MILF: Zamboanga Muslim groups ask Moro Fronts to unify

Posted to the MILF Website (Dec 7): Zamboanga Muslim groups ask Moro Fronts to unify



Muslims groups in Zamboanga City have called on the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) to unify so that they can effectively advance the interests of the Bangsamoro people in Mindanao.
  

Ali T. Yacub, President of Golden Crescent, a Muslim group in Western Mindanao and one of the convenors of the Interreligious Solidarity Movement for Peace said that “The unity between the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) is very important”.

“There is a need for the two fronts to come into terms and address their differences”, he added.

A report by Mindanao Examiner on December 1 said that both fronts have been at odds for years due to ideology differences and to some extend the issue of Moro ethno-linguistic division. The MNLF has huge followers in Western Mindanao, while the MILF controls the mainland Mindanao.

“Unity of purpose is the emphasis not the movement,” said Alih Sakaluran Aiyub, of the Darul Ifta of the Philippines.

The Organization of the Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has earlier created a Bangsamoro Coordination Forum as one of the solutions to unite the two Moro fronts in Mindanao to solve their difference in the ideologies. But so far, there were no signs of progress on the efforts of the largest grouping of Muslim nations in the world.

Earlier, Prof. Ekemelddin Ishanoglu, Secretary-General of the 57-nation OIC stressed that the two Moro fronts should unite since the peace processes of the MILF and MNLF “revolve around the same problem and the same territory. The process of coordination between the two fronts has become of utmost necessity.”

Several international groups have earlier noted that the rift between the two Moro rebel groups is weakening all efforts to establish a strong and unified Bangsamoro identity, and clear shared goals.

Other Muslim groups here have also noted that before any efforts to unify the two Moro fronts, the MNLF itself should be unified. The MNLF has more or less three splintered groups.

Datu Randy Karon, an MNLF leader based in Central Mindanao, said there are efforts to resolve the internal conflict within the MNLF. The MILF broke away from the mainstream MNLF in 1977 due to political and ideological differences between Misuari and the late MILF Chairman Salamat Hashim. It was then called the MNLF Salamat Hashim Faction. In Early 80’s it was renamed MILF.

The MILF is currently into negotiations with the Government of the Philippines with both parties trying to finish the two remaining contentious annexes on power-sharing and normalization. They have been engaged in executive sessions where it would be easy for them to reach a consensus before going to the formal peace talks. The two panels are bent on completing the peace process before the year-end so they can sign the comprehensive peace compact and for the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) to continue the crafting of the basic law without delay.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/700-zamboanga-muslim-groups-ask-moro-fronts-to-unify

CPP/NPA: 9 Ka Armas Nasakmit, 4 ka Sundalo ug Bandido Patay sa mga Opensiba sa NPA- North Central Mindanao (9 Weapons Confiscated, 4 Soldiers and Outlaws Killed in NPA Offensives in North Central Mindanao)

Posted to the CPP Website (Dec 7): 9 Ka Armas Nasakmit, 4 ka Sundalo ug Bandido Patay sa mga Opensiba sa NPA- North Central Mindanao (9 Weapons Confiscated, 4 Soldiers and Outlaws Killed in NPA Offensives in North Central Mindanao)

Alan Juanito
Spokesperson
NPA North Central Mindanao Regional Operations Command (Julito Tiro Command)

 Siyam ka armas ang nasakmit, samtang duha ka sundalo ug duha ka bandido ang napatay salain-laing mga operasyon sa New People’s Army sa North Central Mindanao Region.

Disyembre 1, 2013, mga bandang alas 5:30 sa buntag, gi-dis-armahansa mga yunit sa NPA ubos saMt. Kitanglad Sub-regional Command ang armadong bandidong grupong gipanguluhan ni Eddie Gawahan sa Sitio San Abel, Brgy. Miarayon, Talakag,

Bukidnon.Siyam ka armas ang nasakmitsa maong pagdis-armanga gilangkoban sa duha ka carbine ug usa ka garand, uban sa upat ka shotgun, usa ka calibre 45 nga pistola ug usa ka improvised nga pistola. Namatay sa maong hitabo si Eddie Gawahan usa ka aktibong sakop sa SCAA, ug si JunnerYanda membro sa bandidong grupo tungod kay misukol sila dihang gidis-armahan.

Dugay nang gimulo sa mga lumulupyo kining maong grupo tungod sa ilang pagpanghasi. Gawas sa ilang mga anti-katawhan nga binuhatan, lunod-patay usab nga kontra-rebolusyonaryo ang nahisgutang bandidong grupo nga gipaluyohansa despotikong mangingilog og yuta nga kanhi vice-mayor sa Talakag nga si Renato Sulatan.

Gikasubo namo ang wala damhang kamatayon ni Myrna Lajeronga giatake sa high blood o hypertensionatol sa panghitabo.

Sa laing panghitabo, usa ang patay sa tropa sa 58th IB-Philippine Army sa panag-engkwentro tali sa platun sa NPA ubos sa Eastern Misamis Oriental-North Eastern Bukidnon (EMONEB) Sub-regional Command didto sa Hindangon, Gingoog City niadtong Nobyembre 26, 2013. Walay kaswalidadsa mga kaubanan sa maong engkwentro.

Nobyembre 28, 2013sa buntag, gi-isnaypsa laing team sa NPA ang mga elemento sa 8th IB nga nagpahigayon ogpsywar operations ubos sa Community Organizing for Peace and Development(COPD) sa Brgy. Buntongon, Impasug-ong, Bukidnonkung asa usa ka sundalo ang nasamdan.

