MILF: MILF receives CCDP-B’s Development Plan for Bangsamoro from JICA, BDA

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Jul 4): MILF receives CCDP-B’s Development Plan for Bangsamoro from JICA, BDA



The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) who supported the realization of the Bangsamoro Development Plan (BDP 2) together with Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA) handed over the Final Report on the Development Plan for the Bangsamoro under the Comprehensive Capacity Development Project for the Bangsamoro (CCDP-BDP) to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Central Committee on 25 June 2016 at in its Administrative Camp at Darapanan, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao.

The BDP 2 was the result of JICA’s CCDP-B strong partnership with BDA and other counterparts like the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC). The document is a basis for medium to long phase plan for the Bangsamoro focuses on broad-based inclusive development strategies, pump-priming initiatives, socio-economic promotion, and resource management activities.

MILF Peace Panel Chief Negotiator and Bangsamoro Transition Commission Chairman Mohagher Iqbal said in his opening statement: “I would like to congratulate BDA for this achievement; and of course the leadership of the MILF, the role and support of our steady and reliable partner, the Japan International Cooperation Agency, this BDP will not be realized.”

The JICA Chief Representative to the Philippines Susumo Ito also graced the program. He is optimistic that the peace process between the government and the MILF will be sustained.

“Rest assured that our various technical cooperation programs and grant assistance will be continuously implemented. By working together in solidarity, we are convinced that the Bangsamoro people will realize the dividends of peace,” he added.

“JICA shares the Philippines’ collective vision for just and lasting peace and inclusive development in Mindanao. When carried out, the BDP will help bridge the poverty gap and enhance the connectivity of Mindanao with other regions,” said Chief Representative Ito.

 Ito was accompanied by Yuko Tanaka, JICA PP Senior Representative along with Cristina Santiago, and Teresa Mendoza. The JICA CPO Head and Chief Leader Naoyuki Ochiai, Shu Nishimaru and Koji Demizu, the outgoing Japanese representative in the IMT Takayuki Nakagawa was also part of the team.

“Despite the non-passage of the BBL, the MILF decided to allow the selected implementation of the BDP in the envisioned core territories which are considered the hardest hit in poverty with delivery of social services and furtherance of horizontal conflict,” said MILF Chairman Al-Haj Murad Ebrahim.

“With the assistance from the government-private sector, civil society organizations, international partners, we hope that hand in hand we will be able to improve the overall quality of life of our residents in the Bangsamoro,” Ebrahim pointed out.

The MILF 1st Vice Chairman Ghazali Jaafar opined that the BDP will not be materialized if the government for the Moro people is not established. As a requisite to this, he said “We believe there can never be a government for the Moro people unless there is a law, set of law and the governance of the Bangsamoro.”

Meantime, Dr. Saffrullah Dipatuan, BDA Chairman who handed-over the document to MILF Chairman Ebrahim said “We in BDA are once again honored to be part of this turn-over and launching of BDP 2, a master plan on infrastructure and economy of the Bangsamoro to the MILF Central Committee.”

On November 2, 2014, the BDP Integrative Report that served as blueprint for Bangsamoro development was also launched in Camp Darapanan wherein various government agencies, OPAPP, NGOS, CSOs, UN agency, IMT and other peace stakeholders witnessed the historic event.

http://www.luwaran.com/home/index.php/news/20-central-mindanao/791-milf-receives-ccdp-b-s-development-plan-for-bangsamoro-from-jica-bda

NPA rebels can’t arrest drug suspects

From the Manila Times (Jul 4): NPA rebels can’t arrest drug suspects

SENATORS on Monday maintained that New People’s Army (NPA) rebels can’t arrest or kill drug personalities because only members of law enforcement agencies have the authority to enforce the law.

Senator Panfilo Lacson said while there is a provision in the law that allows citizen’s arrest, it does not apply to the communist rebels who are not even allowed to possess firearms legally.

The government, he noted, is the only one that should enforce the law. Allowing anyone to carry out law enforcement duties may lead to anarchy, Lacson warned.

“I will not allow such kind of system to go on. Not only does it not look good, it is also unconstitutional,” he explained.

President Rodrigo Duterte, in his speech during turnover ceremony at the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Friday, sought the cooperation of communist rebels in the fight against illegal drugs.

He said the rebels can try suspected drug dealers in their own court.

The President also suggested that the NPA finish off known drug dealers in their area.

 But Lacson maintained that the Philippines only has one government, one law enforcement agency, one judiciary.

Senate President Franklin Drilon agreed.

The NPA, he said, has no authority to enforce the law because they are not the government.

A military official who declined to be identified also wondered why Duterte had to tap the NPA in the fight against illegal drugs when the government has enough resources to combat the menace.

“The Philippine National Police, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the National Bureau of Investigation combined would be one hell of a force to fight illegal drugs. Why include the outlaws?” the official asked.

Not serious

 But incoming Senate President Aquilino Pimentel 3rd said Duterte was most likely not talking seriously when he asked for the NPA’s help.

Pimentel added that Duterte was likely exaggerating or could have given the warning for those involved in the illegal drug trade to turn a new leaf.

The senator said only the police have the authority to arrest and jail drug lords.

But serious or not, the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) already responded to Duterte’s call and ordered the NPA, its armed component, to “disarm and arrest the chieftains of the biggest drug syndicates, as well as other criminal syndicates involved in human rights violations and destruction of the environment.”

In a statement released over the weekend, the CPP said the NPA is ready to give battle to those who will resist arrest.

http://www.manilatimes.net/npa-rebels-cant-arrest-drug-suspects/271742/

Ex-RPA leader shot dead

From the Visayan Daily Star (Jul 5): Ex-RPA leader shot dead

A former provincial commander of the defunct Revolutionary Proletarian Army-Alex Boncayao Brigade, now known as Kapatiran, was shot and killed by four unidentified armed suspects in Sitio San Juan, Brgy. Caradio-an, Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental, yesterday morning.

Victim Placido Perfas, alias Ka Dennis, succumbed to multiple gunshot wounds. He died on the spot, SP1 John Derrick Capunong, Himamaylan police investigator, yesterday said.

Capunong said the victim was also divested of his cellular phone and wallet.

Initial investigations of the Himamaylan police showed that Perfas, 53, was sitting on his motorcycle, and was scheduled to meet somebody in Sitio San Juan of the barangay, when he was approached and shot by the suspects, who casually walked away after the incident towards the mountainous areas.

Four empty shells of a .45 caliber pistol, an empty cartridge of super 38 pistol, and a deformed slug were recovered by the Himamaylan police, who responded to the shooting incident.

Capunong said they cannot establish yet the affiliations of the fleeing suspects.

