From ABS-CBN (Aug 15): 3 hurt in Sulu clash between Abu Sayyaf, militia
SULU - Three civilians were wounded after Abu Sayyaf Group bandits clashed with members of a barangay peacekeeping action team in Patikul town in Sulu province, past 2 p.m. on Friday, the military said.
According to Brigadier General Alan Arrojado, commander of Sulu Joint Task Force Group, the wounded civilians were Nurhaida Jadja, 18 years old; Marni Suhuri, 17; and Hadji Anni Abubayong, 61.
The two teenagers are students of Patikul National High School.
Arrojado said the Abu Sayyaf bandits, led by a certain Muamar Askali, planned to kill a project engineer from the Department of Public Works and Highways in ARMM.
The project engineer was on board a motorcycle, with some escorts from the barangay council, when the clash occurred. The project engineer and the barangay peacekeeping action team members were unscathed after the 20-minute fight.
The bandits withdrew towards Barangay Kabuntakas. The group indiscriminately fired their firearms, hitting the Patikul National High School and some houses in Barangay Taglibi.
The wounded civilians were immediately rushed to the Integrated Provincial Hospital of Sulu.
Barangay peacekeeping action teams provide security to the heavy equipment and trucks of local contractors working on road projects in Sulu.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/08/14/15/3-hurt-sulu-clash-between-abu-sayyaf-militia
Friday, August 14, 2015
Negotiation for release of captive coast guards ongoing
From the Sun Star-Davao (Aug 14): Negotiation for release of captive coast guards ongoing
DAVAO City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte said that he tried to negotiate for the safe release of the coast guard personnel who were abducted by the Abu Sayyaf.
"Usa ko sa nangayo ug pabor sa Abu Sayyaf kay ang ginikanan sa coast guard nangayog tabang, so nagpadala ko ug estorya didto na mahimo dili lang patyon ba, wala la'y patay unsa lang maabot sa pamilya na ihatag pero naa pud ko'y laing negotiation na ana (I was among those who sent word to the Abu Sayyaf because the parents of one of the coast guard personnel held captive asked my help. I sent word to not kill anyone and that the captives be returned safe)," Duterte said after his opening speech at the Kadayawan commercial basketball tournament.
He added that he tried to communicate with them but to no avail.
"Nihangyo pero wala man ko nakadawat ug tubag (I sent word, but got no word in reply)," Duterte said.
He also told reporters that there must be a good reason why the Abu Sayyaf did not kill the others. If the hostages are still alive, he said, he will send word again through some Tausugs now living in Davao.
Even as the Philippine Coast Guard itself has said it will not negotiate, Duterte said he will not stop sending word.
The two remaining captives were earlier identified as Seaman Second Class Gringo Villaruz, 28, who hails from Governor Generoso in Davao Oriental, a graduate of University of Mindanao, and First Class Rod Pagaling. Both were assigned in Dapitan.
It was learned that Villaluz's aunt, Heidylizza Timbancaya, was the one who sought the help of Duterte, who in turn sought the help of contacts from the Moro National Liberation Front in Sulu.
But Timbancaya said the MNLF negotiators told them they are having difficulty ensuring the release of Villaluz without ransom.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/local-news/2015/08/14/negotiation-release-captive-coast-guards-ongoing-424638
DAVAO City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte said that he tried to negotiate for the safe release of the coast guard personnel who were abducted by the Abu Sayyaf.
"Usa ko sa nangayo ug pabor sa Abu Sayyaf kay ang ginikanan sa coast guard nangayog tabang, so nagpadala ko ug estorya didto na mahimo dili lang patyon ba, wala la'y patay unsa lang maabot sa pamilya na ihatag pero naa pud ko'y laing negotiation na ana (I was among those who sent word to the Abu Sayyaf because the parents of one of the coast guard personnel held captive asked my help. I sent word to not kill anyone and that the captives be returned safe)," Duterte said after his opening speech at the Kadayawan commercial basketball tournament.
He added that he tried to communicate with them but to no avail.
"Nihangyo pero wala man ko nakadawat ug tubag (I sent word, but got no word in reply)," Duterte said.
He also told reporters that there must be a good reason why the Abu Sayyaf did not kill the others. If the hostages are still alive, he said, he will send word again through some Tausugs now living in Davao.
Even as the Philippine Coast Guard itself has said it will not negotiate, Duterte said he will not stop sending word.
The two remaining captives were earlier identified as Seaman Second Class Gringo Villaruz, 28, who hails from Governor Generoso in Davao Oriental, a graduate of University of Mindanao, and First Class Rod Pagaling. Both were assigned in Dapitan.
It was learned that Villaluz's aunt, Heidylizza Timbancaya, was the one who sought the help of Duterte, who in turn sought the help of contacts from the Moro National Liberation Front in Sulu.
But Timbancaya said the MNLF negotiators told them they are having difficulty ensuring the release of Villaluz without ransom.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/local-news/2015/08/14/negotiation-release-captive-coast-guards-ongoing-424638
3 killed in separate attacks in Cotabato
From the Philippine Star (Aug 14): 3 killed in separate attacks in Cotabato
Three were killed while another was wounded in a grenade explosion in separate incidents here from Wednesday until late Thursday.
