Military unleashes ‘elite K-9 team’ to track down NPA rebels

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 4): Military unleashes ‘elite K-9 team’ to track down NPA rebels

The military sent on Monday the “elite K-9 team” to track down the New People’s Army (NPA) responsible for the roadblocks along the highways here Sunday evening.

Capt. Norman Tagros, the spokesperson of the army’s 8th Infantry Battalion (8IB), said that the special tracking team is backed by the combined forces of the police and the military.

Tagros said that about 20 NPA rebels reportedly seized three police officers in a roadblock established along the Sayre Highway in Bukidnon about 6 p.m. Sunday.

The NPA bandits disguised themselves as soldiers and PNP personnel as they were wearing military and police uniforms while posting an AFP/PNP Checkpoint signboard along the highway, Tagros said.

He said that the incident lasted for about 30 minutes as the rebels went from vehicle to vehicle taking their vehicle keys and held the civilians at gunpoint.

Tagros said that the government troopers have been deployed along with the elite K-9 team to conduct a pursuit operation of the NPA rebels in the mountains of Bukidnon.

According to Tagros, the military has issued an advisory three days prior to the incident Sunday evening about the plan of the NPA to conduct AFP or PNP checkpoints using the Comelec checkpoint signboards.

Following the advisory, the military immediately conducted patrols in Bukidnon and engaged the NPA rebels in a running gun battle on the outskirts of Malaybalay City last Saturday (April 2). No casualties were reported in the incident, Tagros said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=873023

Cotabato City blast hurts 3

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 5): Cotabato City blast hurts 3

Three students were injured when an improvised explosive device went off Monday night inside the Cotabato City State Polytechnic College (CCSPC), police said.

The IED, made of flash powder, cut nails and triggering device, was planted and set off at 11 p.m. under the grandstand where a battle of the band competition was earlier held.

Injured were Neil Barasbaras Borja, 20, Dondon Jumalon Bangis, 25, Tyrone Sunico Jore, all residents of Notre Dame Avenue, Cotabato City.

They sustained injuries in various parts of their legs.

Police investigation showed the victims were preparing to leave the venue after the competition when the blast occurred.

Witnesses told police they saw few men roaming around and under the grandstand before the blast.

Police are seeking the CCTV footage of CCSPC management as part of the investigation process.

Mayor Japal Guiani Jr has directed the police to intensify police visibility in major city streets following the rash of shooting which police believed was related to illegal drug activities.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=873179

BIFF leader figured in Army-BIFF clashes in Maguindanao nabbed in gov't hospital

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 5): BIFF leader figured in Army-BIFF clashes in Maguindanao nabbed in gov't hospital

One of the members of outlawed Moro group who figured in clashes with government forces in Datu Salibo, Maguindanao, was arrested while getting medical attention at a government hospital here, police said Monday.

Chief Inspector William Santos, officer in charge (OIC) of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (CIDG-ARMM), said Zainudin Kawilan who was facing a double murder case was arrested at the Cotabato Regional and Medical Center (CRMC) by joint Army and police officers over the weekend.

He did not resist arrest and admitted he was a member of the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF).

Kawilan is known among police and military intelligence operatives as a field commander of the BIFF Special Operations Group involved in bomb making and guerrilla operations against elements of the 6th Infantry Division.

Santos said a tipster alerted the police and CIDG-ARMM about his presence in the hospital where he sought medical attention for several gunshot wounds.

Kawilan was included in the 6th ID intelligence watch list for his involvement in the series of road side bombing against soldiers and civilians in Datu Salibo and nearby municipalities of Maguindanao.

While most of the BIFF forces are concentrated in Maguindanao’s interior villages, Kawilan has been monitored to be frequenting Cotabato City and Tacurong in Sultan Kudarat where bombings have occurred during the first quarter of 2016.

Police intelligence information also showed Kawilan was also a gun for hire and offered his services to politicians.

For more than a month, the Army’s 6th ID, through its Task Force Central, launched in February air and ground assaults against the BIFF after it harassed workers of a flood control project in Datu Salibo.

Five soldiers were killed and 26 others were injured during the operation. The military could not say how many BIFF fighters were neutralized during the operation.

However, community leaders near the clash site reported more than 50 BIFF have died in the military offensives.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=873266

'Balikatan' describes PHL-US bond

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 4): 'Balikatan' describes PHL-US bond

"Balikatan" aptly describes the existing bond between Filipino and American servicemen participating in this year's joint military maneuvers.

This was stressed by Vice Admiral Alexander Lopez, Philippine "Balikatan" exercise director, during Monday's opening ceremonies.

" "Balikatan' 2016 brings our respective armed forces together in a bilateral activity that will not only evaluate and validate our doctrines and procedures in joint combined military operations but more importantly we strengthen our long-established camaraderie and friendship and advances the security cooperation that we have nurtured for many years," he added.

"'Balikatan' or shouldering the load together in the vernacular perfectly describes the bond between our nations have been advanced since the Mutual Defense Treaty between the Philippines and the United States was signed and ratified in 1951. Since then we have continuously addressed the serious concerns posed by the evolving security environment and we have done so effectively because of our greater collaborative undertakings which are instrumental in enhancing the relationship and inter-operability between our armed forces," Lopez pointed out.

He stressed that the yearly military maneuvers allow Filipino and American troops to learn from each other, gaining valuable knowledge and insights that will improve not just defenses against conventional challenges but also approaches in addressing non-traditional ones.

And in confronting these challenges, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has expanded its strategic and long-lasting partnerships with other regional allies, Lopez said.

" As such while the 'Balikatan' exercises remain to be bilateral between the Philippines and the United States, the defense and security cooperation fortified with Australia and Japan are welcome developments towards a continued international collaboration in achieving regional peace security and stability," he added.

Active participation of Australian and Japanese units in this year's manuevers have sent a clear message across the seas that our partnerships remain undaunted united and strong.

