Army creates inquiry board for NPA

From the Daily Tribune (Mar 13): Army creates inquiry board for NPA

The Army leadership has created a Board of Inquiry (BoI) to look into the series of atrocities launched by the New People’s Army (NPA) in the towns of Matanao and Bansalan in Davao del Sur that resulted in the killing of seven soldiers and three policemen.

Army chief Maj. Gen. Hernando Iriberri tapped Army Inspector General Brig. Gen. Cesar Sedillo as head of the BoI.

Iriberri said that the board went to Davao del Sur yesterday to determine what led to the series of attacks launched by the NPA in Davao del Sur during the past weeks.

“Members of the board went to Davao del Sur with the Army Inspector General to find out what needs to be improved in the support, training and organization to come up with new policies, if necessary,” said Iriberri.

“It is basically to look into answers to the question why it happened. The result of which will be the basis of our actions on matter,” he added.

On Monday, seven soldiers and three policemen were killed after an NPA band, numbering about 50 armed rebels, attacked Matanao Municipal Police Station in Barangay Poblacion.

Two cops were killed instantly during the attack while the third fatality died while undergoing treatment. Two other policemen were wounded.

While withdrawing, the NPA rebels encountered elements of the Army’s 39th Infantry Battalion along Barangay Saboy, also in Matanao. However, the government troops hit a landmine, killing seven soldiers.

Only last March 2, nine soldiers were wounded after NPA rebels also exploded a landmine at the height of an encounter in Bansalan town, also in Davao del Sur.

Five more civilians were also wounded when the NPA exploded another landmine against the three ambulances that were transporting the wounded soldiers.

Army spokesman Lt. Col. Noel Detoyato said the BOI is composed of officials from the operations, intelligence, logistics and training offices of the Army headquarters.

“The inquiry is more on finding ways to improve the system through policies, training, logistics and organization,” said Detoyato.

http://www.tribune.net.ph/nation/army-creates-inquiry-board-for-npa

NPA to attack more Southern plantations

From the Manila Times (Mar 12): NPA to attack more Southern plantations

Communist rebels have owned up to deadly attacks on police and military targets in the southern Philippines that killed at least a dozen people.

Dencio Madrigal, a spokesman for the New People’s Army (NPA)-Valentine Palamine Command, said the attacks on a police base and military forces in Davao del Sur’s Matanao town was a punishment for their “reign of terror” over indigenous tribes and other communities opposing mining operations in the province.

“The March 10 police headquarters raid and ambush demonstrated the NPA’s determination to punish the fascist AFP [Armed Forces of the Philippines] and PNP [Philippine National Police] units operating in Davao del Sur and its boundaries. The 39th Infantry Battalion remains as security forces and fascist thugs of Glencore Xstrata – a mining giant poised to continue to exploit the nearly 100,000 hectares of mining-rich ancestral lands of Lumad Blaans and peasants in the region,” Madrigal said.

“The AFP and PNP units in Matanao and other towns in Davao del Sur deserved to be disarmed and punished because in their defense of Xstrata mining, they have killed, injured, discharged aerial bombs, all part of their reign of terror against the Lumad and settlers communities who have fiercely battled against mining since 1992 when the project was still under the Western Mining Corp.,” he said.

Madrigal said rebel forces seized seven M16 automatic rifles and several ammunition vests, two nine-millimeter pistols, one .45-caliber pistol, and a radio communication set from the police headquarters. He said the raid left 3 policemen and two other lawmen were killed in the fighting that also left two rebels dead.

He also accused the police of coddling drug pushers and other criminal syndicates in the province. “They are, thus, legitimate targets of the people’s army at any time of the year,” he said.

Madrigal also condemned the arrest of nine civilians on suspicion they were part of the NPA forces that attacked in Matanao town. “Their failure at intelligence work, notwithstanding, the Matanao PNP trained its eyes on nine hapless civilians, namely, Renante Urot, Joey Alberca, Rufoboy Gama, Laudemer Gama, Noel Morangit, Roger Natonton, Julio Sales, John Rey Pabillo and Christopher Sales.”

He said nine soldiers were also killed, including Lt. Ludevico Alejo; and seven more wounded after rebels remotely detonated a military truck carrying reinforcements in the village of Asbang. He also dismissed allegations by the Eastern Mindanao Command that the NPA has been using landmines.

“The country’s mining laws and the state’s counter-insurgency policy, the Oplan Bayanihan, have resulted in the massive and indiscriminate pillage of resources, killings, and displacement of hundreds of thousands of civilian communities,” he said.

Jorge Madlos, a regional rebel spokesman, has previously warned mining firms and fruit plantations in the southern Philippines.

Madlos said their targets are Russell Mines and Minerals, Apex Mining Corp. and Philco in southern Mindanao; Dolefil, Del Monte and Sumifru plantations in northern Mindanao; TVI Resource Development Philippines whose operations in ancestral domain of indigenous Subanen and Moro tribes are being opposed by the rebel group.

http://manilatimes.net/npa-to-attack-more-southern-plantations/82096/

Army focuses on Safety of people and government installation

From the Negros Daily Bulletin (Mar 13): Army focuses on Safety of people and government installation

Anticipating the planned atrocity of the New People’s Army (NPA) to highlight its anniversary on March 29, Maj. Ray Tiongson, chief of the Division Public Affairs Office (DPAO) of 3rd Infantry Division, Philippine Army, said, "the army in Western Visayas has intensified operations in order to protect the government’s vital installations and to ensure safety and security of the people."

Actually he said, whether it is their anniversary or not, the NPA is expected to conduct atrocity as long as they have the opportunity. "But it is their usual compliance to their leadership to score against government troops as well as by targeting soft targets during the anniversary."

In Negros and Panay Islands, Major Tiongson said, "we are always on our toes after the lawless armed elements who are threatening and intimidating civilians."