Disyembre 2, 2013 saudto, usa ka sundalo sa 8th IB nga nag-COPD ang kumpirmadong patay human gi-isnayp sa team sa NPA sa sityo New Imbatug, Brgy. Calabugao, Impasug-ong, Bukidnon. Luwas nga nakawithdraw ang mga kauban human sa maong aksyon.

Nagpadayon ang opensibang diwa sa New People’s Army sa tibuok North Central Mindanao Region taliwala sa mga direktang atake sa kasundalohan ug sa paggamit niini sa mga bandidong grupo. Inay madugmok, mas nagkalapad ang operasyon sa rebolusyonaryong kalihukan ug padayong nagatigom og dugang kusog sa pagpaasdang pa sa demokratikong rebolusyon sa katawhan sa mas taas nga ang-ang.

http://www.philippinerevolution.net/statements/20131207_9-ka-armas-nasakmit-4-ka-sundalo-ug-bandido-patay-sa-mga-opensiba-sa-npa-north-central-mindanao

MILF: BTC holds special session

From the MILF Website (Dec 7): BTC holds special session

The Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) held a special session on Sunday, December 1, 2013. The session was special as it was held outside the agreed date on the first and third week of every month as provided in the Internal Rules of the commission.
  

This was to make use of the time of the chairman who left the next day for the 42nd Exploratory Talks in Kuala Lumpur.

Prior to the agenda proper, Chairman Mohagher Iqbal briefed the commission about the current status of the peace talks as he and the MILF negotiating team just came from Kuala Lumpur where they faced the GPH panel in an executive meeting facilitated by the country facilitator Malaysia.

Of the 8 remaining issues in the power-sharing annex, Chairman Iqbal said five were settled already except Bangsamoro waters, electoral system for the Bangsamoro and ancestral domain particularly of the Indigenous peoples. They are the hard nuts to crack as the two panels was not able to break the differnces in their respective positions.

The chairman said the issue of waters is the deal breaker because it is inseparable from the identity of the Bangsamoro people. The Tausug (literally people of the current), the Meranao (people of the lake) and the Maguindanaon (people of the flooded land) all trace their name and identity to water, thus the importance.

In the  Executive Director report, lawyer Elijah Sha Dumama-Alba on behalf of ED Esmael Pasigan, who was on official business in Manila, reported to the commission the provision of laptop and computer units with printers for every commissioner. Financially, the status of the commission is not yet stable as the budget from the national government still run the mill of bureaucratic red tape.

Project Director Mohajirin Ali reported on the signing of minutes of meeting between the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Bangsamoro Transition Commission for the Comprehensive Capacity Development Project  for the Bangsamoro.

Signing for the BTC was Chairman Mohagher Iqbal while Naoyuki Ochiai, Leader of the Mission Team signed for JICA.

A comprehensive workplan was laid for the implementation arrangement of the project which was divided into four sub-projects namely: Human Resource Development, Improvement of Public Service Delivery, Institutional and Organizational Building and Development Plan for the Bangsamoro.

Meanwhile, a Third Country Study Visit is scheduled on December 15-22 that will see Commissioners Peter Eisma and Hussein Munoz with legal staff leaving for Aceh, Indonesia to study the Law on Governing Aceh (Loga), the role of Third Party Monitoring Team thereat, economic development, electoral system, and civil society organization’s participation in the peace process in the newly constituted special autonomous region on the northern end of Sumatra island in Indonesia.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/699-btc-holds-special-session

MILF: Victims of Zamboanga siege and Muslim groups urge OIC to stop recognizing Chairman Nur Misuari

Posted to the MILF Website (Dec 8): Victims of Zamboanga siege and Muslim groups urge OIC to stop recognizing Chairman Nur Misuari

Victims of the Zamboanga siege and Muslim groups in Zamboanga City are urging the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to stop recognizing MNLF Chairman Nur Misuari as the sole representative of the Bangsamoro people after leading the bloody attacks in this city which have killed more than 200 people and displaced over 120,000 civilians.
  

The reactions came after OIC Secretary General Ekmeleddin Ihsanoglu signed a letter on November 24 inviting Misuari to participate in the upcoming OIC’s Council of Foreign Ministers meeting in Conakry in Guinea in West Africa on December 9 to 11. The letter released by the followers of Misuari prompted the internally-displaced persons (IDP’s) and Muslim groups to oppose the attendance of Misuari to the meeting.

The Mindanao Examiner in its report on December 5 quoted Fredilyn Ramirez, 35, one of those taken captives by the followers of Misuari during the siege on September 9, said the time is ripe for the OIC to heed the real sentiments of the people on the ground that the struggle of the Bangsamoro does not only rely in a single person.

“I am not in favour that he will represent the Bangsamoro in the OIC after what his men did in Zamboanga. My father was killed while being hostage by the MNLF and until now his body has yet to be found,” Ramirez lamented as quoted by the local paper in the city. Ramirez and his two sisters narrowly escaped at the height of firefight.

“Actually, we are traumatized every time we hear his name. His name is now associated with war,” Ramirez said.

“If there will be someone who will represent the Bangsamoro in the OIC, it should not be Nur Misuari. I believed that are many good Muslim leaders who can represent (the Moros) in the OIC and can unite the Christians and Muslims in Mindanao and work (together) to bring peace and order in Mindanao,” he added.

 On September 9, followers of Misuari stormed at least seven coastal villages of Zamboanga City, shooting civilians and took more than 100 hostages to get attention in setting up their independent state. But in the days that followed, it was reported that they only wanted to parade in downtown Zamboanga and hoist the MNLF Flag which authorities did not allow.