Driver Albert Pacho, 47, sustained shrapnel wounds when a grenade, hurled by one of two men riding a motorcycle together, went off Thursday night at the park area of the Sugarpapi Coffee Shop along the busy Sinsuat Avenue.
Pacho, driver of a white Toyota Fortuner bearing license plates LFU 494, was waiting for his employer whiling away time inside the establishment when the bombers attacked.
Responding policemen recovered from the scene fragments of an MK 27 grenade the suspects blasted outside of the coffee shop, owned by a local Chinese entrepreneur.
Military and police probers are still trying to determine the identities of the bombers and their real motive for the attack.
The incident was preceded by Wednesday’s separate shooting incidents here that left three dead.
Only one of the three fatalities, a certain Raul Bacero, 50, has been identified so far.
Bacero was shot dead by a suspect armed with a handgun while at a residential area along Quezon Avenue here.
Two unidentified men were killed one after another by gunmen armed with pistols hours later at Barangay Poblacion Mother.
An employee of the Commission on Audit in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao was shot and wounded Wednesday night at Barangay Rosary Heights, also in Cotabato City.
The victim, Ismael Mudi Ulama, who sustained a gunshot wound in the head, is now confined at a local hospital.
The pistol-wielding suspect who tried to kill Ulama managed to escape even before responding policemen and barangay leaders could reach the scene.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2015/08/14/1488054/3-killed-separate-attacks-cotabato
Three were killed while another was wounded in a grenade explosion in separate incidents here from Wednesday until late Thursday.
Driver Albert Pacho, 47, sustained shrapnel wounds when a grenade, hurled by one of two men riding a motorcycle together, went off Thursday night at the park area of the Sugarpapi Coffee Shop along the busy Sinsuat Avenue.
Pacho, driver of a white Toyota Fortuner bearing license plates LFU 494, was waiting for his employer whiling away time inside the establishment when the bombers attacked.
Responding policemen recovered from the scene fragments of an MK 27 grenade the suspects blasted outside of the coffee shop, owned by a local Chinese entrepreneur.
Military and police probers are still trying to determine the identities of the bombers and their real motive for the attack.
The incident was preceded by Wednesday’s separate shooting incidents here that left three dead.
Only one of the three fatalities, a certain Raul Bacero, 50, has been identified so far.
Bacero was shot dead by a suspect armed with a handgun while at a residential area along Quezon Avenue here.
Two unidentified men were killed one after another by gunmen armed with pistols hours later at Barangay Poblacion Mother.
An employee of the Commission on Audit in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao was shot and wounded Wednesday night at Barangay Rosary Heights, also in Cotabato City.
The victim, Ismael Mudi Ulama, who sustained a gunshot wound in the head, is now confined at a local hospital.
The pistol-wielding suspect who tried to kill Ulama managed to escape even before responding policemen and barangay leaders could reach the scene.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2015/08/14/1488054/3-killed-separate-attacks-cotabato
Suspect in Zambo car bombing arrested
From the Philippine Star (Aug 14): Suspect in Zambo car bombing arrested
Police operatives arrested a woman tagged in car bombing incident in January during a raid Thursday morning in a coastal village, a security official said.
Police operatives arrested a woman tagged in car bombing incident in January during a raid Thursday morning in a coastal village, a security official said.
City police director Senior Superintendent Angelito Casimiro identified the suspect as Babylin Jul-Muallam alias "Babyln Jul Ismael," a resident of Barangay San Roque.
Muallam was arrested by the city police intelligence led by Police Chief Inspector Edilberto Alvarez about 10:30 a.m. Thursday in Lower Calarian.
The arresting police unit backed by other special police units were armed with a warrant of arrest issued by Judge Peter Eisma of the Regional Trial Court Branch 15 for double murder, with multiple frustrated murder and multiple attempted murder.
Muallam is facing charges in connection with the January 23 car bomb explosion that killed two civilians and injured 52 others near the bus terminal in Barangay Guiwan.
The vehicle borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) containing three 60mm mortar rounds with TNT as explosive filler was concealed at the back compartment of a red colored Mitsubishi Lancer car that exploded in front of a pub house.
Casimiro said Muallam along with three other suspects identified as Aldamer Sahibuddin, Nidz Asmad and Muammar Askali alias "Abu Ramy" were charged by the police last June 17.
Muallam, Sahibuddin and Asmad were initially arrested during a follow-up operation following the bomb explosion.
The local court initially convicted Muallam for illegal possession of firearms and ammunition last July 24 but was released on probation.
PNoy appoints 7ID Commander as new NOLCOM Chief
From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 13): PNoy appoints 7ID Commander as new NOLCOM Chief
President Benigno Aquino III has appointed Army 7th Infantry Division (7ID) Commander Major General Glorioso Miranda as the new head of the Northern Luzon Command, replacing Lieutenant General Felicito Virgilio Trinidad Jr who retired from service.
Change of Command ceremony was held today at the unified command’s headquarters in Camp Servillano Aquino with Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Hernando Delfin Carmelo Iriberri in attendance.