"Undoubtedly 'Balikatan' 2016 has immensely grown in strength and in scale, this year’s exercise will again afford us the opportunity to test and validate concepts and doctrines specially of new technologies and hardware, this will greatly aid in the capacity and capability developments of the AFP as more focus and efforts are giving from internal security to territorial defense operations," Lopez pointed.

And building on the gains of last year's exercises, both Filipino and American forces stand to witness the strengthening of the command and control structure and protocol not only between and among AFP units but also with national civil authorities and other agencies of the government.

Lopez said coordination will simultaneously serve as the comprehensive approach in addressing territorial defense and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief challenges.

Aside from this, 'Balikatan' also enhances the capabilities of Filipino units in aiding our countrymen and neighbors in the event of any natural or man-made calamity

"Equally important to the success of 'Balikatan' 2016 is the conduct of series of preliminary 'Balikatan' unilateral defense planning and execution exercises, through this aside from honing the skills and expertise of the battle staff of the general headquarters and also of those in the unified commands all participating units have also been aligned to the one exercise scenario to attain these desired objectives," he added.

"Moreover valuable lessons learned to its otherwise ideal conduct were also identified, the application of the combined logistics point, distributed operations and alternative platforms are also sound of the concepts for testing and evaluation, the positive outcomes will significantly enhance inter-operability and efficiency within our armed forces in the conduct of joint as well as combined operations in the near future," Lopez emphasized.

"Moreover a mobilization exercise for the joint rapid reaction force with a follow on operations concept will also provide impetus to its transition as the national manuever force of the AFP," he revealed.

Another breakthrough for "Balikatan" 2016 is the recent addition of science and technology advancements in activities, this include the Philippine-initiated software-defined simulation technology for both platform and battle staff training, Lopez disclosed.

Other relevant technology insertions designed as force multipliers to improve efficiency across the organizations provide much needed enhancement in the AFP.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=872994

US Defense Secretary to drop by for 'Balikatan' exercises

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 4): US Defense Secretary to drop by for 'Balikatan' exercises

US Defense Secretary Ash Carter will be coming to the Philippines to personally observe Filipino and US troops during the "Balikatan" exercises.

This was confirmed by US "Balikatan" exercise director Lt. Gen. John Toolan during Monday's opening ceremonies.

"The secretary is (going) to be here toward the end of the exercise and he’s (going), actually observe a couple of things, he’s very interested in, what I mentioned earlier about the high mobility rocket system and how that works and he’s also (going) spend some time out at sea with the US Navy ships that’s gonna be out there and so and I believe that really his main purpose here is to come and reaffirm that the relationship that we have with the Philippines is rock solid, and we’re side-by-side," he added.

The high mobility rocket system is also known as HIMARS, or the "M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System".

It is a US light multiple rocket launcher mounted on a standard Army medium tactical vehicle truck frame.

Two HIMARS units will participate in the "Balikatan" exercises.

Each HIMARS platform is worth over USD 5 million and can carry six rockets or one MGM-140 ATACMS missile on the US Army's new family of medium tactical vehicles five-ton truck, and can launch the entire multiple launch rocket system family of munitions.

It is interchangeable with the MLRS M270A1, carrying half the rocket load. The launcher is C-130 transportable.

"Balikatan 2016" formally opened Monday and will end on the 15th.

Some 3, 773 Filipino soldiers and 4, 904 US troops take part in the two-week military maneuvers. (

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=873126

'Balikatan' demonstrates strength of PHL, US alliance

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 4): 'Balikatan' demonstrates strength of PHL, US alliance

The alliance between the Philippines and the United States is strong and demonstrated by the yearly "Balikatan" exercises between the militaries of the two nations.

This was emphasized by US "Balikatan" exercise director Lt. Gen. John Toolan during Monday's opening ceremonies.

"Our alliance is strong. The United States is committed to this relationship and these are not empty words. These are in (the) American expression, putting our money where our mouth is. We have over 5,000 US Marines, sailors, soldiers and airmen here which represent this substantial commitment of the Pacific Command," he added.

"We have a bond, we have a special bond forged in Cabanatuan, Corrigidor or Leyte and we should never forget that. As the present commander of US Marine Forces Pacific, I have been blessed of being able to cultivate relationships with many of the senior officers, and representatives of the Philippine Armed Forces," Toolan pointed out.

He added that peace in Southeast Asia depends on cooperation.

"And as we think about the Philippines and its security landscape, analyzing its history, patterns and dynamics of how our militaries engage with one another, we can identify one area that's missing and what we can do better to help our two nations achieve their respective aspirations for defense and security," Toolan said.

"My staff and I have engaged many people about the challenges past, present, and future associated with the security environment in the Philippines, and the Philippines' ability to achieve its security goal. what i feel , both American and Filipino professionally and personally is the overriding foundation of desire to achieve and end-state of a sovereign, independent, self sufficient, self relying Philippines fully capable of effectively addressing its own course security requirements," he added.

Toolan said their view of Philippines self-sufficiency and self-reliance was real and US forces in "Balikatan" were here to showcase that.

"We have made significant progress. And as President Obama said recently in the Philippines, our commitment to defend the Philippines is ironclad. The United States will keep that commitment because allies never stand alone. This view of helping the AFP achieve self sufficiency and self-reliance is about enhancing the alliance and transforming it from an alliance borne out of necessity to an alliance based principally on shared values and the belief that our nations share real and (immutable) bond of friendship," he said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=873027

'Balikatan' humanitarian projects begin in Panay

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 5): 'Balikatan' humanitarian projects begin in Panay

The humanitarian civic assistance component of the annual "Balikatan" exercises started in Panay island on Monday, with 333 Filipino and American troops as part of the contingent.

3rd Infantry Division public affairs office chief Lt. Col. Ray Tiongson said the HCA projects aim to improve Philippine-US military civic assistance inter-operability.

From April 5 to 8, "Balikatan" Cooperative Health Engagement Team will conduct series of lectures and practical exercises on Tactical Combat Casualty Care Course to 3rd Infantry Division personnel at Camp Peralta at Jamindan, Capiz province.