However, there are reports that the crime could be the handiwork of the New People's Army, with top leaders of the splintered NPA group been marked for liquidation.

Perfas also served as the leader of the Kapatiran group in the 5th and 6th districts of Negros Occidental.

The assassination of Perfas came almost a week after Councilor Crispin Posadas was also shot and killed in Isabela, and whose death was also claimed by the NPA.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2016/July/05/topstory3.htm

Isabela to hold peace rally

From the Sun Star-Bacolod (Jul 5): Isabela to hold peace rally

RESIDENTS of Isabela town in Negros Occidental will hold a peace rally on July 13 in the wake of the killing of reelected Councilor Crispin Posadas Jr.
Mayor Enrique Montilla III said Monday, July 4, that they will come together to condemn the death of the councilor and call for justice as well.

The rally will start around 8 a.m. with a march from the public market to the plaza, where members of the Posadas family will give their testimonies.

Representatives from the local government and the religious sector will also deliver messages.

On June 29, Posadas had just arrived at the town public market on board his motorcycle when three armed men came and shot him dead.

The New People’s Army had claimed responsibility for the assassination of the town official, but the police continues to investigate the case.

The rebels alleged that the councilor was involved in illegal activities, including cattle rustling and drugs deals, and also accused him of being an active asset of the military.

Montilla said the allegations of the rebels are not true since the victim was a three-termer barangay captain and a three-termer councilor, and would not have been elected if that were the case.

“Stop with the killings and stop touching civilians because we’re not combatants,” the mayor appealed to the perpetrators.

Montilla said he already asked the police and the army to augment the security forces in the town.

Meanwhile, Chief Inspector Anthony Grande, town police chief, said they have identified two possible witnesses who could help solve the case.

One of them was willing to assist while they have yet to convince the other to testify.

Grande said they are also waiting for the crime laboratory to send a cartographic sketch artist to draw the facial composite of the suspects.

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/bacolod/local-news/2016/07/05/isabela-hold-peace-rally-483477

School children in Caraga receive school kits

From the Philippine Information Agency (Jul 4): School children in Caraga receive school kits

Some 20,670 school kits were distributed by the 4th Infantry Division (4ID), Philippine Army to the pupil recipients from Kindergarten to Grade Six who are enrolled at the different public schools throughout Caraga region.

As disclosed by 4ID assistant division commander BGen. Paul Atal during the Project Shoebox Distribution Ceremony held recently here, the 'aral kits' containing notebooks, pencils, crayons, and other school supplies intended to be distributed among indigenous and deprived pupils in conflict affected areas, was initiated by a generosity-driven soldier in the person of Col. Thomas Sedano, battalion commander of 4th Light Battalion Armor.

“Now is the reaping time of the then conceptualized effort to collect several school supplies to be given to the underprivileged children- a synergy to help address the problem on education specifically the materials needed for pupil's learning,” expressed BGen Atal.

He thanked all their partners who supported in the realization of the project and advocacy for peace and development.

Atal also said the project shoebox is their way of sharing their blessings to the underprivileged children especially in the far-flung areas.

Meanwhile, Brgy. Councilor Regalado Gerzon, chairman of the Committee on Education, Brgy. Bancasi in Butuan City and a retired Phil. Army officer said during his welcome address that they are glad that the services of the government especially of the Phil. Army has extensively reached among civilian populace, the pupils who need much support for their education.

In expressing his amazement and support to the Project Shoebox, DILG Caraga assistant regional director Donald Serona recalled how the underprivileged children strive hard just to acquire education, and so he addressed the pupil recipients to give value to what they have received - the school kits as it will somehow aid them in uplifting the difficulties of getting proper education from school.

He added that it is an important component in the social services of an institution, and that he greatly appreciates the noble endeavor of AFP and its partners.

Also, speaking in behalf of indigenous peoples (IPs), National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Caraga regional director Atty. Pinky Grace Pabelic recognized the significant endeavor of the Phil. Army and other stakeholders in giving priority to educational assistance through 'aral kits.'

“Keep holding onto your dreams because the future belongs to those who believe in their dreams, and achieve those dreams with all your might amidst obstacles and struggles in going to school,” addressed Atty. Pabelic.

In a deeper meaning of gaining momentum and success of the Project Shoebox, Phil. Information Agency Caraga regional director Abner Caga stressed that it is through the benevolent heart of the uniformed men of AFP and other sponsors that ensures continuity of the advocacy.

“Hence, it is just appropriate to acknowledge their efforts in helping address the hindrances of getting the right education among less fortunate children,” said Caga.

Meanwhile, Dr. Ramil Uytico, assistant regional director of Department of Education (DepEd) Caraga enunciated that said project will not just address the problem of poverty but it will surely go a long way including the decrease of drop-outs.

He added that it is a message of more than the contents of the shoebox, such that it takes a village to educate and escalate the level of education, and not a responsibility of the DepEd alone.

“This is a celebration of hope and generosity,” underscored Uytico.

Every child gladly received each share of shoebox. It is hoped that the advocacy will strengthen as more public and private institutions are expected to take sponsorship of the said project.

It was learned that Regions 10 and 13 pupil recipients received a total of 32,739 school kits from the Project Shoebox of the 4ID, Philippine Army.

The Project Shoebox is an initiative and in partnership of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Department of Education (DepEd), National Bookstore Foundation and 2GO Express.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2761467614388/school-children-in-caraga-receive-school-kits-from-phil-army

Philippines: Abu Sayyaf hostage pleads for life

From the Anadolu Agency (Jul 4): Philippines: Abu Sayyaf hostage pleads for life

Companions beheaded by Daesh-linked group which has said Norwegian to be decapitated next if ransom not paid

The last man alive from a group of foreigners kidnapped by a Daesh-linked group has taken to Philippines airwaves to beg for his life.

 

Kjartan Sekkingstad, one of four people taken from a marina resort in Davao del Norte in November last year, made his plea to DXRZ Radio Mindanao Network station in Zamboanga City on Monday morning, after an Abu Sayyaf spokesperson had placed him on the line.

 

“It’s very hard and dangerous to stay here," Sekkingstad said, begging the Norwegian and Philippine governments to help free him.

 

Sekkingstad's companions James Ridsdel and Robert Hall were beheaded by the Abu Sayyaf in April and June, respectively, while Filipina Marites Flor was released June 24 after negotiations with presidential peace adviser Jesus Dureza.

 

Monday's call followed Friday's threat by the Abu Sayyaf spokesperson, Muammar Askali (alias Abu Rami), to behead Sekkingstad if Dureza insisted on the government’s no-ransom policy.

 

The Abu Sayyaf had previously said it will decapitate Sekkingstad if the government has not responded to a P300-million ($6 million) ransom demand by July 9.

