MILF: Editorial -- Sad part of military build-up

Editorial posted to the MILF Website (Dec 23): Editorial -- Sad part of military build-up

Some P83.9 billion pesos or $1.77 billion is expected to be spent for the modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in 2017. This is in addition to 56.79 billion pesos already spent for the same purpose. This was disclosed to the nation by President Benigno Aquino III during the ceremony that marked the 80th anniversary of the AFP.

All these purported purchases are intended to increase the defense capacity of this country in the face of territorial dispute with China. This is a good policy. It is not that we will match the military might of China or we can stop China’s aggression. None of this is in the equation.  China is too big, powerful, and rich for a small country like the Philippines to confront.

The main point here is not to resign to our fate, like an animal lying flat on the ground in the face of a roaring tiger. This country must strengthen itself.  And it must fight off any aggression from without.

However, the sad part of this military build-up is that if the armed mess in Mindanao is not resolved, these war materials including the supersonic jetfighters will be used against the Moro insurgents. In fact, they have been used already in the military campaigns in Basilan and Sulu, which victimized not only legitimate targets like Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) but even including peaceful civilians.

There is another sad part of it, this time it is demerit on the side of the AFP. A sizeable portion of the AFP will be deployed in Mindanao or elsewhere to contain the threat within.  Consequently, instead of focusing on external defense, the AFP will also be forced to fight an internal war.

If these conflicts intensify on both fronts, what will happen to this country? We do not want to paint a grim scenario. Let us just hope that nothing of this sort will ever come our way.

The resolution of the conflict in Mindanao, therefore, is both tactically and strategically beneficial to the interests of this country.  We do not see any wisdom of delaying the passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) in Congress. Any delay is counter-productive – it only feeds on the appetite of so-called radicals and terrorists.

Those lawmakers who are spoiling or filibustering the passage of the BBL, in the guise of securing constitution-compliant law, should be talked to and urged to conduct soul-searching exercise. Good if that is really their motives. If otherwise, then they are not really doing any service to this country.  On the contrary, they are courting problems for this country.

But if the proposed law is not enacted into law, the spoilers are not the only ones to be faulted. Much in the loop is leadership.  

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/editorial/item/750-sad-part-of-military-build-up

MILF: UBJP Holds 5th General Assembly in Sultan Kudarat Province

Posted to the MILF Website (Dec 23): UBJP Holds 5th General Assembly in Sultan Kudarat Province



 Photo captured by: Ebs Nor

The United Bangsamoro Justice Party held its 5th Gen. Assembly Meeting on December 19, 2015 at Barangay Laguilayan, Isulan, Sultan Kudarat .

Barangay Captain Braulio Madriaga welcomed the UBJP team and the 900 participants more or less comprising members of the UBJP in Sultan Kudarat Province.

The opening address was delivered by Sultan Hadji  Abubakar Sinenggayan, a traditional leader. He stressed to the participants to fix their mindset that Bangsamoro programs are not for the Bangsamoro alone as Christians and highlanders shall also benefit from them. 

Bai Noria Sinenggayan, member of the village council inspired the participants by saying, "A vision without action is just a dream and a dream without achievement. It is like a bird flying without direction”, we need to work together.

 Dir. Moidjoddin K. Talusob of Kalilintad Development Foundation Inc. (KDFI) delivered words of wisdom. He told the audience that peace negotiation is part of struggle for peace. The passage of BBL by both Houses of Congress can address the injustices committed against the Bangsamoro people.

Ustadz Hussein Abdulwahab, CCCH member gave updates on current situation of the peace process followed by Understanding Islamic Concept of Political Party (UBJP) by Prof. Hisham Nando, member of UBJP Board of Directors. 

Prof. Nando emphasized that UBJP is a principled-party.  

During the open forum, Shiehk Thata B. Mustapha asked the speakers on what is the reaction of the Moro Islamic Liberation (MILF) on Congress’ December 16 self-imposed deadline for the passage of BBL but did not materialize? 

Abdulwahab said that, “There are 3 scenarios on the possible fate of the BBL.

First, BBL shall be passed compliant to the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB), second, BBL shall be passed according to the substitute bill of Senator Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos but the MILF said they will not accept it, and third, no BBL shall be passed under President Aquino's administration. 

"Whatever may happen to BBL, the Bangsamoro leaders will continue and consistently walk long miles for lasting peace in the Bangsamoro”, said Nando.

Mr. Quraish T. Langcap, an officer of UBJP mentioned UBJP proposed activities and the series of activities initiated by his group in the province.  The planned activities will be announced during their succeeding meeting to be held also in Sultan Kudarat province.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/new/item/749-ubjp-holds-5th-general-assembly-in-sultan-kudarat-province

MILF: Peace advocates push for passage of CAB-based BBL

Posted to the MILF Website (Dec 22): Peace advocates push for passage of CAB-based BBL



Peace advocate groups and civil society organizations led by the United Youth for Peace and Development (UNYPAD-NCR) National Capital Region Chapter and Sulong Bangsamoro Movement (SBM) staged a rally outside the House of Representatives during the stormy afternoon of Tuesday, December 15 to express their unwavering support for the passage of undiluted Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL). 

“Kamim Macmod, UNYPAD Luzon Regional Coordinator said during an interview, “This is the last fight that we are going to do for the year 2015, in support to the BBL.”

“We voicing out our strong disagreements and opposition for the passage of BL-BAR. We know the BLBAR is unacceptable to the Bangsamoro, Christians and Lumads in Mindanao. We once again repeat our call to you members of Congress to pass the BBL now so we can have peace in Mindanao", he added.

Macmod together with Abayazid Kulodan and Badrudin Ali, both youth leaders in Metro Manila initiated the event. 

Members of different organizations such as UMMAHAT NCR, Alliance of the Bangsamoro for Peace and Development (ABOPAD), Anak Mindanao (Amin)-NCR, also joined the mass rally. 

The opening prayer was led by Imam Mujahid Abubakar of UNYPAD NCR. The rallyists gathered peacefully despite the heavy rain.

When the lawmakers started to arrive at 3:00pm, the rallyists positioned at the south gate of the House of Representatives to see-to-it that they would catch the attention of the lawmakers and realized the presence significant number of people pushing for the passage of CAB-based Bangsamoro Basic Law.

By that time, the peace advocates started to chant "Pass the BBL", "No to BL-BAR" "Peace in Mindanao!" Some individuals representing their organization were also given a chance to speak during the brief program.

"The BBL is a solution to our problems. It gives hope to our dreams, so please support the immediate passage of this law that should be CAB compliant", said Mahdie Amelia of the Sulong Bangsamoro Movement.

ABOPAD President Daniel Datukali said: "Dear congressmen, to all of you, this might be your last term as congressmen or congresswomen. Passing the CAB-based BBL would be your legacy to us.”