On April 6 to 8, training on Basic First Responder, Disaster Mental Health, Hygiene and Nutrition will be conducted by Filipino and American military medical personnel to around 400 participants coming from 30 different barangays in Jamindan composed of the local government unit officials, barangay tanods, health workers and other members of the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (MDRRMC) down to the barangay level committee.

Tiongson said the training aims to enhance disaster rescue, relief, recovery and rehabilitation efforts capabilities of the military and its counterparts in the civilian sector.

While both Armed Forces develop a more responsive partnership, the local communities are likewise empowered to take immediate response actions to save lives and prevent further damage during disaster.

Meanwhile, military engineering personnel from the Filipino and American military personnel are now working shoulder-to-shoulder in repairing three elementary schools.

The San Nicolas Elementary School in Tapaz, Capiz is now 83 percent completed, while Jaena Norte Elementary School in Jamindan, Capiz is at 65 percent and Matangharon Elementary School in Dingle, Iloilo at 41 percent. All school projects are expected to be completed on April 16.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=873206

PHL units to get first-hand look on Balikatan exercises 'distributed operations'

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 5): PHL units to get first-hand look on Balikatan exercises 'distributed operations'

Aside from the humanitarian and inter-operability aspects, the ongoing "Balikatan" exercises will give Filipino military units a first-hand look on the so-called "distributed operations".

This was confirmed by US "Balikatan" exercise director Lt. Gen. John Toolan during Monday's opening ceremonies.

"Of course the Philippines is a very unique country particularly with all those islands, so one of the things that we're trying to work on is what we call 'distributed operation', its being able to put small teams throughout for example the archipelago here in the Philippines and give them a capability, the command-and-control, communicate (when) necessarily," he added.

Also, since American units have not done this for a long time, "Balikatan" will give US forces a chance to test it.

"We're (going to experiment) with some new equipment, I mentioned the rockets (HIMARS) but there are other things, we’re (going to) look at how we can establish expeditionary sites, in other words sites that you can put up, or put down down quickly, not necessarily fixed sites so its (going to) be pretty challenging to be quite honest for us," Toolan stressed.

HIMARS which is short for the "M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System".

It is a US light multiple rocket launcher mounted on a standard Army medium tactical vehicle truck frame.

Two HIMARS units will be participating in the "Balikatan" exercises.

Each HIMARS platform is worth over USD5 million and can carry six rockets or one MGM-140 ATACMS missile on the US Army's new family of medium tactical vehicles five-ton truck, and can launch the entire multiple launch rocket system family of munitions.

It is interchangeable with the MLRS M270A1, carrying half the rocket load. The launcher is C-130 transportable.

Toolan earlier said the Philippine and American alliance is strong as attested by the constant conduct of "Balikatan" exercises.

"Our alliance is strong. The United States is committed to this relationship and these are not empty words. These are in (the) Ameican expression, putting our money where our mouth is. We have over 5,000 US Marines, sailors, soldiers and airmen here which represent this substantial commitment of the Pacific Command," he added.

"We have a bond, we have a special bond forged in Cabanatuan, Corrigedor or Leyte and we should never forget that. As the present commander of US Marine Forces Pacific, I have been blessed of being able to cultivate relationships with many of the senior officers, and representaives of the Philippine Armed Forces," Toolan pointed out.

He added that peace in Southeast Asia depends on cooperation.

"And as we think about the Philippines and its security landscape, analyzing its history, patterns and dynamics of how our militaries engage with one another, we can identify one area that's missing and what we can do better to help our two nations achieve their respective aspirations for defense and security," Toolan disclosed.

"My staff and I have engaged many people about the challenges past, present, and future associated with the security environment in the Philippines, and the Philippines' ability to achieve its security goal. what i feel , both American and Filipino professionally and personally is the overriding foundation of desire to achieve and end-state of a sovereign, independent, self sufficient, self relying Philippines fully capable of effectively addressing its own course security requirements," he added.

Toolan said their view of Philippines self-sufficiency and self-reliance is real and US forces in "Balikatan" are here to showcase that.

"We have made significant progress. And as President Obama said recently in the Philippines, our commitment to defend the Philippines is ironclad. The United States will keep that commitment because allies never stand alone. This view of helping the AFP achieve self sufficiency and self-reliance is about enhancing the alliance and transforming it from an alliance borne out of necessity to an alliance based principally on shared values and the belief that our nations share real and (immutable) bond of friendship," he concluded.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=873230

China says it may allow foreign journalists to visit reefs in disputed waters

From the Philippine Star (Apr 4): China says it may allow foreign journalists to visit reefs in disputed waters



This photo provided by the Taiwan's Ministry of Defense shows an aerial view of Taiwan's Taiping island, also known as Itu Aba, in the Spratly archipelago, roughly 1600 kms (1000 miles) south of Taiwan, Wednesday, March 23, 2016. Taiwan flew international media to the 46 hectares (110 acres) Taiping Island, its largest island holding in the South China Sea, on Wednesday in a bid to reinforce its territorial claims in the disputed and increasingly tense region. Taiwan's Ministry of Defense via AP

Bejing may allow foreign journalists to visit relevant islands and reefs in the disputed South China, a Chinese Foreign Ministry official said.

"When the condition is ripe, we will consider inviting foreign journalists to visit the islands and reefs," Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hong Lei said in his regular press conference on Friday.

Despite reports of escalating tensions in the disputed sea, Hong assured that the situation in the region is stable.

Hong added that China is resolute on safeguarding its rights and sovereignty over the disputed waters.

"At the same time, we are committed to resolving relevant disputes through dialogue and negotiation and jointly maintain peace and stability of the South China Sea with ASEAN countries," Hong said.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry official expressed his hopes that countries outside the region will play a constructive role on the efforts of China and ASEAN countries to resolve the tensions in the region.

