Misuari gathers 2,000 loyal men in bid to install son

From The Standard (Feb 9): Misuari gathers 2,000 loyal men in bid to install son

DESPITE an outstanding warrant for his arrest, Nur Misuari gathered 2,000 fighters loyal to him at his home in Camp Astana in Indanan, Sulu, to install his son as vice chairman of his faction of the Moro National Liberation Front.

Wanted for leading the bloody siege of Zamboanga City in August 2013 in which more than 200 people were killed, Misuari also expressed satisfaction at the failure of Congress to pass the Bangsamoro Basic Law that was hammered out by the government and the rival Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

Nur Misuari

The military and police monitored the developments from afar as Misuari led a whole-day leadership assembly in his home attended by members of different state revolutionary committees and unit commanders.

“They had no hostile action plan. They were busy with their reorganization because they have a new leader and they were happy that the BBL was not passed, because that improves the chances that their 1996 final peace agreement will be implemented,” said Brig. Gen. Alan Arrojado, commander of the Joint Task Group Sulu.
 
During the assembly, Misuari installed his son, Haji Uto Karim, as vice-chairman of their faction, Arrojado said.

“The agenda of the meeting focused on the results of the tripartite review conducted in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, [on]... the implementation of the 1996 final peace agreement and their struggle for their own version of Bangsamoro independence in Mindanao,” he added.

The assembly adjourned at 4 p.m. and the participants returned “to their respective places of origin,” Arrojado said.

“As observed, there was no mention of any future hostile actions from the MNLF leadership,” Arrojado said.

A military intelligence officer who spoke on condition of anonymity, however, said that some of the groups that joined the assembly were “leaders and members of lawless groups” such as the Abu Sayyaf Group and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, a splinter group of the MILF.

MNLF spokesman Absalom Cerveza said Misuari was hopeful that the next administration would consider fully implementing the 1996 Jakarta peace accord between the government and the MNLF.

“If the government will continue to pursue the passage of the BBL, it would be disastrous,” Cerveza said.

Cerveza described Misuari’s oldest son, in his late 30s, as “more radical than his father” and the holder of a masters degree in Arabic and Sharia Law from Libya.

He said the appointment of the younger Misuari might be in preparation for his father’s exit.

“Misuari is diabetic but his ailment is manageable,” Cerveza said. “But, in case he doesn’t want to continue or he dies, the young Misuari could eventually replace him.”

In the Jan. 28 tripartite review of the 1996 peace agreement in Saudi Arabia, the Organization of Islamic Conference and representatives of the Philippine government and the anti-Misuari faction of the MNLF expressed support for the peace process initiated by President Benigno Aquino III with the MILF and for the passage of the BBL.

http://thestandard.com.ph/news/-main-stories/top-stories/198850/misuari-gathers-2-000-loyal-men-in-bid-to-install-son.html

Dredging project in Maguindanao on hold due to BIFF attacks—Army

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Feb 8): Dredging project in Maguindanao on hold due to BIFF attacks—Army

A dredging project in Maguindanao has been put on hold as Moro rebels have been harassing government forces securing workers in Datu Salibo town.

Capt. Joann Petinglay, spokesperson of the Philippine Army’s 6th Infantry Division, said members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) harassed Sunday the 22nd Mechanized Company detachment in Barangay Butalo where the dredging project was located.

She said the BIFF rebels, using Barret cal. 50 sniper rifles, harassed the Army’s Butalo detachment at 6 a.m., 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. Sunday. No casualty was reported from government forces.

The project has been put on hold and would remain on hold until the security of workers a government project is assured, according to Petinglay.

The BIFF, through its spokesperson Abu Misri Mama, admitted they torched two heavy equipment of a private company dredging Butilen river.

“We set the backhoe on fire because the contractor did not coordinate with us and they violated the right of way claim of landowners,” Mama said, adding the firefight with government forces, which began Friday, led to the deaths of five soldiers, including an Army captain.

But Petinglay laughed off Mama’s claim of Army fatalities. She said Capt. Jimmy Amoloy, the 22nd Mechanized company commander, and a certain PFC Robles, were only slightly injured.

Petinglay said they received information that more than 20 BIFF men were killed, but “we cannot confirm nor deny that because we have not recovered dead bodies.”
But Mama said his group did not suffer any fatality.

“Not even scratches. Our troops were just tired,” Mama said in a phone interview.

He warned the contractor and the military that the BIFF would continue shooting at them “unless you coordinate with us.”

“We will shoot anyone — soldiers, engineers, construction workers — once you move forward,” Mama said in separate radio interview.

Petinglay said the BIFF has shown its true colors that it has been against a development project that would benefit the people they vowed to protect.

“The project will benefit every Datu Salibo resident, including relatives of the BIFF,” Petinglay said, adding the government, including the Army providing security, did not need to “coordinate” with a lawless group.

Alex Manuel, action officer of Maguindanao Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, said at least 1,500 families have evacuated to safer ground for fear of getting caught in the cross fire.

Manuel also said four civilians were wounded at the height of the fighting.
“Several residents have already evacuated since the fighting begun last Friday. Four civilians were hit on Sunday,” he said.

Manuel said Maguindanao Gov. Esmael Toto Mangudadatu has ordered the provincial relief team to attend to the needs of displaced families.