 

But in Monday's call, Askali announced that the group had placed a temporary stay of execution on Sekkingstad after an emissary of Dureza called to negotiate.

 

Aside from the Norwegian, the Abu Sayyaf is also holding Dutchman Elwood Horn, seven Indonesian sailors, and around five locals.

 

Since 1991, the Abu Sayyaf -- armed with mostly improvised explosive devices, mortars and automatic rifles -- has carried out bombings, kidnappings, assassinations and extortions in a self-determined fight for an independent province in the Philippines.

 

It is notorious for beheading victims after ransoms have failed to be paid for their release.

 

http://aa.com.tr/en/asia-pacific/philippines-abu-sayyaf-hostage-pleads-for-life/602706

Zambo police rescue boy from Sulu kidnappers

From the Manila Bulletin (Jul 3): Zambo police rescue boy from Sulu kidnappers

Zamboanga City – Police rescued a two-year-old boy, and arrested the three suspects who allegedly abducted him in a daring rescue operation conducted in Patikul, Sulu Sunday  morning.

Elements of the Zamboanga City-Tetuan Police Station, under Supt. Nonito Asdai, coordinated with the Sulu police in carrying out the rescue of Haima Taji, who is a resident of Barangay Arena Blanco here and was abducted last Friday in full view of his mother.

Arrested during the rescue operation were the boy’s abductors identified as Danny Abdurasad Patta, 28, of Barangay Hambilan, Siasi, Sulu: Muktadir Musa Mohammad, 41, of Barangay  Langhub, Patikul, Sulu; and Haron S. Sahirun, 52, of Barangay Langhub, Patikul, Sulu.

Zamboanga City map (Photo courtesy of Google Map)

Asdai said the police were able to rescue the boy at the residence of one of the suspects in Sitio Suwah-Suwah, Anuling in Patikul, Sulu at 7:45 a.m. Sunday.

Taji was earlier taken by the suspects from his home in Barangay Arena Blanco in this city and was brought to Patikul, Sulu.

According to Asdai, his men coordinated with the  Jolo Police Station, the Sulu Provincial Police Office and  with Task Force Sulu (AFP), Anti Kidnapping Group (AKG) before undertaking the rescue mission.

The Zamboanga City policemen had  also alerted  the nearby PNP units and asked them  to be ready to respond to any situation that may arise.

After taking custody of the  young Taji, Asdai said they brought the boy to the Sulu Provincial Hospital for medical check-up before he was transported to this city on a ferry boat. He was eventually turned over to his mother here.

The three suspects are now detained at the Sulu provincial police office, pending the filing of appropriate charges against them in court.

http://www.mb.com.ph/zambo-police-rescue-boy-from-sulu-kidnappers/

Diplomatic efforts to release Indonesian sailors go on indefinitely

From the Jakarta Post (Jul 5): Diplomatic efforts to release Indonesian sailors go on indefinitely



Stay confident -- Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi speaks at a press conference at the Foreign Ministry in Jakarta. She said on Monday that the government was striving to secure the release of seven Indonesian sailors adducted in the southern Philippines.(Tempo/-)

The Indonesian government is in ongoing talks with the Philippine government in an effort to secure the release of seven Indonesian sailors taken hostage but is unable to provide a timeframe.

The Foreign Ministry’s Indonesian citizen protection director, Lalu Muhammad Iqbal, explained on Monday that, as the Philippines had just held presidential elections, they were still in a process of internal consolidation, and communication between the two governments had been focused on ensuring the safety of future expeditions in Philippine waters.

“The safety of the sailors is the most important thing now; we can no longer tolerate such incidents, but no timeframe has been set” he told The Jakarta Post.

The abduction of the seven sailors — manning tugboat Charles 001 from Makassar — is the latest of three separate incidents involving a total of 21 Indonesian crewmen by the militant group in the last three months.

On Friday, Foreign Minister Retno LP Marsudi met with her Philiphine counterpart Perfecto Rivas Yasay Jr. to seek safety guarantees for Sulu waters. Yasay reportedly responded that the newly elected president was strongly committed to eliminating crime in the area and ensured that his government would maintain coordination with Indonesia.

Iqbal said the government had also demanded that PT Perusahaan Pelayaran Rusdianto Bersaudara, the operator of the tugboat, stay in contact with the sailors’ families.

Meanwhile, the ministry’s spokesperson, Arrmanatha Nasir, said no update could be shared with the public, but underlined that the government had identified the abduction site and made sure the seven sailors were in a good condition.

http://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2016/07/05/diplomatic-efforts-to-release-indonesian-sailors-go-on-indefinitely.html

Duterte at PAF 69th anniversary today

From the Manila Bulletin (Jul 4): Duterte at PAF 69th anniversary today

President Duterte will keynote today the 69th anniversary celebration of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) at Haribon Hangar, Clark Air Base, here.

President Rodrigo Duterte

Colonel Robert Araus Musico, PAF spokesman, a highlight of the event is an opener pass with a figure “69” formation of 11 T-41 primary trainer aircraft and nine SF-260 basic trainer aircraft.

Awards will also be conferred on outstanding individuals and units of the PAF under the theme of this year’s anniversary, “PAF@69: Breaking Barriers, Realizing Aspirations Towards a Jointly Engaged Transforming Force for Greater Peace and Security.”

PAF was founded on July 1, 1947- two years after the end of World War II. It traces its lineage to the Philippine Army Air Corp, which was established in 1941.

Musico said the PAF will also present to the new Commander-in-Chief its capabilities through a parade of its ground equipment

http://www.mb.com.ph/duterte-at-paf-69th-anniversary-today/

Mandaya village chief threatened by NPA - military

From the Philippine Star (Jul 4): Mandaya village chief threatened by NPA - military



In this August 2007 photo, members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army train in an undisclosed location. Keith Bacongco

A tribal chieftain in one of Caraga, Davao Oriental's most progressive sitio is under threat from the New People's Army (NPA) for refusing to support their movement, the military said.

 

Lt. Miguel Diordio, information officer of the Armed Forces of the Philippines's (AFP) 67th Infantry Brigade, said via phone interview that the NPA has been insisting Sitio Sangab chieftain Copertino Banugan to surrender his area in Brgy. Pichon, Caraga, Davao Oriental.

 

Sitio Sangab is a Mandaya village and has been a recipient of numerous awards from the National Commission on Indigenous People (NCIP) for embracing their culture and traditions even in modern times.

 

Diordio said that the rebels have been eyeing the sitio because it has become progressive.

 

"Ayaw ng NPA ng mga progsessive na mga lugar kasi nawawalan na sila ng mare-recruit. Sa Sitio Sangab kasi lahat ng tao doon, may trabaho at maayos ang pamumuhay," Diordio explained.