Meanwhile, Hong noted that military-to-military activities between concerned countries should promote regional peace, stability and development.

The Balikatan joint military exercises between the Philippines and the United States is set to start today.

The new military assets of the Philippines, including landing craft heavy ships from Australian, will participate in the joint drill.

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2016/04/04/1569317/china-says-it-may-allow-foreign-journalists-visit-reefs-disputed-waters

US, Australian and Philippine forces start combat drills

From the Philippine Star (Apr 4): US, Australian and Philippine forces start combat drills

Thousands of U.S. and Philippine troops, along with Australian special forces, began annual drills Monday to prepare to quickly respond to a range of potential crises, including in the disputed South China Sea.

The exercises have been opposed in recent years by China, which is involved in territorial disputes in the South China Sea with several sides, including the Philippines, and suspects the drills are part of efforts to contain Beijing. Washington and Manila say that the drills are not directed against China, and that they also focus on preparing for natural disasters and humanitarian crises.

U.S. Defense Secretary Ash Carter will fly to the Philippines to witness some of the 11-day exercises, said U.S. Marine Lt. Gen. John Toolan, who heads the roughly 5,000 American military personnel taking part in the maneuvers.

Carter's presence will "reaffirm that the relationship that we have with the Philippines is rock solid and we're side by side," Toolan, who heads U.S. Marine forces in the Pacific, said at a news conference.

He said a highly mobile rocket system that has been deployed in hot spots such as Afghanistan will be used during the Balikatan, or Shoulder to Shoulder, exercises for the first time.

Filipino military officials said a key exercise will involve U.S., Australian and Philippine forces retaking an oil rig seized by hostile units in a mock assault in an unused oil rig off the western province of Palawan, which faces the South China Sea.

The Philippines has turned to the United States, a longtime treaty ally, and others to rapidly acquire patrol ships and planes amid territorial rifts with China that have escalated in the last four years. The disputes in the South China Sea also involve Vietnam, Malaysia, Taiwan and Brunei.

"The Philippines is the least capable armed forces in the region, and the U.S., being a big brother, is a big help," said Philippine navy Vice Admiral Alexander Lopez, who heads the contingent of about 3,500 Filipino military personnel involved in the exercises.

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2016/04/04/1569356/us-australian-and-philippine-forces-start-combat-drills

Imam shot dead outside Cotabato City mosque

From the Philippine Star (Apr 4): Imam shot dead outside Cotabato City mosque



Investigators are still gathering statements from witnesses to help them identify Ayao’s killer. Philstar.com/File photo

A cleric about to enter a mosque here to perform an obligatory daytime prayer on Sunday was shot dead by someone who may have been a hired killer.

 

The victim, Imam Adzis Pasawilan Ayao, died on the spot from multiple gunshot wounds.

 

Witnesses told investigators Ayao was about to enter the Ummoh Abdulkarim Mosque in Barangay Rosary Heights 10 when he was attacked by a gunman armed with a .45 caliber pistol.

 

The director of the city police, Senior Supt. Raul Supiter, said investigators are still trying to determine the possible motive for Ayao's murder.

 

Ayao was involved in da’awah (preaching) activities when he was still alive.

 

Supiter said investigators are still gathering statements from witnesses to help them identify Ayao’s killer.

 

http://www.philstar.com/nation/2016/04/04/1569327/imam-shot-dead-outside-cotabato-city-mosque

Military intensifies search for Samal kidnap victims

From the Philippine Star (Apr 4): Military intensifies search for Samal kidnap victims


A still image captured from video footage of the kidnappers and their victims is shown in this SITE Intelligence Group video made available to Reuters.

The military has intensified its search for four people abducted from a resort on Samal in Davao del Norte last September as the April 8 deadline to pay the ransom for their safe release draws nearer.

 

Maj. Filemon Tan Jr., spokesman of Western Mindanao Command (Wesmincom), said troops on the ground have been on a relentless and focused military operation in search of the captives.

 

The troops have been tracking the whereabouts of Canadians John Ridsdel and Robert Hall; Norwegian Kjartan Sekkingstad; and a Filipino woman Marites Flor, who are believed to be being held in the mountains of Sulu.

 

Tan said there have been continuous operations to rescue the victims in the soonest possible time regardless of the deadline imposed by the Abu Sayyaf group.

 

He said, however, that ground troops were advised to make the victims' safety a paramount consideration.

 

Gunmen believed to be with the Abu Sayyaf group posted a video on social media on March 10 and gave the victims’ families until April 8 pay a ransom of P1 billion for each foreign captive.

 

“The deadline set is the deadline of the Abu Sayyaf, for our side we will do our best to rescue the KVs (kidnap victims) the soonest time possible as we also consider their safety as our primary concern,” Tan said.

 

Meanwhile, the military is also intensifying its intelligence gathering on the possible locations of 10 Indonesians and 4 Malaysians who are also believed to be being held by the Abu Sayyaf.

 

The Indonesians and Malaysians boat crews were abducted separately within a week of each other. 

 

Tan said they are also consulting with Indonesian and Malaysian counterparts on the course of action for the recovery of the hostages.

 

http://www.philstar.com/nation/2016/04/04/1569348/military-intensifies-search-samal-kidnap-victims

PAF sends more air assets to contain fire at Mt. Apo

From the Daily Tribune (Apr 4): PAF sends more air assets to contain fire at Mt. Apo

The military sent additional air assets to augment efforts to stop the raging forest fire at Mt. Apo where more than 200 hectares had already been destroyed by the blaze that started since March 29.

Col. Araus Robert Musico, spokesman of the Air Force, said that two more UH-1H helicopters were sent to assist in the ongoing  firefighting operation.

“The Air Force is committing additional Hueys as soon as they are available…to contribute to the firefighting effort in Mt. Apo,” said Musico.

“From what I understand we will be sending two more…they will be there this afternoon (Sunday) or tomorrow (Monday) morning,” he added.

According to Musico, the Air Force leadership is inclined to send additional Hueys.