Early this week the army in Negros Oriental reported that it was able to abort the plan of the enemy to attack a government installation after the civilians informed the army on the presence of armed men in their locality, that resulted to firefight and running gun battle between the two forces. The enemy then withdrew to different directions.

http://ndb-online.com/031314/local-news/local-news-army-focuses-safety-people-and-government-installation

2 RPA members killed

From the Visayan Daily Star (Mar 12): 2 RPA members killed

Two members of the Revolutionary Proletarian Army-Alex Boncayao Brigade were shot and killed at about 2:30 a.m. yesterday, at an hacienda compound in Brgy. Sag-ang, La Castellana, Negros Occidental.

Senior Inspector Ruben Pajarito, La Castellana police chief, said the high-powered firearms, an M-14 assault rifle and a KG9 pistol, of the two victims identified as Jomar Toritcilla and Lenmar Pat, were also missing, and are believed to have been taken by the suspect.

Pajarito said the suspect, identified as Carlo Apostol, a former security guard, who was having a drinking spree with the two victims, and four others at the compound of Hacienda Angelita in the barangay, before the incident, is also nowhere to be found.

Toritcilla,33, of Brgy. Nayon, San Enrique, sustained three gunshot wounds in his body, while Pat, 34, succumbed to a gunshot wound in the head, police investigations showed.

Another RPA-ABB member, Nick Tumbagahan, who had also joined the drinking spree, survived the shooting incident, Pajarito said.

Thirteen empty shells of a .45 caliber pistol were recovered at the crime scene by La Castellana police investigators.

Pajarito said they received reports that Apostol, a watchman of the hacienda, had met some persons, while fleeing from the crime scene.

He also said they are looking at “agaw armas operations” as among the motives for the killing of the two RPA-ABB members.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2014/March/12/topstory6.htm

Misamis Occidental prov’l police denies NPA assault

From the Sun Star-Cagayan de Oro (Mar 22): Misamis Occidental prov’l police denies NPA assault

THE police provincial office in Misamis Occidental denied on Tuesday reports that New People's Army (NPA) rebels assaulted a police station in Bonifacio town in Misamis Occidental on Monday afternoon, hours after the attack in Matanao town in Davao del Sur on Monday dawn.

“It was never an ambush,” said Senior Superintendent Archival Macala, PPO-Misamis Occidental chief.

Macala, however, said that an encounter between the 55th Infantry Battalion troops based in Barangay Burgos in Oroquieta City and the rebels killed a soldier and injured five others.

Macala said the army and the City Public Safety Company (CPSC) were conducting operations in Mapurol, a hinterland village in the boundaries of Bonifacio and Tangub City, when they clashed with the rebels.

The military and the police launched the operation as part of intensifying security in the area in response to the order of the Philippine National Police’s regional office based in Camp Alagar following the attack in Matanao.

Macala said authorities in Misamis Occidental are on full alert following the Monday afternoon’s skirmish.

But he added that part of Camp Alagar’s directives is conducting a crackdown on the rebels who initiate guerrilla actions in the province.

“That’s why sa area natin sa region 10, wala silang ma-harass. It is saddening to note ‘yong nangyari sa Davao (del Sur),” Macala said.

He said the provincial command is doing surprise inspections at police stations to ensure that policemen on duty are alert against any forms of attacks.

‘Soft targets’

The Philippine Army’s 4th Infantry Division in Camp Evangelista has said police stations are on the rebel group’s crosshairs, considered as “soft targets” for harassment and grabbing of weapons and ammunitions.

Macala said all police stations in the province are directed to stay on strengthened defense position.

He said the rebels whom they encountered lately could be the same group who harassed a police station in Don Victoriano Chiongbian town in Misamis Occidental in December 2013, where they disarmed the policemen on duty and ransacked the station’s armory and carted away several high-caliber firearms.

The heavily armed guerrillas were supposed to attack another police station in Josefina town, but were foiled by the responding troops.

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/cagayan-de-oro/local-news/2014/03/11/misamis-occidental-prov-l-police-denies-npa-assault-332590

Civil society slams NPA attack

From the Visayan Daily Star (Mar 12): Civil society slams NPA attack

Members of civil society in Negros Occidental yesterday decried the latest attack on civilians by the communist rebels waging their “protracted people's war ”.

A New People's Army unit command detonated a landmine just as a convoy of emergency responders was passing enroute to a remote sitio to aid and evacuate wounded soldiers in at Bansalan, Davao del on March 2.

The blast ripped through the vehicle of the Davao del Sur Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, and injured five PDRRMC members, the Negros civil society group said in a press release.

Four days later, the NPA Southern Mindanao Regional Operations Command claimed responsibility for the incident and “ apologized to civilians hurt...and assured them that those responsible will be disciplined ”, the press release added.

The apology/expression of regret does not account for the fact that the attack on the convoy prevented timely medical attention for the wounded soldiers, it added.

International humanitarian laws and Republic Act 9851, or the Philippine Act on Crimes against International Humanitarian Law, Genocide and other Crimes Against Humanity, are explicit in stating that, “ wounded or sick combatants are to be collected and cared for by either side in a conflict, ” the press release said.

“Past experiences caution us that public pronouncements by the CPP-NPA do not amount to much. Their apologies have not deterred their units from repeating – again and again – their inhumane attacks against civilians and other IHL-protected persons. Nor have the results of their touted internal investigations of, as well as the punishments imposed on the perpetrators ever been made publicly known., “ the press release said.

Echoing the cries of the victims of this latest act of violence, trhe civil society group said it is challenging the CPP-NPA leadership: to bring to justice the perpetrators of the Bansalan landmine incident, as required by the International Humanitarian Law and RA 9851; pay full damages to the civilian victims, and for their vehicles and equipment; and stop their use of landmines/IEDs, command-detonated or otherwise, in the internal armed conflict.

“We exhort our brethren across the ideological divide - the CPP-NPA-NDF, to obtain their political and social goals through ways principled but non-violent. Let us put an end to this fratricidal war among Filipinos and instead work together to abolish poverty through social development,” the civil society group called.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2014/March/12/topstory10.htm

New 11th IB chief to be installed today

From the Visayan Daily Star (Mar 13): New 11th IB chief to be installed today

Lt. Col. Paulito Idul will be installed today as commander of the Army's 11th Infantry Battalion in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental.

He will be installed by Maj. Gen. Aurelio Baladad, 3rd Infantry Division commander, at Camp MacKinley in Guihulngan City.