 

He added that Banugan has angered the NPA for not heeding their call for support. 

 

"Tumawag sa amin si Kapt. Banugan, humihingi ng tulong kasi nga sasalakay daw ang NPA in three days," he said.

 

The NPA sent both Banugan and the 67th IB an ultimatum on Sunday that if the chieftain does not surrender to them in three days, they will start chaos within the sitio and its neighboring areas.

 

"They badly want to takeover Sitio Sangab because of its strategic location and they can make use of its abundant economy," he said.

 

Tomorrow will be the deadline given by the rebels. A heavily armed platoon, composed  of 50 soldiers, were already on standby since Sunday.

 

From the 67th IB's base camp in Baganga, it will take around 60 kilometers to travel Caraga by land. From Caraga's poblacion to Sitio Sangab, if it is low tide, the AFP's vehicle can pass through the river but it will still take them 30 more kilometers before they could reach the mountainous area of Sitio Sangab. But when the river level is high, Sangab is isolated. 

 

If they were to send reinforcements, it will take more than six hours.

 

"For now, our men's priority there is to protect the people. They were sent via chopper yesterday because the NPAs have already surrounded the foot of the mountain," Diordio said.

 

He added that the NPA has already burned down the welcome sign along the road.

 

"That's their first violent act as of now," he said.

 

http://www.philstar.com/nation/2016/07/04/1599575/mandaya-village-chief-threatened-npa-military

Ex-peace negotiator: Left using Sison’s RP return for propaganda

From the Daily Tribune (Jul 5): Ex-peace negotiator: Left using Sison’s RP return for propaganda

Communist party founder Jose Ma. Sison’s supposed homecoming is nothing but political propaganda, a former ranking peace negotiator yesterday said.

“The Left is just using Sison to mainstream its ideology and gain sympathy from the public,” the source, who requested anonymity, told The Tribune, adding: “Who is he anyway?”

Sison, who has been in self-exile in the Netherlands since 1987, earlier said he is open to returning to the Philippines after President Rodrigo Duterte, his former student, assumes office, but the communist leader added the new government must first take steps to ensure his personal safety.

He has been labeled as a terrorist by the United States.

The source, however, stressed “the terror list is just an excuse.”

“Local leftists even got more notorious figures from Palestine here in the county and even allowed them to participate in protests here last year,” the peace negotiator who used to be a part of a previous administration added.

The source is referring to Palestinian resistance figure Leila Khaled who took part in militant actions against the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation summit hosted by Manila late last year.

Khaled is also included in the terror list after being involved a series of plane hijackings in the late 1960s and 70s, including the hijacking of TWA Flight 840 in 1969.

But for incumbent Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza, Sison’s homecoming is a matter of his discretion. They met last month in Oslo, Norway, to begin the talks with Communist Party of the Philippines’ (CPP) negotiating arm – the National Democratic Front (NDF).

“It depends on him. If he feels that it’s already time for him to return to the Philippines, then he is already a strong partner for our peace efforts,” Dureza said over state-run dzRB Radyo ng Bayan.

He added the Duterte administration is ready to secure Sison should he decide to return to the Philippines.

Duterte has promised to provide Sison a safe conduct pass.

“Definitely, the Philippine government will do its best to assist him in that direction,” Dureza stressed.

He added Sison’s inclusion in the US terror list has nothing to do with the government’s desire to pursue just and lasting peace and allow Sison to come home without interference.

“The US and other countries are not part of this,” Dureza said.

Sison, a political science professor, established the party in December 1968 and it launched a guerrilla campaign three months later.

The rebellion has left at least 30,000 people dead, by official account.

The New People’s Army is believed to have fewer than 4,000 fighters, down from a peak of 26,000 in the 1980s, according to the military, however it retains support among the deeply poor in the rural areas.

Then President Benigno Aquino revived peace talks soon after taking office in 2010 but shelved them in 2013, accusing the rebels of insincerity in efforts to achieve a political settlement.

The talks got bogged down after the communists demanded the release of scores of their jailed comrades whom they described as “political prisoners,” which the Aquino government rejected.

Meanwhile, the militant group Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) said it would not abandon its role as government critic despite its closeness with President Duterte.

According to Bayan secretary general Renato Reyes, they will not hesitate to criticize the negative policies of the new administration.

“Does accepting government posts mean the Left has capitulated? Definitely not. We have not abandoned the struggle. We are not about to fold our banners and streamers,” he stressed.

He cited as example the group’s opposition to any form of extrajudicial killings.
“Our stand is we oppose any form of extrajudicial killings even if they claim they’re being done in the course of the campaign against drugs and criminality,” Reyes said.

The group would also like to determine the reason behind the rise in the number of alleged drug pushers and drug dealers killed during police operations in recent weeks.

http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/ex-peace-negotiator-left-using-sison-s-rp-return-for-propaganda

AFP to uphold rule of law in helping in law enforcement operations

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 5): AFP to uphold rule of law in helping in law enforcement operations

With the military about to play a more active role in law enforcement operations especially in the neutralization of the illegal drugs trade, newly-appointed Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Lt. Gen. Ricardo Visaya assured the public they will be guided by the rule of law while performing these operations.

"In all these the AFP will always be guided by the principles of transparency, accountability and adherence to human rights, international humanitarian law and the rule of law. These values will never be lost despite massive change in the way we think and operate," he added.

Earlier, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte said he is mobilizing the AFP to help the Philippine National Police in its campaign to eradicate criminality in the country.

Visaya is a member of Philippine Military Academy Class of 1983, took command of the 125,000-strong AFP last July 1.

He replaced classmate Lt. Gen. Glorioso Miranda who served as acting AFP chief since April.

"Therefore the AFP will continue to seek the support and cooperation of the entire Filipino nation as we aggressively pursue the path towards transformation, as change is coming we wil first embrace it from within and then, help others so we can all create a societal order that is anchored on a platform of discipline and unity," Visaya added.

"Over and above our role to run after the terrorists, we will also intensify our support to law enforcement agencies, particularly the Philippine National Police and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in their mission to eliminate widespread criminality and the wanton destruction of lives brought about by the spread and use of illegal drugs," he added.

Visaya earlier vowed to weed AFP personnel using illegal drug-users and those with links with illegal groups and activities.

"We will start the same advocacy with our ranks by continuously weeding out those scalawags who use drugs, who have links with illegal groups and activities. Then we will proceed to build alliances with our counterparts to bring down syndicates and other organized crime groups," he added.