Earlier, two Air Force choppers — a Super Huey and a UH-1D both from the Tactical Operations Group 11, were sent to Mt. Apo to help fight the blaze which started March 29.

Musico said that the Super Huey, an upgraded version of the UH-1H, has already undertaken 50 bucket drops since its deployment to Mt. Apo while the UH-1D has been transporting supplies and logistics in the area.

Aside from dropping buckets of water, Musico said that Air Force choppers were also dropping crushed ice to the affected areas.

The military’s Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) has also deployed a company-size soldiers, numbering about 120, to provide additional muscles to the ongoing firefighting operation.

Maj. Ezra Balagtey, spokesperson of Eastmincom, said that Eastmincom chief Lt. Gen. rey Leonardo Guerrero ordered all disaster response units to be on alert for possible deployment in Mt. Apo.

http://www.tribune.net.ph/nation/paf-sends-more-air-assets-to-contain-fire-at-mt-apo

No ransom demand yet as troops scour W. Mindanao

From the Daily Tribune (Apr 4): No ransom demand yet as troops scour W. Mindanao

Government troops are now combing Western Mindanao, particularly near Malaysian border, to locate the four Malaysians reportedly kidnapped by the terrorist Abu Sayyaf group.

The abduction of the Malaysians came while the Western Mindanao Command (Wesmincom) is still reeling from the kidnapping of 10 Indonesian crewmen of tugboat Brahman 12 along the waters of Zambasulta (Zamboanga, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi Tawi) area last week.

A Malaysian official said there has been no ransom demand as yet for the four.

Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar said police were still determining whether the abduction involved cross-border crime and whether the Abu Sayyaf group was involved.

Commenting on the security in Sabah waters, Khalid said the waters around the southern Philippines and east Malaysia border were not safe.

Khalid suggested that any form of assistance, trade and the supply of essential goods from Sabah to the southern Philippines be suspended immediately.

He said such activities made it difficult for security forces to monitor the area more extensively.

Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Abdul Rashid Harun said police were still investigating and gathering information, including the location of the incident.

“We must not jump into conclusions. It could have happened in international waters because they were on the way back to Tawau. The incident reportedly happened off Ligitan which is vast and we have our assets there,” Bernama news agency quoted him as saying.

“So, investigations are still ongoing,” he said, adding the ship and crew had been brought to Tawau and their statements recorded.

The kidnapping was the second in less a week after Indonesian registered tugboat Brahman 12 was intercepted reportedly off the waters of Tawi Tawi.

Ten Indonesian crewmembers were reported taken as captives. Initial reports tagged the group of Abu Sayyaf sub-leader Abu Misaya as responsible.

Police and military authorities, however, stated there has been no validated report as to who pulled off the interception of Brahman 12 at high sea and where were the victims taken.

Reports said the Abu Sayyaf group demanded P50 million in ransom for the release of the 10 Indonesians.

Malaysia said the victims, all crewmen of a Malaysian vessel, were snatched around 7 p.m. on Saturday, and may have been taken to Mindanao by their kidnappers who were possibly members of the Abu Sayyaf Group.

The series of kidnappings happened while the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is conducting focuses combat operations against the Abu Sayyaf groups in Basilan and Sulu.

The AFP has intensified operations against the Abu Sayyaf since November last year upon the orders of President Aquino following the beheading of Malaysian captive Bernard Then in Jolo.     

http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/no-ransom-demand-yet-as-troops-scour-w-mindanao

Court junks Pemberton's appeal but downgrades his sentence

From GMA News (Apr 4): Court junks Pemberton's appeal but downgrades his sentence

 

An Olongapo court on Monday junked the appeal of US Marine Lance Corporal Joseph Scott Pemberton in connection with his homicide conviction for the death of a Filipino transgender in October 2014.

In his appeal filed with the Olongapo Regional Trial Court Branch 74 in December 2015, Pemberton asked for the reversal of his conviction for the killing of Jeffrey "Jennifer" Laude inside a motel room in Olongapo City.

A report on Balita Pilipinas said the court reiterated that the prosecution has presented sufficient evidence to convict Pemberton.

The report said the court also junked Pemberton's motion to post bail, noting that it could not grant such request as the US serviceman is already a convict.

However, the court said there would be changes in Pemberton sentence. From six to 12 years of imprisonment, his sentence was downgraded to six to 10 years.

The report said Judge Roline Ginez-Jabalde took cognizance of the "mitigating circumstances" regarding Laude's death presented by Pemberton's lawyers in their appeal in downgrading the sentence.

The court originally ordered Pemberton’s detention at the New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa City.

It, however, revised its order after Philippine officials manifested in open court that the Philippine and US governments, under the Visiting Forces Agreement, had agreed to hold Pemberton at the AFP Custodial Center at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/561469/news/nation/court-junks-pemberton-s-appeal-but-downgrades-his-sentence

Militants troop to US Embassy to protest Balikatan exercises

From GMA News (Apr 4): Militants troop to US Embassy to protest Balikatan exercises

 

As the 32nd Balikatan Exercises commenced, militant groups converged before the United States (US) Embassy in Manila Monday morning to call for the cancellation of the said exercises.

The groups, composed of Kilusang Mayo Uno, League of Filipino Students and Bayan Muna, among others, also called on the government to junk treaties between the Philippines and the US including the Mutual Defense Treaty, Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement and Visiting Forces Agreement.

DZBB Super Radyo ‎@dzbb

Militanteng grupo, nagprotesta sa @usembassymanila kasabay ng pagsisimula ng Balikatan exercises. | via Carlo Mateo

12:25 AM - 4 Apr 2016

According to a report by Dano Tingcungco on Balitanghali, the group claimed that such treaties, including the Balikatan exercises, would only make the country a pawn of the US in advancing its interests in Asia.

Meters away from the US Embassy, the police, armed with shields and truncheons, blocked the path of the protesters, but no confrontation occurred.

The police did not stop protesters from burning a US flag during their program.