"We are here to ask you to please pass the BBL in compliance with CAB. We won’t accept the BL-BAR, a Law which is much lower than the ARMM. This couldn’t address the decades-long conflict in Mindanao", Omuhannie Mabandes, Chairwoman of the Women Affair Committee of UNYPAD NCR pointed out.

Sajid Khan Tula, UNYPAD NCR Chairman emotionally calls for the passage of the proposed law, "We are here for a peaceful rally to show our support for the passage of BBL based on CAB. This will be our final rally this year before the self-imposed deadline for the enactment of the proposed Bangsamoro law tomorrow, Dec. 16”.

“No one knows what will happen next if the BBL is not passed,” Tula pointed out.

The rallyists left upon noticing that there were no more lawmakers’ vehicles entering the south gate.

For them, what is important is that they have expressed their strong support for the passage of BBL, and the consequences should the law not passed under the term of President Benigno Aquino.  Pres. Aquino has been pushing for the BBL passage before he steps down from office on June 30, 2016. 

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/new/item/748-peace-advocates-push-for-passage-of-cab-based-bbl

MILF: Myanmar’s 12-man delegation visits Office of the Chief of Staff of BIAF-MILF

Posted to the MILF Website (Dec 21): Myanmar’s 12-man delegation visits Office of the Chief of Staff of BIAF-MILF

A 12-man delegation from Myanmar arrived in Mindanao purposely to study and make research on how the peace process is being facilitated. On December 16, they visited the Office of Chief of Staff Sammy Al Mansor of the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (BIAF-MILF). Al Mansor is also the Secretary General of United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP), a political party formed by the Moro Front.

 Al Mansor and other high ranking BIAF Officers welcomed the delegation.  Myanmar has five rebel fronts that formed into union and had already signed ceasefire agreements with its government this October 2015. 

Also present during the meeting were MILF Panel Prof Abhoud Syed Lingga and Datu Jun Mantawil, Head of Secretariat, MILF Peace Panel. The two shared the experience of the MILF in the peace process and how the negotiation came into being and until the signing of the peace accords, the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB) and the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB). 

The Bangsamoro Peace Process had been a subject of various studies by peace advocates and concerned groups from other conflict affected areas, such as from Ache, Patani, Thailand and this time from Myanmar. 

The leadership of MILF, its officers are pleased to share what they have learned in the process of peace negotiations with the Government of the Philippines (GPH) that started in 1997.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/new/item/747-myanmar-s-12-man-delegation-visits-office-of-the-chief-of-staff-of-biaf-milf

Yearender: ‘No ransom, no release of hostages’

From the Philippine Star (Dec 23): Yearender: ‘No ransom, no release of hostages’



Norwegian Kjartan Sekkingstad, Canadians John Ridsdel, and Robert Hall File photo

Hundreds of troopers have to spend another Christmas chasing Abu Sayyaf bandits holding about 10 captives, including foreigners, in the jungles of Sulu.

While government security forces have yet to secure the freedom of Dutch birdwatcher Ewold Horns, who has been in captivity for three years now, the Abu Sayyaf managed to pull off another kidnapping in Davao del Norte this year.

Norwegian Kjartan Sekkingstad, Canadians John Ridsdel and Robert Hall, and Hall’s Filipina partner Maritess Flor were seized from a resort on Samal Islands on Sept. 21.

The Samal kidnapping put doubts on the government’s claim that it had defeated the Abu Sayyaf.

In November, a video was posted on social media showing the bandits with the captives and demanding P1 billion in ransom for each of the hostages.

Officials said the military offensives are expected to continue on the ground during Christmas and before the year ends to force the Abu Sayyaf to release the captives.

Brig. Gen. Alan Arrojado, chief of the Joint Task Group Sulu, said there would be rotations of troops to ensure fresh legs to run after and tire out the bandits.

The National Intelligence Board special monitoring committee has placed 19 areas in the country under alert level 3, which means the terrorist threat is high due to the kidnappings.

Armed Forces chief Gen. Hernando Iriberri said the troopers are battling about 300 to 400 Abu Sayyaf militants under different leaders.

The figure quoted by Iriberri represented a similar strength of the bandit group that the military and police forces have been battling for 15 years now.

The bandits’ number swelled after the Sipadan kidnapping, where they earned a hefty ransom and recruited members.

Military intelligence operatives disclosed the group managed to maintain their force by offering money to their members and orphans of those who were killed in battle.

The group reportedly received P30 million in ransom in exchange for the release of Malaysian restaurant manager Thien Nyuk Fun in November.

Fun’s compatriot Bernard Then Ted Fen was beheaded a week after as the family failed to raise the P40-million ransom.

Both victims were seized last May in Sabah, Malaysia and brought in Sulu.
Peace advocate Octovio Dinampo said no hostages have been released without paying ransom.

“I do not believe it when someone says the captive was able to escape, walk out or run away,” Dinampo said.

He said the Abu Sayyaf’s Igassan group earned much from the release of two German captives last year.

He said military operations have been going on since the administration of former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, but the bandits remained in the area.

Dinampo urged authorities to examine its approach against the bandit group, noting the government forces could be running after the wrong group.

http://www.philstar.com/nation/2015/12/23/1535403/yearender-no-ransom-no-release-hostages

Cafgu detachment in N. Cotabato strafed

ABS-CBN (Dec 23): Cafgu detachment in N. Cotabato strafed

PIKIT, North Cotabato - A Cafgu detachment under the 22nd CAA Bravo Company of the Army's 38th Infantry Battalion was harassed by a still unidentified group at Barangay Nalapaan, Pikit, North Cotabato on Tuesday evening.

Authorities say the Cafgus assigned in the area were already inside their bunks when they heard gunshots being fired on their position, prompting them to fire back.

They believe there were at least 50 attackers stationed some 100 meters from the detachment. The detachment is located along the national highway.

The gun battle lasted for about 20 minutes but police said no one was hurt in the said incident.

No evacuation was also reported.

http://news.abs-cbn.com/nation/regions/12/23/15/cafgu-detachment-in-n-cotabato-strafed

Ceasefire begins

From the Mindanao Times (Dec 23): Ceasefire begins

Military still on high alert despite suspension of operation

 

MILITARY troops are standing down following the declaration of suspension of military operations (Somo) against the New People’s Army for the celebration of Christmas and New Year.

Spokesperson Capt. Rhyan Batchar said in an interview yesterday that the whole forces will be on the defensive position as they continue with the peace and development outreach program.

President Benigno Aquino III approved last week the declaration of the Somo against the rebels. The ceasefire will start at 12 a.m. today and would end at 11:59 p.m. on Jan. 3, 2016.

“But we will also support the law enforcement operation of the police,“ he said.