"Over and above our role to run after the terrorists, we will also intensify our support to law enforcement agencies, particularly the Philippine National Police and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in their mission to eliminate widespread criminality and the wanton destruction of lives brought about by the spread and use of illegal drugs," Visaya added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=901322

Dureza: PH to discuss ceasefire with communists

From Rappler (Jul 4): Dureza: PH to discuss ceasefire with communists

The next meeting with the National Democratic Front is scheduled on the 3rd week of July



AGENDA. Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza says that mutual ceasefire agreement is part of the agenda of the incoming meeting with the NDFP in July. Photo by Jodesz Gavilan/Rappler

The implementation of a nationwide ceasefire by government and communist rebels will be part of the agenda in the meeting of both sides on the 3rd week of July in Norway, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza said on Monday, July 4.

“Yes, mutual ceasefire is [part of the] agenda in the meeting,” Dureza told reporters after the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPPAP) turnover ceremony with former secretary Teresita “Ging” Deles.

He emphasized the need for the ceasefire to be “bilateral,” adding that the government will be “committed to agreements” already set.

Dureza is no stranger to negotiating with insurgents. Prior to being Gloria Macapagal Arroyo’s press secretary, he served as peace adviser from 2005 to 2008. (READ: Dureza, Bello, and the previous peace talks)

It was during his stint as chief peace negotiator in 2001 when a ceasefire agreement between the government forces and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) was signed in Malaysia.

Is Joma coming home?

In an earlier interview with Rappler, Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founding chairperson Jose Maria Sison said that, aside from the release of political prisoners, a mutual ceasefire has to be in place before he can come home to the Philippines.

Dureza said Sison's return – who has been living in exile in The Netherlands for 30 years already – has not been fully discussed. “Siguro sa labas nagkakabiruan, pero wala pang discussion sa formal talks (We’ve joked about it, but have not discussed this in the formal talks),” he said.

National Democratic Front spokesperson Fidel Agcaoili earlier said that Sison's return can be a “very ticklish issue” as the CPP and the New People's Army remain on the United States' list of terrorist organizations.

Together with Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III and former congressman Hernani Braganza, Dureza flew to Norway last month and had initial talks with Sison and NDF peace panel chair Luis Jalandoni. (READ: Duterte adviser begins talks with Joma Sison)

The Philippine government is battling Asia's longest insurgency, and has held on-again, off-again peace talks with the communist movement for 3 decades now.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/138579-dureza-ceasefire-july-meeting-norway

JICA's Bangsamoro dev't plan to create 550,000 jobs by 2022

From Rappler (Jul 4): JICA's Bangsamoro dev't plan to create 550,000 jobs by 2022

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) turns over the final Bangsamoro Development Plan that seeks to create jobs and increase the economy in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao



FOR DEVELOPMENT. JICA officials turn over the final development plan to the Bangsamoro Development Agency and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) officials. Photo from JICA

Mindanao can expect the creation of at least 550,000 additional jobs by 2022 as the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) turned over its final development plan amid problems in the peace process between the Philippine government and Moro rebels.

An outcome of the Comprehensive Capacity Development Project of JICA in partnership with the Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA), the Bangsamoro Development Plan (BDP) 2 seeks to support the peace building efforts and job creation in areas affected by conflict in the past decades in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

Unemployment in the region, meanwhile, is at 3.9% as of April 2016.
Aside from creating jobs, the plan can grow the economy of the conflict-ridden region to 7.4% annually upon implementation.

Bridging the gap

Years of conflict between the forces of the government and groups like the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) left a huge part of Mindanao in poverty. The region was even ranked as the poorest in the Philippines, according to official data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). (READ: From Marcos to Aquino: The cost of war in Mindanao)

The ARMM, as of the first half of 2015, registered a poverty incidence of 59%. The latest figure is at least 6% higher than 2012’s 52.9%.

One of the reasons for the dire figure is the largely untapped natural resources due to dangers brought about by conflict. (READ: Mindanao’s power, infra problems scare investors away - envoy)

The plan – which includes “broad-based inclusive strategies, pump-priming initiatives, socio-economic promotion, and resource management activities” –seeks to achieve to inclusive growth in the region, according to JICA.

“JICA shares the Philippines’ collective vision for just and lasting peace and inclusive development in Mindanao,” said JICA Chief Representative Susumu Ito.

“When carried out, the BDP will help bridge the poverty gap and enhance the connectivity of Mindanao with other regions,” he added.

The development blueprint identified 27 anchor projects and 54 proposed projects that can help boost Mindanao’s economy, including agriculture, agro-industry, fishery, and logistics infrastructures such as ports and airports.

Optimistic

The BDP 2 is the second phase of an earlier development plan that was supposed to be for the transition period towards the eventual establishment of the Bangsamoro government.

In 2014, the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) was signed by then President Benigno Aquino III after 17 years of negotiations between the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF)

Based on the CAB, the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) outlines mechanisms and interventions to ensure long-lasting peace in the ARMM. (INFOGRAPHIC: The Bangsamoro peace deal at a glance)

However, the passage of the BBL has been halted notably after the Mamasapano clash between government forces and Moro rebels which killed at least 65 people in 2015.
In the face of setbacks towards long-lasting peace in the region, JICA remains optimistic that the peace process will continue.

“We are optimistic that the peace process in Mindanao will be sustained despite the challenges,” Ito emphasized.

The MILF, meanwhile, hailed the development plan and assured support from the rebels’ side.

“Despite the non-passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law, the MILF is supporting the implementation of selected projects under the BDP particularly in core territories hardest hit by poverty,” MILF Chairperson Al Haj Murad Ebrahim said.

http://www.rappler.com/move-ph/issues/mindanao/138168-jica-bangsamoro-development-plan-jobs

Dureza vows to honor agreements with MILF

From Rappler (Jul 4): Dureza vows to honor agreements with MILF

 

Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus 'Jess' Dureza says the peace process depends on continuity

Although there are already pending bills calling for a Constitutional Convention (Con-Con) for federalism, newly-installed presidential peace adviser Jesus "Jess" Dureza said the priority now is "continuity" by implementing the existing peace agreements with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

During the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) turnover ceremony on Monday, July 4, Dureza emphasized that his term will build on what has been done by former secretary Teresita "Ging" Deles in the past 6 years.

"There is going to be no transition as they usually call it. We'd like to use the word 'continuity' and building on what had been there," he said.

"Now she has left, I'm going to build on what she has placed on the ground. Iyan kasi ang peace process eh, hindi puwedeng pabago-bago (That's the nature of the peace process, you can't keep on changing it)."

No stranger to peace negotiations, Dureza served as peace adviser to Gloria Macapagal Arroyo from 2005 to 2008 before he went on to become her press secretary.

Different route for BBL

However, when it comes to honoring the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB), the government might have to take a new route.