The dredging project, funded through the congressional work of Maguindanao 2nd district Rep. Zajid Mangudadatu, is aimed at preventing floods in Datu Salibo town.   http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/762644/dredging-project-in-maguindanao-on-hold-due-to-biff-attacks-army

Army step up Davao security operations

From the Manila Times (Feb 9): Army step up Davao security operations

DAVAO CITY: A number of armed confrontations between government forces and the New People’s Army (NPA) rebels were recorded after the 10th Infantry (Agila) Divi- sion intensified its securi- ty operations in its areas of jurisdiction.

On Feb. 6 at about 5 a.m., elements of Bravo Company of the 73rd Infantry Battalion engaged a group of fully-armed NPA rebels belonging to guerrilla front 71 of the Far South Mindanao Region (FSMR) in the boundaries of Jose Abad Santos town in Davao Occi-dental and Glan, Sarangani, Captain Rhyan Batchar, chief information officer of the 10th ID said in a statement on Monday.

Batchar added that the second encounter took place on the same date, at about 2:30 p.m. in Sitio Binotaam, Ba-rangay Kingking, Pantukan, Compostela Valley province when troopers belonging to 46th Infantry Battalion engaged an escaping group of NPA rebels belonging to guerrilla front 2 of the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC) led by a certain Alias Raden.

On Feb. 7, another armed encounter that lasted for six minutes took place between the elements of 46th IB and the rebels in Sitio Logpaton, Barangay Kingking, Pantukan.

“No soldier was hurt on these incidents while the NPAs were believed to have suffered casualties as they left behind traces of bloodstains and various personal effects and other paraphernalia after fleeing the site of the incidents,” Batchar said.

Elements of 46th IB and 73rd IB are still conducting pursuit operations against the NPAs in their respective areas of operation.

In the same statement, Major General Rafael Valencia, commander of 10th ID, reiterated his earlier statement that the command’s campaign against the NPAs would be relentless.

“We will continue our peace and development initiatives for the people of Davao Region. We encourage NPA members to abandon the armed struggle and return to the folds of the law. But for those who continue to choose the path of violence, we will vigorously pursue and defeat them using legitimate force,” Valencia said.

http://www.manilatimes.net/army-step-up-davao-security-operations/243874/

Clashes between soldiers, rebels erupt anew in Southern Mindanao

From MindaNews (Feb 8): Clashes between soldiers, rebels erupt anew in Southern Mindanao

Units under the 10th Infantry Division engaged New People’s Army rebels in Compostela Valley and Davao Occidental provinces over the weekend.

The weekend clashes followed a series of encounters between the military and the NPA in Compostela Valley last February 3 where three soldiers were killed and three others were wounded, an Army official said.

In a text message to MindaNews, Capt. Rhyan B. Batchar, 10ID public affairs chief said the first encounter happened at around 5 a.m. on Saturday and lasted 15 minutes.

Batchar said Bravo Company of the 73rd Infantry Battalion clashed with the NPA’s Guerrilla Front 71 in the Far South Mindanao Region covering Jose Abad Santos town in Davao Occidental and Glan town in Sarangani Province.

On same day, another 15-minute encounter took place at 2:30 p.m. in Sitio Binotaan, Brgy. Kingking, Pantukan in Compostela Valley when soldiers chanced upon members of NPA Guerrilla Front 2 led by a certain Raden.

The third clash occurred in Sitio Logpaton, Brgy Kingking when rebels opened fire at soldiers manning a checkpoint at 3 p.m. on Sunday resulting to a six-minute gun battle.

Batchar said no soldier was hurt. He claimed the rebels suffered casualties.

He said the NPA has large formations in the two provinces based on their assessment but added the 1001^st Brigade can address rebel presence in these areas.

“Soldiers of 46IB and 73IB are still conducting pursuit operations against the NPAs,” a press release from the 10ID dated Feb. 8 said.

Last Feb. 3, Army 1Lt. Ralph Pantonial, Pfc Eulezys Bantulo, and Pfc. William Moreno were killed, while Pfc Jestoni Sabido, Cpl. Merlven Velunta, and a certain Herbert Aquino were injured in separate military operations.

In a press release Sunday, the National Democratic Front-Southern Mindanao claimed the Feb. 3 clashes resulted in 30 military casualties.

It said the NPA’s Comval Davao Gulf Subregional Command ambushed the 46^th IB in three separate incidents on Feb. 3 – at 12:30 p.m., 7:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

The first ambush occurred in Sapang Tin-aw, Brgy. Tibagon, Pantukan killing nine soldiers including 2Lt. Garcia. Ten were wounded and one was rendered missing, the NDF press release said.

“At 7:30 pm, the Red fighters ambushed the Army, damaging the military’s truck in Brgy. Cabahian where two soldiers were killed, including Army officer Capt. Pantonial, and seven others were wounded.  A Red fighter took a sniper shot and killed Sgt. William Morenio of the 46^th IB in Barangay Biasong, Pantukan at 7:00pm,” the rebel group said.

It added the attacks were “meant to punish” the 46^th IB for allegedly defending the interests of large-scale mining companies in Pantukan.

http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2016/02/08/clashes-between-soldiers-rebels-erupt-anew-in-southern-mindanao/

More troops deployed in Surigao del Sur

From the Manila Bulletin (Feb 8): More troops deployed in Surigao del Sur

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has deployed more troops in Surigao del Sur to beef up the four Army battalions that are already patrolling areas believed to be infested by New People’s Army (NPA) rebels.