A member of the Philippine Military Academy “Matikas” Class of 1983, Miranda is a recipient of a Distinguished Conduct Star for Conspicuous Courage and Gallantry; four Distinguished Service Stars for Services Rendered in Positions of Major Responsibility; and four Gold Cross Medals for Gallantry in Combat.
“Major General Miranda continues to hone his skills as a Scout Ranger, a Paratrooper and an Infantry and Intelligence Officer with commando training in the United Kingdom and Singapore,” NOLCOM said in a statement.
Apart from 7ID, other units under the operational control of NOLCOM include the Army 5th Infantry Division, Naval Forces Northern Luzon, and the Air Force Tactical Operations Groups 1,2, and 3.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2701439474397/pnoy-appoints-7id-commander-as-new-nolcom-chief
President Benigno Aquino III has appointed Army 7th Infantry Division (7ID) Commander Major General Glorioso Miranda as the new head of the Northern Luzon Command, replacing Lieutenant General Felicito Virgilio Trinidad Jr who retired from service.
Change of Command ceremony was held today at the unified command’s headquarters in Camp Servillano Aquino with Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Hernando Delfin Carmelo Iriberri in attendance.
A member of the Philippine Military Academy “Matikas” Class of 1983, Miranda is a recipient of a Distinguished Conduct Star for Conspicuous Courage and Gallantry; four Distinguished Service Stars for Services Rendered in Positions of Major Responsibility; and four Gold Cross Medals for Gallantry in Combat.
“Major General Miranda continues to hone his skills as a Scout Ranger, a Paratrooper and an Infantry and Intelligence Officer with commando training in the United Kingdom and Singapore,” NOLCOM said in a statement.
Apart from 7ID, other units under the operational control of NOLCOM include the Army 5th Infantry Division, Naval Forces Northern Luzon, and the Air Force Tactical Operations Groups 1,2, and 3.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2701439474397/pnoy-appoints-7id-commander-as-new-nolcom-chief
DND-AFP, DILG-PNP bolster alliance against insurgencies
From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 14): DND-AFP, DILG-PNP bolster alliance against insurgencies
In hopes of countering insurgencies, agencies concerned with territorial defense and public order and safety came together to reaffirm cooperation and enhance existing coordination mechanisms, today.
These were made possible through the joint signing of the Revised Joint Implementing Rules and Regulations (RJIRR) to Executive Orders 546 and 110.
The RJIRR is a policy measure enjoining the Department of National Defense (DND), the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), the PNP and the AFP to further enhance cooperation and coordination in combating insurgencies.
Said policy is also expected to clarify operational procedures and roles of the AFP and PNP in connection with the implementation of the abovementioned executive orders that pertain to PNP’s support to the AFP’s internal security operations (ISO).
Under the RJIRR, the PNP QUAD composed of Operations, Intelligence, Police Community Relations and Investigations, is mandated to give support to the AFP Triad composed of Combat Operations, Intelligence, and Civil Military Operations.
Aside from these agencies, the RJIRR considers the crucial role local government units play in ISO, hence the policy tasks the DILG to ensure that LGUs act within their prescribed duties and functions to support the implementation of the RJIRR without prejudice to the Local Government Code 1991 and other applicable laws.
Aside from being a mechanism that ensures cooperation between the AFP, PNP and LGUs in addressing all peace and security concerns, the RJIRR also covers emergencies and calamities.
Secretary of National Defense Voltaire Gazmin and Undersecretary Atty. Edwin Enrile, representing Secretary of Interior and Local Government Mar Roxas, in the presence of General Hernando DCA Iriberri, Chief of Staff AFP, and Police Director General Ricardo C. Marquez, Chief of PNP, signed the RJIRR at the AFP Commissioned Officers’ Club in Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2981439541506/dnd-afp-dilg-pnp-bolster-alliance-against-insurgencies
In hopes of countering insurgencies, agencies concerned with territorial defense and public order and safety came together to reaffirm cooperation and enhance existing coordination mechanisms, today.
These were made possible through the joint signing of the Revised Joint Implementing Rules and Regulations (RJIRR) to Executive Orders 546 and 110.
The RJIRR is a policy measure enjoining the Department of National Defense (DND), the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), the PNP and the AFP to further enhance cooperation and coordination in combating insurgencies.
Said policy is also expected to clarify operational procedures and roles of the AFP and PNP in connection with the implementation of the abovementioned executive orders that pertain to PNP’s support to the AFP’s internal security operations (ISO).
Under the RJIRR, the PNP QUAD composed of Operations, Intelligence, Police Community Relations and Investigations, is mandated to give support to the AFP Triad composed of Combat Operations, Intelligence, and Civil Military Operations.
Aside from these agencies, the RJIRR considers the crucial role local government units play in ISO, hence the policy tasks the DILG to ensure that LGUs act within their prescribed duties and functions to support the implementation of the RJIRR without prejudice to the Local Government Code 1991 and other applicable laws.
Aside from being a mechanism that ensures cooperation between the AFP, PNP and LGUs in addressing all peace and security concerns, the RJIRR also covers emergencies and calamities.