The siege lasted for three weeks with almost half of the 300 MNLF followers were killed, while others surrendered or captured. Misuari, other commanders and followers are on the run following the issuance of warrant of arrest by the regional trial court following the attack. There is no reliable information about Uztadz Habier Malik, the right-hand man of Misuari but allegedly he succumbed to gunshot wounds after escaping from the joint military-Philippine National Police who made clearing operations in the scene of the firefight for several days.

Some MNLF commanders said Misuari duped them. They alleged that they were only told to make a peaceful rally at downtown Zamboanga but fighting ensued with government troops in several coastal areas of the city that lasted for 21 days. On the first day, September 9, MNLF-Misuari followers instantly killed at least three civilians.

Prof. Ali T. Yacub, president of the Muslim group Golden Crescent of Peace Builders and Affiliates, said that the OIC should know the atrocities Misuari and his men have done in this city. The bulk of the victims are Bangsamoro themselves, whom Misuari is trying to represent as quoted by the Mindanao Examiner.

“The OIC may not have the true and official report of what the men of Misuari did to Zamboanga City. The OIC officials must to see for themselves the crime committed by [MNLF-Misuari commander Khabir] Malik and his men against our people. Unless this done, Misuari will continue to be regarded as representing that Bangsamoro which is wrong,” he said.

The same sentiments were also raised by Edmund Gumbahali, the president of the Panglima Hawani Foundation Inc., a non-governmental organization based in Jolo the capital town of the island province of Sulu.

“Inviting Misuari to attend international sorties is creating more internal problems in the MNLF and even in the peace process. This will again create propaganda and misreading among ground commanders and forces to focus on armed struggle because MNLF- Nur Misuari is still supported by the OIC and Philippine laws have no effect to a revolutionary leader like Misuari,” he said.

For years, the pan-Islamic group recognized Misuari as the representative of the Bangsamoro. However, in recent years, the OIC is trying to facilitate unity even among leaders of the MNLF after splintering into several factions due to leadership issues, the report further said.

The Bangsamoro Coordinating Forum created by OIC was purposely to harmonize the positions of the MNLF and the larger Moro Islamic Liberation Front. However, the initiative has yet to make strides after Misuari himself has expressed his reservations on the unification efforts of the OIC.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/701-victims-of-zamboanga-siege-and-muslim-groups-urge-oic-to-stop-recognizing-chairman-misuari

Troops in search of NPA cadavers

From the Sun Star-Davao (Dec 8): Troops in search of NPA cadavers

TROOPS from the Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) are now looking for four cadavers of the suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA) who died in separate encounters with the government troops in Compostela Valley this week.

Eastmincom's Public Information Office chief Captain Alberto Caber, in a phone interview, said four communist rebels were killed in two separate encounters with the members of the 71st Infantry Battalion in Maco in Compostela Valley on Wednesday and Friday.

"Of the four rebels who died, two are women while the others are men. The problem is, we could not find their cadavers. According to the concerned citizens, the group behind the encounter took the remains of their comrades," Caber said.

Caber said the first encounter took placed at Sitio Lin-ao in Barangay Teresa in Maco at 9:40 a.m. on December 4, wherein three rebels: two women and a man were killed due to loss of blood.

The second encounter took place in Barangay Malamodao, Maco at 10 a.m. on December 6, wherein another rebel died in a 30 minute firefight with the troops of 71st Infantry Battalion.

Caber said the clashes resulted to the recovery of one hand grenade, several magazines of an M16 rifle, and backpacks. He added that no one was reportedly hurt on the troop’s side.

"Based on the information we obtained from the residents, the group took the cadavers of the four rebels and concealed somewhere in the forested area. But no one could tell us where the cadavers were exactly concealed," he added.

Caber said the troops of the 71st Infantry Battalion are already on its pursuit operation and investigation to locate the causalities, adding that, aside from pursuit operation, the troops are also conducting security patrol, following the request of the residents there.

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/local-news/2013/12/08/troops-search-npa-cadavers-317659

6 charged for 2012 CDO hotel bombing

From the Philippine Star (Dec 8): 6 charged for 2012 CDO hotel bombing

Authorities have filed double murder and double frustrated murder charges against the six suspects in a bombing incident that occurred near a hotel in Cagayan de Oro City in 2012.

The charges against Francisco Guzman, Renerlou Tidoy, Abdul Najib Abu Sahid Dimalma Sabair, Abu Jumam Ustadj Jumam, Sulkifi Bin Hir, and Marwan Nasser Abdul Ibrahim were filed before the office of city prosecutor Fidel Macauyag last Nov. 28.

Macauyag said on Friday that he formed an all-female panel to evaluate the case against the suspects.

He said the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group in Region 10 first filed a case last year against Guzman and “John Does.” He said he returned the case and ordered the CIDG-10 to gather more evidence.

He said this time the CIDG-10 came up not only with more evidence, but also additional witness and the names of the other suspects.

It could be recalled that two persons were killed and two others were injured in the explosion that occurred outside the hotel on Oct. 11, 2012.

http://www.philstar.com/nation/2013/12/08/1265332/6-charged-2012-cdo-hotel-bombing

MILF official: Marawi raid an isolated case

From the Philippine Star (Dec 8): MILF official: Marawi raid an isolated case



Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) chair for political affairs Ghadzali Jaafar described Friday’s attack on the police station in Marawi City as an isolated case.

Jaafar yesterday said the MILF is conducting its own investigation of the incident in which the MILF rebels released their comrades held at the police station, killed a civilian and took the police chief hostage.

Meanwhile, Presidential adviser on the peace process Teresita Deles said the attack was unfortunate as it occurred while the government and the MILF peace panels were in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia for its 42nd Exploratory Talks.

