduct anti-personnel landmines clearance in the conflict affected zones in Mindanao. This development is contained in the letter jointly addressed to Dean Marvic Leonen and Mohagher Iqbal, chair of the government and MILF peace panels, respectively. The letter was signed by Alfredo Ferrariz Lubang, PCBL National Coordinator, and Craig Willis, FSD Programme Manager. PCBL and FSD informed both panels that the European Union has given financial support towards the implementation of the Joint Landmines/Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) Clearance Project, which is in accordance with the “Guidelines for the Implementation of the PCBL-FSD Project” signed in May 2010 in Kuala Lumpur by both panels. PCBL and FSD also stressed the importance of the implementation of all signed agreements between the government and the MILF towards the benefit of the communities affected by the armed conflict, which the two organizations as a great opportunity to further collaborative work in helping the ongoing peace process by implementing one of the earlier signed agreements. They thanked the European Union that with their support and confidence they (PCBL and FSD) will finally be able to start what they consider their long overdue work. They also sought the immediate convening of the meeting of the Task Force on Joint Mine/UXO Detection and Clearance (Article VII) at an agreed convenient date and time in Cotabato City for the following reasons: 1. Briefing of the project based on the EU approved and supported aspects of the implementation guidelines 2. Development and agreement of the modalities of the coordination mechanism and operations structure towards the full implementation of the Guidelines 3. Public event to officially launch the project
.........
http://www.luwaran.com/home/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2931:anti-landmine-group-to-start-demining-in-mindanao&catid=31:general&Itemid=41
PRWC/CPDF: Cordillera Forum for Peace and Development––Deodorizing the Zombie CPLA
Posted to the Philippine Revolutionary Web Central blog of the CPP (Nov 11): Cordillera
Forum for Peace and Development––Deodorizing the Zombie CPLA
Simon “Ka Filiw” Naogsan
Cordillera People's Democratic Front
11 November 2012
With the phony dramatics of the surrender of some 60 plus arms, remnants of the CPLA come into full circle for the nth time since the renegade group split from the NPA on Aprril 7, 1986. It has come out to do what its leaders had originally intended–to take flight from the people's struggle and serve the counter-revolutionary operations of the reactionary AFP.
No doubt a few of the arms inventoried or turned over–including 30 in Benguet, 17 in Abra and an undetermined number in Ifugao–came from the original 119 firearms stolen from the people's army. But no amount of whitewashing, including the surrender of mostly dilapidated arms and the renaming of the notorious CPLA into a deceptively-coined Cordillera Forum for Peace and Development (CFPD), can hide from the public the numerous crimes and atrocities that the merger of the renegade group and the AFP has inflicted on the people......
Far from leading into genuine peace and development, the creation of the CFPD further plays an important part in sustaining the economic aggression and intrusion into the ancestral lands. The group will further the economic plunder of the indigenous people’s ancestral lands as it attempts to dull the militant opposition of the concerned national minorities against destructive and large scale projects of foreign capitalists and their local cohorts. The integrated CPLA-CFPD in the AFP is part of the investment security force positioned and deployed strategically in areas targeted for corporate mining as well as hydropower and geothermal energy projects in tribal areas.....
http://theprwcblogs.blogspot.com/2012/11/cordillera-forum-for-peace-and.html
Simon “Ka Filiw” Naogsan
Cordillera People's Democratic Front
11 November 2012
With the phony dramatics of the surrender of some 60 plus arms, remnants of the CPLA come into full circle for the nth time since the renegade group split from the NPA on Aprril 7, 1986. It has come out to do what its leaders had originally intended–to take flight from the people's struggle and serve the counter-revolutionary operations of the reactionary AFP.
No doubt a few of the arms inventoried or turned over–including 30 in Benguet, 17 in Abra and an undetermined number in Ifugao–came from the original 119 firearms stolen from the people's army. But no amount of whitewashing, including the surrender of mostly dilapidated arms and the renaming of the notorious CPLA into a deceptively-coined Cordillera Forum for Peace and Development (CFPD), can hide from the public the numerous crimes and atrocities that the merger of the renegade group and the AFP has inflicted on the people......
Far from leading into genuine peace and development, the creation of the CFPD further plays an important part in sustaining the economic aggression and intrusion into the ancestral lands. The group will further the economic plunder of the indigenous people’s ancestral lands as it attempts to dull the militant opposition of the concerned national minorities against destructive and large scale projects of foreign capitalists and their local cohorts. The integrated CPLA-CFPD in the AFP is part of the investment security force positioned and deployed strategically in areas targeted for corporate mining as well as hydropower and geothermal energy projects in tribal areas.....
http://theprwcblogs.blogspot.com/2012/11/cordillera-forum-for-peace-and.html
NDF-EV declares Daza dynasty an enemy of the people in Northern Samar
Posted to the CPP Website (Nov 13): NDF-EV declares Daza dynasty an enemy of the people in Northern Samar
Fr. Santiago Salas (Ka Sanny)
Spokesperson
NDF-Eastern Visayas
The National Democratic Front-Eastern Visayas today declared the Daza political dynasty as an enemy of the people in Northern Samar in exemplifying the rottenness of bureaucrat capitalism in the country. “The Daza dynasty, led by Congressman Raul Daza and his son Governor Paul Daza, runs Northern Samar like a business in favor of the ruling classes of landlords and comprador big bourgeoisie as well as US imperialism,” said NDF-EV spokesperson Fr. Santiago Salas. “Thus, NDF-EV agrees with those who want to dismantle and do away with political dynasties such as the Dazas of Northern Samar. The revolutionary government also calls on the public to provide information in the continuing preliminary investigation into the crimes of the Daza dynasty towards the filing of formal charges in the people’s court.”
Fr. Salas said the dynasty’s patriarch, Congressman Raul Daza, has made a lifelong career in reactionary politics as well as being involved in the anticommunist and counterrevolutionary social-democratic movement. “Raul Daza has been in Northern Samar politics before and after the Marcos dictatorship, but he really began his family’s stranglehold on the province in 2001 after being elected governor. He and his son Paul Daza merely exchange places as congressman and governor to avoid term limitations. While the province wallows in misery as one of the poorest provinces in the country, the Daza dynasty is filthy rich from massive corruption, plunder and misgovernance. A stalwart of the puppet president Aquino’s Liberal Party, the Daza dynasty is also a willing accomplice to continuing human rights violations under Oplan Bayanihan of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. While the puppet Aquino regime fosters the illusion of good governance, the reality is shown by its ally the Daza dynasty that stinks to the skies with its involvement in crimes such as illegal gambling, illegal drugs, and extrajudicial killings.” .......
http://www.philippinerevolution.net/statements/ndf-ev-declares-daza-dynasty-an-enemy-of-the-people-in-northern-samar
Fr. Santiago Salas (Ka Sanny)
Spokesperson
NDF-Eastern Visayas
The National Democratic Front-Eastern Visayas today declared the Daza political dynasty as an enemy of the people in Northern Samar in exemplifying the rottenness of bureaucrat capitalism in the country. “The Daza dynasty, led by Congressman Raul Daza and his son Governor Paul Daza, runs Northern Samar like a business in favor of the ruling classes of landlords and comprador big bourgeoisie as well as US imperialism,” said NDF-EV spokesperson Fr. Santiago Salas. “Thus, NDF-EV agrees with those who want to dismantle and do away with political dynasties such as the Dazas of Northern Samar. The revolutionary government also calls on the public to provide information in the continuing preliminary investigation into the crimes of the Daza dynasty towards the filing of formal charges in the people’s court.”
Fr. Salas said the dynasty’s patriarch, Congressman Raul Daza, has made a lifelong career in reactionary politics as well as being involved in the anticommunist and counterrevolutionary social-democratic movement. “Raul Daza has been in Northern Samar politics before and after the Marcos dictatorship, but he really began his family’s stranglehold on the province in 2001 after being elected governor. He and his son Paul Daza merely exchange places as congressman and governor to avoid term limitations. While the province wallows in misery as one of the poorest provinces in the country, the Daza dynasty is filthy rich from massive corruption, plunder and misgovernance. A stalwart of the puppet president Aquino’s Liberal Party, the Daza dynasty is also a willing accomplice to continuing human rights violations under Oplan Bayanihan of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. While the puppet Aquino regime fosters the illusion of good governance, the reality is shown by its ally the Daza dynasty that stinks to the skies with its involvement in crimes such as illegal gambling, illegal drugs, and extrajudicial killings.” .......
http://www.philippinerevolution.net/statements/ndf-ev-declares-daza-dynasty-an-enemy-of-the-people-in-northern-samar
CPP: US military must be held equally liable for toxic waste dumping--CPP
Posted to the CPP Website (Nov 13): US military must be held equally liable for toxic waste dumping--CPP
The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) today said the US military should be held equally liable for the dumping at Subic Bay of toxic waste collected from US naval warships by its defense contractor Glenn Defense Marine Philippines last October....
“The secret dumping of toxic waste at Subic Bay is an affront to Philippine sovereignty by the US Navy and its defense contractor,” said the CPP. “It shows their utter disregard for the environment and the health of Filipinos. They completely ignored local and international regulations that require the treatment of toxic waste prior to disposal.” ....