Thousands of US and Filipino soldiers will take part in the 11-day Balikatan exercises launched Monday.

The annual war games are expected to show how the Philippines can counter China in the disputed islands in the West Philippine Sea.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/561435/news/nation/militants-troop-to-us-embassy-to-protest-balikatan-exercises

Rebels kill Cafgu member

From the Visayan Daily Star (Apr 4): Rebels kill Cafgu member

A member of the Army's Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU) was gunned down by an alleged Special Partisan Unit (SPARU) member in Barangay Camalanda-an, Cauayan town in Negros Occidental, at about 1 p.m. Saturday.

Roberto Morales, 44, was declared dead on arrival at the Cauayan District Hospital. He sustained bullet wounds on his chest, Chief Insp. Arnold Mesias, Cauayan Police Station officer-in-charge, said yesterday.

The suspect, identified as Renan Febreo, an alleged SPARU hitman of the New People's Army, had a stab wound in his stomach after Mercedita Morales, the wife of the victim, stabbed him with a knife, Mesias said.

Mercedita stabbed Febreo while he was scuffling with the children of Morales after the shooting incident, the police chief said.

Febreo was brought to the Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Regional Hospital in Bacolod City, while his three other unidentified companions, escaped, Mesias said.  He said Febreo also tried to shoot one of the children of Morales.

The motive, however, is still being investigated.

The police recovered a .45 caliber pistol from the crime scene, Mesias said.
Multiple charges for violations of Republic Act 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, Commission on Elections gun ban, murder, and frustrated murder are being readied against Febreo, Mesias added.

Lieutenant Colonel Roderick Garcia, Commanding Officer of the 79th Infantry Battalion said in a press statement yesterday that they are extending their condolences to the bereaved wife and family of Morales. He said the killing is an absolute manifestation of a violation of Human Rights and the International Humanitarian Law.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2016/April/03/topstory5.htm

NPA urges participation in May polls

From the Visayan Daily Star (Apr 4): NPA urges participation in May polls

The New People's Army Leonardo Panaligan Command is encouraging participation in the May 9 elections to exercise its members' “right of suffrage”, and choose “pro-people”, and “ less-evil” candidates.

Ka JB Regalado, spokesperson of the Leonardo Panaligan Command in central Negros, admitted, however, in a statement he issued, that the May 9 elections is not the answer to the worsening poverty problem, and will not change the society.

Instead, the armed struggle is the answer to it, Regalado maintained.

Regalado called for vigilance in the implementation of rules and regulations of the revolutionary movement, in relation to the conduct of campaign sorties.

Traditional politicians who are using their power and wealth to intimidate the people, should be targeted for the imposition of revolutionary justice, he said.

The Army's 3rd Infantry Division, meanwhile, said it is fully committed and well prepared to prevent any armed threats. “We shall use the full force of the law against lawless groups that will undermine the electoral process”, its commander, Brig. Gen. Harold Cabreros, said.

Cabreros said the 3ID forces will continue to intensify focused military operations and are exerting all efforts to determine and apprehend lawless armed groups and personalities who intend to sabotage the conduct of elections.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2016/April/03/topstory2.htm

Japan seeks greater cooperation to ensure peaceful West Philippine Sea

From Update.Ph (Apr 3): Japan seeks greater cooperation to ensure peaceful West Philippine Sea  

Japan will seek further cooperation with other Asian countries to ensure stability in the South China Sea (West Philippine Sea), Defense Minister Gen Nakatani said Sunday, amid territorial disputes between China and a number of countries in the region.

“It is important for the international community to work together to ensure that the seas are open, free and peaceful,” Nakatani told reporters in Kochi Prefecture.

Earlier in the day, a Japanese submarine and two destroyers made a port call in the Philippines as part of a voyage to train Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force officers and foster goodwill with the country.

http://www.update.ph/2016/04/japan-seeks-greater-cooperation-to-ensure-peaceful-west-philippine-sea/3807

LOOK: US Army aircraft take flight from Subic

From Update.Ph (Apr 4): LOOK: US Army aircraft take flight from Subic

United States Army helicopters, that were unloaded at Subic Bay port, have taken flight April 3, a day before the opening ceremony of US-Philippines Balikatan 2016.

Among the American aircraft that were unloaded at the said port were UH-60M Black Hawk Helicopters, HH-60M Hospital Helicopters (a variant of Black Hawk), and CH-47 Chinook helicopters.

The tilt-rotor MV-22 Osprey, Lockheed C-130 Hercules cargo planes, and A-10 Thunderbolt ground attack aircraft, and leased Hawker Hunter jet fighters are also expected to join the joint war games.

Balikatan 2016 officially opened today and will run through April 15.

US Army Boeing CH-47 Chinook takes off for flight in Subic Bay on April 3, 2016. US photo

US Army UH-60M Black Hawk Helicopters in Subic, April 3. US photo

The Philippines will utilize Air Force’s first two FA-50PH Fighting Eagle light-interim fighter aircraft for Balikatan 2016.

Air Force spokesman Colonel Enrico Canaya said in FA-50PH pilots will practice airborne intercept techniques, air combat maneuvers, interdiction and close-air support with their American counterparts.

http://www.update.ph/2016/04/look-us-army-aircraft-take-flight-from-subic/3813

High Mobility Rocket System looks good for PH – General

From Update.Ph (Apr 4): High Mobility Rocket System looks good for PH – General  



Inert rocket rounds will be fired from the United States’ HIMARS [M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System] mobile artillery platform for the live-fire phase of this year’s Balikatan exercises.

This was disclosed by Major General Rodolfo Santiago, Balikatan assistant exercise director for Philippines at the sidelines of Monday’s opening ceremony of the annual joint military maneuvers.

“Balikatan is an opportunity to test, to experiment on systems that may be utilized to develop our capabilities. I am not saying that there are plans to acquire it but this looks good [for the Armed Forces of the Philippines] as [HIMARS] is relatively cheap,” Santiago pointed out.