Idul will replace Lt. Col. Wilfredo Isaac, who served as 11IB commander for almost two years.

The 11IB operates in the central portion of Negros Oriental and Occidental.

Last month, Lt. Col. Harold Anthony Pascua assumed command of the 79th IB stationed in the southeastern portion of Negros Oriental.

The 11th and 79th Infantry Battalions are supervised by the 302 nd Infantry Brigade.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2014/March/13/negor5.htm

Ex-rebel files coercion, robbery

From the Visayan Daily Star (Mar 13): Ex-rebel files coercion, robbery
raps against 10 NPA members

A rebel returnee filed complaints of grave coercion and robbery against his former comrades before the Guihulngan City Police Station, who allegedly barred him from staying in Negros island for three years.

Former rebel Oliver Villahermosa, who surrendered recently to the 11 th Infantry Battalion, was threatened by his former comrades he identified as Enric and Rosalie Calago, Elizabeth Grayan and Felisa Calago, as well as six armed members of the Sandatahang Yunit Pampropaganda of the New People's Army, who went to his residence on Feb. 16, in Brgy. Tacpao, Guihulngan City, Lt. Col Wilfredo Isaac, outgoing 11 th IB commander, said.

Isaac said Villahermosa was punished by the NPA for surrendering to the Army Bayanihan Team, and for availing of the Balik Baril and Comprehensive Local Integration programs of the government.

The rebel suspects also took the two cellular phones of Villahermosa.

Isaac said the implementation of the “Barangay Arrest System” of the NPA in the hinterland barangays of Guihulngan City, led to the dislocation of 15 persons and their families.

 http://www.visayandailystar.com/2014/March/13/negor3.htm

China says PHL protest over Ayungin Shoal incident unacceptable

From GMA News (Mar 12): China says PHL protest over Ayungin Shoal incident unacceptable

China on Wednesday called unacceptable the diplomatic protest lodged by the Philippines against Beijing for preventing the deployment of Filipino naval personnel and a routine supply mission to the disputed Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal last weekend.

“The Chinese side does not accept the protest by the Philippine side,” said embassy spokesman Zhang Hua, adding China has repeatedly stated its position on the matter.

China maintains “jurisdiction and indisputable sovereignty” over nearly the entire resource-rich South China Sea – a claim being challenged by its Asian neighbors like the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan as it overlaps with their territorial boundaries.

Parts of the waters that fall within the Philippines’ territory have been renamed West Philippine Sea to assert Manila's claim.

Philippines and China ties plunged to their lowest in years when Manila accused Chinese government vessels of harassing Filipino fishermen in its own waters and their unending exchange of diplomatic barbs is a reflection of animosity between two nations.

In the latest flare-up, Chinese Coast Guard ships last March 9 blocked two Philippine vessels carrying supplies and personnel from going to the shoal, where a broken-down Philippine naval ship has remained grounded since 1999.

At least seven Filipino naval troops using dilapidated vessel as their base are guarding the shoal, which Philippine officials say is within the country’s economic zone and continental shelf as mandated by a United Nations law.

Manila demanded China to desist from interfering in Philippine territory, saying its recent actions “constitute a clear and urgent threat to the rights and interests of the Philippines.”

“For 15 years we have conducted regular re-supply missions and personnel rotation without interference from China,” Foreign Affairs spokesman Raul Hernandez said.

The Philippines, he added, will soon submit its written argument on the case it filed against China before a UN-linked tribunal in The Hague, Netherlands last year.

 

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/352218/news/nation/china-says-phl-protest-over-ayungin-shoal-incident-unacceptable

US hits 'provocative' China move on Philippine ships

From GMA News (Mar 13): US hits 'provocative' China move on Philippine ships

The United States on Wednesday accused China of raising tensions by blocking two Philippines vessels as it urged freedom of navigation in the tense South China Sea.

 

The United States, a treaty-bound ally of Manila, said it was "troubled" by Sunday's incident in which China prevented movement of two ships contracted by the Philippine navy to deliver supplies and troops to the disputed Second Thomas Shoal.

 

"This is a provocative move that raises tensions. Pending resolution of competing claims in the South China Sea, there should be no interference with the efforts of claimants to maintain the status quo," State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki said.

 

The Philippines on Tuesday summoned China's charge d'affaires, accusing Beijing of a "clear and urgent threat" to Manila's interests. Beijing countered that the ships "infringed China's territorial sovereignty" and violated a 2002 declaration of conduct in the South China Sea.

 

The United States rejected China's stance, saying that countries had the right to "regular resupply and rotation of personnel" to locations before the 2002 declaration.

 

The Second Thomas Shoal, which sits around 200 kilometers (125 miles) from the western Philippine island of Palawan, is claimed by the Philippines, China and Taiwan. Beijing calls it Ren'ai Reef.

 

Malaysia, Brunei and Vietnam claim other parts of the Spratly islands, which lie near vital sea lanes and rich fishing grounds and are also believe to sit on vast mineral resources.

 

The United States, while saying it takes no position on the sovereignty of disputed territories, has been increasingly robust in its criticism of China. Last month, the United States challenged the legal basis for China's claims over a vast area across the South China Sea.

 

The United States has been seeking to prevent China from taking more drastic action in the South China Sea. In November, China declared an Air Defense Identification Zone -- requiring planes to report to Beijing -- over a vast area in the East China Sea where it has a separate but intense feud over Japanese-administered islands.

 

Japan and the Philippines have accused China of making growing incursions to challenge their control over territories. US President Barack Obama will visit both Japan and the Philippines next month.

 

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/352328/news/nation/us-hits-provocative-china-move-on-philippine-ships

Kidnapped minors, nanny, driver released in Sulu

From GMA News (Mar 12): Kidnapped minors, nanny, driver released in Sulu

The abducted son of a municipal health officer in Jolo town in Sulu province has been released together with three others on Wednesday, a military official said.

Capt. Ryan Lacuesta, civil military officer of the 2nd Marine Brigade, said no ransom was paid for the safe release of Mohamad Zaher Nain Jajurie, son of Dra Faranazh Jajurie y intimani, and his three companions.