The CAB was signed in 2014, following 17 years of negotiations between the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). (READ: The Bangsamoro peace deal at a glance)

The agreement was the basis for the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL), which outlined mechanisms to be implemented for long-lasting peace in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

The passage of the BBL was stalled, however, after the Mamasapano clash which killed more than 60 people in January 2015. Advocates of the Bangsamoro measure now have to refile it in the 17th Congress.

For Dureza, what's important is that the proposed law honors past agreements.

 

CALL IT 'CONTINUITY.' Former secretary Teresita 'Ging' Deles hands over the OPAPP flag to new peace adviser Jesus 'Jess' Dureza.

Deles, meanwhile, admitted that the BBL has its flaws, but hopes that a law for the implementation of the CAB will become reality soon.

"Ang CAB ang pinanghahawakan," she said. "Ang position naman ng panel ay dapat CAB-compliant law."

(We're holding onto the CAB. The position of the panel, after all, is that it should be a CAB-compliant law.)

The next steps would be the reconstitution of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC), which would propose measures aligned with the CAB.

Dureza said that while future plans could differ from the initial plan of passing the BBL, he said the Duterte administration is still moving toward the direction of long-lasting peace.

"When you hit a snag here, you look for a way to get out of that area, and now that's what we're doing as we're stuck with the disapproval of the BBL," he said.

"We'd like to see how we can look for another route going to the same direction."

http://www.rappler.com/nation/138588-dureza-continuity-agreements-milf-opapp-peace-process

PH won't take China offers 'hook, line, and sinker'

From Rappler (Jul 4): PH won't take China offers 'hook, line, and sinker'

'The paramount national interest cannot be compromised,' Foreign Secretary Perfecto Yasay Jr says amid a sea dispute between the Philippines and China



DEALING WITH CHINA. Philippine Foreign Secretary Perfecto Yasay Jr says the Philippines will not take any offer from China 'hook, line, and sinker.' Screen grab from Rappler video

Philippine Foreign Secretary Perfecto Yasay Jr on Monday, July 4, said the Philippines will remain cautious if China offers it aid in the face of a dispute between Manila and Beijing over the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea).

At the Tapatan sa Aristocrat forum, Yasay said the Philippines "will welcome" any offer of aid to the Philippines "in carrying out the development of our infrastructure projects or in pursuing trade relationships."

 

President Rodrigo Duterte himself said China has offered to build the Philippines a railway from Metro Manila to Clark, Pampanga, in two years.

 

Referring to Chinese assistance in general, Yasay said: "We know that this will be beneficial for our people. But we must also not just take this hook, line, and sinker."

 

He added, "We must always make sure that in doing so, we will be carrying and pursuing and preserving the paramount national interest."

 

"And we will do this not only for China. We will do this for the United States. We will do this for Japan. We will do this for all countries who would like to be friends with us, and who would like to maintain good cordial relationships including along the lines of advancement and economic or trade relationships," Yasay said.

 

'Promoting national interest'

 

Yasay’s statements come as an arbitral tribunal in The Hague, Netherlands, is expected to issue a ruling on the Philippines’ case against China by July 12. (READ: DFA's Yasay on China: We do not fear to negotiate)

 

The Philippines wants the tribunal to invalidate China’s expansive claim over the South China Sea, parts of which the Philippines claims as the West Philippine Sea.

 

In relation to the arbitration proceedings, Yasay was asked on Monday how the Philippines will react if China offers these projects in exchange for dropping Manila’s case against Beijing.

 

The DFA secretary said: "Let me ask you, Sir. Would you think that that would be consistent in promoting the paramount national interest?"

 

"That is the question that we will always be trying to resolve in addressing these situations, problems, and concerns. The paramount national interest cannot be compromised," he said.

 

One of the points of cooperation suggested for Manila and Beijing involves the joint exploration of the West Philippine Sea.

 

Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio of the Philippine Supreme Court said this is possible under Philippine law.

 

For experts like him, this means joint exploration should done on the premise that the Philippines owns the exclusive rights to explore and exploit the West Philippine Sea. China, however, says it has "indisputable sovereignty" over the disputed waters.

 

http://www.rappler.com/nation/138613-philippines-china-offer-infrastructure-yasay

Yasay on sea row with China: 'We are not afraid of anybody'

From InterAksyon (Jul 4):  Yasay on sea row with China: 'We are not afraid of anybody'

Foreign Affairs Secretary Perfecto Yasay said Monday  the country will uphold its territorial integrity and sovereignty whatever is the decision of the UN Arbitral Tribunal on its maritime dispute with China in the West Philippine Sea.

At the same time, Yasay refused to speculate on what would be the decision of the Permanent Court of Arbitration at The Hague, which last year held two rounds of hearings on the case filed by Manila against Beijing in 2014.

Speaking at the Tapatan media forum in Manila, Yasay recalled that at his first official press conference last week, a reporter asked, “Are you afraid of China?"


“In answer, I replied with a rhetorical question -- why should we be afraid of China? The hall fell momentarily silent while reflecting a collective response,” Yasay said.

He said the words flashed in his mind that there is nothing to fear but fear itself.

“And those times when our sovereignty and freedom were threatened, I sensed in the heart of a country that has witnessed acts of courage and valor in times when our shores were invaded and those times when our sovereignty and freedom were threatened,” Yasay said.

Yasay said he made the remarks not to make any policy statement or lay down a firm blueprint on what Philippine officials do, "other than to emphasize how important for us to make sure that before we make any statements, we have to wait for the decision of the arbitral tribunal."

Whatever the outcome, Yasay said, “We are not afraid of anybody. We cannot, we will not compromise our territorial integrity or sovereignty.”

Echoing his boss' somber statements last week about refusing to engage in warmongering, Yasay said, “it is important to make sure, we hope for the better and would not make any provocative or strong statement at this time that will not help us any bit.”

He elaborated: “We who are engaged in the novel task of diplomacy carry that heart of courage everywhere. We must show it in many areas of cooperation with all nations. We will strictly adhere to the rule of law and be resolute in upholding our sovereignty rights and right of self-determination.”

He underscored the need to anchor work in multilateral or bilateral negotiations with the uncompromising advocacy for peace and rule of law. "And to paraphrase another world leader, let me say that we do not fear to negotiate and we do not negotiate out of fear,” Yasay added.

No speculation on Tribunal decision

The DFA chief declined to hazard a guess on how the UN's PCA would rule, as it promised, on July 12.

“I would hope that our position would be sustained and that an award will be made in our favor. But, I would like to make sure that before making any statements about what the decision is going to be, I would like to first wait for that decision,” Yasay said.

With this, Yasay also emphasized that while Manila is waiting for that decision, “we will not make any provocative or strong statement that will only serve the purpose of exacerbating the tensions.”