Deles said the government peace panel headed by Prof. Miriam Coronel-Ferrer had raised the matter to their MILF counterpart for immediate action.

“We monitored the situation and coordinated with the ceasefire committees to ensure immediate resolution,” she said.

Jaafar said he could not confirm whether the group of Commander Bravo was responsible for the attack.

 

Police said the raid was led by Jimmy Rajamuda, the commander of MILF’s Musa Island base command.

 

Deles and Jaafar said the incident would not affect the peace process between the government and the MILF.

The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process expressed elation over the government’s security agreement with the MILF, which it said hastened the release of Marawi police chief Superintendent Christopher Panapan.

Panapan’s brother-in-law was shot dead during the attack.

Capt. Jefferson Somera, spokesman for the Philippine Army’s 1st Infantry Division, shared Jaafar’s view that the incident was an isolated case, but said it was a violation of the ongoing peace talks.

Somera said they have filed a complaint with the MILF Ad Hoc Joint Action Group based in Lanao del Sur.

He clarified that despite the incident, the Philippine Army would abide by the peace talks and continue to trust the other party.

http://www.philstar.com/nation/2013/12/08/1265328/milf-official-marawi-raid-isolated-case

MILF seized 6 in Lanao del Norte, say police

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Dec 7): MILF seized 6 in Lanao del Norte, say police

Members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front allegedly abducted six people, including former Baloi vice mayor, after conducting a “law enforcement operation” disguised as military in Lanao del Norte, police said.

Wearing Philippine Army uniforms, the MILF members on Thursday reportedy held ex-vice mayor Abdullah Balas, one village chief and four civilians in Poblacion East village around 6:15 p.m. Thursday, said Northern Mindanao Police Regional Office 10 in a report.

The MILF fighters, led by Commander Abdul Jalal Macalunto, conducted a so-called “law enforcement operation” against alleged personalities involved in illegal drug trafficking.

But the false operation led to the abduction of the said officials and some civilians, including Cadayonan village chief Atoy Arumpac, Salonga Pacute, Agpay Molia,  Paney Patara and a certain “Jay.”

The perpetrators, the report said, boarded them inside three civilian vehicles.
“They were brought to Camp Balindong, Lanao del Sur purposely to have a conversation with Commander Bravo,” it added.

On Friday, 40 MILF men stormed the Marawi City Police Station disarmed policemen on duty, shot and killed one person there, and then freed two of their detained comrades before fleeing with the city’s police chief.

It was rumored that MILF leader Commander Bravo, Abdurahman Macapaar, led the abduction of Marawi police chief Superintendent Christopher Panapan but a military official denied it.

The police were investigating the alleged kidnapping incident. http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/542187/milf-seized-6-in-lanao-del-norte-say-police

Officer killed in battle

From the Manila Standard Today (Dec 8): Officer killed in battle

A fresh graduate of the Philippine Military Academy was killed in a battle on Friday between government forces and the New People’s Army in the hinterlands of Barangay Buhisan in San Agustin, Surigao del Sur.

Major Christian Uy, spokesperson of the 4th Infantry Division, identified the victim as 2nd Lt. Romeo Beniegla Jr. of the 3rd Philippine Army Special Forces Battalion.

Major Judith Loayon of the 410st Infantry Battalion identified two other casualties as Private First Class Gaspar M. Calleja, Jr. and Pfc. Donald Linian, both members of the 3rd Philippine Army Special Forces.

In separate mobile phone interviews this December 7 morning, both Majors Uy and Loayon told MST government troopers were patrolling Barangay Buhisan when 30 NPA rebels engaged them in a 30 minute firefight.

The exchanges of volleys of gun fires for thirty minutes resulted to the killing of the PMA fresh graduate and seriously wounding two other soldiers which were immediately brought to military emergency hospital here in Barangay Bancasi inside Military Headquarters compound located near Butuan City Airport.

The two military officials claimed that as of press time the military is conducting hot pursuit operations against the fleeing communist rebels.

http://manilastandardtoday.com/2013/12/08/officer-killed-in-battle-/

Misuari still hiding in Mindanao – Hashim

From the Manila Bulletin (Dec 7): Misuari still hiding in Mindanao – Hashim



Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) leader Habib Mujahab Hashim revealed that MNLF founder Nur Misuari is still hiding and has not left the country. The Department of Justice has filed rebellion charges against Misuari and other MNLF members on Oct. 7, over the Zamboanga siege which left 200 people dead (File photo).

Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) founding Chairman Nur P. Misuari is still in Mindanao, hiding from the long arm of the law, senior MNLF leader Habib Mujahab Hashim revealed yesterday to dispel reports he had already fled the country.

“I learned that Brother Nur is still in the country, taking safety precautions by hiding because government security forces are after him,” Hashim, who heads the MNLF-Islamic Command Council (MNLF-ICC) faction, said after speaking with Misuari’s close allies.

Hashim said the MNLF is also helping prepare the embattled Moro leader’s defense in the rebellion charges filed by the government against him.

He said Misuari is well, just got “a little sick, but otherwise is strong and moving about.”

Misuari is very much alive, said Hashim.

Most likely, Hashim said that Misuari will not be able to participate personally in the 40th Session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC-CFM) on Dec. 9-11 in Conakry, Guinea, Western Africa.

“Brother Nur is sending his eldest son, Abdulkarim, together with some MNLF leaders, to represent him and read his speech at the plenary of the OIC conference,” he said.

http://www.mb.com.ph/misuari-still-hiding-in-mindanao-hashim/

Clan war displaces 30 families in Kidapawan City

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 7): Clan war displaces 30 families in Kidapawan City

An armed conflict involving Moro clans erupted in a remote village here that forced about 30 families or 140 persons fleeing, officials said today.