“However, a US-directed cover-up seems to be in operation at the moment, with efforts to challenge the findings of the SBMA that the waste dumped off the Subic Bay coast was toxic,” said the CPP. Glenn Defense Marine officials now claim that what it disposed off was “waste water” already treated aboard the US warship, insisting that this is the waste-disposal arrangement they have with the US Navy. Malacañang has already taken the side of the Glenn Defense Marine and the US Navy when Aquino’s spokesman asserted that what was dumped was “organic waste” and not “toxic waste.”
“By having exclusively contracted Glenn Defense Marine to service its naval warships, the US military should be made equally liable for the criminal act of dumping toxic waste which transgresses Philippine sovereignty,” said the CPP. “Glenn Defense Marine should be punished for the toxic waste dumping, but should not be made a scapegoat for the crimes which the US military is equally responsible for.”
“Over the past several years, the US military has been employing private military contractors to service its needs, from catering to ship repairs, personnel security and carrying out operations beyond legally acceptable bounds,” pointed out the CPP. “Whenever the criminal acts of these private contractors were exposed, the US government has been fast to distance itself by claiming that these are private firms whose acts are not those of the US military.”
“The Filipino people must demand that the US Navy be made to answer for the disposal of its toxic waste by its defense contractor,” pointed out the CPP. “At the same time, they must push for the abrogation of the VFA which has served as the legal umbrella under which US military forces have been granted untrammelled access to Philippine territory and a shield of the US military against facing criminal liabilities in the Philippines.”
“It is most likely that the toxic waste dumping incident at Subic bay is not the first of its kind, and will likely not be the last in the face of the increasing frequency of dockings by US aircraft carriers and other war vessels,” said the CPP. “This underscores the environmental and social costs that accompany the Aquino regime’s surrender of sovereignty and granting of all-out access to the US Navy to enter and carry out patrol operations within Philippine seas.”
“This incident of toxic waste dumping also reminds the Filipino people of the continuing refusal of the US government to clean up its toxic waste left at its former military bases in Clark and Subic,” said the CPP. “It also should bring back to the fore of public attention the US government’s stockpiling of nuclear weapons, which was revealed in recently declassified US government documents. The US government has yet to divulge the details of such stockpiling and whether nuclear weapons stored in the Philippines have already been properly removed and cleaned up.”
http://www.philippinerevolution.net/statements/us-military-must-be-held-equally-liable-for-toxic-waste-dumping-cpp
The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) today said the US military should be held equally liable for the dumping at Subic Bay of toxic waste collected from US naval warships by its defense contractor Glenn Defense Marine Philippines last October....
“The secret dumping of toxic waste at Subic Bay is an affront to Philippine sovereignty by the US Navy and its defense contractor,” said the CPP. “It shows their utter disregard for the environment and the health of Filipinos. They completely ignored local and international regulations that require the treatment of toxic waste prior to disposal.” ....
“However, a US-directed cover-up seems to be in operation at the moment, with efforts to challenge the findings of the SBMA that the waste dumped off the Subic Bay coast was toxic,” said the CPP. Glenn Defense Marine officials now claim that what it disposed off was “waste water” already treated aboard the US warship, insisting that this is the waste-disposal arrangement they have with the US Navy. Malacañang has already taken the side of the Glenn Defense Marine and the US Navy when Aquino’s spokesman asserted that what was dumped was “organic waste” and not “toxic waste.”
“By having exclusively contracted Glenn Defense Marine to service its naval warships, the US military should be made equally liable for the criminal act of dumping toxic waste which transgresses Philippine sovereignty,” said the CPP. “Glenn Defense Marine should be punished for the toxic waste dumping, but should not be made a scapegoat for the crimes which the US military is equally responsible for.”
“Over the past several years, the US military has been employing private military contractors to service its needs, from catering to ship repairs, personnel security and carrying out operations beyond legally acceptable bounds,” pointed out the CPP. “Whenever the criminal acts of these private contractors were exposed, the US government has been fast to distance itself by claiming that these are private firms whose acts are not those of the US military.”
“The Filipino people must demand that the US Navy be made to answer for the disposal of its toxic waste by its defense contractor,” pointed out the CPP. “At the same time, they must push for the abrogation of the VFA which has served as the legal umbrella under which US military forces have been granted untrammelled access to Philippine territory and a shield of the US military against facing criminal liabilities in the Philippines.”
“It is most likely that the toxic waste dumping incident at Subic bay is not the first of its kind, and will likely not be the last in the face of the increasing frequency of dockings by US aircraft carriers and other war vessels,” said the CPP. “This underscores the environmental and social costs that accompany the Aquino regime’s surrender of sovereignty and granting of all-out access to the US Navy to enter and carry out patrol operations within Philippine seas.”
“This incident of toxic waste dumping also reminds the Filipino people of the continuing refusal of the US government to clean up its toxic waste left at its former military bases in Clark and Subic,” said the CPP. “It also should bring back to the fore of public attention the US government’s stockpiling of nuclear weapons, which was revealed in recently declassified US government documents. The US government has yet to divulge the details of such stockpiling and whether nuclear weapons stored in the Philippines have already been properly removed and cleaned up.”
http://www.philippinerevolution.net/statements/us-military-must-be-held-equally-liable-for-toxic-waste-dumping-cpp
Waste dumped by MV Glenn Guardian not toxic — SBMA
From GMANews (Nov 13): Waste dumped by MV Glenn Guardian not toxic — SBMA
The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) said the waste water dumped in Subic Bay by a vessel of Malaysian shipping firm Glenn Defense Marine Philippines is not toxic. The firm is contracted to service US Navy assets. A report on GMA News TV's News to Go quoted the SBMA as saying that there is no evidence that MV Glenn Guardian dumped toxic, oily or sewage waste in the area. “It appears that the allegations in terms of the oily waste and the sewage were disposed off properly,” said SBMA chair Roberto Garcia, citing the results of a special board meeting. On Monday, the SBMA also issued a separate statement on the matter. “For the information and safety of the public, contrary to what has been implied, there is no evidence that any toxic waste such as nuclear, chemical or similar hazardous waste has been discharged in the confines of Subic Bay,” the statement said. “Neither is there evidence that oily wastes or sewage wastes have been dumped in our waters. Latest tests show that Subic Bay’s waters remain clean, safe, and continue to be within normal levels,” the statement continued. SBMA also stated that it will issue a formal report on the matter. The Region III branch of the Environmental Management Bureau also supported SBMA’s statement, saying the MV Glenn Guardian’s waste was merely septage or domestic waste, and not toxic. According to SBMA, the vessel dumped the waste 17 miles from the shore, which is farther than the 12-mile distance that the Marine Pollution International Regulation set. Glenn Defense Marine Philippines meanwhile said it is ready to cooperate in any investigation. “Our company has complied and is committed to comply without compromise, with internationally established laws and procedures to protect the environment,” said retired Vice Adm. Mateo Mayuga, chair and CEO of Glenn Defense Marine Asia. At least four senators are seeking an investigation into the matter, and even plan to revisit the RP-US Visiting Forces Agreement to prevent a similar incident. Even the US Navy had been reported as saying that it will conduct its own investigation into the allegation.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/282087/news/nation/waste-dumped-by-mv-glenn-guardian-not-toxic-mdash-sbma
The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) said the waste water dumped in Subic Bay by a vessel of Malaysian shipping firm Glenn Defense Marine Philippines is not toxic. The firm is contracted to service US Navy assets. A report on GMA News TV's News to Go quoted the SBMA as saying that there is no evidence that MV Glenn Guardian dumped toxic, oily or sewage waste in the area. “It appears that the allegations in terms of the oily waste and the sewage were disposed off properly,” said SBMA chair Roberto Garcia, citing the results of a special board meeting. On Monday, the SBMA also issued a separate statement on the matter. “For the information and safety of the public, contrary to what has been implied, there is no evidence that any toxic waste such as nuclear, chemical or similar hazardous waste has been discharged in the confines of Subic Bay,” the statement said. “Neither is there evidence that oily wastes or sewage wastes have been dumped in our waters. Latest tests show that Subic Bay’s waters remain clean, safe, and continue to be within normal levels,” the statement continued. SBMA also stated that it will issue a formal report on the matter. The Region III branch of the Environmental Management Bureau also supported SBMA’s statement, saying the MV Glenn Guardian’s waste was merely septage or domestic waste, and not toxic. According to SBMA, the vessel dumped the waste 17 miles from the shore, which is farther than the 12-mile distance that the Marine Pollution International Regulation set. Glenn Defense Marine Philippines meanwhile said it is ready to cooperate in any investigation. “Our company has complied and is committed to comply without compromise, with internationally established laws and procedures to protect the environment,” said retired Vice Adm. Mateo Mayuga, chair and CEO of Glenn Defense Marine Asia. At least four senators are seeking an investigation into the matter, and even plan to revisit the RP-US Visiting Forces Agreement to prevent a similar incident. Even the US Navy had been reported as saying that it will conduct its own investigation into the allegation.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/282087/news/nation/waste-dumped-by-mv-glenn-guardian-not-toxic-mdash-sbma
Civil society, truce body to clear bombs
From the Business World (Nov 13): Civil society, truce body to clear bombs
Foreign-backed civil society groups and the joint ceasefire committee of the government and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) will lead a wide-scale operation to clear conflict areas of land mines, Moro rebels said. The operation, which will start soon, is part of an agreement between the government and the MILF in 2010 that accepted a proposal of the Philippine Campaign to Ban Landmines (PCBL) and Foundation Suisse De Deminage (FSD). The MILF has identified the provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and Basilan as critical areas where land mines have yet to be retrieved and defused or detonated. In a statement, the MILF said it has received a letter from the two nongovernmental organizations that offered assistance on land mine clearing after receiving financial support from the European Union for the purpose. "PCBL and FSD informed both panels that the European Union has given financial support towards the implementation of the Joint Landmines/Unexploded Ordnance Clearance Project, which is in accordance with the ‘Guidelines for the Implementation of the PCBL-FSD Project’ signed in May 2010 in Kuala Lumpur by both panels," the MILF said. Previous reports have noted of civilians who died after they accidently stepped on land mines. The MILF said the undiscovered explosive devices in the communities remain a threat to internally displaced persons....