It was important, he stressed, to make sure that when the Arbitral Tribunal decision comes out, "we will fully understand what it means, when we say that we have won that decision or we have lost in that case.”

He said there is also a possibility that the country will win some or lose some points.

This is why, he said, the Philippine moves must be prudent at every point, and that it does not "take aggressive actions."

Once the decision comes out and there is a need to protect the country's exclusive economic zone or maritime entitlements, then, "we will act accordingly,” Yasay said.

http://interaksyon.com/article/129913/yasay-on-sea-row-with-china-we-are-not-afraid-of-anybody

Summary executions of drug suspects becoming ‘policy’ of Duterte admin: Lawyers’ group

From InterAksyon (Jul 5): Summary executions of drug suspects becoming ‘policy’ of Duterte admin: Lawyers’ group

The continuous killing of suspected drug dealers under President Rodrigo Duterte’s war on drugs has alarmed a lawyers’ group, which warned against the “apparent serial summary executions” becoming a “practice or policy.”

On Sunday, eight men reportedly involved in drug trade were killed in Manila, while seven more drug suspects were killed in Bulacan province over the weekend, various reports have said.

Edre Olalia, secretary general of the National Union of People’s Lawyers (NUPL), said the execution of suspects must stop.

“Quick fix savagery and abuse of power by law enforcers supposedly to quell criminality and drugs, which, wittingly or unwittingly, directly or indirectly, are encouraged, condoned or sanctioned, is a frankenstein that will haunt us all over time. The cure may turn out to be worse than the illness,” he said in a statement.

“Human rights are not only for the criminals or dregs of society as some may think or believe. It is more to protect the far too many others who are innocent or turn out to be innocent,” he added.

Olalia said that the killing of people because of mere allegation of being involved in the drug menace should not be a policy of the Duterte administration.

“We hate drugs too. There should be no two minds about it. Yet the apparent serial summary executions of alleged street drug users or petty drug lords which appear sudden, too contrived and predictable must also stop. The two are not incompatible,” he said.

“It may be long, hard, challenging and frustrating but you can stop one without automatically or instantly doing the other as a practice or policy,” Olalia added.

Duterte, 71, who won in a landslide in the May elections on a platform to wage a war on crime and drugs, reiterated his threat to drug traffickers in a speech before residents of Tondo, a known slum area in Manila, after his inauguration on June 30.

“These sons of whores are destroying our children. I warn you, don’t go into that, even if you’re a policeman, because I will really kill you,” he said.

“If you know of any addicts, go ahead and kill them yourself as getting their parents to do it would be too painful,” Duterte added.

http://interaksyon.com/article/129933/summary-executions-of-drug-suspects-becoming-policy-of-duterte-admin-lawyers-group

Govt will not negotiate with Abu Sayyaf – Palace

From the Manila Times (Jul 4): Govt will not negotiate with Abu Sayyaf – Palace

Malacañang on Monday reiterated that the Duterte administration will never negotiate with the extremist Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG).

“We are not negotiating [with the Abu Sayyaf],” presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella told reporters in a news conference.

Abella issued the statement after an alleged member of the Abu Sayyaf Group reached out to the government to talk about the last of four captives taken from Samal Island last year.

 

When asked however if the Duterte administration is open to holding talks with the terrorist group, he said, “It’s part of a process.”

Over the weekend, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza said he is willing to negotiate with the Abu Sayyaf about Norwegian hostage Kjartan Sekkingstad.

In a statement, Dureza confirmed that he got word from someone in Zamboanga City that an Abu Rami, one of those holding Sakkingstad and other captives, wanted to talk to him.

Previous reports identified Abu Rami as the spokesman for the Abu Sayyaf.

“I told the person that I was ready and willing to talk with anyone for the release of the hostages and save lives provided that it would not be about ransom. I gave a secure phone number for him to contact me. I am still waiting,” Dureza said.

Sekkingstad was among four persons abducted by the Abu Sayyaf from a Samal Island resort in September 2015.

The Abu Sayyaf recently beheaded Canadian captives Robert Hall and John Ridsel after its ransom demand was ignored.

Last month, the rebels released Hall’s partner, Marites Flor, after negotiations with Sulu Vice Gov. Abdusakur Tan.

http://www.manilatimes.net/govt-will-not-negotiate-with-abu-sayyaf-palace/271736/

US military willing to help amid abductions in south-east Asia: official

From The Guardian (Jul 4): US military willing to help amid abductions in south-east Asia: official

More than two dozen Indonesian and Malaysian crewmen have been kidnapped by Abu Sayyaf militants and their allies since April



A US special forces member walks with a Filipino soldier in the southern Philippines in 2002. Photograph: Aaron Favila/AP

The US military is concerned about a series of attacks and abductions of tugboat crewmen by Abu Sayyaf extremists in south-east Asian waters and is willing to lend a hand if needed, aiming to ensure the freedom and safety of navigation in the region, a US navy official said Monday.

Rear AdmBrian Hurley said the navy has worked with south-east Asian governments to ensure freedom of navigation and the safety of people in the economically bustling region and would continue to do so.

Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines have agreed to take possible coordinated actions, including sea and air patrols, and establish a “transit corridor” as designated sea lanes for boats and ships in the seas along their borders, in an attempt to stop an alarming wave of attacks by Abu Sayyaf extremists and allied militants.

More than two dozen Indonesian and Malaysian crewmen have been kidnapped by ransom-seeking Abu Sayyaf militants and allied gunmen who have used powerful speedboats to stage four attacks on slow-moving tugboats in the Sulu Sea and outlying waters since April.

Troops on Saturday dug up what they believe is the body of Robert Hall, who was beheaded by Abu Sayyaf extremists more than two weeks ago.

 

All the hostages from the first three attacks have been freed, reportedly in exchange for ransom, but a fourth tugboat came under attack last month and seven Indonesian crewmen were kidnapped, officials said.

A Philippine military officer, who has monitored the offshore attacks, said Abu Sayyaf may have been working with militants and contacts in Indonesia and Malaysia to carry out attacks on passing tugboats and commercial ships similar to the piracy assaults in Somalia few years ago.

The shift to piracy may have been prompted by stronger military actions that have made it more difficult for the militants to carry out kidnappings for ransom – a key source of funds by the Abu Sayyaf, the officer said.

 

“We are always concerned about safety at sea and the freedom of navigation through the waters,” Hurley said.

“From the navy’s perspective, it’s freedom of navigation through all these different straits – that we are doing that and working together in a multilateral engagement is very much appreciated and we will continue to do so.”

In the disputed South China Sea, the US navy deploys about 700 ships each year for patrols – an average of two ships per day – to ensure freedom of navigation “and we’ll continue to do that all over the world”, Hurley said.