The elite-Scout Ranger Company (SRC) of the AFP arrived via C130 aircraft of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) at Butuan City (Bancasi) National Airport last week with the primary objective of helping crush the remaining NPAs and sustain the gains of the peace, security, and development efforts of the AFP’s 402nd Infantry (Stingers) Brigade in Surigao del Sur.

Image from Wikipedia Mike Gonzalez (TheCoffee)

The SRC troops were immediately oriented about their new area of operation and underwent cultural sensitivity, human rights and international humanitarian law seminars at the Division Advance Command Post (ACP) of the AFP’s 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division (4th ID) here, said First Lt. Karl Jan S. Devaras, company commander of the 41st Civil-Military Operations (Magkahiusa) at Camp Bancasi, Butuan City.

The orientation and seminar will help the newly deployed troops to get to know the culture of their new deployment area and to be reminded that respect to human rights, international humanitarian law and the rule of law is imperative in the performance of their duty, he added.

 

The SRC will augment the 36th Infantry Battallion (36h IB), 75th IB, 16th IB, 2nd Special Forces Battalion (2nd SFB) apart from the two other Special Forces (SF) groups.

These combat maneuvering battallions will also be supported by other operation control (Opcon) units of the 4th ID.

These battalions will be under the operational control of Col. Isidro Purisima, commanding officer of the 402nd Brigade based in Tandag City, in Surigao del Sur.

Some special forces of the Northeastern Mindanao Police Regional Office-13 (PRO-13) have also been deployed in the province to toughen law enforcement and assist the counter insurgency operations of the AFP.

“We will not fail in our mandate to reduce the capability of the CPP-NPA in the area. And we will also help the PNP and the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to ensure honest, orderly and credible May 9, 2016 polls,” Purisima said in a statement.

http://www.mb.com.ph/more-troops-deployed-in-surigao-del-sur/

NPA owns killing of Cotabato security chief

From InterAksyon (Feb 9): NPA owns killing of Cotabato security chief

The New People’s Army has owned responsibility for killing the head of Cotabato province’s Civil Security Unit over the weekend.

Bernabe Abanilla and his companion, identified by police as Degul Semillano, were gunned down by three still unidentified gunmen riding a motorcycle as they got off a pickup outside the Catholic church in Barangay Doroluman in Arakan town Sunday morning.

A day later, the NPA command operating in Cotabato and Bukidnon provinces issued a statement calling Abanilla’s death “a huge victory for the people in Arakan and the revolution,” independent media outfit DavaoToday reported.

NPA spokesperson Isabel Santiago accused Abanilla, who used to be Doroluman barangay chairman, of being one of those who masterminded the murder of Italian missionary Fausto Tentorio, who was gunned down by a militiaman in the parish compound of Arakan on October 17, 2011, and of Benjaline Hernandez, former editor of Ateneo de Davao’s campus paper Atenews in April 2002, who was also killed in Arakan.

Chief Inspector Felix Fornan, Arakan police chief, said Abanilla was declared dead on arrival at a hospital from gunshots to the head and body.

Cotabato Governor Emmylou Mendoza offered a P200,000 bounty for the capture of Abanilla’s killers and called his death “a great loss of a life of a man who was a dedicated family man and who was devoted to his work.”

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/123826/npa-owns-killing-of-cotabato-security-chief

Ex-Special Forces Regiment commander now Eastmincom deputy

From InterAksyon (Feb 9): Ex-Special Forces Regiment commander now Eastmincom deputy
                 

Eastern Mindanao Command under Maj. Gen. Rey Leonardo B. Guerrero welcomes newly designated Deputy Commander Brig. Gen. Ronnie S. Evangelista at Eastmincom headquarters. Photograph courtesy of Eastmincom PIO Capt. Alberto C. Caber.

 

Reports reaching Manila indicated that Brig. Gen. Ronnie Evangelista assumed on Tuesday his new position as deputy of the Mindanao-based Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom).

Arrival honors for incoming Eastmincom Deputy Commander Brig. Gen. Ronnie S. Evangelista at Headquarters, Eastern Mindanao Command, Panacan, Davao City. Photo from Eastmincom PIO.
The command's deputy position has been vacant for nearly two months.

According to the area command spokesman Capt. Alberto Caber, Evangelista, a member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) "Sinagtala" Class 1986, replaced Brig. Gen. Harold Cabreros, who had earlier been appointed commander of the 3rd Infantry Division based in Capiz in Western Visayas.

 

Eastmincom is based at Camp Navarro in Panacan, Davao City. The command is battling the 47-year-old New People's Army (NPA), the armed component of the Communist party of the Philippines (CPP).

Evangelista was former commander of the Special Forces Regiment (SFR), one of the two elite units, the other one being the Scout Ranger Regiment (SRR), of the Philippine Army's Special Operations Command (SOCOM) based at Fort Magsaysay, home of the 7th ID in Nueva Ecija.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/123846/ex-special-forces-regiment-commander-now-eastmincom-deputy

No arrest for Misuari as he gathers 2,000 fighters in Sulu

From InterAksyon (Feb 8): No arrest for Misuari as he gathers 2,000 fighters in Sulu
                 

  

File photograph of MNLF faction leader Nur Misuari

Reports reaching Manila indicated that former Moro National Liberation Front leader Nur Misuari, who has standing arrest warrant for criminal charge in connection with the bloody siege in August 2013 by more than 500 MNLF fighters in Zamboanga City, gathered around 2,000 fighters Sunday night in his house in Indanan, Sulu.