http://www.bworldonline.com/content.php?section=Nation&title=Civil-society,-truce-body-to-clear-bombs&id=61377
Foreign-backed civil society groups and the joint ceasefire committee of the government and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) will lead a wide-scale operation to clear conflict areas of land mines, Moro rebels said. The operation, which will start soon, is part of an agreement between the government and the MILF in 2010 that accepted a proposal of the Philippine Campaign to Ban Landmines (PCBL) and Foundation Suisse De Deminage (FSD). The MILF has identified the provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and Basilan as critical areas where land mines have yet to be retrieved and defused or detonated. In a statement, the MILF said it has received a letter from the two nongovernmental organizations that offered assistance on land mine clearing after receiving financial support from the European Union for the purpose. "PCBL and FSD informed both panels that the European Union has given financial support towards the implementation of the Joint Landmines/Unexploded Ordnance Clearance Project, which is in accordance with the ‘Guidelines for the Implementation of the PCBL-FSD Project’ signed in May 2010 in Kuala Lumpur by both panels," the MILF said. Previous reports have noted of civilians who died after they accidently stepped on land mines. The MILF said the undiscovered explosive devices in the communities remain a threat to internally displaced persons....
http://www.bworldonline.com/content.php?section=Nation&title=Civil-society,-truce-body-to-clear-bombs&id=61377
Gazmin: VFA still beneficial to RP
From the Daily Tribune (Nov 14): Gazmin: VFA still beneficial to RP
Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Voltaire Gazmin has maintained that the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) with the United States remains beneficial to the Philippines amid the clamor for the scrapping of the pact following the alleged dumping of toxic waste in the waters of Subic Bay by a US Navy contracted vessel. In an interview with Camp Aguinaldo reporters at the DND anniversary celebration Monday, Gazmin said the alleged of dumping of toxic waste by a US Navay-contracted vessel in Subic should be treated as a separate issue from the VFA. He, however, maintained that he respects the opinion of those calling for the scrapping of the VFA and stressed that it is premature to make any conclusion as the investigation by the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) is ongoing. “Well, that is their opinion but I don’t think the toxic-waste dumping has anything to do with the VFA,” said Gazmin. Asked if the VFA was still beneficial to the Philippines, Gazmin replied “yes, of course.” The clamor for the termination of the VFA was revived following the reported dumping of toxic waste in Subic Bay by MT Glenn Guardian, owned by Malaysia’s Glenn Defense Marine Asia and contracted by the US Navy to collect, treat and dispose waste from US ships stationed in the Philippines. Gazmin stressed that the DND is not conducting its own probe into the matter. “We will have to prove if this is really toxic or is it really organic,” said Gazmin. Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago has called for the termination of the VFA, which was immediately supported by some militant organizations. Relatedly, the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) said the US military should be held equally liable for the dumping in Subic Bay of toxic waste collected from US naval warships by its defense contractor Glenn Defense Marine Philippines last October. The CPP noted reports of the supposed dumping off the waters of Subic Bay of 189,500 liters of untreated human waste and 760 liters of bilge water (oil and grease) collected from US Navy Ship Emory Land. Officials of Glenn Defense Marine claimed that the toxic waste was dumped 37 kilometers off the shore of Subic, well within the territory of the Philippines. “The secret dumping of toxic waste at Subic Bay is an affront to Philippine sovereignty by the US Navy and its defense contractor,” the CPP said. “It shows their utter disregard for the environment and the health of Filipinos. They completely ignored local and international regulations that require the treatment of toxic waste prior to disposal,” it added.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/index.php/nation/item/6859-gazmin-vfa-still-beneficial-to-rp
Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Voltaire Gazmin has maintained that the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) with the United States remains beneficial to the Philippines amid the clamor for the scrapping of the pact following the alleged dumping of toxic waste in the waters of Subic Bay by a US Navy contracted vessel. In an interview with Camp Aguinaldo reporters at the DND anniversary celebration Monday, Gazmin said the alleged of dumping of toxic waste by a US Navay-contracted vessel in Subic should be treated as a separate issue from the VFA. He, however, maintained that he respects the opinion of those calling for the scrapping of the VFA and stressed that it is premature to make any conclusion as the investigation by the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) is ongoing. “Well, that is their opinion but I don’t think the toxic-waste dumping has anything to do with the VFA,” said Gazmin. Asked if the VFA was still beneficial to the Philippines, Gazmin replied “yes, of course.” The clamor for the termination of the VFA was revived following the reported dumping of toxic waste in Subic Bay by MT Glenn Guardian, owned by Malaysia’s Glenn Defense Marine Asia and contracted by the US Navy to collect, treat and dispose waste from US ships stationed in the Philippines. Gazmin stressed that the DND is not conducting its own probe into the matter. “We will have to prove if this is really toxic or is it really organic,” said Gazmin. Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago has called for the termination of the VFA, which was immediately supported by some militant organizations. Relatedly, the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) said the US military should be held equally liable for the dumping in Subic Bay of toxic waste collected from US naval warships by its defense contractor Glenn Defense Marine Philippines last October. The CPP noted reports of the supposed dumping off the waters of Subic Bay of 189,500 liters of untreated human waste and 760 liters of bilge water (oil and grease) collected from US Navy Ship Emory Land. Officials of Glenn Defense Marine claimed that the toxic waste was dumped 37 kilometers off the shore of Subic, well within the territory of the Philippines. “The secret dumping of toxic waste at Subic Bay is an affront to Philippine sovereignty by the US Navy and its defense contractor,” the CPP said. “It shows their utter disregard for the environment and the health of Filipinos. They completely ignored local and international regulations that require the treatment of toxic waste prior to disposal,” it added.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/index.php/nation/item/6859-gazmin-vfa-still-beneficial-to-rp
DND mulls PAF, PN bases in Subic
From the Daily Tribune (Nov 14): DND mulls PAF, PN bases in Subic
The Department of National Defense (DND) is looking at the possible use of Subic facilities for the Philippine Air Force (PAF) and the Philippine Navy, citing the former United States naval base’s suitability to accommodate modern acquisitions of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority Chairman Roberto Garcia were scheduled to meet yesterday to discuss the plan utilization of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority facilities in Subic, Zambales by the military. During an interview on Monday, the 73rd anniversary of the DND, Gazmin cited the advantages of the Subic International Airport for the use of the Air Force and the Navy following acquisition of modern military hardware. “What are the benefits? We will not longer have to construct a runway that is suited for fighter aircraft. It’s not only the airport that we can utilize, the Navy can use a portion for the big ships,” he said. Presently, the DND is planning to buy 12 jetfighters for the ongoing capability upgrade of the AFP. Gazmin also cited the arrival of the Navy’s second Hamilton-class cutter — to be named BRP Ramon Alcaraz — from the United States this coming February. The first high-endurance cutter — BRP Gregorio del Pilar – was turned over last year. “So, we will have two big ships that cannot be accommodated in Cavite, we need a deeper wharf so that our ships will not be stalled,” he said. Relatedly, Gazmin said the DND has submitted its counter-proposal for the acquisition of the missile-firing frigate “Maestrale” from Italy. He, however, stressed that nothing was final. “We are looking at that very seriously,” he said. Gazmin added that the frigate will provide the country the capability to defend itself “so that we will not be pushed around.” According to him, the offer for the “Maestrale” was a package which was not within the DND’s budget and the capability included was not that necessary to the AFP, so a counter offer stating what the DND needs and can afford was made.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/index.php/nation/item/6861-dnd-mulls-paf-pn-bases-in-subic
The Department of National Defense (DND) is looking at the possible use of Subic facilities for the Philippine Air Force (PAF) and the Philippine Navy, citing the former United States naval base’s suitability to accommodate modern acquisitions of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority Chairman Roberto Garcia were scheduled to meet yesterday to discuss the plan utilization of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority facilities in Subic, Zambales by the military. During an interview on Monday, the 73rd anniversary of the DND, Gazmin cited the advantages of the Subic International Airport for the use of the Air Force and the Navy following acquisition of modern military hardware. “What are the benefits? We will not longer have to construct a runway that is suited for fighter aircraft. It’s not only the airport that we can utilize, the Navy can use a portion for the big ships,” he said. Presently, the DND is planning to buy 12 jetfighters for the ongoing capability upgrade of the AFP. Gazmin also cited the arrival of the Navy’s second Hamilton-class cutter — to be named BRP Ramon Alcaraz — from the United States this coming February. The first high-endurance cutter — BRP Gregorio del Pilar – was turned over last year. “So, we will have two big ships that cannot be accommodated in Cavite, we need a deeper wharf so that our ships will not be stalled,” he said. Relatedly, Gazmin said the DND has submitted its counter-proposal for the acquisition of the missile-firing frigate “Maestrale” from Italy. He, however, stressed that nothing was final. “We are looking at that very seriously,” he said. Gazmin added that the frigate will provide the country the capability to defend itself “so that we will not be pushed around.” According to him, the offer for the “Maestrale” was a package which was not within the DND’s budget and the capability included was not that necessary to the AFP, so a counter offer stating what the DND needs and can afford was made.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/index.php/nation/item/6861-dnd-mulls-paf-pn-bases-in-subic