Two warring families both claimed ownership of a vast tract of agricultural land in the village of Patadon, Kidapawan City.

Psalmer Bernalte, Kidapawan City information officer, said the displaced families now housed at Amas Elementary School, in nearby Barangay Amas, are being attended to by the city social welfare office.

The families fled when armed men believed to be sympathizers of one of the claimants of said vast tract of land were seen roaming around the village Wednesday.

Mayor Joseph Evangelista earlier ordered the return of displaced families to their homes as normalcy had been restored.

But the residents refused having experienced armed hostilities between two warring families both claiming ownership of about 50 hectares of agricultural lands started shooting in an attempt to drive away each other.

Bernalte said the disputed lands are part of the reserved area within the Central Mindanao Integrated Agricultural Research Center (CEMIARC) of the Department of Agriculture.

He said the city government is addressing the issue to determine genuine owners by coordinating with concerned government agencies.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=594691

Japan defense minister back to discuss regional tensions

From Rappler (Dec 7): Japan defense minister back to discuss regional tensions

ALLIES: Japanese defense Minister Itsunori Onodera returns to the Philippines to discuss regional security and Japan's assistance to Yolanda victims. Photo by Carmela Fonbuena/Rappler.com

Japan highlighted the need for a peaceful resolution of the regional conflict as various countries expressed concern over China's Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ) established over Japan-controlled islands in the East China Sea.

"I think the world shares the same understanding that the regional tension should not be raised by the course of action," Japanese Defense Minister Itsunori Onodera told reporters in Manila on Saturday, December 7.

 

"What's important is for the international community or society to [send] a strong message [to] China," Onodera added.

 

Onodera is back in the Philippines after visiting last June. He met with Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin to discuss China's ADIZ and the growing tension in the region, Japan's assistance to Typhoon Yolanda victims, and deeper military-to-military cooperation between the two countries. (READ: Japan vows to help PH amid China sea row. )

 

The Philippines joined the US, European Union, South Korea, and Taiwan, among other countries, in criticizing China's unilateral establishment of the ADIZ. It wants foreign aircraft to provide a flight plan if they want to fly over the disputed area. (READ: US forces operating 'normally' in China air zone and Japan, South Korea defy Chinese air zone)

 

ADIZ in West Philippine Sea?

 

Onodera said they are also concerned about reports China will also establish a similar ADIZ in the West Philippine Sea, where the Philippines and China are involved in a bitter territorial dispute.

 

Gazmin shared the sentiment but at the same time downplayed the possibility of China setting up another ADIZ. Gazmin said it was "speculative at this point."

 

Onodera however reiterated, "Any unilateral establishment of ADIZ in any area would bring up tension over the area. Therefore, we have concerns over such development."

 

http://www.rappler.com/nation/45473-japan-regional-tensions

After Yolanda, Japan wants deal with PH to 'deploy troops faster'

From Rappler  (Dec 7): After Yolanda, Japan wants deal with PH to 'deploy troops faster'

JAPANESE AID. Japanese military beside their Japanese Air Force C130 cargo plane after its arrival at Tacloban Airport on November 20, 2013. Mark Ralston/AFP Photo

Japan is looking at an "advanced disaster relief framework or agreement" to allow "our forces to be deployed to the Philippines faster," Japan Defense Minister Itsunori Onodera told reporters on Saturday, December 7.

"That would be more meaningful for future field operations here. The two of us agreed that we would expand and deepen our cooperation between two sides on defense authorities," he said.

 

Japan sent about 1,200 troops to assist victims of Super Typhoon Yolanda. It is contemplating plans to pull them out by the end of the year but Onodera vowed it's not the end of Japan's assistance to the typhoon victims. (READ: Japanese troops welcomed back in typhoon-hit Philippines and Japan triples PH aid package to over $30M)

 

Onodera is scheduled to visit Japanese operations in the Visayas on Sunday, December 8, to determine the future assistance it will offer the Philippines.

 

"The needs in the site are changing from emergency relief to reconstruction and recovery. Therefore, self defense forces and international disaster relief operations, I believe, are closing by the end of the year. But this does not mean that the support and assistance by government of Japan would end. It will change and shift to the next stage," said Onodera.

 

The US is the only treaty ally of the Philppines. In the wake of China's aggression in the West Philippine Sea, the two countries are negotiating a military-to-military agreement to allow increased rotational presence of US troops in the Philippines and give them more access to military bases.

 

Japan also vowed to help the Philippines defend its terrority. (READ: PH 'closely coordinating with allies' amid tensions)

 

http://www.rappler.com/nation/45476-yolanda-japan-philippines-troop-deployment

Japan defense chief sees tensions rising if China puts up another ADIZ over West Philippine Sea

From InterAksyon (Dec 7): Japan defense chief sees tensions rising if China puts up another ADIZ over West Philippine Sea



Japanese Defense Minister Onodera is welcomed by Secretary Voltaire Gazmin at the Department of National Defense in Quezon City on Saturday. KRISKEN JONES, INTERAKSYON.COM

Tensions will climb higher in the West Philippine Sea should China decide to put up an air defense identification zone (ADIZ) there, Japanese Defense Minister Itsunori Onodera said Saturday.

The visiting Japanese officials made this statement during a press briefing after his visit with Department of National Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin at DND headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

"China's unilateral action to change the status quo by force or coercive action will bring back tension in this region," Onodera stressed, in the wake of rising tensions in the East China Sea, over which China declared an ADIZ, and demanded that all countries with aircraft passing through the zone submit flight plans else face "defensive measures."