Batchar said they will raise their alert status on the suspension of offensives, as the troops are prepared for any eventuality “because we cannot predict the NPA’s mind.“

In a separate interview, Davao City Police Office spokesperson, Chief Insp. Milgrace C. Driz, said the police force is also on red alert the rest of the year.

“We will come in during anti-criminality operations, especially if we are going to serve a warrant of arrest on the suspect,” he said.

The Communist Party of the Philippines has already declared ceasefire earlier this month, in support of the calls to resume the stalled peace talks with the government.

The CPP-NDF ceasefire would take effect starting today until Jan. 3 next year.

Last year’s ceasefire was marred by the attack on three soldiers at Sitio Barigyan, Barangay Candinuyan, Mabini, Compostela Valley on Dec. 29.

Two soldiers of the Army’s 71st Infantry Battalion and one cafgu were on their way to Barangay Anitapan around 9:45 a.m. on board a motorcycle for a Christmas break when they were ambushed by NPA rebels.

Also last year, two army soldiers captured by the NPA were freed on Dec. 21 during the ceasefire period as a goodwill gesture as the communist guerilla asked for the resumption of the peace talks.

Pfc. Alvin Recante and Cpl. Benjamin Samamo were released by the NPA to Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte.

The soldiers were turned over to Duterte who reiterated the call for the resumption of peace talks between the National Democratic Front and the Government of the Philippines.

“Ang ako ani, sige ko ug yawyaw i-resume ang peace talks. Dugay na man gud kaayo na! Wala’y malipay nga Pilipino, mupatay ug kapwa Pilipino (I have repeatedly called for the resumption of the peace talks. This has taken so long. No Filipino is happy killing a fellow Filipino),” he said during a brief turover ceremony in Montevista, Compostela Valley.

http://mindanaotimes.net/ceasefire-begins/

NPA's ambush on relief convoy 'disrespect' to typhoon victims

From Rappler (Dec 23): NPA's ambush on relief convoy 'disrespect' to typhoon victims

(UPDATED) Despite this, the military says it will 'strictly observe' the holiday ceasefire declared by the Aquino administration



Tuesday's (December 22) rebel ambush on government troops transporting relief goods in Northern Samar is a "disrespect" to typhoon victims, the military said Wednesday, December 23.

"The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) condemns the dastardly act done by communist rebels against our troops under the 20th Infantry Battalion engaged in humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR) operations for typhoon “Nona” victims in Northern Samar," the AFP said in a statement.

On Tuesday, one soldier was killed while 2 others were wounded when rebels ambushed their convoy transporting relief goods in near Barangay Bukit, Las Navas, Northern Samar.

The troops from the 20th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army were bringing repair materials to victims of Typhoon Nona (Melor) when they were ambushed by an unknown number of rebel fighters.

"This act by the NPAs is a clear disrespect of the rights of typhoon victims to receive assistance from our government," the AFP said. "This shows that they are insensitive to the plight of the victims of typhoon."

Despite this, the AFP said soldiers will "strictly observe" the ceasefire declared by President Benigno Aquino III, which begins Wednesday and ends January 3.

The communists have also declared a ceasefire during the same period.

"We assure the public that this incident will not hamper our ongoing HADR operations for the storm victims," the AFP added.

Palace Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr stressed the same point: "Government is fully determined to carry out and complete needed relief and rehabilitation work in calamity-affected areas despite recent attacks in Samar that momentarily disrupted our main efforts in rendering humanitarian assistance and disaster relief."

He said the government would "increase the deployment of personnel assigned to force protection and road security."

http://www.rappler.com/nation/116884-northern-samar-ambush-npa-disrespect-typhoon-victims

Armed men harass Army positions in Maguindanao, N. Cotabato

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 24): Armed men harass Army positions in Maguindanao, N. Cotabato

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao –- Lawless elements in Maguindanao and North Cotabato have intensified its harassment against government forces the past three days, the military here said.

Capt. Joann Petinglay, speaking for the 6th Infantry Division, said armed groups have launched attacks on government forces and paramilitary units in the towns of Pikit, North Cotabato and in Datu Abdulla Sangki and Datu Anggal towns in Maguindanao.

“No casualty was reported on government side,” she said. She could not say if the attackers suffered injuries when soldiers returned fire in every attacks carried by suspected Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF).

BIFF spokesperson Abu Misry Mama owned up to the harassment, warning government forces of more offensives ahead.

In Pikit, North Coabato, Senior Insp. Sindatu Karim, town police chief, said about 20 armed men simultaneously opened fire on the Army’s 38th Infantry Battalion detachment in Barangay Nalapaan the other night.

A 30-minute fire fight ensued.

Karim said the armed skirmishes could have been triggered by a long standing land dispute involving Moro residents and lawless BIFF.

Following the incident, soldiers and policemen deployed in the towns of Carmen, Aleosan, Kabacan and Midsayap where the BIFF identified publicly as its target areas.

But Capt. Petinglay said all Army units in its area of jurisdiction have been placed on alert status, not only in areas publicly named by lawless groups as targets.

On Wednesday night, armed men fired rocket propelled grenades on an Army detachment in Datu Anggal, Maguindanao.

Petinglay said armed men fired rifle grenades but the soldiers returned fire which triggered an hour-long firefight until the attackers fled.

The Army spokesperson also reminded every soldiers of the directive issued by Maj. Gen. Edmundo Pangilinan, 6th ID chief, to refrain from firing their guns in welcoming the New Year.

“Our troops are barred from firing their guns indiscriminately to welcome Christmas and New Year, even firecrackers are not allowed,” she said.

“The instruction is even firecrackers should not be set off because the soldiers may not notice they are subjected to attacks by lawless elements during the revelry,” she said, adding intelligence information gathered by the 6th ID showed lawless elements have plotted to launch series of attacks against military detachments and checkpoints.

The 6th ID covers the provinces of Maguindanao, North Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=841005

AFP to comply with SOMO despite NPA attacks in Surigao Del Sur

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 24): AFP to comply with SOMO despite NPA attacks in Surigao Del Sur

Despite the unprovoked attack on military units in Surigao Del Sur province Wednesday despite the Yuletide truce, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) announced that it will still comply with the suspension of military operations (SOMO) declared by President Benigno S. Aquino III.

"On our part, we assure the public that the AFP continues to abide by the SOMO declared by His Excellency President Benigno Aquino III against the NPA rebels which began 12:01 a.m. on Dec. 23, 2015 and will end 11:59 p.m. of January 3, 2016," AFP public affairs office chief Col. Noel Detoyato said.

The New People's Army (NPA) attack took place around 9:30 a.m. just hours from the unilateral ceasefire declared by the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) took effect.