The gathering reportedly involved fighters loyal to Misuari, and was called to address organizational leadership changes by installing his son as vice-chairman of his faction of the MNLF.

All the military and police could do was to monitor the "whole day leadership assembly at Camp Astana (residential place of Misuari) in Sitio Bakud, Barangay Kagay.

The Zamboanga incident led to the demise of Misuari's right hand man Ustadz Habier Malik. The siege also killed about 200 combatants, the majority of whom were Moro rebels, with more than other 200 rebels captured and more than 200 persons wounded, including civilians.

Misuari and his group wanted to declare "independence" from the government.

"Wala naman silang hostile action plan. Busy sila sa reorganizational restructuring dahil merong bagong leader, tapos tuwang-tuwa sila na hindi napasa ang Bangsamoro Basic Law dahil favorable sa kanila para ma-implement 'yung [1996] final peace agreement (They did not come up with a plan for hostile action. They were busy with the organizational change, and were apparently quite glad that the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law is dead in the water, because this would tend to favor the prospective implementation of the 1996 MNLF final peace agreement)," Brigadier General Alan Arrojado, commander of the Joint Task Group Sulu, said.

Arrojado said the assembly was attended by representatives from "different state revolutionary committees of the MNLF" and Misuari installed his son Haji Uto Karim as vice-chairman of their faction.

"The agenda of the meeting focused on the results of the tripartite review conducted at Jeddah, Saudi Arabia for their continued claim for the implementation of the 1996 final peace agreement and their struggle for their own version of Bangsamoro independence in Mindanao," Arrojado said.

"Hadji Uto Karim, Misuari's eldest and in his late 30's, has a Masters in Arabic and Shariah in Libya. The designation of the younger Misuari was due to the resignation of the temporary vice chairman Orlando Olamit from Davao due to health reasons," he added.

The assembly adjourned at 4 p.m. "and the participants returned to their respective places of origin."

Meanwhile, Arrojado observed that the participants this time numbered more than last year's assembly, which nevertheless drew more than 1,000.

But there are reports that some groups who joined the Misuari assembly were from the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) and also representatives from the MILF and its faction Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF).

"Some of the participants are leaders and members of lawless groups," a military intelligence officer said on condition of anonymity.

http://www.interaksyon.com/article/123800/no-arrest-for-misuari-as-he-gathers-2000-fighters-in-sulu

MILF: “AFP does not expect falling out with MILF”: Spokesman Padilla

Posted to the MILF Website (Feb 8): “AFP does not expect falling out with MILF”: Spokesman Padilla

Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesman Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said yesterday, February 7 that, “The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) does not expect falling out with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) despite failure of congress to pass the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL)”, Philstar said in its report.

Brig. Gen. Padilla said that the mechanisms of the peace talks are working and the people have seen the benefits of the peace process.

“It seems that both sides are bending over backward and there is an assurance from the government side that the peace process will continue under the next administration,” Philstar quoted Gen.Padilla saying.

Padilla cited the Ad Hoc Joint Action Group, which is tasked to isolate and interdict criminal groups and terrorists. The mechanism allows the government and the MILF to work together to maintain peace and order.

Padilla, however, admitted that spoilers would continue to express their opposition to the peace talks.
“People have seen the positive effects of peace. There are many projects and their lives have improved. But of course, spoilers cannot be avoided,” he said.

Maj. Gen. Edmundo Pangilinan, chief of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, said his unit has not monitored any movement by the MILF after the bypassing of the proposed BBL.

“Their MILF leadership has given assurance that with or without the BBL, they will pursue peace and that’s a good sign that peace will be sustained,” Pangilinan said.

Pangilinan, however, maintained the military is prepared for any eventuality. The MILF has about 10,000 fighters based on military estimates.

Recently, President Aquino has ordered the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process to coordinate with all concerned parties so that peace efforts would be sustained after he steps down from office. He also directed OPAPP to strengthen the peace process including the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) that crafted the BBL.

MILF officials said they remain committed to peace despite the failure to enact the proposed BBL. However, they believe the non-passage of the measure showed that Filipinos are not yet ready for reconciliation.

BTC Chair Mohagher Iqbal told visiting United Nations’Under-Secretary Adama Dieng in a meeting on Thursday, February 5 that the MILF is “fully committed to pursue the path of peace and would continue its engagements” even if the 16th Congress adjourned its sessions already without passing the proposed legislation.

The MILF gave its assurance to a high-ranking official of the United Nations that it would continue its engagement with all stakeholders including the international community in spite of the non-passage of the draft Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL).

Dieng is also Special Adviser of the UN Secretary-General on the Prevention of Genocide.
http://www.luwaran.com/home/index.php/news/19-national/547-afp-does-not-expect-falling-out-with-milf-spokesman-padilla

MILF: Editorial -- Why BBL did not pass Congress?

Editorial posted to the MILF Website (Feb 8): Editorial -- Why BBL did not pass Congress?

There are many explanations advanced by several quarters why the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) did not pass Congress. The most common, almost unanimous, reason was the Mamasapano incident that caused the deaths of 44 elite Police commandos, 17 MILF combatants, and five civilians including a child. The second reason forwarded was the lack of material time and the third was the proposed basic law contained so many unconstitutional provisions.