Bayan Muna finds itself at war with other partylists
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Nov 13): Bayan Muna finds itself at war with other partylists
War is brewing among partylist groups at the House of Representatives and some have even shuttered their offices temporarily in protest. An Waray Partylist Representative Florencio Noel said that some 17 partylist groups at the House of Representatives made the move due to accusations that they were unfit to represent marginalized sectors. “I told them yesterday (Monday) to close their offices,” said Noel, adding that many other groups followed suit. He said that they did it in protest of Bayan Muna’s alleged plan to disqualify other groups. “We put a sign telling people to go Bayan Muna,” he said, pertaining to persons looking to solicit funds from partylist groups. For an entire week, people looking for assistance will find notes posted on the doors of other partylist groups telling them to ask Bayan Muna for help instead. Noel explained that it was unfair that Bayan Muna deemed itself as the only group which truly represents and helps the marginalized. He said partylist groups should be helping each other instead of fighting each other. Noel said he has dropped his initial plans of helping Bayan Muna Representative Teddy Casino in campaigning to win a seat at the Senate in next year’s polls.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/306656/bayan-muna-finds-itself-at-war-with-other-partylists
War is brewing among partylist groups at the House of Representatives and some have even shuttered their offices temporarily in protest. An Waray Partylist Representative Florencio Noel said that some 17 partylist groups at the House of Representatives made the move due to accusations that they were unfit to represent marginalized sectors. “I told them yesterday (Monday) to close their offices,” said Noel, adding that many other groups followed suit. He said that they did it in protest of Bayan Muna’s alleged plan to disqualify other groups. “We put a sign telling people to go Bayan Muna,” he said, pertaining to persons looking to solicit funds from partylist groups. For an entire week, people looking for assistance will find notes posted on the doors of other partylist groups telling them to ask Bayan Muna for help instead. Noel explained that it was unfair that Bayan Muna deemed itself as the only group which truly represents and helps the marginalized. He said partylist groups should be helping each other instead of fighting each other. Noel said he has dropped his initial plans of helping Bayan Muna Representative Teddy Casino in campaigning to win a seat at the Senate in next year’s polls.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/306656/bayan-muna-finds-itself-at-war-with-other-partylists
Philippines eyes procurement of small boats, ammunition equipment from Canada
From InterAksyon (Nov 13): Philippines eyes procurement of small boats, ammunition equipment from Canada
The Philippines is planning to procure small boats and ammunition equipment from Canada as part of its continued efforts to upgrade the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). This was announced by Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin on Tuesday after he signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on defense cooperation last Saturday with Canadian Minister of International Trade Ed Fast. The small boats that Manila plans to buy should be able to maneuver rough waters, he said. Manila already has placed an order to improve the country's capability to produce ammunition, Gazmin said. "We are also looking at small boats for rough waters." No "big-ticket" items such as fighter jets would be procured from Canada. With the MOU, the Philippine government can have access to the expertise and skills from Canada.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/47923/philippines-eyes-procurement-of-small-boats-ammunition-equipment-from-canada
The Philippines is planning to procure small boats and ammunition equipment from Canada as part of its continued efforts to upgrade the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). This was announced by Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin on Tuesday after he signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on defense cooperation last Saturday with Canadian Minister of International Trade Ed Fast. The small boats that Manila plans to buy should be able to maneuver rough waters, he said. Manila already has placed an order to improve the country's capability to produce ammunition, Gazmin said. "We are also looking at small boats for rough waters." No "big-ticket" items such as fighter jets would be procured from Canada. With the MOU, the Philippine government can have access to the expertise and skills from Canada.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/47923/philippines-eyes-procurement-of-small-boats-ammunition-equipment-from-canada
Government offers P467 million for capture of 235 communist rebels
From InterAksyon (Nov 13): Government offers P467 million for capture of 235 communist rebels
The bounty set aside by government for the capture of 235 communist rebels now total P467 million. For 14 Abu Sayyaf leaders, the government is offering a total of P176 million. The figures were released as Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II recently co-signed two joint orders by the Department of National Defense and DILG detailing updated rewards for wanted leaders of the Communist Party of the Philippines, New Peoples Army, and National Democratic Front, as well as the Abu Sayyaf Group. According to the updated DND-DILG Joint Order number 14-2012, the total amount of monetary reward for the 235 wanted communists is now P466.88 million. Leading the list of wanted communist leaders are NPA Chief Benito Tiamzon, “National Finance Commission” head Wilma Tiamzon, NDF Mindanao Spokesperson Jorge Madlos, and NPA Eastern Mindanao leader Leoncio Pitao. On the other hand, DND-DILG Joint Order number 15-2012, pegs the total amount of monetary reward for 14 ASG members to P176.10 million. Prominent in the list are ASG top leader Radulan Sahiron and notorious bomber Usman Ahmad Akmad Batabol alias "Basit Usman".
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/47915/government-offers-p467-million-for-capture-of-235-communist-rebels
The bounty set aside by government for the capture of 235 communist rebels now total P467 million. For 14 Abu Sayyaf leaders, the government is offering a total of P176 million. The figures were released as Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II recently co-signed two joint orders by the Department of National Defense and DILG detailing updated rewards for wanted leaders of the Communist Party of the Philippines, New Peoples Army, and National Democratic Front, as well as the Abu Sayyaf Group. According to the updated DND-DILG Joint Order number 14-2012, the total amount of monetary reward for the 235 wanted communists is now P466.88 million. Leading the list of wanted communist leaders are NPA Chief Benito Tiamzon, “National Finance Commission” head Wilma Tiamzon, NDF Mindanao Spokesperson Jorge Madlos, and NPA Eastern Mindanao leader Leoncio Pitao. On the other hand, DND-DILG Joint Order number 15-2012, pegs the total amount of monetary reward for 14 ASG members to P176.10 million. Prominent in the list are ASG top leader Radulan Sahiron and notorious bomber Usman Ahmad Akmad Batabol alias "Basit Usman".
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/47915/government-offers-p467-million-for-capture-of-235-communist-rebels
PNP removes MILF from list of threat groups for 2013 polls
From InterAksyon (Nov 13): PNP removes MILF from list of threat groups for 2013 polls
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has removed the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) from its list of threat groups for the 2013 elections, PNP director general Nicanor Bartolome said Tuesday. Bartolome said authorities are now considering the MILF as among their allies after the latter and Philippine government signed a framework peace agreement that will pave the way for the creation of a Bangsamoro entity in Mindanao. “We just have a signing on the Framework Agreement (FRAG) and so we consider them to be our allies in securing peaceful elections in Mindanao. We take it very positively if they will be our partners,” Bartolome told reporters. Based on recent PNP reports, Mindanao has the highest number of private armed groups and election hot spots. With the removal of the MILF from the list of threat groups, the PNP is now focusing on other groups such as the New People's Army, Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Movement. The PNP is still finalizing its security measures for the 2013 elections....
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/47919/pnp-removes-milf-from-list-of-threat-groups-for-2013-polls
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has removed the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) from its list of threat groups for the 2013 elections, PNP director general Nicanor Bartolome said Tuesday. Bartolome said authorities are now considering the MILF as among their allies after the latter and Philippine government signed a framework peace agreement that will pave the way for the creation of a Bangsamoro entity in Mindanao. “We just have a signing on the Framework Agreement (FRAG) and so we consider them to be our allies in securing peaceful elections in Mindanao. We take it very positively if they will be our partners,” Bartolome told reporters. Based on recent PNP reports, Mindanao has the highest number of private armed groups and election hot spots. With the removal of the MILF from the list of threat groups, the PNP is now focusing on other groups such as the New People's Army, Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Movement. The PNP is still finalizing its security measures for the 2013 elections....