"Reports from our units there revealed that NPA bandits, under Brando Juagpao alias 'Rodel,' fired at Army troops stationed at the outskirts of Barangay Bitaugan, San Miguel, Surigao Del Sur. The Army troops belonging to the 2nd Special Forces Battalion, Philippine Army are stationed in the said area to assist the local government of San Miguel municipality in facilitating the delivery of development programs and services in the community," Detoyato said.

Troops managed to repel the attack and forced the NPA to disengage.

In the pursuit operations, another firefight ensued near the boundary of Agusan Del Sur and Surigao del Sur a few hours later, also with a group of NPAs.

"These acts by the NPAs are in gross violation of the CPP’s self-declared unilateral ceasefire which took effect midnight of December 23 and will end midnight of January 3, 2016," he added.

He said the attack is an "undeniable proof" that the NPAs, despite the declaration of ceasefire by the CPP, will "continuously and deliberately" conduct harassment and atrocities against troops.

"It is also proof that the NPA is insincere with their own wish for peace for the Filipino this Yuletide season," Detoyato said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=841064

Maintaining Peace in the South China Sea

From Nippon.com (Dec 12): Maintaining Peace in the South China Sea

China’s terraforming activities and territorial claims in the South China Sea have unnerved its neighbors in the region. The United States has made freedom of navigation operations near the Spratly Islands part of its strategy to address Chinese actions; they must be combined with diplomacy, as well as cooperation among America and its partners, to be truly effective.

After more than six months of debate within the Barack Obama administration about how to respond to China’s artificial island building, on October 27 the United States conducted a freedom of navigation operation (FONOP) within 12 nautical miles of Chinese-occupied Subi Reef, which has been terraformed through dredging. The operation was part of a continuum of FONOPs that the United States has conducted globally for decades. In fact, this was the seventh American FONOP in the South China Sea since 2011. Had it been conducted quietly, without leaks to the press, it would have been a normal and routine operation.

Although some experts charged that the United States botched the operation by conducting an “innocent passage” that implicitly granted China a territorial sea around Subi Reef, which in its natural state is a low-tide elevation, this represents a misunderstanding of UNCLOS, the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Since Subi Reef is located within 12 nautical miles of a rock also claimed by China—unoccupied Sandy Cay, which is entitled to a territorial sea under article 13 of UNCLOS—Subi can be used as a baseline from which to measure the territorial sea of the other feature. US government international lawyers therefore concluded that high sea freedoms may not apply around Subi Reef and advised the US Navy to conduct an innocent passage, which entails sailing directly through the waters inside 12 nautical miles without loitering or conducting military activity.

In choosing Subi Reef for the first FONOP conducted within 12 nautical miles of one of China’s artificial islands in the Spratlys, the United States opted to be cautious. Had Mischief Reef, which does not lie within 12 nautical miles of another land feature, been selected, a US naval vessel would have been required to conduct a non-innocent freedom of navigation operation that included performing a military activity, such as deploying helicopters or collecting intelligence by sailing with fire control radars on. Such actions were deemed as somewhat more provocative and thus judged to be a better choice for future FONOPs. In the aftermath of the Subi Reef operation, a US Navy source has hinted that the next FONOP will be conducted around Mischief Reef.

Sailing in Uncertain Seas

The legal status of many of the land features in the Spratlys is ambiguous, or at least undetermined. It is possible that the UNCLOS Arbital Tribunal will bring some clarity to this matter next year when it issues a ruling on the case brought against China by the Philippines. In the meantime, US FONOPs are asserting the right of ships to transit close to China’s artificial islands. With these operations the United States is demonstrating that China’s attempts to restrict navigational rights and freedoms around reclaimed features are unlawful, and that America will continue to uphold the rights of nations to sail, fly, and operate anywhere permitted under international law. Although China’s maritime claims remain vague, the Chinese military has warned US aircraft to leave the area, saying they were entering a “military alert zone” even when they were flying more than 12 nautical miles from Chinese-occupied features. There is no such concept as a “military alert zone” in international law.

The US destroyer that conducted the operation around Subi Reef, the USS Lassen, also sailed close to features in the Spratlys occupied by Vietnam and the Philippines that have also undergone land reclamation, albeit on a much smaller scale. This was intended to send the signal that the purpose of the FONOP wasn’t to single out China.

In addition to demonstrating US willingness to challenge Chinese attempts to restrict access or limit lawful navigation and overflight in the South China Sea, the Obama administration’s decision to begin conducting FONOPs close to China’s artificial islands is part of a strategy aimed at altering China’s behavior and reassuring regional states that America will continue to be a key provider of security in the Asia-Pacific. By accepting more risk, Washington hopes to successfully counter the Chinese campaign of coercion and ensure that a stable, rules-based order prevails. Before the United States began to sail close to China’s islands in the Spratlys, it was avoiding risky behavior and emphasizing crisis management with China, which left the impression that Washington feared escalation and was unwilling to confront China. It is possible, however, for the American side to incur risk in the South China Sea, by conducting frequent FONOPS and undertaking other actions, while also pursuing confidence-building measures with China to avoid accidents and reduce misunderstanding about each other’s intentions.

http://www.nippon.com/en/currents/d00212/

AFP overruns NPA camp ahead of CPP founding anniversary

From the Manila Bulletin (Dec 23): AFP overruns NPA camp ahead of CPP founding anniversary

Butuan City – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) overran the largest camp of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Northeastern Mindanao, capturing what it believes would be the site of the rebels’ annual gathering for the founding anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) on December 26.

According to 36th Infantry Battalion (36th IB) commanding officer Lt. Col. Randolph I. Rojas, military forces were able to capture the three-hectare encampment located in the highlands of Maitum town in Surigao del Sur which was believed to be the headquarters of the Guerrilla-Front Committee 30 of the CPP-NPA Northeastern Regional Command under a certain “Kumander Puma.”

“The captured NPA camp was established for three months ago and was only monitored when highland villagers reported to us,” the 36th IB commander added.

About 60 rebels could be accommodated in the camp’s make-shift huts. The camp also had outposts, listening posts, a communal farm and kitchen.

 

It was also evident that its former occupants were gearing up for the CPP founding anniversary as thousands of flaglets, bearing the colors of the CPP-NPA, were also discovered and seized in the area.

“We also found several bloodstains within this area,”  said Rojas, who was interviewed by the Manila Bulletin at Camp Bacasi here.

He said it was an indication that five days of sporadic encounters with government forces, which ended last Tuesday, may have taken its toll on the NPA rebels.

In the series of gun battles they also captured 21 improvised explosive devices (IEDs), other war materials, including anti-government documents with high intelligence value.

“We have only one soldier, identified as Cpl. Julius C. Peritos of Scout Platoon, who was wounded during our five- day operations while undetermined of casualty on the enemy side,” he said.