We respect the views of all those who expressed them, but to us they are not the real or main reasons. The Mamasapano incident merely triggered the upsurge or had brought into surface the long-held biases, hatred, prejudices, and fear of the majority populations against the Moros, which are shared by those lawmakers opposing the BBL. More than 300 years of warfare pitting the Spaniards-indios (now Filipinos) and Moros have left within us, in our psyche, the hatred for each other. The feelings are mutual, not just true with Filipinos. But is it good that we are ruled by our emotions rather than by rationality by defeating a bill that seeks to establish peace, justice, and progress in this country? The lack of material time is clearly an alibi. The national budget was only introduced in the Lower House in September and the Senate calendared it for deliberation in October, both last year. It passed even without the lack of quorum being questioned. There were also other laws passing Congress very smoothly. The question of unconstitutionality is another farcical reason. Changing the term “territory “to “geographical areas”, among similar others, to make it constitutional is clearly an insult even to a non-lawyer. There is really no constitutional issue here. The BBL had passed through several layers of legal scrutiny, from panel to panel discussions, during the deliberations in the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) which had more than ten lawyers, the engagement with the Office of the President led by Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa Jr. and Benjamin Caguioa, the Palace chief legal counsel, and three other lawyers to back them up. Would this be more prudent and practical to leave this question to the Supreme Court to rule on the constitutionality of the BBL? After all, in this particular instance, lawyers’ and non-lawyers’ opinions are not relevant, just a waste of time.

It appeared very clearly that there are four over-riding reasons why the BBL did not pass Congress. The first reason is already explained above: the hatred, biases, prejudices, and fear of the majority populations which are shared by many if not most of the lawmakers in Congress. This view was given by Cardinal Orlando Quevedo, a well-respected Church leader. The second is the very nature of a secular, mundane, materialistic system, which promotes monopolistic control of power and resources. This is the national interest of the elites of society, not necessarily also the genuine national interest of this country. We don’t think that allowing the bloody mess in Mindanao to continue is a national interest of this country. The third is: those forces of change or those supporting the BBL, including the push exerted by President Benigno Aquino III are still very weak, as compared to the forces of status quo, as the fourth reason, which is very strong. Many of those who are pushing for the BBL are also enjoying all the privileges of the status quo; in fact, one of them is lawyering for the energy and mining companies in Mindanao.

The peace process in Mindanao did not die with the non-passage of the BBL. The Exit Agreement is not yet signed by them. Thus, this would require them to start where they have stopped: “as is, where is”; meaning, the MILF and government or the new administration will either refile the BBL or craft jointly through the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC), most likely composed of new members from both Parties, a new basic law but still pursuant to the letter and spirit of the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB) and the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB). There is no other way forward, except the government would resort to approaches outside of the parameters agreed by the Parties. That would entirely be another story!

http://www.luwaran.com/home/index.php/editorial/24-january-8-15-2016/546-why-bbl-did-not-pass-congress

NPA to launch more attacks vs plantations in Bukidnon, Misamis Oriental

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Feb 8): NPA to launch more attacks vs plantations in Bukidnon, Misamis Oriental

The recent burning of farm equipment in Bukidnon and Misamis Oriental by the New People’s Army (NPA) was just the start of a series of attacks by communist rebels in the coming months, the NPA itself said.

Allan Juanito, spokesperson of the NPA North Central Mindanao Regional Command, said in a statement that the assaults were just the beginning of the campaign against several companies, especially the Del Monte Philippines Inc. (DMPI).

“The time has come that they can no longer do as they wish, for their plantations are surrounded by the revolutionary forces who are ready to put a stop to their deeds. The attack on them is just the first step in demanding a payback for their social debt, which is already piling up,” Juanito said.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines has accused the NPA, the fighting forces of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), of violating an accord signed by the Philippine government and the National Democratic Front (NDF), the CPP’s political, negotiating arm. For setting on fire properties owned by Dole Philippines, Inc., DMPI, and Lapanday Foods Corp., the NPA has violated provisions of the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL), the military said over the weekend.

“This is a grave violation of CARHRIHL which clearly states that civilian population and together with their property shall not be the object of the attack,” said Capt. Joe Patrick Martinez, spokesperson of the Army’s 4th Infantry Division (4ID) based here.

The agreement also stipulated that private properties would be protected from arson, strafing, and other similar forms of destroying lives and property, Martinez said.

On Jan. 26, NPA guerrillas torched a bulldozer, an owner-type jeep and a generator set inside the 25-hectare pineapple plantation owned by a Leo Woo, said to be a contractor for the DMPI, in Sitio Kitanglad, Barangay San Juan, Balingasag town, Misamis Oriental. Damage was placed at P15 million.

A few days later, rebels launched series of coordinated attacks in the compounds of Dole Philippines, Lapanday and DMPI in various locations in Malaybalay City.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/762685/npa-to-launch-more-attacks-vs-plantations-in-bukidnon-misamis-oriental

Philippines' peace process in tatters

From News24 (Feb 7): Philippines' peace process in tatters

 The Philippines may have just lost its final chance to bring about peace to its troubled southern island of Mindanao, which has been racked by one of the world's longest-running insurgencies.