HIMARS is a light multiple rocket launcher mounted on a standard US Army Medium Tactical Vehicle truck frame.

He also stressed that participation of HIMARS in Balikatan is not addressing any specific threat and merely being utilized to give Filipino forces a first-hand look on a modern artillery rocket system and its capabilities.

“[American units] will not be firing live rockets [during the April 14 live-fire exercise in Crow Valley, Tarlac] as it is expensive and we do not need to see the actual effects [of the rocket when it hits its target]. Inert rockets will be used to demonstrate on HIMARS when fired in the field,” Santiago said in Filipino.

Rockets are said to be inert when stripped of all explosives and other active materials.
“Balikatan 2016” formally opened this today and will end on the 15th.

An estimated 3, 773 Filipino soldiers and 4, 904 US troops will take part in the two-week military maneuvers.

http://www.update.ph/2016/04/high-mobility-rocket-system-looks-good-for-ph-general/3824

US-PH alliance a naturally-formed rock of trust and confidence – PH military chief

From Update.Ph (Apr 4): US-PH alliance a naturally-formed rock of trust and confidence – PH military chief  

Filipino and American forces have formed mutual trust and confidence with each other through the annual Balikatan exercises. This was stressed by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen. Hernando DCA Iriberri during the opening ceremonies for this year’s military exercises Monday.

“Every year for over three decades now, the Philippines stands shoulder-to-shoulder with our allies and partners. Learning, sharing and growing our common strengths through capability development and capacity building toward our shared vision,” he added.

“Through this annual Balikatan exercise, our alliance and partnerships have become a naturally-formed rock of trust and confidence. Through well planned training exchanges, we have not only enhanced our capabilities to address threats and other security concerns as individual nations, but more importantly as partners progressively built and strengthened our linked nations for cooperative action to address common challenges,” Iriberri stressed.

Aside from US and Philippines military, this year’s Balikatan exercise will be made more fruitful and dynamic with the return of the Australian Defense Forces, who are joining the US and the AFP for the third time, he added.

“We welcome the participation for the first time of the members of the Japan Self Defense Forces as observers in this exercise. And we are much pleased to see the delegations in our ‘Balikatan’ 2016 international observers program from eight other countries – Brunei, Canada, Malaysia, New Zealand, South Korea, Thailand, Timor Leste and Vietnam,” the AFP chief stressed.

Iriberri said these multinational forces were invited to increase multilateral collaboration and provide a common platform for regional engagement on development of partner nation military capabilities.

“And we are only too glad in the quality of their response,” he pointed out.
And with the US and Philippine forces getting ever closer in mapping out and executing the training plans for this Balikatan 2016 as part of a broader Mutual Defense Board-Security Engagement Board engagement, Iriberri said the growing partnership and alliance between the two nation is expected to move toward truly ironclad commitment, capability development and even in security relations.

http://www.update.ph/2016/04/us-ph-alliance-a-naturally-formed-rock-of-trust-and-confidence-ph-military-chief/3832

Military unleashes ‘elite K-9 team’ to track down communist rebels

From Update.Ph (Apr 4): Military unleashes ‘elite K-9 team’ to track down communist rebels



The military sent on Monday the “elite K-9 team” to track down the New People’s Army (NPA) responsible for the roadblocks along the highways of Bukidnon Sunday evening.

Captain Norman Tagros, the spokesperson of the army’s 8th Infantry Battalion (8IB), said that the special tracking team is backed by the combined forces of the police and the military.

Tagros said that about 20 NPA rebels reportedly seized three police officers in a roadblock established along the Sayre Highway in Bukidnon about 6 p.m. Sunday.

The NPA bandits disguised themselves as soldiers and PNP personnel as they were wearing military and police uniforms while posting an AFP/PNP Checkpoint signboard along the highway, Tagros said.

He said that the incident lasted for about 30 minutes as the rebels went from vehicle to vehicle taking their vehicle keys and held the civilians at gunpoint.

Tagros said that the government troopers have been deployed along with the elite K-9 team to conduct a pursuit operation of the NPA rebels in the mountains of Bukidnon.

According to Tagros, the military has issued an advisory three days prior to the incident Sunday evening about the plan of the NPA to conduct AFP or PNP checkpoints using the Comelec checkpoint signboards.

Following the advisory, the military immediately conducted patrols in Bukidnon and engaged the NPA rebels in a running gun battle on the outskirts of Malaybalay City last Saturday (April 2). No casualties were reported in the incident, Tagros said.

http://www.update.ph/2016/04/military-unleashes-elite-k-9-team-to-track-down-communist-rebels/3847

Failed promise

From the Mindanao Times (Apr 4): Failed promise

Lady farmer says rice was promised to hungry demostrators

“WE WERE promised bags of rice.”

 

These were the words of Leonora Taño, a farmer for 25 years in Barangay Binuongan, Arakan, North Cotabato, when asked by reporters why she joined the protesters blocking the Cotabato-Davao highway in Kidapawan City since Mar. 30.

 

Taño was teary eyed when she recounted how she couldn’t attend the moving-up ceremony of her Grade 7 and 8 kids in exchange for the promise of the bags of rice which never came.

 

“If I only knew that there’s going to be chaos, we wouldn’t have come here,” she told TIMES in visayan. “My husband was even wounded.”

 

Taño’s husband, also a farmer, is recuperating at the Midway Hospital for wounds sustained in the violent dispersal on Friday morning. And the bad news keeps on coming as she learned that her husband will have to undergo surgery, and she was prohibited allegedly by the organizers from leaving the United Methodist Church compound in Kidapawan.

 

On the other hand, Ariel Casilao, first nominee of Anakpawis, stressed that Taño was referring to her share of the demand of protesters for the government to give them 15,000 sacks of rice.

 

“The farmers shouldn’t have to demand in the first place,” said Casilao, adding that it’s the government’s responsibility when they declared the area in a state of calamity.