“This seized NPA camp was established for the past three months and was only monitored when highland villagers reported to us,” the 36th IB commander added.

CPP-NPA officials had earlier approved a unilateral ceasefire that started yesterday and will last until January 3, a gesture matched by President Aquino’s order for a suspension of military operations (SOMO) during the same period.

http://www.mb.com.ph/afp-overruns-npa-camp-ahead-of-cpp-founding-anniversary/

2 soldiers from 10th ID feted

From the Sun Star-Davao (Dec 24): 2 soldiers from 10th ID feted

TWO soldiers belonging to the 10th Infantry Division (ID) were awarded for their achievements and outstanding performances in line with their respective duties for the past year.

President Benigno Aquino III awarded the medals to 2nd Lieutenant Rezel Faith Sela of the 1002nd Infantry Brigade and Private First Class (PFC) Ronie Gusto of the 73rd Infantry Division (ID) during the celebration of the 80th Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Day held at the Haribon Hangar in Clark Base, Pampanga last December 21.

Sela received the Meritorious Achievement Medal for her outstanding achievement for serving as the platoon leader for the Peace and Development Team.

Through her platoon's effort, they established a P1.8-million elementary school as well as other livelihood and entry of basic services for the Indigenous People (IPs) in Sarangani.

Gusto, for his part, received the gold cross medal, the third highest combat award for the AFP, for showing gallantry in action during an encounter with the New People's Army (NPA) that led to the deaths of seven communist rebels, including the secretary of Guerilla Front 75 of the Far South Mindanao Region.

Gusto also seized nine rifles including six M16s, two AK47, and one M653 rifle.

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/local-news/2015/12/24/2-soldiers-10th-id-feted-448633

NPA defies ceasefire, attacks Army troops in Surigao del Sur

From the Manila Bulletin (Dec 23): NPA defies ceasefire, attacks Army troops in Surigao del Sur

New People’s Army (NPA) rebels violated the ongoing holiday truce forged between their leaders and the government when they attacked Philippine Army troops stationed on the outskirts of San Miguel, Surigao del Sur, the military said Wednesday.

 

Capt Joe Patrick Martinez, public affairs officer of the 4th Infantry Division (4ID), said the incident occurred around 9:30 a.m. yesterday in Barangay Bitaugan.

 

The government and the NPA have announced a ceasefire that will be from 12:01 a.m. of December 23, 2015 and would end at 11:59 p.m. of January 3, 2016.

 

A group of NPA rebels, led by Brando Juagpao alias Rodel reportedly fired at the soldiers who managed to repel the attack. No casualty was reported from the government side.

 

Pursuit operations were immediately launched against the fleeing rebels.

 

Martinez said that as of press time, another fire fight was reported near the boundary of Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Sur.

 

Citing a report from Col. Isidro Purisima, Commander of 402nd Infantry Brigade, Martinez said the soldiers engaged by the NPA the are deployed in the area to assist the local government of San Miguel in facilitating the delivery of development programs and services in the community.

 

“We are not surprised by this event. Although the CPP central committee made the declaration of ceasefire effective December 23, 2015 until January 3, 2016, their armed wing—the NPA continued their banditry,” said Purisima.

 

“Either they lack sincerity on their pronouncement or they have no firm control over their comrades at the lower level,” he added.

 

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has also declared a 12-day unilateral ceasefire effective December 23. It will also end on January 3, 2016.

 

In a related development, Malacañang yesterday condemned the NPA for its attack on soldiers on their way to deliver relief goods to typhoon-affected areas in Northern Samar last Tuesday.

 

 Presidential Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said the “dastardly act on the part of the local NPAs clearly indicates their disregard for the people’s welfare.”

 

  Reports revealed that one soldier was killed from the attack while three others were wounded.

 

 Reports said the attack occurred in Barangay Bukid, Las Navas town at around 5 a.m. last December 22, hours before the start of the 12-day unilateral Christmas ceasefire between the government and the Communist Party of the Philippines.

 

http://www.mb.com.ph/npa-defies-ceasefire-attacks-army-troops-in-surigao-del-sur/

PH military investigates video of alleged ISIS training camp

From Rappler (Dec 23): PH military investigates video of alleged ISIS training camp

Citing Philippine National Security Adviser Caesar Garcia, Communication Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr denies that ISIS has training camps in the Philippines   



Screenshot of SITE Intel Group web site

A United States-based non-governmental counterterrorism organization this week put the spotlight on the alleged links between the Islamic State (ISIS) and Filipino jihadis in Mindanao.

The connection between the two is a long-running concern that had been publicly dismissed by government authorities and military officers.

 

SITE Intelligence Group on December 20 posted a video of supposed Filipino jihadists claiming to be "soldiers of the caliphate," prompting international media coverage and a statement from Malacañang.

Jihadists Distribute Video of “Soldiers of the Caliphate” Training in the Philippines https://t.co/MPvkJEQmmW

— SITE Intel Group (@siteintelgroup) December 20, 2015

The video showed men – most of them masked and clad in all-black attires – carrying weapons and the Black Flag. They are conducting assault drills in what is supposed to be an ISIS training camp in the Philippines.

 

Known ISIS sympathizers reportedly shared the video online, suggesting possible links between the violent group and the Filipinos in the video.

 

Citing Philippine National Security Adviser Caesar Garcia, Communication Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr denied that ISIS has training camps in the Philippines.

 

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Colonel Restituto Padilla said the video is being investigated.

 

The men in the video were identified as members of Ansar Al-Khalifa, the same group that had long carried the Black Flag and pledged allegiance to ISIS. The video began circulating a few weeks after the group lost 8 members – including an alleged Indonesian bombmaker – in clashes with government troops in November.

 

(READ: Indonesian bombmaker among 8 killed in Sultan Kudarat clash?)

 

"We submitted this for validation and authentication so it's now undergoing that process. Once validated and authenticated, they will [check] out whether it is a believable video or something that has been jumped on again by other groups," Padilla told reporters in Manila.

 

The military said it acknowledged that some local groups have been influenced by the ISIS, but maintained that there are "no credible links" between Filipino terrorists and the group that has violently taken vast areas of Iraq and Syria.

 

Based on the statements of its officers, the Philippine military believes that ISIS is focused on establishing a caliphate in the Middle East and is focused on its battles there. They have dismissed videos of Filipinos pledging allegiance to ISIS as mere propaganda tools to raise their profile.

 

Like Alsar Al-Khalifa, the military dismissed the video of a leader of "kidnap-for-ransom" group Abu Sayyaf pledging allegiance to ISIS as a ploy to get attention and demand higher ransom to release its kidnap victims.