Secretary of National Defense Voltaire Gazmin and Undersecretary Atty. Edwin Enrile, representing Secretary of Interior and Local Government Mar Roxas, in the presence of General Hernando DCA Iriberri, Chief of Staff AFP, and Police Director General Ricardo C. Marquez, Chief of PNP, signed the RJIRR at the AFP Commissioned Officers’ Club in Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2981439541506/dnd-afp-dilg-pnp-bolster-alliance-against-insurgencies
Zambo. Sur declared peaceful, ready for further development province
From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 14): Zambo. Sur declared peaceful, ready for further development province
A joint resolution of the provincial government of Zamboanga del Sur, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) declaring Zamboanga del Sur as a peaceful and ready for further development province was signed on Wednesday at the Amusement and Events Center (AEC), Capitol Complex this city.
Provincial Governor Antonio H. Cerilles together with Mgen. Gerardo F. Barrientos Jr., commanding general of the 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division, PCSupt. Miguel C. Antonio Jr., officer-in-charge of the Police Regional Office (PRO)-9 led the signing of said resolution.
In his message, Governor Cerilles said: “Today our province is blessed, because no less than our friends from the AFP and PNP disclosed that this province is peaceful and is ready for development.”
“What does it mean?” the governor asked. “If all of us will help for peace and all of us will do our work as we pledged, and all of us will strive hard on how to bring peace to our barangay, I am sure big businessmen will look at our province. Business will boom and big business will arrive.”
“I am happy that finally our province is declared as peaceful and I am happy because this is the start of the new beginning, not maybe for our generation but for the next generation to come,” Cerilles emphasized.
“If we will maintain this, other provinces will look at us and we should take pride that we are thinking not only for ourselves, we are thinking of the next generation that they will have a better life,” Cerilles continued.
Meanwhile, PRO-9 deputy regional director for operations PSSupt Randolf R. Delfin expressed his full support and cooperation saying, “Kami po sa PNP ay makikiisa at nangangako na gagawin po naming ang lahat para maapaw natin ang ating minimithi, kapayapaan at kaunlaran (We, in the PNP are one in supporting this and we pledged to do everything to attain peace and progress in the area.)”
On the other hand, MGen. Gerardo F. Barrientos emphasized that “development and security are complimentary.”
“The security sector, represented by your AFP and PNP, supports your efforts towards a progressive Zamboanga del Sur. Your army, the 1ID is bannering the Internal Security Plan (ISP) with the non-government organizations (NGOs) in achieving an environment conducive for peace and development,” he said.
Barangay captains from all over the province, municipal mayors and vice mayors together with their chiefs of police, military officials, provincial officials as well as representatives from the different national government agencies were present in the said occasion.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1351439516333/zambo-sur-declared-peaceful-ready-for-further-development-province
A joint resolution of the provincial government of Zamboanga del Sur, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) declaring Zamboanga del Sur as a peaceful and ready for further development province was signed on Wednesday at the Amusement and Events Center (AEC), Capitol Complex this city.
Provincial Governor Antonio H. Cerilles together with Mgen. Gerardo F. Barrientos Jr., commanding general of the 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division, PCSupt. Miguel C. Antonio Jr., officer-in-charge of the Police Regional Office (PRO)-9 led the signing of said resolution.
In his message, Governor Cerilles said: “Today our province is blessed, because no less than our friends from the AFP and PNP disclosed that this province is peaceful and is ready for development.”
“What does it mean?” the governor asked. “If all of us will help for peace and all of us will do our work as we pledged, and all of us will strive hard on how to bring peace to our barangay, I am sure big businessmen will look at our province. Business will boom and big business will arrive.”
“I am happy that finally our province is declared as peaceful and I am happy because this is the start of the new beginning, not maybe for our generation but for the next generation to come,” Cerilles emphasized.
“If we will maintain this, other provinces will look at us and we should take pride that we are thinking not only for ourselves, we are thinking of the next generation that they will have a better life,” Cerilles continued.
Meanwhile, PRO-9 deputy regional director for operations PSSupt Randolf R. Delfin expressed his full support and cooperation saying, “Kami po sa PNP ay makikiisa at nangangako na gagawin po naming ang lahat para maapaw natin ang ating minimithi, kapayapaan at kaunlaran (We, in the PNP are one in supporting this and we pledged to do everything to attain peace and progress in the area.)”
On the other hand, MGen. Gerardo F. Barrientos emphasized that “development and security are complimentary.”
“The security sector, represented by your AFP and PNP, supports your efforts towards a progressive Zamboanga del Sur. Your army, the 1ID is bannering the Internal Security Plan (ISP) with the non-government organizations (NGOs) in achieving an environment conducive for peace and development,” he said.
Barangay captains from all over the province, municipal mayors and vice mayors together with their chiefs of police, military officials, provincial officials as well as representatives from the different national government agencies were present in the said occasion.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1351439516333/zambo-sur-declared-peaceful-ready-for-further-development-province
Zambo. Sur guv hands financial assistance to rebel returnees
From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 14): Zambo. Sur guv hands financial assistance to rebel returnees
Zamboanga del Sur Governor Antonio H. Cerilles on Wednesday awarded five rebel returnees with P15 thousand each to help them live normal lives again.
Cerilles personally handed the checks to the rebel returnees during the declaration of Zamboanga del Sur as peaceful and ready for further development province at the Amusement and Event Center, Capitol Compound this city.