Kidnapped along with Jajurie were Alyza Farah Karanain Jajurie, their housemaid Almalyn Abuhail, and driver Saddam Amlih.

The four were abducted March 3 at the vicinity of General Arolas Street in Barangay Alat in Jolo.

They were released 4 p.m. Wednesday at the vicinity of Daan Puti Circumferential Road in Barangay Latih in Patikul, also ni Sulu, Lacuesta said.
"Accordingly, no ransom paid for the safe released of the victims," he added.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/352282/news/regions/kidnapped-minors-nanny-driver-released-in-sulu

MILF: Sugoda Buayan Social Welfare Committee holds General Assembly

From the MILF Website (Mar 13): Sugoda Buayan Social Welfare Committee holds General Assembly



Around 739 officers and members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) - Social Welfare Committee (SCW) of Sugoda Buayan Province held their annual General Assembly in Barangay Tuyan, Malapatan, Sarangani Province on March 8, 2014.
  

The activity was geared to strengthen unity among the SWC members, learn the recent development in the peace process, and share updates on the accomplishments of the different committees.

Prominent Muslim women leaders namely Jamila Hussein, SWC National Chairperson, Ustadza Saguera Pendaliday, Committee Chairperson on Da’wah, and Salama Abdurahman, from the Tarbiyah Committee were among the speakers.

They stressed the importance of continuing all the important undertakings of SWC whether they are officers or mere members.

The delegates were reminded that the services they give towards fellow Muslims have corresponding rewards from the Almighty, thus “you must help your fellow heartily,” Hussein said.

Pendaliday said the SWC has crucial role of the mothers in strengthening  Islamization in the province who are the first teachers of their children.

She said it is important that at the early stage of child’s development, the young ones must start learning good values and fear of Allahu ta Ala.

The speakers also urged the participants to support the establishment of Bangsamoro Government having its own Bangsamoro Basic Law.

Sugoda Buayan Province is a local political entity of the MILF covering the municipalities of Glan, Malapatan, Alabel, Malungon in Sarangani Province and General Santos City. The delegates were coming from a total of 29 barangays.

SWC has different committees which include Health and Sanitation, Relief and Rehabilitation, Tarbiyah, Economics and Industry, Widows and Orphans, and Da’wah.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/877-sugoda-buayan-social-welfare-committee-holds-general-assembly

MILF: SoCSKSarGen stakeholders join consultation for the Bangsamoro Dev’t Plan

From the MILF Website (Mar 13): SoCSKSarGen stakeholders join consultation for the Bangsamoro Dev’t Plan



The Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA) held a consultation with stakeholders from the provinces of Sarangani, Sultan Kudarat, South Cotabato and the city of General Santos to know the current issues and concerns affecting the Bangsamoro people and draw out recommendations on what they envisage for the Bangsamoro communities. 
  

More than thirty participants comprised of representatives from NGOs, CSOs, farmers, fisher folks, social welfare, women, local MILF political committee, youth, academe, local government units, business, Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), Indigenous Peoples and other sectors joined the consultation.

BDA Southern Mindanao Regional Management Office and the Bangsamoro Development Plan Team of the BDA facilitated the activity held at Phela Grande Hotel in General Santos City on March 1-3, 2014.

The gathering, entitled “Community Visioning,” is part of the process of formulating the Bangsamoro Development Plan (BDP).

The participants noted discrimination towards the Muslims, less employment opportunities given to Muslims both by private establishments and public offices, political dynasty, poverty and human rights violation as the serious problems faced by the Moro people.

They agreed that addressing those issues and concerns needs cooperation and collaboration among the Moro people themselves with the help of concerned institutions.

Peaceful, progressive, with united people, where there is implementation of Shariah law and with transparency and accountability in governance is what the participants dream for the Bangsamoro.

For Bangsamoro communities outside the core territory, they hope there will be more development efforts. Maasim Vice-Mayor Uttoh Salem Cutan, a prominent MNLF leader, hoped the BDA will continue bringing development outside the Bangsamoro political entity.

Mohalikin D. Piang, BDA-SouthMin Regional Manager, narrated the experience of BDA which started from scratch in 2001 but now has attracted support from international development institutions because of its perseverance working for development in conflict affected communities.

He added that BDA will continue to exist even if the GPH-MILF peace process shall not be realized considering the established and ongoing partnerships with the international institutions.

Ustadz Mohammad Taha Abdulgafur, member of BDA Board of Directors, urged the participants to support the peace process and establishment of Bangsamoro government.

The BDP, being formulated employing participation of various stakeholders, will reflect the aspirations of the Bangsamoro people, where no one will be left behind.
Administered by the World Bank, the Mindanao Trust Fund provides financial support for the BDP formulation.

The BDP Team is tasked to fast track the plan formulation. It has focal persons in thematic areas like social, culture, and governance. The BDP will be submitted to the GPH and MILF peace panels.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/876-socsksargen-stakeholders-join-consultation-for-the-bangsamoro-dev’t-plan

MILF Chair Murad supports Bangsamoro education group

From the MILF Website (Mar 13): MILF Chair Murad supports Bangsamoro education group



Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Chairman Al-haj Murad Ebrahim gave his full support to the creation of National Association for Bangsamoro Education, Inc. (NABEI) by hosting the group’s official launching Sunday, March 9 at MILF’s Camp Darapanan, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao.
  

In his opening remarks, the group’s vice president RollyMapandi from Marawi City told Muslim private education leaders that during a courtesy visit of NABEIto Chairman Murad, the Moro leader encouraged NABEI to reach out to all existing Muslim private schools and madarisand the launching program would serve as venue to invite these schools and other education leaders to become part of the association.Based on its primer, NABEI envisions to be the think tank and prime mover of Muslim education in the Philippines.  It also serves as the official voice of the Muslim schools in the Coordinating Council of Private Educational Institutions (COCOPEA), the most influential educational group and umbrella body of all private schools in the country.