 

Taño admitted that after their community was declared under “state of calamity,” she received three kilos of rice from their barangay and another five kilos from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

 

But these were not enough for her family of six.

 

Meanwhile, Kidapawan City Mayor Joseph Evangelista said that his constituents have already received their rice subsidy from their barangay while the subsidy from the municipality is still on going.

 

The violent dispersal resulted to 116 injured, 18 are hospitalized, 89 missing including six minors, and two were tortures identified as Ondo Peonel and Leonora Paolenel, according to the Casilao.

 

But based on the records of Kidapawan LGU, 140 were injured and 99 of those are police personnel.

 

Evangelista also said that they temporarily detained 77 individuals after they were arrested during the dispersal. He added that they are going to file appropriate charges against these individuals.

 

On the side of the protesters, they claimed that five people were killed during the dispersal and the two bodies of two women are still missing. Casilao also insisted that the cause of death was from bullets.

 

Evangelista, however, said that there are only two bodies recovered and their causes of death are wounds from the rocks.

 

The city mayor also said that the police fired on the air as warning shot, but one of the cops was wounded by a gun from a .38 caliber, a gun not issued to the PNP. The slug is now in the custody of the Scene of the Crime Operatives.

 

He also revealed that one of the casualties tested positive for paraffin test on his right hand.

 

But both sides failed to present a medico legal or an autopsy report to support their claims.

 

Robin Padilla, Congressman Neri Colminares, representatives Terry Ridon and Isagani Zarate on Saturday went to different hospitals in Kidapawan to check the conditions of the wounded individuals.

 

Meanwhile, 94 individuals left the sanctuary of the United Methodist Church and went home.

 

Moreover, the people in the United Methodist Church as of Saturday afternoon received 400 sacks of rice from Robin Padilla, 200 sacks of rice from Senator Grace Poe, and 200 from the people of Davao City, Casilao said.

 

http://mindanaotimes.net/failed-promise/

PNP: Kidapawan cop injured by gunshot

From Rappler (Apr 4): PNP: Kidapawan cop injured by gunshot

The PNP says one of its personnel was injured by a gunshot to his leg during the dispersal in Kidapawan City



STANDOFF. Photos taken before police and protesters clashed in Kidapawan. File photo from the PNP's official Facebook page

The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Monday, April 4, said that one of its personnel tasked to disperse a protest in Kidapawan City was injured by a gunshot to his leg.

In a statement released to media late afternoon on Monday, PNP spokesman Chief Superintendent Wilben Mayor, citing information from surgeon Mark Hazel Aguayo of the Kidapawan Doctors' Hospital, said Police Officer 2 (PO2) Reynaldo Roque sustained a gunshot wound on his left leg.

The type of gun that hit Roque could not however be determined yet.

“The PNP extends its sympathies to those killed and injured among the protesters but asks the same sentiments for those who were also injured among the ranks of policemen,” Mayor said in the statement.

The PNP has been criticized for apparently using excessive force when it dispersed a protest staged by farmers in Kidapawan City. The dispersal became violent, with at least 2 dead and hundreds injured on both sides.

The farmers, from North Cotabato and nearby areas, were asking government for rice and aide in light of a El Niño drought that has effected the country, particularly parts of Mindanao.

Civil Disturbance Management (CDM) police are not supposed to be armed, but protesters were seen hit by gunfire, prompting the hashtag #BigasHindiBala to proliferate on social media.

The PNP has insisted that CDM personnel were not armed and that they exercised “maximum tolerance” in dealing with the farmers.

One of the slain farmers, the PNP said, has tested positive for gunshot residue which was supposedly found beside a .45 calibre cartridge, which is not the standard-issue for police in the Philippines.

The PNP also announced the following charges filed before the Kidapawan Prosecutor’s Office:

• 20 people charged for Direct Assault upon Agent in Authority; and
• 61 people charged for Conspiracy to Commit Direct Assault upon Agent in Authority.

The PNP is set to probe the circumstances of the clash to determine if any lapses were committed by cops on the ground.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/128212-police-injured-gunshot-kidapawan

Kidapawan highway blockade cleared – mayor

From Rappler (Apr 4): Kidapawan highway blockade cleared – mayor

The detained farmers are also formally charged with direct assault at the Kidapawan City Prosecutors' Office



CONDEMNATION. Activists stage a rally in front of the Department of Agriculture building in Quezon City to protest the violent dispersal of farmers in Kidapawan City. Photo by Mark Saludes/Rappler

The Davao-Cotabato Highway, which was blocked for 3 days by drought-affected farmers who were demanding aid from the provincial government, has been cleared, Kidapawan City Mayor Joseph Evangelista said Sunday, April 3.

Around 1,000 farmers, however, are still staying at the compound of the United Methodist Church. The mayor said some want to go home but are being prevented by the protesters' marshals.

Farmers who were detained, meanwhile, have been formally charged with direct assault at the Kidapawan City Prosecutors' Office, according to Kilab Multimedia.

Local radio station One Radio, quoting city prosecutors, said that the detained farmers need P12,000 bond.

Kilab, in a series of Facebook posts, also said that the farmers have been prevented by police from getting aid being distributed by concerned citizens and organizations.

Kilab Multimedia

on Saturday

April 3 2016. 12:00pm. Just in: Another tension started as 300 farmers from Makilala are being prevented and harrassed by the police to get their share from the rice donations from citizens.

 

 

 

 

 

Two people were killed and 116 wounded during the violent dispersal of the farmers' protest last Friday, April 1. The protesters were blocking the Davao-Cotabato Highway to seek government assistance, as their livelihoods have been severely affected by drought in the past several months.

The farmers demanded that North Cotabato Governor Emmylou Taliño-Mendoza release 15,000 sacks of rice to them, but she reportedly refused to talk to them.

The Philippine National Police said the permit to rally lapsed Friday morning. The highway protest that began 6 am on March 30 brought together farmers, members of indigenous groups, and other cause-oriented groups.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/128090-kidapawan-highway-reopened-farmers