Onodera said that this declaration violates the spirit of the international treaty of ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization).

The Japanese defense chief is on a two-day visit to the Philippines.

He added that he has received reports that China is considering establishing a new ADIZ in the West Philippine Sea.

China and Japan have a serious maritime dispute over a cluster of islands Japan calls Senkakus but which China claims and calls Diaoyus.

The disputed territories have been at the center of the two countries' territorial dispute for decades, but are presently under Japan's administrative control.

China and the Philippines have a similar dispute in the West Philippine Sea, where the Spratly Islands are located.

Last month, the Chinese government put up an ADIZ over the East China Sea, covering the group of islets claimed by both China and Japan. Onodera said Japan and the US have been "firmly and calmly" continuing patrols and surveillance in the East China Sea despite China's ADIZ.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/76391/japan-defense-chief-sees-tensions-rising-if-china-puts-up-another-adiz-over-west-philippine-sea

AFP files complaint of truce violation against MILF unit over Marawi attack

From InterAksyon (Dec 7): AFP files complaint of truce violation against MILF unit over Marawi attack

A day after Malacanang Palace condemned the attack in Marawi City and abduction of its police chief by a unit of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, the Armed Forces of the Philippines filed a complaint against the MILF culprits for violation of the cease-fire agreement.

The complaint was filed by a military unit based in Lanao del Sur before a counterpart body, over the Dec. 6 raid on the Marawi City Police in Barangay West Marinaut.

Col. Glenn Macasero, commander of the Army’s 103rdInfantry Brigade, filed the complaint before the office of Oshama Ali, head of the MILF Ad Hoc Joint Action Group (AHJAG) Team 2 based in the province.

The subject of Macasero’s complaint was a certain Toni Datu Repors, leader of the MILF unit who led his men in the raid shortly after midnight Friday, killing the police chief’s brother and abducting the police chief himself as human shield while they withdrew.

“Elements of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) led by a certain Toni Datu Repors blatantly violated the truce with the government when he and his cohorts attacked the Marawi City Police Station, killing one civilian, and abducted Supt. Christopher Panapan, Chief-of-Police of Marawi City PNP past midnight of December 6, 2013,” Macasero said.

A police report earlier tagged Commander Abdurahman Macapaar alias Bravo as the one who led the attack.

Macasero said the MILF had come by boat near the vicinity of the police station, in a bid to spring some comrades held on gun charges. “They conducted the attack to free their detained comrades, namely, Johani Abuat Cader and Mesron Mauntol Borodan who were apprehended by the police sometime on October 20, 2013 for illegal possession of firearms,” he said.

The MILF team took Panapan hostage as they fled, and later released him after negotiations by the Crisis Management Committee led by the city vice mayor. The police said the attackers had killed Malik, brother of Panapan.

Repors’ group’s raid took place despite resumption of formal negotiations between the government and MILF peace panels in Kuala Lumpur—covering the rest of the annexes set in the Framework Agreement signed in October 2012 by President Benigno Aquino III and MILF chairman Al Haj Murad .

Malacanang Palace denounced the attack Friday night, and the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process said it had moved for an investigation by a joint panel.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/76393/afp-files-complaint-of-truce-violation-against-milf-unit-over-marawi-attack

OPAPP: Statement of Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita Quintos Deles on the attack and abduction of the Marawi City police chief perpetrated by a small group of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Members

From the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) (Dec 6): Statement of Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita Quintos Deles on the attack and abduction of the Marawi City police chief perpetrated by a small group of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Members

The unfortunate incident involving the attack to the Marawi City police station, and the abduction and release thereafter of the Police Chief, Supt. Christopher Panapan, occurred while the GPH and the MILF peace panels are in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia for the conduct of the 42nd Exploratory Talks.

Upon learning of the incident from official ground reports, the GPH peace panel immediately raised the matter to its MILF counterpart for urgent action. Our Panels have closely monitored the situation on the ground, and undertook coordination with their respective ceasefire committees to assist in ensuring the incident’s immediate resolution in the soonest possible time.

Our ceasefire and security mechanisms on the ground established for matters such as this were immediately put to work and deployed to the area of the incident. As already done by the local security force, we give due recognition to our government ceasefire and security committees – the Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH) with its local monitoring team, the AdHoc Joint Action Group (AHJAG), and the International Monitoring Team (IMT) who constitute the GPH-MILF ceasefire and security mechanisms, for the crucial role they played in securing the safe release of City Police Chief Panapan, and preventing possible escalation of hostilities that might have compromised the existing ceasefire between Government and the MILF.

We give due recognition to our local security forces for their command and restraint on the ground that enabled peaceful resolution of the incident, and to local government officials who worked together with the ceasefire mechanism.

In accordance with the rules and procedures agreed upon between the GPH and MILF, investigations will be conducted immediately by the joint committees. As we have declared many times before, what we are after is peace with justice. We will rely on the established mechanisms to ensure that the rule of law is followed and justice is duly served.

We give due recognition to the MILF leadership for working with us on this matter. At this point in time when we are in the last stage of the negotiations towards the completion of a comprehensive agreement, it is important that we are able to prove that we have control over our forces, and can protect our communities in our commitment to deliver the much deserved peace and development in the region.

http://www.opapp.gov.ph/news/statement-presidential-adviser-peace-process-teresita-quintos-deles-attack-and-abduction-marawi

OPAPP: 158 CPLA members complete transition into the army; fulfills closure agreement provision on integration

From the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) (Dec 7): 158 CPLA members complete transition into the army; fulfills closure agreement provision on integration

Gamu, Isabela – One hundred fifty-eight (158) members and next of kin of former rebel group Cordillera Peoples' Liberation Army (CPLA) on Wednesday officially took oath as soldiers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), having completed the army integration program, a component of the 2011 Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the government and the Cordillera Bodong Administration (CBA)-CPLA.