The awarding of checks to the rebel returnees was witnessed by Western Mindanao Philippine Army chief Lt. Gen. Rustico Guerrero, Tabak commander MGen. Gerardo Barrientos Jr., PRO9 Deputy Director for Operations PSSupt. Randolf Delfin, 102nd Brigade commander Col. Andres S. Aguinaldo Jr., Board Member Ernesto Mondarte and Provincial Director Vernell Virgel Jayme of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG).
The names of the rebel returnees were not divulged for fear of reprisals by their comrades in the communist movement.
The financial assistance is part of the national government’s Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP) administered by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process (OPAPP), which was transferred to the provincial office of the DILG since May 15, 2014.
Cerilles said “it is the goal of the government to extend help to those who have left the arms movement to have something to start with for their families.”
“Let’s join hands together to make Zamboanga del Sur’s development sustainable by living in lasting peace,” Cerilles added.
On the other hand, Tabak commander MGen. Gerardo Barrientos Jr. congratulated the beneficiaries for deciding to trust the government again.
He also thanked the provincial government for keeping true to its commitment to help the rebel returnees in Zamboanga del Sur return to the folds of law.
Barrientos said the 1st Infantry (Tabak) division had beefed up its efforts at licking the insurgents and, at the same time, opening its other hand to welcome those who wanted to go back to the mainstream society.
Barrientos said a day before the declaration of Zamboanga del Sur as peaceful and ready for further development province, eight regular members of Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) had surrendered to the military.
The Tabak commander also said the unit would continue to intensify its engagement with all stakeholders in their area of responsibility in implementing the Bayanihan Team activities such as The Bayanihan sa Barangay, Bayanihan sa Kalusugan, Ugnayan Lingkod Bayan, Ugnayan sa Paaralan, Brigada Eskwela, Sagip Kalikasan, Youth Leadership Summit, Balik Loob Program, and Disaster Risk Reduction Management to ensure that the Philippine Army is always ready to help in case a disaster happens in the province.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1371439527211/zambo-sur-guv-hands-financial-assistance-to-rebel-returnees
Zamboanga del Sur Governor Antonio H. Cerilles on Wednesday awarded five rebel returnees with P15 thousand each to help them live normal lives again.
Cerilles personally handed the checks to the rebel returnees during the declaration of Zamboanga del Sur as peaceful and ready for further development province at the Amusement and Event Center, Capitol Compound this city.
The awarding of checks to the rebel returnees was witnessed by Western Mindanao Philippine Army chief Lt. Gen. Rustico Guerrero, Tabak commander MGen. Gerardo Barrientos Jr., PRO9 Deputy Director for Operations PSSupt. Randolf Delfin, 102nd Brigade commander Col. Andres S. Aguinaldo Jr., Board Member Ernesto Mondarte and Provincial Director Vernell Virgel Jayme of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG).
The names of the rebel returnees were not divulged for fear of reprisals by their comrades in the communist movement.
The financial assistance is part of the national government’s Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP) administered by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process (OPAPP), which was transferred to the provincial office of the DILG since May 15, 2014.
Cerilles said “it is the goal of the government to extend help to those who have left the arms movement to have something to start with for their families.”
“Let’s join hands together to make Zamboanga del Sur’s development sustainable by living in lasting peace,” Cerilles added.
On the other hand, Tabak commander MGen. Gerardo Barrientos Jr. congratulated the beneficiaries for deciding to trust the government again.
He also thanked the provincial government for keeping true to its commitment to help the rebel returnees in Zamboanga del Sur return to the folds of law.
Barrientos said the 1st Infantry (Tabak) division had beefed up its efforts at licking the insurgents and, at the same time, opening its other hand to welcome those who wanted to go back to the mainstream society.
Barrientos said a day before the declaration of Zamboanga del Sur as peaceful and ready for further development province, eight regular members of Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) had surrendered to the military.
The Tabak commander also said the unit would continue to intensify its engagement with all stakeholders in their area of responsibility in implementing the Bayanihan Team activities such as The Bayanihan sa Barangay, Bayanihan sa Kalusugan, Ugnayan Lingkod Bayan, Ugnayan sa Paaralan, Brigada Eskwela, Sagip Kalikasan, Youth Leadership Summit, Balik Loob Program, and Disaster Risk Reduction Management to ensure that the Philippine Army is always ready to help in case a disaster happens in the province.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1371439527211/zambo-sur-guv-hands-financial-assistance-to-rebel-returnees
Army troops encounter NPA in Samar and Leyte
Just posted to Samar News (Jul 21): Army troops encounter NPA in Samar and Leyte
Recovered NPA IEDs and personal belongings by 19th Infantry Battalion from the NPAs during encounter at Brgy Caghalo, Carigara,Leyte on June 18, 2015.