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/47919/pnp-removes-milf-from-list-of-threat-groups-for-2013-polls
5 NPAs with high-powered fire arms surrender
From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 13): 5 NPAs with high-powered fire arms surrender
Five high-powered fire arms were formally surrendered by five (5) members of the New People’s Army to the 75th Infantry (Marauder) Battalion, Philippine Army on Monday. Lt. Jolito Borces, civil military operation officer, said five NPA rebels arrived at 75IB Headquarters around 6:30 on Sunday evening namely: Ricky Banding Yambo alias “Ikoy”, Juan Garapan Intua alias Jamal/Arim”, Julius Suan Casan alias “Jomar”, Julie Licardo Bonifacio alias “Albert”, Elfie Casal Pinaloay alias “Emer” and Giovani Juvilla alias “Bunso”. The said rebels were then led by Alfredo Magadan Asuncion alias “Jack” of Guerrilla Front-3, Southeastern Mindanao Regional Committee operating in the areas of Mongkayo and Laak both of Comval Province and in the Municipality of Sta Josefa and Veruela both of Agusan del Sur. The rebels brought along with them the following five high-powered firearms: one (1) M16 rifle, one (1) M653 rifle, two (2) cal. 30 Carbine rifles and one (1) M14 rifle with several live ammunition and magazines. As today, said surrenderees are now at Headquarter of 75IB for some interviews. According to the surrenderees, the misery in life at the mountainous area and uncertainty forced them to return to the folds of law. Lt Colonel Danilo B. Benavides, Commanding Officer of 75thIB expressed his acknowledgement and gratitude to the surrenderees in their decision to return within the government. “I am humbly appealing to their comrades (NPA) not to hesitate to do same, approach the army units especially the 75IB. We in the Philippine Army are always in the manner of strengthening our peace and development but without your cooperation we can’t attain it”, Ltc Benavides said. The Commanding Officer also acknowledged the contribution of those who made the effort possible. (NGBT, PIA-Surigao del Sur with reports from 75IB CMO)
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1741352694915
Five high-powered fire arms were formally surrendered by five (5) members of the New People’s Army to the 75th Infantry (Marauder) Battalion, Philippine Army on Monday. Lt. Jolito Borces, civil military operation officer, said five NPA rebels arrived at 75IB Headquarters around 6:30 on Sunday evening namely: Ricky Banding Yambo alias “Ikoy”, Juan Garapan Intua alias Jamal/Arim”, Julius Suan Casan alias “Jomar”, Julie Licardo Bonifacio alias “Albert”, Elfie Casal Pinaloay alias “Emer” and Giovani Juvilla alias “Bunso”. The said rebels were then led by Alfredo Magadan Asuncion alias “Jack” of Guerrilla Front-3, Southeastern Mindanao Regional Committee operating in the areas of Mongkayo and Laak both of Comval Province and in the Municipality of Sta Josefa and Veruela both of Agusan del Sur. The rebels brought along with them the following five high-powered firearms: one (1) M16 rifle, one (1) M653 rifle, two (2) cal. 30 Carbine rifles and one (1) M14 rifle with several live ammunition and magazines. As today, said surrenderees are now at Headquarter of 75IB for some interviews. According to the surrenderees, the misery in life at the mountainous area and uncertainty forced them to return to the folds of law. Lt Colonel Danilo B. Benavides, Commanding Officer of 75thIB expressed his acknowledgement and gratitude to the surrenderees in their decision to return within the government. “I am humbly appealing to their comrades (NPA) not to hesitate to do same, approach the army units especially the 75IB. We in the Philippine Army are always in the manner of strengthening our peace and development but without your cooperation we can’t attain it”, Ltc Benavides said. The Commanding Officer also acknowledged the contribution of those who made the effort possible. (NGBT, PIA-Surigao del Sur with reports from 75IB CMO)
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1741352694915
Soldiers lead 60KM “Bike for Peace”
From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 13): Soldiers lead 60KM “Bike for Peace”
Around 200 people biked more than 60 kilometers from Lebak, Sultan Kudarat to Cotabato City, Sunday morning in a bid to promote peace. Dubbed “Bike for Peace,” members of the Philippine Marines and biking enthusiasts from the coastal towns of Sultan Kudarat joined the event. 1st Marine Brigade Information Officer Lt. Korina Dela Costa said the activity is in line with the campaign of the Philippine Marines to continue the peace efforts in Mindanao. The event is envisioned to provide an avenue to advocate peace, development, and community participation on providing peace and security. Dela Costa added that they will continue to have these kinds of activity next month and the years to come. The said activity was led by the 1st Marine Battalion together with peace advocates and other sectors.
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=2411352766305
Around 200 people biked more than 60 kilometers from Lebak, Sultan Kudarat to Cotabato City, Sunday morning in a bid to promote peace. Dubbed “Bike for Peace,” members of the Philippine Marines and biking enthusiasts from the coastal towns of Sultan Kudarat joined the event. 1st Marine Brigade Information Officer Lt. Korina Dela Costa said the activity is in line with the campaign of the Philippine Marines to continue the peace efforts in Mindanao. The event is envisioned to provide an avenue to advocate peace, development, and community participation on providing peace and security. Dela Costa added that they will continue to have these kinds of activity next month and the years to come. The said activity was led by the 1st Marine Battalion together with peace advocates and other sectors.
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=2411352766305
Army renews support to agricultural production in Davao Oriental
From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 13): Army renews support to agricultural production in Davao Oriental
The military has affirmed its support to the establishment of the Cateel Agricultural Production Center in Barangay San Alfonso. Lt. Colonel Krishna Murti Mortela, commanding officer of the 67th Infantry Battalion said making the CAPC operational manifests the commitment of the soldiers to peace where members of the military contingent strengthen partnership with the farmers. “The soldiers of the 67th IB will be the solid partners of the farmers,” he said. The CAPC is equipped with activity hall, wormbin house, farm equipment and vegetable nursery. Corazon Losentes, officer-in-charge of the Municipal Agriculture Office said the CAPC serves as a techno demo farm, learning site, research and development extension area and a point of convergence where various agricultural projects on crops, livestock, fisheries and recommended technologies will be showcased. Vice Mayor Isidro Castro thanked the interventions of major stakeholders and committed to sustain this LGU-owned facility that will cater to farmer needs from the different barangays and even the whole province of Davao Oriental. Josefe Madanlu said he was able to send his children to college by engaging in vegetable production with the help of his wife. He encouraged his fellow farmers to follow his lead in diverse agricultural production. (PIA XI, 1Lt. Raable Ymas, community development officer, 67th IB/ JSGD)
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=2381352789016
The military has affirmed its support to the establishment of the Cateel Agricultural Production Center in Barangay San Alfonso. Lt. Colonel Krishna Murti Mortela, commanding officer of the 67th Infantry Battalion said making the CAPC operational manifests the commitment of the soldiers to peace where members of the military contingent strengthen partnership with the farmers. “The soldiers of the 67th IB will be the solid partners of the farmers,” he said. The CAPC is equipped with activity hall, wormbin house, farm equipment and vegetable nursery. Corazon Losentes, officer-in-charge of the Municipal Agriculture Office said the CAPC serves as a techno demo farm, learning site, research and development extension area and a point of convergence where various agricultural projects on crops, livestock, fisheries and recommended technologies will be showcased. Vice Mayor Isidro Castro thanked the interventions of major stakeholders and committed to sustain this LGU-owned facility that will cater to farmer needs from the different barangays and even the whole province of Davao Oriental. Josefe Madanlu said he was able to send his children to college by engaging in vegetable production with the help of his wife. He encouraged his fellow farmers to follow his lead in diverse agricultural production. (PIA XI, 1Lt. Raable Ymas, community development officer, 67th IB/ JSGD)
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=2381352789016
Verify first complaints against the soldiers in Paquibato - City Mayor
From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 13): Verify first complaints against the soldiers in Paquibato - City Mayor
Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio cited the need for city councilors to verify first the information about soldiers encamped at a government infrastructure in the countryside before approving a resolution driving away the soldiers from the establishment to that effect. She said it is very important to establish first the veracity of this type of information whether it is either hearsay or propaganda from progressive groups supporting the cause of the rebels. Duterte-Carpio said it would be better if the city councilors really have a good grasp of the barangays where soldiers occupy public buildings. She said that though it must be stressed that the soldiers must not be allowed to stay in the barangay halls, barangay chairs can assert and tell the immediate officer of the soldiers to vacate the building if they are indeed using the facility as their shelter. Duterte-Carpio said based on her own verification, the soldiers are not really confined in the barangay hall, but only on the general area of the barangay office. She said the soldiers cannot be driven away since they are not actually occupying the building as their shelter. “I sent personnel to Barangay Lumiad, Barangay Mapula and in Barangay Malabog to verify complaints about the soldiers either occupying government buildings or encamped beside a school,” Duterte-Carpio. She reiterated that every peace and development team in the countryside is welcomed by the barangay officials who agree with the soldiers on the kind of living arrangement in the area. Duterte-Carpio said propaganda from the progressive groups about the situation in Paquibato is not taken as the general sentiment of the residents in the area. “If the information is left-leaning, we validate and it has no basis, only propaganda, then we discard,” she said. Duterte-Carpio explained that more than the issues happening in Paquibato, the conflict between the soldiers and the rebels is also a propaganda war. She said accusations must be validated and if found to be true, clear solutions must be imposed favoring the local government functionaries like the barangay captain so that he can perform his responsibilities effectively to the community. Duterte-Carpio said the city has allocated a P150-Million worth of road network in Paquibato that will link 13 of its barangays to the city.