The MILF top leader, who served as guest of honor in the launching program, appreciated the efforts of education leaders for organizing NABEI which could serve as potential partner of the Bangsamoro government in delivery of quality education services to Bangsamoro children.  According to Murad, the association like NABEI “should have been organized long before” to help address poor condition of madaris (schools) and other Muslim-managed educational institutions. However, he described NABEI’s creation as “timely” in relation to current development in the GPH-MILF peace process and prospect of putting up new educational system in the Bangsamoro. He recommended to NABEI to form a technical working group to come up an educational system which would serve as input to members of future Bangsamoro assembly in designing a system of education for the Bangsamoro.    

Addressing Chairman Murad, NABEI President Dr.Ombra Imam asked MILF leadership to involve NABEI and private education sector in crafting the Bangsamoro Basic Law and designing future Bangsamoro education system. Dr. Imam lamented that education sector was left at the corner while numerous sectors were very much engaged in present peace efforts.  He reminded the participants on key principle in the Framework Agreement stating that “status quo is not acceptable” implying that education sector should have active role in Bangsamoro nation building.

“If we look at our neighbouring countries like Singapore and Malaysia, they are far advanced compared to the Philippines because of their highest regard on education,” emphasized by NABEI leader which gained approval from audience.  He suggested that a strong partnership between private and public education sectors should be established in the Bangsamoro as one best model to ensure delivery of quality services to all.

As a challenge to the MILF in changing the landscape, Dr. Thomas Sabal, President of Dar Al Uloom wal Hiqmah in Cotabato City said “We, in the NABEI, are convinced that the Moro Islamic Liberation Front keeps standards for leadership in terms of effectives, efficiency, and moral ascendency.  As its social responsibility, we truly believe it (MILF) gives high emphasis to education of the people as obligation for all in all levels of society.”

Commissioner Talib Benito of BTC also graced the occasion and presented a topic on new Bangsamoro education system.  On the part of Department of Education, Maguindanao II Schools Division Superintendent Bai Alibai Benito, representing DepEd-ARMM Secretary Atty. Jamar Kulayan, lectured on strengthening school governance for quality education.

More than a hundred education leaders from Lanao, Cotabato and Davao areas, representing their respective schools and organizations trooped to MILF administrative headquarters to attend the historic launching.  To manifest his strong recognition and support to NABEI, chairman Murad distributed NABEI certificate of membership to institutional, organizational, and individual members.  At the closure of launching, Aleem Mocktar Bato, principal of a private madrasah in Lanao del Sur, led the school leaders to pledge loyalty to the leadership of NABEI.
http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/873-milf-chair-murad-supports-bangsamoro-education-group

MILF: BLMI invades Lanao Region for consultations on the GPH-MILF Peace Process

From the MILF Website (Mar 13): BLMI invades Lanao Region for consultations on the GPH-MILF Peace Process



The Bangsamoro Leadership and Management Institute (BLMI) stepped on the historic land of Lanao and had just culminated its “Tour of Duty” for advocacy by providing valuable information and updates on GPH- MILF Peace Process from February 26 – March 05, 2014.
  

After triumphantly dispensing its mandates in western part of Moroland, the BLMI team took another route now towards Lanao del Sur, the land of powerful sultans where the Lanao Lake is found.

The team was comprises of BLMI Extension Service and Research Unit officers with active involvement and facilitation by the MILF Political Committee in the area, the BIAF and other committees who painstakingly involved themselves for the success of the program.

The community outreach program firstly engaged on a hill-top of Butig Municipality, a mountainous area overlooking the beauty of panoramic landscape of Lanao Lake.

The BLMI team was warmly welcomed by residents and community leaders who organized the event. The objective of the undertaking was to enlighten the people in the remotest and far-flung areas where residents have no access to televisions, newspapers and internet due to problem on electricity and telecommunication.

From Butig, the BLMI team proceeded to Masiu, also in Lanao del Sur on February 27, 2014. The venue flocked by hundreds of residents and community leaders and local government officials who wanted to know the current trend in the GPH-MILF Peace Process.

On February 28, 2014, the team despite the heat of the sun, mental fatigue and stress proceeded to Maguing Municipality in the same province.

The road to the town was rough and as the speakers arrived the residents were already waiting at the venue with utmost inclination to get updates on the GPH- MILF Peace process.

From Maguing, the BLMI team took it course to the center of Lanao Del Sur, the Islamic City Marawi City on March 01 where they candidly engaged with members of the academe, LGU’s officials, students, community leaders and religious group. The speakers stressed the salient points of the topics at hand and entertained questions from the attendees concerning the peace process.

From Marawi city, the team visited some municipalities that enveloped the Lanao Lake.  Participants from adjacent municipalities and its barangay were merged in a half- day advocacy program at the Open court of Balindong  Arabic – Islamic  Institution, Balindong (Watu), Lanao del Sur on March 02.

The MILF Provincial Political Committees, SWC and BIAF organized and facilitated the half- day Activity.

On March 05, the BLMI team proceeded to Malabang Municipality, also in Lanao del Sur where an advocacy was held at the Open Court in Malabang town attended by almost two thousand individuals comprising several sectors of society including some members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and local government officials.
 
In all these advocacies, Sheikh Sam Alabat, Head of BLMI Extension Service Unit lectured on Shariah & Politics in Islam in harmony with Ministerial form of Government as envisioned for the Bangsamoro, while this writer, BLMI Research Unit head tackled on the Ministerial form of Government, Political party formation and Electoral system as well as the four annexes of the FAB and the Addendum on Bangsamoro Waters.

The MILF Provincial Political Committees, the BIAF and the residents expressed their profound gratitude to BLMI Management for rekindling their hopes and aspiration by providing updates and invaluable information on GHP – MILF Peace Process.  Also to the Asia Foundation (TAF) and the AUS-Aid who have been supporting the BLMI Programs in the past many years just to achieve lasting peace and progress in Mindanao.
http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/872-blmi-invades-lanao-region-for-consultations-on-the-gph-milf-peace-process

MILF: MILF Political Committee in North Cotabato holds advocacy on FAB and its Annexes

From the MILF Website (Mar 13): MILF Political Committee in North Cotabato holds advocacy on FAB and its Annexes



The North Cotabato MILF Provincial Political Committee and  Committee on Information and the BIAF 108th Base Command- Eastern Mindanao Front led by its deputy commander,  SWC and the women sector held advocacy on the GPH-MILF peace process, the Framework Agreement on Bangsamoro and its Annexes on March 8 at Barangay Magatos, Kabacan, North Cotabato. 
   