After eight months of consultations, 200 hours of debates and 51 hearings among lawmakers, the Philippine legislature failed to pass the Bangsamoro Basic Law, which would have established a new autonomous Muslim-majority political entity in Mindanao.

With the Philippines entering a new election season, most lawmakers even failed to show up during the deliberations and crucial vote counts. But more than the chronic absence of quorum at the legislature, the peace agreement ultimately fell victim to politicking by opposition leaders as well as grandstanding among ambitious legislatures, who didn't share the Benigno Aquino administration's commitment to establish the foundations of peace in the conflict-stricken south.

With the Aquino administration entering its twilight months in office, there is little guarantee that its successor will build on recent gains and find a mutually-acceptable agreement with the country's most powerful insurgency group, the 12 000-strong Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), the leadership of which has favoured negotiations over war.

Creative attempt

Uncertain about the prospects of newly stalled peace negotiations, the Philippine government is scrambling for ways to avoid a renewed eruption of conflict in Mindanao.

The conflict in Mindanao also carried huge strategic costs for the Philippines. The Philippine government ended p dedicating the bulk of its limited military resources to fighting insurgencies in Mindanao. And this explains why a country like the Philippines has disproportionately invested in its ground troops and army instead of navy. This precariously deprived the Philippines of much-needed resources to defend itself against external threats, especially in light of Chinese territorial ambitions in the South China Sea.

Over time, however, successive Filipino administration managed to negotiate peace agreements with the key rebel groups. The Aquino administration, which came to power on the promise of change and genuine reform, embarked on a courageous and creative attempt to explore lasting peace in Mindanao.

http://www.news24.com/World/News/philippines-peace-process-in-tatters-20160207

Military gearing up for BIFF attacks on road projects

From the Philippine Star (Feb 8): Military gearing up for BIFF attacks on road projects



Army mechanized units and BIFF bandits figured in sporadic encounters from Friday until late Saturday in Salibo town in Maguindanao. Bing Maps

The military is anticipating more attacks by the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) which threatened to sabotage road and bridge projects intended to improve the mobility of workers in far-flung areas in Maguindanao province.

The BIFF, feared for imposing a ruthless justice system in remote areas, is rabidly opposed to arterial road network projects, fearing it would give military tanks and combat vehicles access to their enclaves.

Army mechanized units and BIFF bandits figured in sporadic encounters from Friday until late Saturday in Salibo town in Maguindanao. The fighting sparked by an attack on an equipment depot of a construction outfit building a bridge in Barangay Butilen in the same municipality.

A group of Army bomb disposal experts also came under attack while trying to deactivate a roadside bomb which BIFF members planted along a road leading to the project site.

The bandits also shot with assault rifles the road-building equipment being used in the implementation of the project.

Capt. Jo-Ann Petinglay, spokesperson of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, said an officer, Capt. Jimmy Amoloy, and his subordinate, Pfc. Donbrich Robles, were wounded in the ensuing firefights.

"They were just slightly wounded and are now out of danger," Petinglay said.

Barangay folks said at least three BIFF gunmen were killed while seven others, five of them adolescents, were wounded in the running gunfights.

The hostilities in Salibo's adjoining Barangays Tee, Butilen, Andabit and Sambolawan waned late Saturday after the bandits retreated to different directions carrying their slain and wounded companions.

The spokesperson of BIFF, Abu Misry Mama, had warned of more attacks on government infrastructure projects in Central Mindanao.

The BIFF, which splintered from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in late 2010, does not recognize the 1997 Agreement on General Cessation of Hostilities between the government and the MILF.

http://www.philstar.com/nation/2016/02/08/1550998/military-gearing-biff-attacks-road-projects

Misuari met with 2,000 followers in Sulu, says military

From the Philippine Star (Feb 8): Misuari met with 2,000 followers in Sulu, says military



Nur Misuari is the founding chairman of the Moro National Liberation Front, a secessionist political organization which started in 1969. In this March 5, 2013 file photo, Nur Misuari gestures during a press conference in Taguig, Philippines. AP/Aaron Favila, file

Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) founder Nur Misuari, who is facing rebellion charges over the 2013 Zamboanga siege, met with his followers last Sunday in Indanan, Sulu, the military said Monday.

Citing information relayed by "concerned citizens" and some attendees, Joint Task Group Sulu chief Brig. Gen. Alan Arrojado said the whole day assembly took place at Camp Astana in Sitio Bakud, Barangay Kagay.

He said the meeting was attended by about 2,000 people including the heads of state revolutionary committees of the MNLF, unit commanders of Bangsamoro armed forces and members of the MNLF central committee parliament.

The agenda of the meeting reportedly focused on the results of the tripartite review of the 1996 final peace agreement conducted at Jeddah, Saudi Arabia and the MNLF's version of Bangsamoro independence.

Arrojado said any plan to stage attacks similar to the Zamboanga City siege in 2013 was not brought up.

"As observed, there was no mention of any future hostile actions from the MNLF leadership. The MNLF are (focused on) their organizational structures," he added.

According to the military informants, the attendees welcomed the non-passage of the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL), saying this would be beneficial to their group. The BBL would have implemented the peace agreement between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, a breakaway group of the MNLF.

Misuari and about 60 of his followers are facing criminal cases over the Zamboanga crisis, which left more than 200 people dead and P200-million worth of properties damaged. The 20-day crisis started after Misuari's followers tried to hoist their flag at the city hall and held hostage several civilians.