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=2381352706642
Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio cited the need for city councilors to verify first the information about soldiers encamped at a government infrastructure in the countryside before approving a resolution driving away the soldiers from the establishment to that effect. She said it is very important to establish first the veracity of this type of information whether it is either hearsay or propaganda from progressive groups supporting the cause of the rebels. Duterte-Carpio said it would be better if the city councilors really have a good grasp of the barangays where soldiers occupy public buildings. She said that though it must be stressed that the soldiers must not be allowed to stay in the barangay halls, barangay chairs can assert and tell the immediate officer of the soldiers to vacate the building if they are indeed using the facility as their shelter. Duterte-Carpio said based on her own verification, the soldiers are not really confined in the barangay hall, but only on the general area of the barangay office. She said the soldiers cannot be driven away since they are not actually occupying the building as their shelter. “I sent personnel to Barangay Lumiad, Barangay Mapula and in Barangay Malabog to verify complaints about the soldiers either occupying government buildings or encamped beside a school,” Duterte-Carpio. She reiterated that every peace and development team in the countryside is welcomed by the barangay officials who agree with the soldiers on the kind of living arrangement in the area. Duterte-Carpio said propaganda from the progressive groups about the situation in Paquibato is not taken as the general sentiment of the residents in the area. “If the information is left-leaning, we validate and it has no basis, only propaganda, then we discard,” she said. Duterte-Carpio explained that more than the issues happening in Paquibato, the conflict between the soldiers and the rebels is also a propaganda war. She said accusations must be validated and if found to be true, clear solutions must be imposed favoring the local government functionaries like the barangay captain so that he can perform his responsibilities effectively to the community. Duterte-Carpio said the city has allocated a P150-Million worth of road network in Paquibato that will link 13 of its barangays to the city.
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=2381352706642
Peace and Devt Agreement signed in DavOr town
From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 13): Peace and Devt Agreement signed in DavOr town
The Armed Forces and the municipal government inked formally Monday the memorandum of agreement citing the lead role of the San Isidro Municipal Peace and Order Council in the internal security operation in the area. San Isidro Mayor Edgar Flor Saulon signed the agreement as chair of the MPOC with Lt. Colonel Francisco Lorenzo, Jr., commanding officer of the 28th Infantry Battalion in behalf of the military. The local chief executive said it is high time that the local government needs to address the dissent that causes insurgency. “I understand that we can address insurgency not only through the military option but through the local government taking a lead role. Eventually, we can attain peace and development in our community,” Saulon said. Colonel Rey Leonardo Guerrero, commander of the 701st Infantry Brigade declared that the San Isidro town is already cleared from the presence of the rebels. He said that for the past two years, no insurgency-related harassment happened in the area. “In this ceremony, we will tell everyone that we are open for business. This place has been peaceful for two years now. This is the direction that the Davao Oriental Provincial government wants, to finish the clearing operation this year and in January 2013, development will go full blast,” Guerrero said....
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=2381352769007
The Armed Forces and the municipal government inked formally Monday the memorandum of agreement citing the lead role of the San Isidro Municipal Peace and Order Council in the internal security operation in the area. San Isidro Mayor Edgar Flor Saulon signed the agreement as chair of the MPOC with Lt. Colonel Francisco Lorenzo, Jr., commanding officer of the 28th Infantry Battalion in behalf of the military. The local chief executive said it is high time that the local government needs to address the dissent that causes insurgency. “I understand that we can address insurgency not only through the military option but through the local government taking a lead role. Eventually, we can attain peace and development in our community,” Saulon said. Colonel Rey Leonardo Guerrero, commander of the 701st Infantry Brigade declared that the San Isidro town is already cleared from the presence of the rebels. He said that for the past two years, no insurgency-related harassment happened in the area. “In this ceremony, we will tell everyone that we are open for business. This place has been peaceful for two years now. This is the direction that the Davao Oriental Provincial government wants, to finish the clearing operation this year and in January 2013, development will go full blast,” Guerrero said....
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=2381352769007
4ID Early Christmas celebration kicks-off with a Sports Fest
From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 13): 4ID Early Christmas celebration kicks-off with a Sports Fest
The 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division has opened the Christmas Sports Fest at the Division Grandstand at 6 a.m. here today. Personnel from the Post and Tenant units, plus the General and Special Staffs of the division participated in the sports fest. During the opening ceremony Colonel Victor A. Gealan, 4ID Assistant Chief of Staff for Personnel, G1, presented the seven participating teams wearing their respective color: green, white, red, black, orange, grey, and blue. Lieutenant Colonel Alvin M. Caga, 4ID Acting Chief of Staff, subsequently declared the opening of the sportfest. The Diamond Troopers also swore their Oath of Sportsmanship which was administered by Major Yacob M. Usman, the Chief of the Division Special Service Office. The formal program concluded with Colonel Jupiter D. Ando, Commanding Officer of Headquarters and Headquarters Service Battalion, giving his message stressing that the sports fest is a way of strengthening the confidence of the Diamond soldiers, testing their physical fitness and enhancing their team player attitude since every game requires team work, strong body and presence of mind to win and at the same time enjoy every game. After the program, the sports fest started with fun games and other team building activities which included sack race, tug of war, filling the bottle with water, maria went to town, calamansi relay, eggplant pushing and longest line. Aside from the fun games played, there will also be ball games and racket games such as basketball, volleyball, table tennis, and badminton which will be played every afternoon of Tuesday and Thursday. A marathon will also be played on top of all these indoor games. Major General Nestor A. Añonuevo, Commander, 4ID said, “Activities like these are not mere games, it endeavors to develop the team player attitude to every diamond trooper. This also drives to make every soldier to be physically fit which is necessary for them to maintain even as they age in the service.” “I believe that every sports has discipline to be adhered to in the same manner that every soldier adheres to rules, regulations and standard operating procedures of soldiery, a lighter activity to enhance discipline among soldiers of the Division,” Añonuevo added. (4CMO/4ID/PIA10)
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1461352788495
The 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division has opened the Christmas Sports Fest at the Division Grandstand at 6 a.m. here today. Personnel from the Post and Tenant units, plus the General and Special Staffs of the division participated in the sports fest. During the opening ceremony Colonel Victor A. Gealan, 4ID Assistant Chief of Staff for Personnel, G1, presented the seven participating teams wearing their respective color: green, white, red, black, orange, grey, and blue. Lieutenant Colonel Alvin M. Caga, 4ID Acting Chief of Staff, subsequently declared the opening of the sportfest. The Diamond Troopers also swore their Oath of Sportsmanship which was administered by Major Yacob M. Usman, the Chief of the Division Special Service Office. The formal program concluded with Colonel Jupiter D. Ando, Commanding Officer of Headquarters and Headquarters Service Battalion, giving his message stressing that the sports fest is a way of strengthening the confidence of the Diamond soldiers, testing their physical fitness and enhancing their team player attitude since every game requires team work, strong body and presence of mind to win and at the same time enjoy every game. After the program, the sports fest started with fun games and other team building activities which included sack race, tug of war, filling the bottle with water, maria went to town, calamansi relay, eggplant pushing and longest line. Aside from the fun games played, there will also be ball games and racket games such as basketball, volleyball, table tennis, and badminton which will be played every afternoon of Tuesday and Thursday. A marathon will also be played on top of all these indoor games. Major General Nestor A. Añonuevo, Commander, 4ID said, “Activities like these are not mere games, it endeavors to develop the team player attitude to every diamond trooper. This also drives to make every soldier to be physically fit which is necessary for them to maintain even as they age in the service.” “I believe that every sports has discipline to be adhered to in the same manner that every soldier adheres to rules, regulations and standard operating procedures of soldiery, a lighter activity to enhance discipline among soldiers of the Division,” Añonuevo added. (4CMO/4ID/PIA10)
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1461352788495
Farmer slain in grenade blast
From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 13): Farmer slain in grenade
blast
A farmer died when a grenade exploded inside his house at a remote village in Columbio town in Sultan Kudarat on Monday, a police official said. Chief Inspector Celestino Daniel, chief of the Columbio Police, identified the victim as Tuanci Payot Dilangalen, 60, a farmer from Sitio Bantong at Barangay Sinapulan, Columbio. Bakal said the victim was still asleep when the grenade went off, around 7 a.m. It was the victim’s son-in-law identified as Sammy Obtang that saw the victim's bloodied body minutes after the blast. The victim, who was hit on his chest and lower abdomen, died on-the-spot, reports said. Police hinted land conflict as one of the motives behind the blast as the victim occupied a land at Brgy. Sinapulan without permission from the tribal leaders of the B'laan natives, reports said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=470807
A farmer died when a grenade exploded inside his house at a remote village in Columbio town in Sultan Kudarat on Monday, a police official said. Chief Inspector Celestino Daniel, chief of the Columbio Police, identified the victim as Tuanci Payot Dilangalen, 60, a farmer from Sitio Bantong at Barangay Sinapulan, Columbio. Bakal said the victim was still asleep when the grenade went off, around 7 a.m. It was the victim’s son-in-law identified as Sammy Obtang that saw the victim's bloodied body minutes after the blast. The victim, who was hit on his chest and lower abdomen, died on-the-spot, reports said. Police hinted land conflict as one of the motives behind the blast as the victim occupied a land at Brgy. Sinapulan without permission from the tribal leaders of the B'laan natives, reports said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=470807