Approximately 600 participants attended the program comprising leaders of barangay political committees and municipal political committees in the province. Some BIAF Commanders from the 108th Base Command Eastern Mindanao Front, the women sector and representatives from the SWC also attended.

The presentation focused on designing plans and strategies for an intensified conduct of advocacy in their respective areas to maximize people’s understanding and support. 

The speaker was Prof. Esmael Abdula, Chairman of the Campaign and Mass Mobilization, Sub -Committee on Information, Committee on Information, MILF-CC and member of the Steering Committee of Bangsamoro Leadership and Management Institute (BLMI). Also with Abdula were Board Member Kilie Antao representing the 1st District of North Cotabato and Chair of Peace and Order Committee of the Province,   Datu Mando “Manny”  Pedtamanan, a third termer Municipal Councilor  of Kabacan and now a member of the Peace and Order Committee of the Province of North Cotabato and Jabib Guiabar, Local Monitoring Team of the Province of North Cotabato. 

Prof. Abdula stressed in his presentation that “Now is the time to unite and support the FAB so that we can finally achieve peace and progress in Mindanao.” The program ended with closing remarks and the participants went home satisfied with lots of good stories to tell their family members and neighbors.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/871-milf-political-committee-in-north-cotabato-holds-advocacy-on-fab-and-its-annexes

CPP/NPA: Video: CPP45 -- Mindanao

Video posted to the CPP Website (Mar 12): Video: CPP45 Mindanao



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OpnKm7vgBWk&list=UUIdJcoTlC5Q5jrKCOh4dJeA

Revolutionary forces from Northcentral and Northeast Mindanao celebrate the CPP 45th anniversary somewhere in Agusan del Sur. Ka Oris, NDF-Mindanao spokesperson and Ka Billy, NPA Commander lead the celebration.

The celebration highlights the different stages of development of the revolution work in Mindanao through cultural presentation and speeches. Kabataang Makabayan members from Northeast Mindanao perform the cultural presentation.

http://www.philippinerevolution.net/

CPP/NPA: NPA punishes Davao Sur PNP, 39th IB in successful tactical offensives

NPA propaganda statement posted to the CPP Website (Mar 11): NPA punishes Davao Sur PNP, 39th IB in successful tactical offensives

Dencio Madrigal
Commander
NPA Far South Mindanao Regional Operations Command (Valentin Palamine Command)

 

For less than 10 minutes, two platoons of Red fighters under the Valentine Palamine Command of the New People’s Army Far Southern Mindanao Region confiscated seven M16 rifles and several ammunition vests, two 9 mm pistols, 1 caliber .45 pistol, and 2 vhf radios when they effectively assaulted the Matanao PNP Headquarters in Matanao, Davao del Sur at around 4:50 in the morning March 10, 2014.

Police personnel resisted the NPAs who, disguised as AFP soldiers, commanded them to give up their positions and surrender the firearms. Three PNP members were killed while two were wounded in the ensuing firefight that, unfortunately, took the lives of two Red fighters namely, Ka Jabjab and Ka Rico.

That the enemy was clearly taken by surprise was apparent in its automatic rejoinder to the successful tactical offensive by pegging it merely as part of the forthcoming celebrations of the 45th year anniversary of the NPA. Davao del Sur PNP officers and members are notorious coddlers of illegal drug pushers and other criminal syndicates. They are, thus, legitimate targets of the people’s army at any time of the year.

Their failure at intelligence work, notwithstanding, the Matanao PNP trained its eyes against nine hapless civilians, namely, Renante Urot, Joey Alberca, Rufoboy Gama, Laudemer Gama, Noel Morangit, Roger Natonton, Julio Sales, John Rey Pabillo and Christopher Sales. The police tagged them as NPA members and arrested the group after the raid, at 7 in the morning. The civilians were on their way to attend a sitio fiesta at Barangay Savoy, Matanao, when they were illegitimately accosted.

On the other hand, battle-weary, overextended and defeated from its recent engagements with NPA units under NPA-Southern Mindanao Region, the 39th Infantry Battalion responded to the police assault and sent its troops at past 9:00 am in the morning at Brgy. Asbang, Matanao. NPA operatives discharged command detonated explosives against the passing military truck, killing 9 of the AFP troops, among them was 2nd Lt. Ludevico Alejo, and seriously wounding seven other soldiers.

It is hypocritical for the GPH and the AFP to condemn the NPA’s continued use of command detonated explosives as the latter’s main weapon of choice for guerrilla warfare. The country’s mining laws and the state’s counter-insurgency policy, the Oplan Bayanihan, have resulted in the massive and indiscriminate pillage of resources, killings, and displacement of hundreds of thousands of civilian communities.

The March 10 police headquarters raid and ambush demonstrated the NPA’s determination to punish the fascist AFP and PNP units operating in Davao del Sur and its boundaries. The 39th IB remains as security forces and fascist thugs of Glencore Xstrata large-scale mining, a mining giant poised to continue to exploit the nearly 100,000 hectares of mining-rich ancestral lands of Lumad Blaans and peasants in the region.

The AFP/PNP units in Matanao and other towns in Davao del Sur deserved to be disarmed and punished because in their defense of Xstrata mining, they have killed, injured, discharged aerial bombs, all part of their reign of terror against the Lumad and settlers communities who have fiercely battled against mining since 1992 when the project was still under the Western Mining Corporation.

http://www.philippinerevolution.net/statements/20140311_npa-punishes-davao-sur-pnp-39th-ib-in-successful-tactical-offensives

Palace: 'China's nine-dash line is something we cannot accept'

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 12): Palace: 'China's nine-dash line is something we cannot accept'

Following the latest incident in the Ayungin Shoal within the Kalayaan Island Group (KIG), where Chinese Coast Guard drove out two Filipino vessels on Sunday, Malacanang emphasized anew the importance of arbitration proceedings and maintained that "China’s nine-dash line concept is unacceptable."

Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said in a Palace media briefing on Wednesday that the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has already sent “a number of” notes verbale (diplomatic notes) to the Chinese government.

“This...emphasizes the importance of the arbitration proceedings before the ITLOS (International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea) where we really need to come up with a ruling as we filed…” Lacierda said.

“Since we have resorted to the diplomatic processes, the arbitration proceeding is one such avenue where we can settle the questioned nine-dash line of the Chinese government,” he added.

Lacierda also noted that the government does not feel ignored by the developments so far since it continues to put on record the Philippines’ protests and China’s offenses.

“...Again, this emphasizes the need for a rules-based approach to the situation in the South China Sea (West Philippine Sea),” Lacierda said.

The Malacanang official stressed that the government still questioned China’s nine-dash line concept which draws the extent of its claim over the disputed sea.

“The nine-dash line...is not consistent with international law, is not consistent with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS),” Lacierda said.

“The nine-dash line is something we cannot accept,” he added. “It’s as simple as that. That’s why we filed a case -- an arbitration case -- before the International Tribunal on the Law of the Sea.”

Lacierda, meanwhile, said that while China openly expressed aggressiveness over the disputed sea, the Philippines would rather “deescalate tensions.”

“We believe in the (principle that) what is ours is ours, and so we will continue to push that, and we’re doing that diplomatically,” Lacierda said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=624705

CHR reiterates appeal to NPA rebels on landmine use

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 12): CHR reiterates appeal to NPA rebels on landmine use

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) reiterated on Wednesday its call for the New People’s Army (NPA) rebels to stand for the agreement set forth in the landmine accord.

CHR Chairperson Loretta Ann P. Rosales also urged them to cease in persisting with the impunity of landmine use.

Rosales likewise said that the CHR supports the call to hold the NPA responsible under Republic Act No. 9851 or the Philippine Act on Crimes Against International Humanitarian Law, Genocide, and Other Crimes Against Humanity.

“The incident is a violation of the treaty signed by the government and the communist insurgents in 1998 that bans the use of landmines,” Rosales said.

She added that it is an infringement against the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL).

“These anti-vehicle and anti-personnel mines do not differentiate between civilians and soldiers, and may claim lives of farmers, their wives and their innocent children. Landmine use is a clear violation of the right to life as these devices remain lethal for decades once laid,” she stressed.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=624747

Palace cites reasons for PHL’s non-aggressive actions vs. China on disputed sea

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 12): Palace cites reasons for PHL’s non-aggressive actions vs. China on disputed sea

Malacanang on Wednesday cited the reasons why the Philippines would rather “religiously” resort to the diplomatic process on claims on the disputed West Philippine Sea (South China Sea) despite China’s openly aggressive attitude on its ownership.

Presidential spokesperson Edwin Lacierda in a Palace media briefing said that the first reason was to avoid violence.

He said that while the Philippines continued to push for its claim on the disputed sea, it will be done “diplomatically” so that it could also “de-escalate tensions.”

“I think we should realize the power of diplomacy, the power of the international support,” Lacierda said. “...That’s the means by which we are exercising our voice as a sovereign nation.”

A second reason Lacierda gave was to show strength of cause: The government maintained that China’s nine-dash line claim is unacceptable because it is not consistent with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

“Scarborough Shoal is so near to us and so far from China. How can you say that it is theirs? That’s as simple as that,” Lacierda said.

“On the basis of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, it should be ours,” he added.

Lacierda noted that the third reason why the Philippines relies on the diplomatic process is to show that the community of nations believe in a rules-based approach to any conflict.

The Philippines has already filed the arbitration case before the International Tribunal on the Law of the Sea (ITLOS).

When asked if Malacanang was willing to review arbitration policies on the disputed sea, Lacierda said that he deferred to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).

"With respect to the details, I would defer to AFP and the DFA,” Lacierda said.

“But insofar as the position taken by the Philippine government, that is very, very clear. And the international community knows our position very well, and in fact, supports our position,” he added.

He noted that Malacanang continues to have full trust and confidence in the officials at the forefront of the DFA.

Meanwhile, he also said that Filipino fishermen are still free to fish not only in the Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal but within the West Philippine Sea.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=624741

MBFI, RCMM fetes military units for success of 'TOPS' program

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 12): MBFI, RCMM fetes military units for success of 'TOPS' program

For ensuring the success of its "Ten Outstanding Philippine Soldiers" (TOPS) program, the Metrobank Foundation, Inc. (MBFI) and Rotary Club of Makati Metro (RCMM) has expressed its gratitude to the various units of the Armed Forces.

Among the offices recognized was the Army Chief Public Affairs (OACPA), Philippine Army.

This was done during the fellowship dinner held at the Function Room of the City Club Alphaland in Makati City Tuesday.

MBFI and RCMM also acknowledged the Office of the Assistant Chief of Staff for Personnel, G1, PA and Office of the Army Sergeant Major.

Joining them were the Office of Deputy Chief of Staff for Personnel, J1; Civil Relations Service, AFP; Office of the AFP Public Affairs Office; Office of the Assistant Chief of Naval Staff for Personnel, N1; Office of the Assistant Chief of Air Staff for Personnel, A1; Office of the Naval Public Affairs; Office of the Air Force Public Affairs; Office of the Philippine Navy Sergeant Major, Office of the Philippine Air Force Sergeant Major.

TOPS is a joint program of the Rotary Club of Makati Metro (RCMM) and Metrobank Foundation, Inc. (MBFI) that is supported by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

Since 1994, the RCMM and MBFI name the TOPS of the year in recognition to the invaluable contributions of the men and women of the AFP to the country and the people, particularly their role in nation-building.

Col. Romeo S. Brawner Jr., Chief Master Sgt. Rogelio J. Mendoza, and Technical Sgt. Ferdinand S. Baladjay made it to the prestigious list of the outstanding soldiers in the country last year.