An arrest warrant was issued against Misuari and his followers in October 2013 but until now, security forces have yet to capture the MNLF founder.

An intelligence official who spoke on condition of anonymity said while there are reports about Misuari's whereabouts, authorities have yet to arrest him because "there is no guidance yet from the higher ups."

Military informants said attendees of the meeting designated Misuari's eldest son Hadji Uto Karim Misuari as vice chairman of the MNLF Central Committee. The younger Misuari is said to be in his late 30s and has a master's degree in Arabic and Sharia Law. He succeeded Orlando Olamit, who resigned due to health reasons.

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2016/02/08/1551008/misuari-met-2000-followers-sulu-says-military

Clashes between soldiers, rebels erupt anew in Southern Mindanao

From MindaNews (Feb 8): Clashes between soldiers, rebels erupt anew in Southern Mindanao

Units under the 10th Infantry Division engaged New People’s Army rebels in Compostela Valley and Davao Occidental provinces over the weekend.

The weekend clashes followed a series of encounters between the military and the NPA in Compostela Valley last February 3 where three soldiers were killed and three others were wounded, an Army official said.

In a text message to MindaNews, Capt. Rhyan B. Batchar, 10ID public affairs chief said the first encounter happened at around 5 a.m. on Saturday and lasted 15 minutes.

Batchar said Bravo Company of the 73rd Infantry Battalion clashed with the NPA’s Guerrilla Front 71 in the Far South Mindanao Region covering Jose Abad Santos town in Davao Occidental and Glan town in Sarangani Province.

On same day, another 15-minute encounter took place at 2:30 p.m. in Sitio Binotaan, Brgy. Kingking, Pantukan in Compostela Valley when soldiers chanced upon members of NPA Guerrilla Front 2 led by a certain Raden.

The third clash occurred in Sitio Logpaton, Brgy Kingking when rebels opened fire at soldiers manning a checkpoint at 3 p.m. on Sunday resulting to a six-minute gun battle.

Batchar said no soldier was hurt. He claimed the rebels suffered casualties.

He said the NPA has large formations in the two provinces based on their assessment but added the 1001^st Brigade can address rebel presence in these areas.

“Soldiers of 46IB and 73IB are still conducting pursuit operations against the NPAs,” a press release from the 10ID dated Feb. 8 said.

Last Feb. 3, Army 1Lt. Ralph Pantonial, Pfc Eulezys Bantulo, and Pfc. William Moreno were killed, while Pfc Jestoni Sabido, Cpl. Merlven Velunta, and a certain Herbert Aquino were injured in separate military operations.

In a press release Sunday, the National Democratic Front-Southern Mindanao claimed the Feb. 3 clashes resulted in 30 military casualties.

It said the NPA’s Comval Davao Gulf Subregional Command ambushed the 46^th IB in three separate incidents on Feb. 3 – at 12:30 p.m., 7:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

The first ambush occurred in Sapang Tin-aw, Brgy. Tibagon, Pantukan killing nine soldiers including 2Lt. Garcia. Ten were wounded and one was rendered missing, the NDF press release said.

“At 7:30 pm, the Red fighters ambushed the Army, damaging the military’s truck in Brgy. Cabahian where two soldiers were killed, including Army officer Capt. Pantonial, and seven others were wounded.  A Red fighter took a sniper shot and killed Sgt. William Morenio of the 46^th IB in Barangay Biasong, Pantukan at 7:00pm,” the rebel group said.

It added the attacks were “meant to punish” the 46^th IB for allegedly defending the interests of large-scale mining companies in Pantukan.

http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2016/02/08/clashes-between-soldiers-rebels-erupt-anew-in-southern-mindanao/

Freed 3-year-old boy arrives in Zamboanga City, reunites with family

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 8): Freed 3-year-old boy arrives in Zamboanga City, reunites with family

The newly-freed three-year-old boy has reunited with his family early Monday at a military headquarters in this city.

The boy, Ace Jay Garban, was brought to this city by troops of the Jolo Internal Defense Force (JIDF) headed by Col. Bernardino Sun.

They arrived here early Monday aboard a commercial ferry from Jolo, Sulu and proceeded to Camp Gen. Arturo Enrile in Barangay Malagutay that houses the Joint Task Force Zambasulta headquarters in this city.

The boy was received by his father, who traveled all the way from Pitogo, Zamboanga del Sur.

The name of the father, who is a barangay official, was withheld for security reasons.

Fatima Caminan, protective services unit head of the Department of Social Welfare Office (DSWDO) regional office, said the boy has to undergo psycho-social intervention as he has been traumatized.

Brig. Gen. Alan Arrojado, Joint Task Group Sulu (JTGS) commander, said Garban had undergone medical check-up at Camp Bautista Trauma Hospital in Jolo before the latter was brought to this city.

“He (Garban) was cleared from any physical injuries, however, he was observed to have been traumatized in his captivity,” Arrojado said.

Garban was recovered by a concerned citizen around 2:42 p.m. Sunday after he was spotted “without a companion” in Barangay Buanza, Indanan, Sulu.

“Immediately, the concerned citizen approached the child and at the same time informed the military unit of the KV’s (kidnap victim’s) presence in the area,” said Arrojado, who is also the Army’s 501st Infantry Brigade commander.