4 NPA rebels burn heavy equipment in Nueva Ecija
From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 13): 4 NPA rebels burn heavy equipment in
Nueva Ecija
Four alleged members of the New People's Army (NPA) set fire on four heavy equipment being used in rehabilitation works along a river bank in Barangay Pesa here Monday afternoon, the police reported. The four heavy equipment operators were unhurt when the heavily armed men stormed the construction site. The men reportedly identified themselves as NPA members as they threatened to shoot the heavy equipment operators. Police investigation showed that the armed men came at about 4:30 p.m. Monday where the construction crew was working for one Israel Reguyal, a resident of Barangay Larcon here. The men, armed with M-16 rifles and handguns asked the workers for the whereabouts of their employer. Unable to find the workers' boss, they doused the heavy equipment with gasoline and set them on fire.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=470906
Four alleged members of the New People's Army (NPA) set fire on four heavy equipment being used in rehabilitation works along a river bank in Barangay Pesa here Monday afternoon, the police reported. The four heavy equipment operators were unhurt when the heavily armed men stormed the construction site. The men reportedly identified themselves as NPA members as they threatened to shoot the heavy equipment operators. Police investigation showed that the armed men came at about 4:30 p.m. Monday where the construction crew was working for one Israel Reguyal, a resident of Barangay Larcon here. The men, armed with M-16 rifles and handguns asked the workers for the whereabouts of their employer. Unable to find the workers' boss, they doused the heavy equipment with gasoline and set them on fire.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=470906
Military, LGU ink MOA for internal security ops in Davao Oriental town
From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 13): Military, LGU ink MOA for internal
security ops in Davao Oriental town
The military and the local government unit (LGU) here formally inked the memorandum of agreement (MOA) citing the lead role of the Municipal Peace and Order Council (MPOC) in the internal security operation in the area. San Isidro Mayor Edgar Flor Saulon recently signed the agreement as chair of the MPOC with Lt. Colonel Francisco Lorenzo, Jr., commanding officer of the 28th Infantry Battalion in behalf of the military. The local chief executive said it is high time the local government needs to address the dissent that causes insurgency. “I understand that we can address insurgency not only through the military option but through the LGU taking a lead role. Eventually, we can attain peace and development in our community,” Saulon said. Col. Rey Leonardo Guerrero, commander of the 701st Infantry Brigade, declared that the San Isidro town is already cleared from the presence of the rebels. He said for the past two years, no insurgency-related harassment happened in the area. “In this ceremony, we will tell everyone that we are open for business. This place has been peaceful for two years now. This is the direction that the Davao Oriental Provincial government wants, to finish the clearing operation this year and in January 2013, development will go full blast,” Guerrero said. Lorenzo assured the local government that the soldiers will stay to assist the LGU in all its activities to ensure lasting peace conducive to development. Lt. Colonel Lyndon Paniza, spokesperson of the 10th ID, expressed hope the convergence between the LGU and the soldiers will yield good results that will benefit more the residents. “We are just starting our concerted effort to prevent the resurgence of threats and harassment perpetrated by the armed groups, so that the residents can live peaceful and even help to spur development here,” he said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=471015
The military and the local government unit (LGU) here formally inked the memorandum of agreement (MOA) citing the lead role of the Municipal Peace and Order Council (MPOC) in the internal security operation in the area. San Isidro Mayor Edgar Flor Saulon recently signed the agreement as chair of the MPOC with Lt. Colonel Francisco Lorenzo, Jr., commanding officer of the 28th Infantry Battalion in behalf of the military. The local chief executive said it is high time the local government needs to address the dissent that causes insurgency. “I understand that we can address insurgency not only through the military option but through the LGU taking a lead role. Eventually, we can attain peace and development in our community,” Saulon said. Col. Rey Leonardo Guerrero, commander of the 701st Infantry Brigade, declared that the San Isidro town is already cleared from the presence of the rebels. He said for the past two years, no insurgency-related harassment happened in the area. “In this ceremony, we will tell everyone that we are open for business. This place has been peaceful for two years now. This is the direction that the Davao Oriental Provincial government wants, to finish the clearing operation this year and in January 2013, development will go full blast,” Guerrero said. Lorenzo assured the local government that the soldiers will stay to assist the LGU in all its activities to ensure lasting peace conducive to development. Lt. Colonel Lyndon Paniza, spokesperson of the 10th ID, expressed hope the convergence between the LGU and the soldiers will yield good results that will benefit more the residents. “We are just starting our concerted effort to prevent the resurgence of threats and harassment perpetrated by the armed groups, so that the residents can live peaceful and even help to spur development here,” he said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=471015
Framework Agreement forum eyed
From the Sun Star-Zamboanga (Nov 13): Framework Agreement forum eyed
THE Provincial Government of Basilan in partnership with the cross-section of the society and non-government organizations (NGOs) agreed to organize a forum on the Bangsamoro Framework Agreement. Basilan provincial administrator Tahira Ismael said the forum is aimed to correct growing misconceptions about the framework agreement signed between the Philippine Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). “Our people have a wrong understanding of the agreement,” Ismael said fearing it might lead to further division among Basileños if not corrected. Akbar Municipal Mayor Alih Sali said he received information the MILFs are already recruiting young people and luring them to join the group in view of the Bangsamoro Framework Agreement. Sali said the MILFs are allegedly telling them they could apply for integration into the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) if they join the group. Ismael said this is the reason why there is a need to organize a forum where members of the government and MILF panels could enlighten the people in Basilan province. Otherwise, Ismael said, it will be difficult for them to understand the framework agreement “if we talk by ourselves.” Tentatively, they intend to hold the forum on the framework agreement on the 24th of this month, according to Ismael, who is the former mayor of Lantawan town.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/zamboanga/local-news/2012/11/13/framework-agreement-forum-eyed-253016
THE Provincial Government of Basilan in partnership with the cross-section of the society and non-government organizations (NGOs) agreed to organize a forum on the Bangsamoro Framework Agreement. Basilan provincial administrator Tahira Ismael said the forum is aimed to correct growing misconceptions about the framework agreement signed between the Philippine Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). “Our people have a wrong understanding of the agreement,” Ismael said fearing it might lead to further division among Basileños if not corrected. Akbar Municipal Mayor Alih Sali said he received information the MILFs are already recruiting young people and luring them to join the group in view of the Bangsamoro Framework Agreement. Sali said the MILFs are allegedly telling them they could apply for integration into the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) if they join the group. Ismael said this is the reason why there is a need to organize a forum where members of the government and MILF panels could enlighten the people in Basilan province. Otherwise, Ismael said, it will be difficult for them to understand the framework agreement “if we talk by ourselves.” Tentatively, they intend to hold the forum on the framework agreement on the 24th of this month, according to Ismael, who is the former mayor of Lantawan town.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/zamboanga/local-news/2012/11/13/framework-agreement-forum-eyed-253016
‘Fireworks’ Seen In OIC Meeting
From the Manila Bulletin (Nov 12): ‘Fireworks’ Seen In OIC Meeting
“Fireworks” from Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) founder Nur Misuari are expected in Djibouti, East Africa, as the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP), MNLF, and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) attend the 39th Session of the Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM) of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on Nov. 15 to 17. The MNLF has an observer status in the OIC while the GRP has applied for an observer seat. Since the mid-70s, the “Question on Muslims in Southern Philippines” has been enshrined in the OIC annals. The 57-member state pan-Islamic body brokered the historic 1976 Tripoli Agreement and the 1996 Final Peace Agreement (FPA) both signed by the GRP and MNLF. In the GRP-MILF peace talks, the OIC is now an observer. Hadji Datu Acmad Bayam, former chief MNLF propagandist, told the Manila Bulletin he sees “fireworks in Djibouti” as he expects Misuari to express a mouthful on the incomplete implementation of the FPA and the signing of the GRP-MILF Framework Agreement (FA) on Oct. 15. “Misuari’s fireworks re: GRP-MILF FA is expected at OIC Djibouti meeting. But GRP is determined to pursue the peace process in terms of transforming the letter and spirit of the FA without prejudice to the 1996 GRP-MNLF FPA. “I also expect Brother Nur to open up on the FPA as its implementation is still being reviewed. What he is going to say both on the FPA and FA is not going to be pleasant to the ears,” said Bayam. Prof. Mashur Ghalib bin Jundam, “confidant” to Misuari and the group’s Central Committee, said Misuari and his delegation left Monday morning for Djibouti. On the other hand, Undersecretary Rafael Seguis said the GRP delegation was scheduled to leave yesterday afternoon to attend the OIC meeting. Seguis, head of the GRP group, said OIC Secretary General Prof. Ekmeleddin Ihsanuglo addressed the OIC’s invitation to Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario. He said the two-member Philippine team (with Atty. Zoilo Velasco), will be complemented in Djibouti by Philippine Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Ezeddin Tago and Ambassador to Egypt Claro Cristobal, who is also non-resident envoy to Djibouti. “We will be pushing our application for observer status,” said Seguis, adding that they will answer any possible “badmouthing” from any source. Ghazali Jaafar, MILF vice chairman for political affairs, said earlier their group will be sending a “high-level delegation” to the OIC meeting in Djibouti. Some members of the MILF delegation are senior peace negotiator lawyer Datu Michael Mastura, negotiator Robert Maulana Alonto, and Muhajirrin Ali. Jaafar did not say whether MILF Chairman Al-Haji Murad Ebrahim is delegation head. Earlier, Ihsanuglo welcomed the GRP-MILF’s FA, at the same time saying that whatever peace accord that would come out should be linked to the Tripoli Agreement....