 

"Karamihan po diyan kasi ay nakatuon sa pagbibigay ng simpatiya at saka pangingikil o paghingi ng ransom 'yung kadalasan yung iba (Most of the videos are meant to offer sympathy to ISIS concerns and others are meant to extort ransom)." said Padilla.

 

http://www.rappler.com/nation/116946-isis-video-philippines

Reds break own truce, attack military outpost

From The Standard (Dec 24): Reds break own truce, attack military outpost 
 

THE New People’s Army violated the Christmas truce it unilaterally declared after communist rebels in Surigao del Sur attacked an Army outpost in San Miguel town Wednesday morning.

Colonel Isidro Purisima, commander of 402nd Infantry Brigade based at Tandag City in Surigao del Sur, said soldiers of the 2nd Special Forces Battalion stationed at the outskirts of Barangay Bitaugan were attacked around 9:30 a.m.

“We are not surprised by this event,” Purisima said. “Although the CPP Central Committee made the declaration of ceasefire effective Dec. 23, 2015 until Jan. 3, 2016, their armed wing-the NPA continued their banditry.”

“Either they lack sincerity [in] their pronouncement or they have no firm control over their comrades at the lower level,” Purisima added.

Troops managed to repel the attack and forced the NPA to disengage. Troops immediately pursued the NPA and as of press time, another firefight ensued near the boundary of Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Sur.

Meanwhile, Malacañang condemned the incident as a “dastardly act,” saying the NPA has no regard for people’s welfare, particularly the attacks on military relief convoys.

“The government is fully determined to carry out and complete needed relief and rehabilitation work in calamity-affected areas despite recent attacks in Samar that momentarily disrupted our main efforts in rendering humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, as we increased the deployment of personnel assigned to force protection and road security,” said Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr.

“The dastardly act on the part of the local NPAs clearly indicates their disregard for the people’s welfare,” Coloma also said.

Hours before the effectivity of Christmas truce between security forces and the communist rebels, the NPA attacked another military truck carrying soldiers and disaster equipment in Northern Samar, the military reported Tuesday.

Capt. Isagani Viernes, spokesman of the Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Division based in Catbalogan City, Samar, said one soldier was killed while three others were wounded in the attack that occurred at the farming town of Las Navas around dawn Tuesday.

“Since the aftermath of Typhoon “Nona,” we don’t have military offensive since our focus is on disaster response. Rebels are taking advantage of our operation,” Viernes said, noting that the attack came only four days after communist rebels attacked another military disaster rescuers in    Pinabacdao, Samar.

“We will be on defensive mode even if there’s [suspension of military operations] because rebels traditionally mark their anniversary with atrocities,” Viernes added, noting that the NPA wanted to show strength of force ahead of the Communist Party of the Philippines anniversary on Dec. 26.

Viernes said the military truck was carrying rescue equipment to the Las Navas Agro-Industrial School, a training center run by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority.

The firefight with undetermined number of suspected communist rebels lasted for 15 minutes, he added.

Wounded soldiers were brought to hospitals in Tacloban City and in a district hospital in Catubig town in Northern Samar for treatment.

It was the second time the NPA attacked government troops on rescue operations after the ambush of a convoy of Army trucks that were transporting relief goods to typhoon-stricken Pinabacdao, Samar.

The convoy of three trucks led by First Lt. Fritz Perez and two personnel from the Department of Social Welfare and Development were on their way back to Tacloban City after transporting relief goods when they were waylaid by an undetermined number of NPA rebels last Dec. 18.
Two soldiers were also wounded in that encounter.

The Armed Forces condemned the ambush and accused the communist NPA of deliberately orchestrating atrocities just so they can celebrate something on the CPPs anniversary.

“The NPAs are continuously and deliberately conducting atrocities like ambuscades against our troops who are only doing their job to assist in humanitarian assistance [and] disaster response operations,” said Maj. Gen. Jet Velarmino, commander of the 8th Infantry Division.

Velarmino said the attack would not hamper ongoing relief operations for victims of Typhoon “Nona” in the Eastern Visayas.

http://thestandard.com.ph/news/-main-stories/top-stories/195184/reds-break-own-truce-attack-military-outpost-.html

DSWD deplores assault on humanitarian workers of the government

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 23): DSWD deplores assault on humanitarian workers of the government
 

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has urged the perpetrators of the recent ambush of military convoys on their way to deliver relief assistance to Northern Samar to respect and uphold the impartiality and independence of humanitarian workers of the government.

“This is an assault on the humanitarian efforts of the government, which usually come at a time when our countrymen are in dire need of immediate assistance,” said DSWD Secretary Corazon J. Soliman.

According to her, the ambush perpetrators should understand that they should not be hampering the efforts of the humanitarian workers who were supposed to carry more than 270,000 GI sheets for distribution to families whose houses were damaged by typhoon "Nona" last week.

Despite the recent unfortunate incident, however, she assured that the DSWD will be doing everything to ensure that the conduct of relief operations among the countrymen in disaster-affected areas will continue.

Soliman visited Northern Samar together with President Benigno S. Aquino III on Wednesday to distribute relief goods and corrugated galvanized iron (CGI) sheets among families whose houses were partially and totally damaged by the typhoon.

They also wanted to personally assess the actual damages and determine what else can be done to ensure that the affected residents can immediately move toward recovery and that government assistance is truly felt.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=840901

Palace hits NPA for allegedly attacking relief convoy

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Dec 23): Palace hits NPA for allegedly attacking relief convoy

Malacañang on Wednesday accused the New People’s Army (NPA) of “disregard[ing] the people’s welfare” after the group reportedly attacked relief convoys in Samar.

“Government is fully determined to carry out and complete needed relief and rehabilitation work in calamity-affected areas despite recent attacks in Samar that momentarily disrupted our main efforts in rendering humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, as we increased the deployment of personnel assigned to force protection and road security,” Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said in a statement.

“The dastardly act on the part of the local NPAs clearly indicates their disregard for the people’s welfare,” he added.

Last week, Inquirer reported that two soldiers were wounded after delivering relief goods to Northern Samar, one of the provinces devastated by Typhoon “Nona.”

READ: Alleged NPA rebels attack soldiers getting relief goods in Samar

The soldiers were part of the group that accompanied two personnel from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

Capt. Isagani Viernes, information officer of the 8th Infantry Division based in Catbalogan City, said the group was attacked by the NPA, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines. 
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/749789/palace-hits-npa-for-allegedly-attacking-relief-convoy

Govt using diplomatic channels to bring Bernard Then's remains home, says Zahid

From the New Straits Times (Dec 23): Govt using diplomatic channels to bring Bernard Then's remains home, says Zahid

PUTRAJAYA: The government is working to bring home the remains of kidnap victim Bernard Then as soon as possible.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said efforts were being done via diplomatic channels to bring the Sarawakian home.