By DPAO, 8ID PA
July 21, 2015
CAMP LUKBAN , Catbalogan
City , Samar – Soldiers under 19th
Infantry Battalion and 43rd Infantry Battalion encountered new people’s army
(NPA) members operating in Leyte and Samar
Provinces Samar
around 2 o’clock in the afternoon.
http://www.samarnews.com/news2015/jul/d376.htm
Recovered NPA IEDs and personal belongings by 19th Infantry Battalion from the NPAs during encounter at Brgy Caghalo, Carigara,
By DPAO, 8ID PA
July 21, 2015
Based from the report of Lt. Col. Nedy C. Espulgar,
Commanding Officer of 19IB, his troops were acting on a report of NPAs’
presence at Barangay Caghalo. When they reached the said barangay, the soldiers
were fired upon by around 30 NPAs triggering the troops to fire back and engage
the rebels for a one (1) hour encounter.
This encounter resulted to the seizure of the NPA enclave
and the recovery of two (2) improvised explosive devices (IEDs), Electric
regulator, Maps, Medical kit, Food Supplies, rebel document and personal
belongings. There was no reported casualty on both sides.
On the other hand Lt. Col. Seigfred C. Tubalado, Commanding
Officer of the 43rd Infantry Battalion reported that while his troops were on
combat operation and passing by Barangay Tapol, they were fired upon by around
15 NPAs that triggered a 15 minutes encounter.
This encounter resulted to the wounding of two soldiers,
namely: Private First Class Jonjie N. Sanico and Private First Class Diego C.
Rebalde. Both soldiers suffered gunshot wounds at their left thighs. The rebels
suffered undetermined number of casualties based from the bloodstains seen at
their route of withdrawals.
The wounded soldiers are now recuperating at Camp Lukban
Station Hospital
The encounters are results of the continuous operations
conducted by the 8ID soldiers intended to arrest NPAs possessing IEDs to
prevent them planting it along routes frequented by the people.
http://www.samarnews.com/news2015/jul/d376.htm
NPA rebels burn trailer truck in Catanduanes
From the Bicol Today (Aug 11): NPA rebels burn trailer truck in Catanduanes
New People’s Army(NPA) rebels set on fire a trailer truck at Sitio Sumingit of Barangay Bugao, Bagasamoc town in the island-province of Catanduanes at about 5 p.m. Aug. 9.
According to Capt. Mardjorie Paimela P. Panesa, spokesperson of the 9th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army based at Camp Elias Angeles, San Jose, Pili, Camarines Sur, said seven armed rebels believed to be under Michael M. Guerrero alias Melwin did the burning of the heavy vehicle owned by the CADVEL Construction.
The firm has an ongoing bridge construction in the area.
The Philippine National Police Catanduanes provincial office is still investigating the incident.
Previous incidents of burning of heavy equipment by NPA members had been claimed by the dissident movement as being due to non-payment of revolutionary taxes.
http://bicoltoday.com/2015/08/11/npa-rebels-burn-trailer-truck-in-catanduanes/
New People’s Army(NPA) rebels set on fire a trailer truck at Sitio Sumingit of Barangay Bugao, Bagasamoc town in the island-province of Catanduanes at about 5 p.m. Aug. 9.
According to Capt. Mardjorie Paimela P. Panesa, spokesperson of the 9th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army based at Camp Elias Angeles, San Jose, Pili, Camarines Sur, said seven armed rebels believed to be under Michael M. Guerrero alias Melwin did the burning of the heavy vehicle owned by the CADVEL Construction.
The firm has an ongoing bridge construction in the area.
The Philippine National Police Catanduanes provincial office is still investigating the incident.
Previous incidents of burning of heavy equipment by NPA members had been claimed by the dissident movement as being due to non-payment of revolutionary taxes.
http://bicoltoday.com/2015/08/11/npa-rebels-burn-trailer-truck-in-catanduanes/
Japan joins U.S.-Philippine humanitarian drills
Posted to ABS-CBN (Aug 14): Japan joins U.S.-Philippine humanitarian drills
Japan has joined U.S.-led maritime humanitarian exercises off the Philippines for the first time, as concerns mount among the three allies about China's growing assertiveness in the disputed West Philippine Sea (South China Sea).
A Japanese navy replenishment ship was in Subic Bay, a former U.S. naval base, to refuel a U.S. Navy floating hospital en route to Vietnam for the seven-nation humanitarian mission.
It was the first time a Japanese navy ship has taken part in the humanitarian assistance and disaster relief drills although a flotilla of Japanese training vessels, including a submarine, makes annual port calls in Manila.
Rear Admiral Charles Williams, commander of U.S. Seventh Fleet's Task Force 73, said humanitarian assistance and disaster relief exercises were becoming a regular component of military exercises in the Philippines.
"You are seeing in exercises ... a shift from strictly bilateral engagement to multilateral, which is why you see the Japanese here today," Williams told journalists aboard USNS Mercy, one of two U.S. hospital ships.
China claims most of the South China Sea, through which $5 trillion in ship-borne trade passes every year. The Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Taiwan and Brunei also have overlapping claims. Japan and China also have conflicting claims in the East China Sea.
Williams said the presence of Admiral Katsutoshi Kawano, head of Japan's Self-Defence Forces, "speaks volumes about their commitment to the region and their commitment to being part of a multilateral engagement".
Kawano met early this week with his Philippine counterpart, General Hernando Iriberri, and Defence Secretary Voltaire Gazmin in Manila, where he expressed interest in holding joint amphibious landing exercises and operations with Philippine marines.