The event was complemented with the turn-in of 186 firearms of the former rebel group.

Undersecretary Maria Cleofe Gettie Sandoval of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) noted the completion of the army integration program and turnover of firearms as significant achievements of the peace process and  accomplishments for the government “whose task has been to ensure our faithfulness to the commitments we had signed…”

The 2011 MOA is geared towards the CBA-CPLA's final disposition of arms and forces and its transformation into an unarmed, socio-economic entity that will contribute to peace and development in the Cordillera region.

In a message delivered on Wednesday during the graduation ceremonies of army integrees, Sandoval noted the initial findings of a focus group discussion (FGD) with the integrees indicating a transformation in various aspects.

“Mas lumakas, mas tumibay ang loob, mas tumatag ang paniniwala sa sarili, mas lumalim ang kakayahang makipagkapwa-tao, at higit sa lahat, mas nabuo ang kahandaang unahin ang mga mamamayan bago ang sarili at maging tunay na lingkod ng bayan (have become physically stronger, have grown in inner strength, have more formidable faith in self, have deeper capacities for kinship with fellowmen, and most specially, more capacitated and prepared to think for the sake of the people first rather than self gains and more prepared to be genuine public servants).”

“These are all worthwhile accomplishments that are not easy to achieve in a lifetime. Palakpakan po natin ang ating mga graduates sa matagumpay nilang pagdating sa yugtong ito ng kanilang buhay (Let’s congratulate the graduates for successfully reaching this chapter in their lives),” Sandoval enthused.

For his part, AFP Chief of Staff General Emmanuel Bautista, the ceremony’s guest of honor and speaker, welcomed the new soldiers in his speech.

“Tinatanggap namin kayo ng buong puso sa Hukbong Sandatahan ng Pilipinas. Kayo ngayon ay ganap nang mga sundalo (We wholeheartedly accept you all to the Armed Forces of the Philippines. You are all official soldiers now).”

Bautista also told the integrees that much is expected of them as graduates trained in excellence and virtue. The general reminded the new soldiers that their mandate is to protect the people and the country and that part of their responsibilities as members of the army is to uphold non-partisanship, discipline, and respect for human rights.

Sandoval thanked all partners, Bautista and 5th Infantry Division (5ID) commander Major Gen. Joel Ibanez for their commitment to the peace agenda of the President and support to the CBA-CPLA peace track.

“It has been a worthwhile partnership, overall, which we hope will continue in the service of building a sustainable peace in the Cordillera,” Sandoval said.

To partners CBA and CPLA, the Undersecretary looked forward to “a new beginning where you lead as empowered, empowering, enlightened, and enlightening presence in the Cordillera’s pursuit of peace.

Among the integrees, a woman, Private Wendy Cacbet of Paracelis, Mt. Province was awarded First Honor. Three more women are on the Top Ten – Privates Marichu Edduba (3rd) Lhariza Joy Gannisi (4th) and Marites Polanco (8th).

The army integration program of CPLA began in 2001 with the issuance of Administrative Order 18. In 2011, the government’s MOA with the CBA-CPLA again included army integration as an option for socio-economic reintegration.

http://www.opapp.gov.ph/news/158-cpla-members-complete-transition-army-fulfills-closure-agreement-provision-integration

Nur Misuari still in PH, says MNLF official

From ABS-CBN (Dec 7): Nur Misuari still in PH, says MNLF official

Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) founding chairman Nur Misuari is still in the Philippines, according to the chairman of the MNLF's Islamic Command Council.

Habib Hashim said he has recently talked to Misuari's personal aide, who confirmed that the MNLF chairman has not fled the country and is just hiding from police authorities.

He said there is no truth to reports that Misuari has already left the Philippines before charges were filed against him by the Department of Justice (DOJ) in connection with the September siege in Zamboanga City.

Hashim said Misuari has expressed interest to attend the Organization of Islamic Conference in Guinea on December 9 to 11 to voice out his thoughts on the Zamboanga crisis.

However, Misuari has been placed on the Bureau of Immigration's (BI) lookout bulletin after the DOJ filed rebellion charges and charges for violations of international humanitarian laws against him, MNLF commander Habier Malik, and 63 others last October.

Misuari and Malik, as well as Bas Arki and Assamin Hussin, have pending warrants of arrest and are barred from leaving the Philippines.

Meanwhile, Hashim warned that if the tripartite review of the implementation of the 1996 final peace agreement will still not go well, the nearly three-week firefight between MNLF rebels and government troops in Zamboanga City may happen again.

He clarified, however, that Misuari has yet to confirm if they will again attack the city.

http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/12/07/13/nur-misuari-still-ph-says-mnlf-official

Army officer killed, 2 hurt in firefight with NPA in Surigao del Sur

From GMA News (Dec 7): Army officer killed, 2 hurt in firefight with NPA in Surigao del Sur

An Army second lieutenant was killed Friday afternoon in an encounter with New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in Surigao del Sur, a military official said.

 

Captain Christian Uy, spokesman of the Army’s 4th Infantry Division, said Saturday that two other soldiers from the 3rd Special Forces Battalion were wounded in the clash that occurred in Buhisan village in San Agustin town around 12:30 p.m.

 

Uy said the soldiers were deployed to the village following reports that NPA rebels were conducting extortion activities in the area.

 

“There was information about the presence of an armed group in the area so the troops conducted an operation. The [rebels] were conducting foraging activities [such as] asking the people for food,” he said.