"We are using diplomatic channel to bring him home to his family as soon as possible," he told reporters after meeting Zambia Vice-President Inonge M. Wina at his office today.

Then was killed by his captors in the southern Phiĺippines. He was reportedly beheaded by the Abu Sayyaf terror group.

Then was grabbed along with restaurant manager Thien Nyuk Fun, 50, from the Ocean King Seafood Restaurant in Sandakan on May 15.

Thien was released on Nov 8 by the gunmen and is now back in Sandakan.

Zahid, who chaired the Cabinet meeting yesterday (Tuesday), said the government conveyed its condolences to the families of the 13 Malaysians who were killed in the recent Chiang Mai bus crash.

He also lauded the Thai government's kind gesture in presenting about RM200,000 to the families of each victim.

Meanwhile, on flood preparations, Zahid said the government had instructed relevant agencies to help Sarawak to face the possibility of floods.

He said the focus has shifted to Sarawak as weather forecasts had indicated that the state could be facing floods.

"We hope the floods in the east coast states will not be as bad as last year."

http://www.nst.com.my/news/2015/12/118702/govt-using-diplomatic-channels-bring-bernard-thens-remains-home-says-zahid

2 Abu Sayyaf leaders nabbed in Zamboanga City – AFP

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Dec 23): 2 Abu Sayyaf leaders nabbed in Zamboanga City – AFP

Two alleged ranking Abu Sayyaf leaders, who were tagged in the 2001 kidnapping of 15 plantation workers in Basilan, were arrested here on Wednesday, the military said.

Maj. Filemon Tan Jr., spokesperson of the Western Mindanao Command, only identified the two alleged bandit leaders by their aliases.

He said commanders Suhod and Haris had just arrived at the seaport here when spotted by authorities.

“The suspects were apprehended while disembarking from MV Anika from Basilan,” Tan said.

He said those involved in the 7:45 a.m. arrest of the suspects included operatives from the police, the Special Action Force, the 84th SAC Seaborne, the 530th Air Base Wing and the Anti Kidnapping Group (AKG).

He said Suhod and Haris were among suspects tagged in the kidnapping of 15 workers of the Golden Harvest Plantation in June 2001. Two of the captives were later beheaded.

Tan said the suspects have been placed in the custody of the AKG.  http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/749788/2-alleged-abu-sayyaf-leaders-nabbed-in-zamboanga-city-afp

Another relief truck attacked in Samar

From The Standard (Dec 23): Another relief truck attacked in Samar

TACLOBAN CITY—Hours before the effectivity of Christmas truce between security forces and the communist rebels, the New People’s Army attacked another military truck carrying soldiers and disaster equipment in Northern Samar, the military reported Tuesday.

Capt. Isagani Viernes, spokesman of the Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Division based in Catbalogan City, Samar, said one soldier was killed while three others were wounded in the attack that occurred at the farming town of Las Navas around dawn Tuesday. 

“Since the aftermath of Typhoon “Nona,” we don’t have military offensive since our focus is on disaster response. Rebels are taking advantage of our operation,” Viernes said, noting that the attack came only four days after communist rebels attacked another military disaster rescuers in  Pinabacdao, Samar.

The attack also came hours before the start of a 12-day ceasefire that the NPA said will start at 12:01 a.m. of Dec. 23 until 11:59 p.m. of Jan. 3, 2016.

“We will be on defensive mode even if there’s [suspension of military operations] because rebels traditionally mark their anniversary with atrocities,” Viernes added, noting that the NPA wanted to show strength of force ahead of the Communist Party of the Philippines anniversary on Dec. 26. 

Viernes said the military truck was carrying rescue equipment to the Las Navas Agro-Industrial School, a training center run by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority.

The firefight with undetermined number of suspected communist rebels lasted for 15 minutes, he added.

Wounded soldiers were brought to hospitals in Tacloban City and in a district hospital in Catubig town in Northern Samar for treatment.

It was the second time the NPA attacked government troops on rescue operations after the ambush of a convoy of Army trucks that were transporting relief goods to typhoon-stricken Pinabacdao, Samar.

The convoy of three trucks led by First Lt. Fritz Perez and two personnel from the Department of Social Welfare and Development were on their way back to Tacloban City after transporting relief goods when they were waylaid by an undetermined number of NPA rebels last Dec. 18.

Two soldiers were also wounded in that encounter. 

The Armed Forces condemned the ambush and accused the communist NPA of deliberately orchestrating atrocities just so they can celebrate something on the CPPs anniversary.

“The NPAs are continuously and deliberately conducting atrocities like ambuscades against our troops who are only doing their job to assist in humanitarian assistance [and] disaster response operations,” said Maj. Gen. Jet Velarmino, commander of the 8th Infantry Division.

Velarmino said the attack would not hamper ongoing relief operations for victims of Typhoon “Nona” in the Eastern Visayas.

The military lamented that the NPA was the one to first declare a Christmas truce even before President Benigno Aquino III ordered a unilateral suspension of military operations against the NPA from 12:01 a.m. of Dec. 23 to 11:59 p.m. of Jan. 3.

http://thestandard.com.ph/news/-main-stories/top-stories/195102/another-relief-truck-attacked-in-samar.html

Two wounded in a fresh attack in Samar hours before holiday truce

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 23): Two wounded in a fresh attack in Samar hours before holiday truce

A soldier and a civilian were wounded in a fresh attack launched by members of the New People’s Army (NPA) Tuesday night at a camp in San Jorge, Samar.

Capt. Isagani Viernes, Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Division spokesman, said that 10 rebels surprisingly attacked the headquarters of 43rd Infantry Battalion in Blanca Aurora village in San Jorge, Samar. The fire fight lasted for 25 minutes.

The attack occurred on the same day when an undetermined number of rebels ambushed a military truck used for post-Nona response, killing a soldier and wounded three others in Las Navas, Northern Samar.

The two incidents came hours before the implementation of a 12-day unilateral ceasefire approved by President Benigno Simeon C. Aquino III. The truce took effect 12:01 a.m. on Dec. 23, 2015 until 11:59 p.m. on January 3, 2016.

“This harassment on our military camp just several hours before their self-declared ceasefire, is a clear indication that the NPA is not all serious about their respect to the spirit of Christmas and peace,” Viernes said.

Despite the action of NPA members, Viernes said that as ordered from top officials, all military installation in the region will only be on defensive mode, in compliance to ceasefire.

"We will not conduct any military operation against them in respect to the ceasefire. The only military operation that we will do here is the humanitarian works for typhoon Nona victims," Viernes added.

The suspension of military operation will allow soldiers to spend Christmas and New Year holidays with their families and love ones.

Along with other government agencies, military personnel in the region are in the forefront of giving aide to typhoon Nona victims in Samar provinces.