The Search for the 2014 TOPS is now underway.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=624660

Eastern Mindanao Command forces on red alert following clash with NPAs in Compostela Valley

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 12): Eastern Mindanao Command forces on red alert following clash with NPAs in Compostela Valley

The Eastern Mindanao Command said that hot pursuit operations are still ongoing in Maco town, Compostela Valley where a trooper from the 71st Infantry Battalion was killed while four others were injured following an encounter with rebel forces Wednesday morning.

Capt. Alberto Caber, Eastern Mindanao Command spokesman, said all available units are now engaged at pursuing and bringing to justice these spoilers of the peace.

"We have also placed our forces on red alert footing to forestall possible attempts by the New People's Army (NPA) to attack our troops," he added.

Around 9 a.m., two 71st Infantry Battalion combat groups encountered around 60 NPA fighters, reportedly from Front 27 and "PBC 6" in Maco, Compostela Valley Province.

In the issuing encounter where the rebels detonated a landmine, one trooper was killed while others were wounded.

According to 1st Lt. Ari Ben Hernaez, head of the 71st Infantry Battalion combat group, his men were able to observe the rebels and position themselves well before the firefight erupted.

Hernaez recalls that early in the firefight, one of his men spotted a landmine near their position, which went off while they were rushing for cover, wounding his men and killing one.

“We were also hearing them (the NPA) putting a lot of effort into recovering their own dead," he added.

Hernaez is also one of the four wounded soldiers, grazed by an NPA bullet in his left leg during the course of the encounter said to have lasted for about one hour.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=624871

Soldier killed, 4 wounded as fighting rages between soldiers, NPA in Compostela Valley

From InterAksyon (Mar 12): Soldier killed, 4 wounded as fighting rages between soldiers, NPA in Compostela Valley



Guerrillas of the NPA's Mt. Alip Command in Mindanao perform during a celebration of the Communist Party of the Philippines' 45th founding anniversary. (photo by Edwin Espejo)

At least one soldier was killed and four others were wounded Wednesday morning in a landmine explosion followed by fighting between government forces and New People’s Army fighters in Compostela Valley province that was continuing as of this posting.

Captain Ernesto Carolina, spokesman of the Army’s 10th Infantry Division,said one of the wounded was an officer, although he declined to identify the casualties.

He added that the rebels had suffered an undetermined number of casualties in the fighting in Maco town.

“Reportedly, our soldiers were able to detect the presence of NPA rebels and seconds later a landmine exploded ... followed by a firefight. The rebels broke into groups and escaped to unknown directions,” Carolina said.

“We’ve already four soldiers wounded and extricated from the battle zone. The NPA rebels were dragging the casualties as our troops continue to press the attack,” he added.

Wednesday’s clash came two days after guerrillas of NPA Front 72 raided the police station in Matanao, Davao del Sur, killing two policemen and wounding three others, and hauling off several firearms.

In the aftermath of the raid, seven soldiers of the 39th Infantry Battalion on their way to join pursuit operations against the rebels were killed and eight others wounded when their truck was hit by a command-detonated landmine.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/82548/soldier-killed-4-wounded-as-fighting-rages-between-soldiers-npa-in-compostela-valley

PH airdrops supplies to troops on Ayungin

From InterAksyon (Mar 12): PH airdrops supplies to troops on Ayungin



The BRP Sierra Madre, grounded on the Ayungin Shoal, where the Philippines maintains a detachment of Marines. (InterAksyon.com file by Abi Kwok)

The Philippines airdropped food and water to soldiers stationed on a grounded transport ship on disputed Ayungin (Second Thomas) Shoal, after China earlier blocked two Filipino supply ships from reaching the troops, a senior navy official said on Wednesday.

Chinese ships patrolling waters around the shoal Shoal, known in China as the Ren'ai reef, on Sunday ordered the Philippine ships carrying construction materials to leave the area.

Beijing claims Manila is trying to start construction on the disputed reef after it ran aground an old transport ship, the BRP Sierra Madre, in 1999 to mark its territory and stationed Marines on the hulk.

Manila insists Ayungin is part of the Philippine's continental shelf.

"We only intend to improve the conditions there, we have no plans to expand or build permanent structures on the shoal," said a Philippines navy official, who declined to be identified because he was not authorized to speak to the press.

"On Monday, we sent a navy Islander plane to drop food and water but it will only last a few days. We really have to send back the civilian boats.

Since last year, we've been resupplying our troops using civilian ships to avoid confrontation and this was the first time China blocked them."

On Tuesday, Manila summoned the second highest Chinese embassy official to handover its strong-worded protest, calling the blockade "a clear and urgent threat to the rights and interests of the Philippines".

Beijing's claim over islands, reefs and atolls that form the Spratlys, a group of 250 uninhabitable islets spread over 165,000 square miles, has set it directly against US allies Vietnam and the Philippines, while Brunei, Malaysia and Taiwan also lay claim to parts of the South China Sea.

The South China Sea provides 10 percent of the global fish catch, carries $5 trillion in ship borne trade a year and its seabed is believed to be rich with energy reserves.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/82564/ph-airdrops-supplies-to-troops-on-ayungin

1 soldier killed in new clashes with rebels in Southern Philippines

From the Mindanao Examiner blog site (Mar 12): 1 soldier killed in new clashes with rebels in Southern Philippines

Fresh fighting erupted Wednesday between government troops and communist rebels in the southern Philippines and army officials said one soldier was killed in the clashes.

Officials said the fighting broke out in the village of Panoraon in Compostela Valley’s Maco town and that three other soldiers were wounded in the battle. 

“The fighting is still raging, but one soldier was confirmed dead and three others wounded,” Capt. Alberto Caber, a spokesman for the Eastern Mindanao Command, told the regional newspaper Mindanao Examiner.

There was no immediate statement from the NPA about the latest fighting, but the province is a known stronghold of the communist front.

On Tuesday, a rebel spokesman Dencio Madrigal owned up to daring and deadly attacks on police and military targets in Davao del Sur’s Matanao town that killed at least a dozen people.

He said the attacks on a police base and military forces were a punishment for the “reign of terror” against indigenous tribes and other communities opposing mining operations in the province.

Those killed in the rebel attacks had been given honors by the military in Davao City.

http://mindanaoexaminer.blogspot.com/2014/03/1-soldier-killed-in-new-clashes-with.html