 

The spokesperson added that an undetermined number of NPA rebels also died in the ensuing firefight with the troops, which lasted for about 20 minutes.

 

Earlier this week, at least 4 members of the NPA--including two female fighters--were killed in separate encounters with government troops in Compostela Valley in Mindanao.

The NPA, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines, has been waging an insurgency since 1969.

Peace talks between the government and the CPP-National Democratic Front have been stalled since April this year.

 

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/338767/news/regions/army-officer-killed-2-hurt-in-firefight-with-npa-in-surigao-del-sur

Five fishermen slain in Sulu sea by suspected pirates

From GMA News (Dec 7): Five fishermen slain in Sulu sea by suspected pirates

Gunmen aboard a speedboat shot dead five members of a fishing crew in a mysterious attack in the seas of Sulu, the coast guard said Saturday.

The five were part of a fishing fleet in the sea near Sulu when the gunmen attacked them on Friday, said coast guard spokesman Lieutenant Jomark Angue.

Even as the five leapt overboard, the gunmen riddled them with bullets, then sped off. Only three of the bodies were recovered, he said.

The attackers were suspected to be pirates, Angue added. But it was unclear why they would attack the fishing boat crew.

Law-enforcement sources said the attack might be part of an extortion attempt by armed groups operating in Sulu, an impoverished, heavily-forested group of islands.

Among the armed groups in Jolo are Muslim separatists who staged a bloody three-week siege in the southern city of Zamboanga in September.

The Al-Qaeda-linked Abu Sayyaf, a group known for the worst terror attacks in Philippine history, including bombings, kidnappings and banditry, are also active in Sulu along with other outlaw bands.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/338764/news/nation/five-fishermen-slain-in-sulu-sea-by-suspected-pirates

4 Leftist Rebels Slain In South Philippine Clashes

From Bernama (Dec 7): 4 Leftist Rebels Slain In South Philippine Clashes

At least four leftist rebels have been killed in recent clashes with government troops in southern Philippines, Xinhua news agency reported.

Three New People's Army (NPA) rebels died in a clash with soldiers at Teresa village in Maco town in Mindanao's Compostela Valley province on Wednesday, said Captain Alberto Caber, spokesperson for the Philippine military's Eastern Mindanao Command.

"Residents said two of the NPA rebels who died in Teresa were women. Fleeing rebels dragged their dying comrades as they fled and apparently concealed them in the forests," Caber said in a statement

Troops were now scouring the area to locate dead insurgents and pursue those who had fled.

On Friday, another clash erupted between soldiers and NPA rebels at nearby Malamodao village in Maco.

One slain NPA rebel was found along with a hand grenade, magazines for M-16 rifles and backpacks.

The military said joint army-police elements are now still on pursuit operations in the areas above at local civilians' request.

The 4,000-strong NPA, an armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines, is fighting a leftist insurgency in 60 Philippine provinces since 1969.

http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v7/wn/newsworld.php?id=999186

Army intensifies operations on 45th CPP anniversary

From the Visayan Daily Star (Dec 7): Army intensifies operations on 45th CPP anniversary

The Philippine Army in Negros Oriental is relentlessly conducting combat operations especially in far-flung sitios and barangays of the province against possible attacks by rebels during the 45th founding anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines this month.

Brig. Gen. Francisco Patrimonio, commander of the 302nd Infantry Brigade based in Tanjay City, Negros Oriental, said yesterday that it is a standing procedure for the military to strengthen its operations during the CPP anniversary on December 26 since its armed wing, the New People’s Army, could launch tactical offensives.

He said soldiers are directed to intensify the clearing of insurgency-affected areas and strengthen the defense of detachments, while civilians who are possible targets of NPA liquidation are reminded to take extra precautionary measures.

The “targets” should be extra careful and avoid areas that make them vulnerable to attacks by the NPA, Patrimonio said.

Meanwhile, the 79th Infantry Battalion, with the Sta. Catalina government, conducted a closing program for its Bayanihan Team activities in Sitio Hingles, Barangay San Francisco of the town recently.

It was highlighted by the oath-taking of 13 members of the Grupong Pang-organisa of the NPA from the barangay, before Mayor Nathaniel Electona.

Group leaders Ceferino Namuco and Gilmore Fabian called on other residents to break free of the influence of the NPA, and support the government in its quest for development and lasting peace, Lt. Wynmer Calulot of the 79th IB said.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2013/December/07/negor2.htm

4 NPA guerrillas killed in two ComVal clashes

From GMA News (Dec 7): 4 NPA guerrillas killed in two ComVal clashes

At least 4 members of the New People's Army were killed in separate encounters with government troops in Compostela Valley province in Mindanao on Wednesday and Friday morning.

In a press statement on Saturday, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Eastern Mindanao Command said two female NPA fighters  were among the three who died in the clash in Barangay Teresa.

It said residents in the area had told authorities the three died due to the loss of blood, but their bodies were recovered by rebels who survived and then concealed the cadavers in a forested area.

Also, the AFP said another NPA guerrilla was killed in Barangay Malamodao in a clash that lasted for 30 minutes.

Government forces are locating and identifying more casualties reported by civilians, while Joint Army-Police elements are on pursuit operations.

Civilians requested the military for regular security patrols for their protection from NPA harassment and extortion activities in the two barangays.

Meanwhile, Eastern Mindanao Command Commander Lt. Gen. Ricardo Rainier G. Cruz III urged residents to continue reporting NPA presence to the military.

“In our Bayanihan, we will prevail against the NPA,”  Cruz said.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/338718/news/regions/4-npa-guerrillas-killed-in-two-comval-clashes