In a meeting with Gazmin, Kawano also expressed interest in sharing information in the South China Sea and capacity building, particularly in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
Williams said humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations were "a great avenue towards increasing maritime stability and security in this region", part of Washington's rebalance to Asia policy.
China hit back on Monday at U.S. criticism that it restricts navigation and overflights in the South China Sea. U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry also said China's construction of facilities on man-made islands for "military purposes" was raising tension and risked "militarisation" by other claimant states.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/08/14/15/japan-joins-us-philippine-humanitarian-drills
Japan has joined U.S.-led maritime humanitarian exercises off the Philippines for the first time, as concerns mount among the three allies about China's growing assertiveness in the disputed West Philippine Sea (South China Sea).
A Japanese navy replenishment ship was in Subic Bay, a former U.S. naval base, to refuel a U.S. Navy floating hospital en route to Vietnam for the seven-nation humanitarian mission.
It was the first time a Japanese navy ship has taken part in the humanitarian assistance and disaster relief drills although a flotilla of Japanese training vessels, including a submarine, makes annual port calls in Manila.
Rear Admiral Charles Williams, commander of U.S. Seventh Fleet's Task Force 73, said humanitarian assistance and disaster relief exercises were becoming a regular component of military exercises in the Philippines.
"You are seeing in exercises ... a shift from strictly bilateral engagement to multilateral, which is why you see the Japanese here today," Williams told journalists aboard USNS Mercy, one of two U.S. hospital ships.
China claims most of the South China Sea, through which $5 trillion in ship-borne trade passes every year. The Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Taiwan and Brunei also have overlapping claims. Japan and China also have conflicting claims in the East China Sea.
Williams said the presence of Admiral Katsutoshi Kawano, head of Japan's Self-Defence Forces, "speaks volumes about their commitment to the region and their commitment to being part of a multilateral engagement".
Kawano met early this week with his Philippine counterpart, General Hernando Iriberri, and Defence Secretary Voltaire Gazmin in Manila, where he expressed interest in holding joint amphibious landing exercises and operations with Philippine marines.
In a meeting with Gazmin, Kawano also expressed interest in sharing information in the South China Sea and capacity building, particularly in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
Williams said humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations were "a great avenue towards increasing maritime stability and security in this region", part of Washington's rebalance to Asia policy.
China hit back on Monday at U.S. criticism that it restricts navigation and overflights in the South China Sea. U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry also said China's construction of facilities on man-made islands for "military purposes" was raising tension and risked "militarisation" by other claimant states.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/08/14/15/japan-joins-us-philippine-humanitarian-drills
Troops kill ASG member in Basilan clash
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 14): Troops kill ASG member in Basilan clash
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=793347
A suspected member of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) was killed
while three others were wounded in a clash in the nearby town of Sumisip
Col. Rolando Joselito Bautista, Army’s 104th Infantry
Brigade commander, said the clash broke out around 7 a.m. Friday in Barangay
Kaumpamatsakem, Sumisip.
Bautista said the clash ensued when the troops from the
Army’s 4th Special Forces Battalion chanced upon 15 ASG members while on combat
operations.
He said the firefight lasted for about 15 minutes after
which the ASG members fled to different directions.
He said the ASG suffered one dead and two wounded, who were
dragged by their comrades when they fled.
He said the wounded soldier was extricated from the clash
site as the troops are tracking down the fleeing ASG members.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=793347
DND questions Chinese plan to construct search-and-rescue facilities in disputed areas
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 14): DND questions Chinese plan to construct search-and-rescue facilities in disputed areas
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=793273
"For whom are those search-and-rescue facilities
for?"
This was the reaction of Department of National Defense
(DND) spokesperson Dr. Peter Paul Galvez when asked to comment on the Chinese
plans to construct facilities on the artificial islands it constructed in the
disputed portion of the South China Sea .
"Is it for our ships and installations that they are
threatening to destroy?" he added.
Chinese Ambassador Zhao Jianhua earlier said Beijing
"Regardless of what supposedly 'good' details the
Chinese leadership informs the peace-focused and rules-based international
community, they illegally and blatantly continue with their aggression as these
are mere elements of their island building militarization which needs to be
stopped and be dismantled," Galvez stressed.
The DND spokesperson said that this proposal by China is what the Philippines
He added that it become all too evident that the Chinese
leadership had no intention of honoring its commitment to the ASEAN Declaration
of Conduct in 2002 all along.
"They've said one thing and have done another. They are
simply trying to cover their tracks. This is the worst stage of all, this is
the militarization stage, and it must be stopped, otherwise, it will be the
tipping point that will plunge the entire region including the peace loving
Chinese communities into a deeper and irreversible crisis," Galvez stressed.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=793273
RJIRR formally signed Friday
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 14): RJIRR formally signed Friday
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=793288
Cooperation between the Armed Forces of the Philippines
Signing was done by Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and
Interior and Local Government Undersecretary Atty. Edwin Enrile, representing
Secretary Mar Roxas.
Also present were AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Hernando DCA
Iriberri and PNP chief Director General Ricardo C. Marquez.