He said Garban was taken to Barangay Tulay, Jolo, and was turned over to Sun, who is also the deputy commander of the Army’s 501st Infantry Brigade.

Garban was seized by 10 Abu Sayyaf gunmen together with his two-year-old brother, Zynielle Jay, and bakery worker Ledegie Tomarong, 17, on March 31, 2015 in Barangay Poblacion, Pitogo, Zamboanga del Sur.

The gunmen killed Zynielle Jay, whose body was plucked from the seawater of Zamboanga del Sur on April 3, 2015 while Tomarong was released on July 20, 2015 in Barangay Kagay, Indanan, Sulu.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=854903

North Cotabato guv condemns killing of provincial civil security chief, aide

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 8): North Cotabato guv condemns killing of provincial civil security chief, aide

North Cotabato Governor Emmylou Mendoza has condemned Sunday's assassination of provincial capitol civil security unit chief Bernabe Abanilla and his bodyguard in Arakan, North Cotabato.

At the same time, Mendoza directed the Senior Supt. Alexander Tagum, provincial police director, to identify and arrest the suspects to give appropriate justice to Abanilla whom she described as a "dedicated public servant."

Police are looking at the possible involvement of the communist New People's Army (NPA) in the murder of Abanilla who was about to enter the Catholic Church in Barangay Doruloman, Arakan, North Cotabato at 8 a.m. Sunday.

Abanilla and Degul Semillano, his bodyguard, had just arrived at the church compound when three suspects, riding on motorbikes, sped away while firing several shots at them.

Churchgoers and civilians rushed the two to the hospital in Arakan town but both were declared dead on arrival.

Chief Insp. Felix Fornan, Arakan town police chief, said the victims sustained multiple gunshot wounds in the head and body.

Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO) recovered empty shells for cal. 45 pistol.

Nobody claimed responsibility for the incident, the second attempt on Abanilla's life.

In 2012, Abanilla survived an assassins' bullet when gunmen, also on board a motorbike, fired at him while inside his vehicle parked in front of a drug store in Kidapawan City.

A known anti-communist advocate, Abanilla, according to Mendoza had been working for the safety of all government workers inside the provincial capitol here.

In condemning the incident, Gov. Mendoza believed there must be deeper reasons why Abanilla was killed.

She directed the police to take measures that will prevent similar incidents in the future against provincial officials or anybody in North Cotabato.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=854845

Clashes reported as 10th ID intensifies security operations in Davao Region

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 8): Clashes reported as 10th ID intensifies security operations in Davao Region

A number of armed confrontations between government forces and the New People’s Army (NPA) rebels were recorded after the 10th Infantry (Agila) Division intensified its security operations in its areas of jurisdiction.

On Feb. 6 at around 5 a.m., elements of Bravo Company of the 73rd Infantry Battalion engaged a group of fully-armed NPA rebels belonging to guerrilla front 71 of the Far South Mindanao Region (FSMR) in the boundaries of Jose Abad Santos town in Davao Occidental and Glan, Sarangani, Captain Rhyan Batchar, chief information officer of the 10th ID said in a statement on Monday.

Batchar added that the second encounter took place on the same date, at around 2:30 p.m. in Sitio Binotaam, Barangay Kingking, Pantukan, Compostela Valley province when troopers belonging to 46th Ifantry Battalion engaged an escaping group of NPA rebels belonging to guerrilla front 2 of the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC) led by a certain Alias Raden.

On Feb. 7, at around 3 p.m., another armed encounter that lasted for six minutes took place between the elements of 46th IB and NPA rebels in Sitio Logpaton, Barangay Kingking, Pantukan,Compostela Valley.

“No soldier was hurt on these incidents while the NPAs were believed to have suffered casualties as they left behind traces of bloodstains and various personal effects and other paraphernalia’s after immediately fleeing the site of the incidents,” Batchar said.

Elements of 46th IB and 73rd IB are still conducting pursuit operations against the NPAs in their respective areas of operation.

In the same statement, Major General Rafael Valencia, commander of 10th ID, reiterated his earlier statement that the command’s campaign against the NPAs would be relentless.

“We will continue our peace and development initiatives for the people of Davao Region. We encourage NPA members to abandon the armed struggle and return to the folds of the law. But for those who continue to choose the path of violence, we will vigorously pursue and defeat them using legitimate force,” Valencia said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=854997

Army officer dies during Condura Marathon Run

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 8): Army officer dies during Condura Marathon Run

A 40-year old Army officer collapsed and died of a heart attack during the 21-km Condura Skyway Marathon Run at Alabang Skyway on Sunday.

Major Arnold F. Lubang was declared dead on arrival by the attending physician at Asian Hospital and Medical Center in Alabang, Muntinlupa City after suffering from cardiac arrest barely one kilometer away from the finish line.

Lubang, member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class 2000 is said to be very enthusiastic in participating various running events according to his classmates.

“He actively participates in various running events. We were shock upon receiving the report on the death of our Mistah (classmate in the PMA),” Major Joey Capirig said.

Capirig also described Lubang as an achiever, a fighter and among the best officers of the Philippine Army.

Lubang was also selected as best junior officer of the year during his stint as company commander in the 4th Infantry Division in Cagayan De Oro City.

He was awarded the Gold Cross Medal in 2003, the third highest award for bravery in combat.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Army sent 100 personnel to participate in the said running event initiated by the Condura Incorporated.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=854913