Viernes reminded soldiers to be on alert even if they are only involved in humanitarian works since insurgents are taking advantage of disaster response operation.

On Dec. 18, a convoy of military trucks were attacked in Pinabacdao, Samar after the soldiers delivered of relief goods for typhoon victim in Eastern Samar. Two soldiers were hurt during the ambush.

“We know that rebels traditionally mark their anniversary with atrocities, but we hope that they will respect the ceasefire,” Viernes added.

The Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA will celebrate its 47th founding anniversary on Dec. 26.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=840852

AFP declares unilateral ceasefire vs NPA rebels in Bicol

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 23): AFP declares unilateral ceasefire vs NPA rebels in Bicol

The Philippine Army in Bicol announced on Tuesday that it would suspend its military operations against the New People’s Army (NPA) starting Wednesday until New Year's Day, Maj. Angelo Guzman, Philippine Army Southern Luzon Command spokesperson, said.

Guzman said the 10-day unilateral ceasefire will take effect on Wednesday and will end on January 1 next year.

He said the ceasefire will only cover military operations against the NPA and does not cover law enforcement operations conducted by the Philippine National Police that the AFP supports against other threat groups and wanted personalities in the region.

The AFP’s suspension of military operations (SOMO) is in compliance with President Benigno Aquino III's directive declaring a temporary cessation of hostilities against the NPA rebels.

Guzman said the ceasefire will also allow the soldiers time to spend Christmas and New Year holidays with their families and loved ones.

“We appeal to the NPAs in Southern Tagalog and Bicol regions to use this moment to reflect on our call to abandon the armed struggle and return to the fold of the law,” the Army officer said, adding “Let us be one in keeping this tradition of peace, sharing and loving alive in our hearts as Filipinos,” he added.

The unilateral declaration of SOMO was recommended by the Department of National Defense.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=840853

Troops recover 2 UXOs in Patikul, Sulu

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 23): Troops recover 2 UXOs in Patikul, Sulu

Government forces have recovered two unexploded ordnance (UXO) while pursuing the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) brigands in the hinterlands of Sulu, a top military official disclosed Wednesday.

Brig. Gen. Alan Arrojado, Joint Task Group Sulu commander, said the UXOs were recovered around 10:40 a.m. Wednesday in Sitio Hagas-Hagas, Barangay Kabbon Takas, Patikul town.

Arrojado said the two UXOs consisting of 105-milimeter howitzers were recovered by the troops of the 1st Scout Ranger Battalion “while advancing towards their objective.”

Arrojado said the troops with trained explosive ordnance demolition (EOD) personnel rendered safe procedure and retrieved the UXOs “to prevent its use as an improvised explosive devised by the enemy.”

He said the troops are tracking the Abu Sayyaf brigands when they discovered the two UXOs.

On Tuesday, five Abu Sayyaf brigands were killed in a clash with Marine Battalion Landing Team-8 (MBLT-8) forces in Barangay Liang, Patikul municipality.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=840877

Masbate town exec survives NPA ambush

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 23): Masbate town exec survives NPA ambush

For not paying revolutionary tax, New People's Army rebels ambushed the mayor of Balud, Masbate and his convoy at about 9:10 a.m. Tuesday by detonating an improvised explosive device (IED) along the national road at Barangay Iraya, Balud, Masbate.

Incumbent Balud Mayor Ruben Jude D. Lim and his convoy of police escorts and municipal employees survived the ambush unscathed.

Lim and the municipal employees were on board his Ford Ranger while the police escorts were in a Mitsubishi vehicle and were on their way to Barangay Mabuhat for a celebration where they were scheduled to distribute Christmas gifts to its less fortunate residents.

About 40 rebels, who were in an ambush position, detonated the bomb and fired at the convoy.

The police security escorts of Lim, composed of members of the Balud Municipal Police Station headed by PO1 Niel Ibañez as team leader, returned fire and sped off from the area.

A municipal ambulance being driven by Delson Abelita was immediately sent by the Balud municipal secretary but was also fired upon by the rebels.

With presence of mind, Abelita maneuvered the vehicle but he landed on a ricefield and ran towards a hut for safety.

Combined elements of the Balud MPS and the Philippine Army responded but were not able to catch up with the retreating rebels.

Recovered from the ambush scene were shrapnel of the bomb that damaged the windshield of the Ford Ranger bearing Lim and spent shells for M-14 rifle and M-16 rifles.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=840903

Lawmen arrest 2 Abu Sayyaf brigands in Zambo City

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 23): Lawmen arrest 2 Abu Sayyaf brigands in Zambo City

Combined police and military operatives have arrested two suspected Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) brigands in this city, the police reported Wednesday.

The Zamboanga City Police Office (ZCPO) identified the suspects as a certain Commander Suhod and Abu Haris. Both belong to the Basilan-based ASG.

The ZCPO reported that they were arrested around 8 a.m. Wednesday at the local port after they disembarked from a ferry coming from Isabela City, Basilan province.

The arrest of the suspects came as the police and military strengthened the security measures following threats by the ASG brigands to stage attacks.

The police said the suspects were involved in the kidnapping of 10 workers at the Golden Harvest Plantation in June 2001 in Barangay Tairan, Lantawan, Basilan.

The ASG killed two of the workers while the rest were either released or rescued during military operations.

The ZCPO said the arrested suspects were turned over to the custody of the Anti-Kidnapping Group (AKG) of the police.

 http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=840893

Rebels violate own Yuletide truce by attacking soldiers in Surigao del Sur

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 23): Rebels violate own Yuletide truce by attacking soldiers in Surigao del Sur

In a gross violation of their own Christmas and New Year truce, New People's Army (NPA) rebels fired at government troops stationed at the outskirt of Barangay Bitaugan, San Miguel, Surigao del Sur on Wednesday morning.

Capt. Joe Patrick Martinez, 4th Infantry Division public affairs office chief, said the unprovoked attack took place at 9:30 a.m..

The engaged troops are from the 2nd Special Forces Battalion.

The soldiers are deployed in San Miguel town to help facilitate the delivery of development programs and services in the community.

Martinez said government forces managed to repel the attack and forced the rebels to retreat.

Troops immediately pursued the NPA and as of press time, another fire fight ensued near the boundary of Agusan del Sur and Surigao del Sur.

The Communist Party of the Philippines (CCP) earlier declared a 12-day unilateral ceasefire that runs from Dec. 23, 2015 until Jan. 3, 2016.

This was confirmed by Luis Jalandoni, chief negotiator of the rebels.

On the other hand, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) also declared a unilateral ceasefire effective Dec. 23, 2015. It will also end on Jan. 3, 2016.

As in the past holiday season, the AFP has been consistent on declaring ceasefire in observance of the Christmas spirit of joy, peace and harmony.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=840835