Joint signing of the RJIRR took place at the AFP
Commissioned Officers’ Club in Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City
The RJIRR is a mandate to enhance the cooperation and
coordination between the AFP and the PNP.
It is also expected to clarify operational procedures and
roles of the AFP and PNP against insurgency in connection with the
implementation of EO 546 otherwise known as an executive order “Directing the
Philippine National Police to Undertake Active Support to the Armed Forces of
the Philippines in Internal Security Operations for the Suppression of
Insurgency and Other Serious Threats to National Security, Amending Certain
Provisions of Executive Order No. 110 Series of 1999 and For Other Purposes.”
Under the RJIRR, the PNP QUAD (Operation, Intelligence,
Police Community Relations and Investigations) Operations is mandated to give
support to AFP Triad (Combat Operations, Intelligence and Civil Military
Operations) in discharging its duties to the public against insurgency.
The RJIRR is also meant to set the actions and roles of the
AFP, PNP, DND and DILG in accordance with the guidelines of implementation set
on the varying stages of insurgency from its active stage to a state of
internal peace and stability.
The roles of these agencies vary in degree from lead to
support roles under the scope of the Internal Security Operations (ISO).
Aside from these agencies, the local government units also
play a role in ISO with their mandate of ensuring support to the efforts of AFP
and PNP against insurgency with the RJIRR.
The DILG is hereby tasked to ensure that LGUs act within
their prescribed duties and functions in supporting the implementation of the
RJIRR at the different stages or phase of internal security in accordance with
the Local Government Code 1991 and other applicable laws.
The RJIRR is needed to ensure effective implementation of
the AFP-PNP partnership in conduct of ISO with the help of a Joint Peace and
Security Coordinating Center (JPSCC), as provided in the AFP-PNP JLD 07-2010.
The JPSCC will also act as an authority in assessing the implementation of
RJIRR.
AFP Unified Commands and PNP-DIPOs shall be responsible for
the establishment of JPSCCs in regions, provinces and independent cities.
The JPSCC shall be enhanced by the AFP and the PNP in the
national, regional, provincial and independent city levels.
The Technical Working Groups of the AFP Triad, PNP Quad and
respective Legal Services shall serve as the Secretariat of the JPSCC.
The RJIRR shall also be the mechanism to ensure cooperation
between the AFP, PNP and LGUs in addressing all peace and security concerns in
the area, including during times of emergency and calamity.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=793288
PAF lift and close-air support boosted with arrival of 10 new helis
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 14): PAF lift and close-air support boosted with arrival of 10 new helis
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=793276
The Philippine Air Force (PAF)'s mobility and close-air
support capabilities will be greatly boosted with arrival of eight Bell-412 EP
combat utility helicopters and two attack versions of the AgustaWestland
AW-109Es Monday.
This was disclosed by PAF spokesperson Col. Enrico Canaya in
a message to the PNA Friday.
"The additional helicopters will certainly help
increase (the) capability of the PAF. The Bell-412EPs have better lifting
capacity suitable for mobility of troops and humanitarian assistance and disaster
relief operations while the AW-109Es will augment the existing MG-520 gunships
in close-air support to ground forces when needed," he added.
Turnover and blessing of the 10 helicopters will be done at
Villamor Air Base, Pasay
City
Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin will be the guest-of-honor
and speaker for this occasion.
The Department of National Defense on March 2014, signed a
Php4.8 billion contract with Canadian government for the delivery of eight Bell
The order for eight attack AW-109Es was signed in June 2013
and is worth Php3.44 billion.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=793276
JDSF head calls for more improvements in PHL-Japan humanitarian assistance, disaster relief cooperation
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 14): JDSF head calls for more improvements in PHL-Japan humanitarian assistance, disaster relief cooperation
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=793385
Japan Self Defense Force (JSDF) chief of staff Admiral
Katsutoshi Kawano on Friday said there is a need for the Philippines and Japan
to improve their humanitarian assistance and disaster relief
(HA/DR)cooperation.
Kawano arrived in the Philippines
"Aside from defense equipment cooperation, Admiral
Kawano stressed the importance of capacity building cooperation with the
Philippines, particularly on matters concerning HA/DR," Department of
National Defense (DND) spokesperson Dr. Peter Paul Galvez said.
The Japanese military official also acknowledged that the
conduct of staff-to-staff talks between the JSDF and Armed Forces of the Philippines
"He also raised the need to share information to
address common security issues. He expressed his belief that Japan and Philippines
He added that Kawano acknowledged that the Philippines-Japan
Memorandum on Defense Cooperation and Exchanges had served as a framework for
increasing high level exchanges between the defense and military establishments
of the two countries.
A notable increase was seen since the signing of the
agreement.
"Admiral Kawano also expressed interest in conducting
more exercises with the Philippines Philippines , emphasizing that with regard to
conducting such activities, a VFA (Visiting Forces Agreement) with Japan
Galvez added that Kawano also told Filipino defense
officials that the national security legislation was already in the Diet.
He shared that the (Japanese) public does not understand the
recent developments necessitating commensurate changes in Japan ’s security policies but assured that Prime
Minister Abe is bent on pushing for national security legislation which could
allow JSDF to expand activities with the Philippines
"On regional security issues, he mentioned that China
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=793385
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