http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/381177/fireworks-seen-in-oic-meeting
“Fireworks” from Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) founder Nur Misuari are expected in Djibouti, East Africa, as the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP), MNLF, and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) attend the 39th Session of the Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM) of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on Nov. 15 to 17. The MNLF has an observer status in the OIC while the GRP has applied for an observer seat. Since the mid-70s, the “Question on Muslims in Southern Philippines” has been enshrined in the OIC annals. The 57-member state pan-Islamic body brokered the historic 1976 Tripoli Agreement and the 1996 Final Peace Agreement (FPA) both signed by the GRP and MNLF. In the GRP-MILF peace talks, the OIC is now an observer. Hadji Datu Acmad Bayam, former chief MNLF propagandist, told the Manila Bulletin he sees “fireworks in Djibouti” as he expects Misuari to express a mouthful on the incomplete implementation of the FPA and the signing of the GRP-MILF Framework Agreement (FA) on Oct. 15. “Misuari’s fireworks re: GRP-MILF FA is expected at OIC Djibouti meeting. But GRP is determined to pursue the peace process in terms of transforming the letter and spirit of the FA without prejudice to the 1996 GRP-MNLF FPA. “I also expect Brother Nur to open up on the FPA as its implementation is still being reviewed. What he is going to say both on the FPA and FA is not going to be pleasant to the ears,” said Bayam. Prof. Mashur Ghalib bin Jundam, “confidant” to Misuari and the group’s Central Committee, said Misuari and his delegation left Monday morning for Djibouti. On the other hand, Undersecretary Rafael Seguis said the GRP delegation was scheduled to leave yesterday afternoon to attend the OIC meeting. Seguis, head of the GRP group, said OIC Secretary General Prof. Ekmeleddin Ihsanuglo addressed the OIC’s invitation to Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario. He said the two-member Philippine team (with Atty. Zoilo Velasco), will be complemented in Djibouti by Philippine Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Ezeddin Tago and Ambassador to Egypt Claro Cristobal, who is also non-resident envoy to Djibouti. “We will be pushing our application for observer status,” said Seguis, adding that they will answer any possible “badmouthing” from any source. Ghazali Jaafar, MILF vice chairman for political affairs, said earlier their group will be sending a “high-level delegation” to the OIC meeting in Djibouti. Some members of the MILF delegation are senior peace negotiator lawyer Datu Michael Mastura, negotiator Robert Maulana Alonto, and Muhajirrin Ali. Jaafar did not say whether MILF Chairman Al-Haji Murad Ebrahim is delegation head. Earlier, Ihsanuglo welcomed the GRP-MILF’s FA, at the same time saying that whatever peace accord that would come out should be linked to the Tripoli Agreement....
http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/381177/fireworks-seen-in-oic-meeting
MILF’s ultimate objective: Include Bangsamoro in Constitution
From the Business Mirror (Nov 13): MILF’s ultimate objective: Include Bangsamoro in Constitution
THE ultimate political objective of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in signing the framework agreement (FRAG) with the government is obviously for the proposed new concept of Bangsamoro to be enshrined in the Constitution. In its editorial posted on www.luwaran.com, the MILF said: “Moreover, when two parties signed a peace agreement, they are enjoined to undertake efforts to implement the agreement mutually, but there are instances that the activity will only involve one party and the other party simply cannot help or participate. For instance, in case this is deemed necessary which we firmly believe it is, accommodating the Government-MILF Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro as fleshed out in the Basic Law into the Philippine Constitution is an internal process of government but it is still part of the bargain and the peace process.” The new concept of autonomy will replace the current Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) that was signed into law by Congress as a bargaining chip for the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) to disarm and disband in 1996 through a peace process....
'Bounty for rebel leader's son P3.2M, not P700K'
From the Philippine Star (Nov 13): 'Bounty for rebel leader's son P3.2M, not P700K'
With a very huge sum on his head, Grayson Naogsan, son of Cordillera Peoples Democratic Front spokesperson Simon Naogsan, is really a “bigshot” in the rebel movement, a police official said. Government wanted him for P3.2 million cash reward, said Cordillera police director Chief Supt. Benjamin Magalong, instead of only P700,000 as earlier reported. The younger Naogsan was taken by policemen a week ago in a mall in Baguio City. Magalong said ‘the monetary reward the younger Naogsan carried under JO No. 10-2009 dated April 23, 2009 as reported earlier was updated and the bounty was increased to P3.2 million under Armed Forces of the Philippines/Philippine National Police Joint Resolution Number 72-2012 dated August 28, 2012.’ The younger Naogsan who took the nom de guerres “Jose/Jayson/Fagway/Cynthian," is facing 10 counts of murder and one count of crime of rebellion. He is an alleged member of the Kilusang Larangang Guerilya Marco, Ilocos Cordillera Regional Committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army and reportedly operated along the “East Chico Line Team," police said. Judge Artemio B. Marrero of the Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 35 in Bontoc, Mountain Province, Judge Joseph Baguilat RTC Branch 14 of Lagawe, Ifugao and Judge Corpus Alzate of RTC of Abra issued the 11 warrants of arrest, Magalong said. But according to the Manila-based human rights group Karapatan, the arrest of the alleged “high-valued rebel” was based on “trumped up charges.” This is aside from the disrespect of the PNP to Naogsan’s relatives, especially his wife, Rose who was reportedly led to a run-around in Manila and various areas in the Cordillera when they started to locate him, the group said. “The PNP showed callousness to the feelings of the relatives who were anxious to know the whereabouts and the condition of Naogsan,” said Cristina Palabay, secretary general of Karapatan.After almost a week of searching, Palabay added, relatives finally found him in Ifugao Provincial Jail, after he was taken by police and military agents on Nov. 5 in Baguio City. The Baguio-based Cordillera Human Rights Alliance (CHRA), meanwhile, claim that Naogsan was arrested on the basis of a defective warrant of arrest issued by the Bontoc Regional Trial Court Branch 35 which bore the name of a certain “Jason Naogsan” and not Grayson Naogsan. The said warrant was amended, Jude Baggo, spokesperson of the CHRA said, to change “Jason” to “Grayson." “No one should be arrested simply because he is a son or a relative of a person who is a member of the revolutionary movement. The government has not grown tired of parading its arbitrariness,” Palabay said, adding that, “it has not learned from the case of Rolly Panesa, the security guard whom they mistook for a certain Benjamin Mendoza.” More than five years ago, Naogsan’s brother, Simon Jr., was slain in a firefight with government troopers in Abra province.
With a very huge sum on his head, Grayson Naogsan, son of Cordillera Peoples Democratic Front spokesperson Simon Naogsan, is really a “bigshot” in the rebel movement, a police official said. Government wanted him for P3.2 million cash reward, said Cordillera police director Chief Supt. Benjamin Magalong, instead of only P700,000 as earlier reported. The younger Naogsan was taken by policemen a week ago in a mall in Baguio City. Magalong said ‘the monetary reward the younger Naogsan carried under JO No. 10-2009 dated April 23, 2009 as reported earlier was updated and the bounty was increased to P3.2 million under Armed Forces of the Philippines/Philippine National Police Joint Resolution Number 72-2012 dated August 28, 2012.’ The younger Naogsan who took the nom de guerres “Jose/Jayson/Fagway/Cynthian," is facing 10 counts of murder and one count of crime of rebellion. He is an alleged member of the Kilusang Larangang Guerilya Marco, Ilocos Cordillera Regional Committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army and reportedly operated along the “East Chico Line Team," police said. Judge Artemio B. Marrero of the Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 35 in Bontoc, Mountain Province, Judge Joseph Baguilat RTC Branch 14 of Lagawe, Ifugao and Judge Corpus Alzate of RTC of Abra issued the 11 warrants of arrest, Magalong said. But according to the Manila-based human rights group Karapatan, the arrest of the alleged “high-valued rebel” was based on “trumped up charges.” This is aside from the disrespect of the PNP to Naogsan’s relatives, especially his wife, Rose who was reportedly led to a run-around in Manila and various areas in the Cordillera when they started to locate him, the group said. “The PNP showed callousness to the feelings of the relatives who were anxious to know the whereabouts and the condition of Naogsan,” said Cristina Palabay, secretary general of Karapatan.After almost a week of searching, Palabay added, relatives finally found him in Ifugao Provincial Jail, after he was taken by police and military agents on Nov. 5 in Baguio City. The Baguio-based Cordillera Human Rights Alliance (CHRA), meanwhile, claim that Naogsan was arrested on the basis of a defective warrant of arrest issued by the Bontoc Regional Trial Court Branch 35 which bore the name of a certain “Jason Naogsan” and not Grayson Naogsan. The said warrant was amended, Jude Baggo, spokesperson of the CHRA said, to change “Jason” to “Grayson." “No one should be arrested simply because he is a son or a relative of a person who is a member of the revolutionary movement. The government has not grown tired of parading its arbitrariness,” Palabay said, adding that, “it has not learned from the case of Rolly Panesa, the security guard whom they mistook for a certain Benjamin Mendoza.” More than five years ago, Naogsan’s brother, Simon Jr., was slain in a firefight with government troopers in Abra province.
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