Hurley and navy officials from Australia and New Zealand spoke on board the navy hospital ship USNS Mercy off Legazpi city in the north-eastern Philippine province of Albay, while participating in an annual humanitarian mission called the Pacific Partnership, which also aims to improve disaster preparedness.

More than 600 military and civilian personnel from the US, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the UK, Malaysia, Singapore and South Korea are involved in the civic mission that was conceived following the December 2004 earthquake off Indonesia that triggered a tsunami that killed 230,000 people in a dozen countries.

https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2016/jul/04/us-military-abu-sayyaf-abductions-asia

Abus suspend beheading of Norwegian

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Jul 5): Abus suspend beheading of Norwegian

Abu Sayyaf kidnappers have suspended the execution of their hostage, Norwegian Kjartan Sekkingstad, after an emissary of Presidential Peace Adviser Jesus Dureza called them to negotiate for his release, according to a well-placed source.

The source, who declined to be identified because of the critical stage of the hostage-taking situation, said the emissary had contacted the spokesperson of the terrorist group, Abu Rami.

Dureza was not answering phone calls made by the Inquirer.

Sekkingstad is one of four hostages seized by armed men from a marina in the Island Garden City of Samal in Davao del Norte in November last year and brought to the Abu Sayyaf in Sulu province. With him were Canadians Robert Hall and John Ridsdel, and Hall’s partner, Filipino Marites Flor.

Hall was beheaded by the kidnappers on June 13 after the bandit group failed to receive the ransom money it had demanded. His head was found later in front of Jolo Cathedral in Jolo, Sulu province, while his body was retrieved on Saturday morning.
Ridsdel suffered the same fate in April. Flor was freed on June 24.

The Abu Sayyaf has been demanding P300 million in exchange for Sekkingstad’s freedom. Rami said his group was aware that ransom was already set for delivery and was just waiting for it.

Rami said the beheading would proceed if the ransom is not paid. “We will execute him anytime we want, and this time we will hide the head,” he said.

As of Monday afternoon, there were no reports that the Abu Sayyaf had carried out its threat.

Earlier, Rami had said his group would kill the Norwegian hostage if Dureza insisted on the government’s no-ransom policy. “There is no more ultimatum, we are going to behead this Norwegian anytime today,” he said.

In an interview with Radyo Mo Network on Monday morning, Sekkingstad called on the Norwegian and Philippine governments to help him.

“I would like to appeal to the Norwegian government and to the Filipino government, the new president, Mr. Duterte, for help, to get me out of here,” he said. “It’s very hard and dangerous to stay here.”

Another group of kidnappers is demanding a P10-million ransom in exchange for a 6-year-old boy it took in Jolo on June 30.

The boy and his elder sister were on their way home from school when they were abducted by motorcycle-riding men on June 30. The men left the girl behind.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/794251/abus-suspend-beheading-of-norwegian

TALKS, ON CONDITION | China offers PHL negotiations if it ignores West PHilippine Sea court

From InterAksyon (Jul 4): TALKS, ON CONDITION | China offers PHL negotiations if it ignores West PHilippine Sea court



Chinese dredging vessels in waters around Mischief Reef in the disputed Spratly Islands in still image from video taken by a P-8A Poseidon surveillance aircraft of the United States Navy May 21, 2015. Reuters/U.S. Navy/Handout via Reuters

China is ready to start negotiations with the Philippines on West Philippine Sea (South China Sea)-related issues if Manila ignores an arbitration ruling expected next week on their long-running territorial dispute, the official China Daily reported on Monday.

The Philippines brought the case to the Permanent Court of Arbitration in the Hague, and a ruling is expected on July 12.

The case contests China's claims to the bulk of the South China Sea, a body of water through which US$5 trillion in ship-borne trade passes every year. China has said it plans to ignore the Court's ruling, which would represent a snub of the international legal order.

The Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Taiwan and Brunei have overlapping claims with China in the area.

Beijing has rejected the arbitration case, claiming the court has no jurisdiction and saying it wants to solve the issue bilaterally. In recent weeks it has ramped up its propaganda campaign downplaying the outcome of the case.

Negotiations between China and the Philippines could cover "issues such as joint development and cooperation in scientific research if the new government puts the tribunal's ruling aside before returning to the table for talks", the China Daily said.

China's main, government-run English newspaper did not name its sources but identified them as "close to the issues between the two countries".

"Manila must put aside the result of the arbitration in a substantive approach," it quoted one source as saying.

China's Foreign Ministry last month said the two countries had agreed in 1995 to settle disputes in the South China Sea "in a peaceful and friendly manner through consultations on the basis of equity and mutual respect".

China and the Philippines have held many rounds of talks on the proper management of maritime disputes, though have had no negotiations designed to settle the actual disputes in the South China Sea, it said.

In the arbitration case, the Philippines is contesting China's claim to an area shown on its maps as a nine-dash line stretching deep into the maritime heart of Southeast Asia, covering hundreds of disputed islands and reefs.

"Objectively the tribunal has no jurisdiction over the dispute," Sienho Yee, a law professor at the China Institute of Boundary and Ocean Studies at China's Wuhan University, told Reuters in a government-arranged interview on Friday.

"Negotiation has been agreed upon as the way to resolve the dispute," he said.
 http://interaksyon.com/article/129900/talks-on-condition--china-offers-ph-negotiations-if-west-philippine-sea-court-ignored

AFP to use 'shock and awe' vs Abu Sayyaf

From the Philippine Star (Jul 4): AFP to use 'shock and awe' vs Abu Sayyaf



Army Scout Rangers march during ceremonies at the 119th founding anniversary of the Philippine Army in suburban Taguig, south of Manila, Philippines on March 22, 2016. AP/Aaron Favila, file

The Armed Forces of the Philippines will employ a "shock and awe" strategy in defeating the Abu Sayyaf Group menace in Basilan and Sulu.

 

This was stressed by newly-appointed AFP chief-of-staff Lt. Gen. Ricardo Visaya on Monday.

 

"There will be 'shock and awe' (in the campaign against the ASG) but I won't go into specifics because this will (disclose our) strategy and tactics," he added.

 

"Shock and awe" is a military doctrine based on the use of overwhelming power and spectacular displays of force to paralyze the enemy's perception of the battlefield and destroy its will to fight.

 

Visaya earlier said the AFP will direct unrelenting pressure against the ASG and its allied terrorist cells.

 

"We will be unrelenting in our focused military operations against terrorist groups like the ASG and all its allied terrorist cells. We will realign military resources to their identified bailiwicks and sanctuaries and apply our military strength to suppress them, hunt them down and finish them," Visaya stressed.

 

"We will continue to apply the full force of the law 24/7 to go after these criminals and profit-seeking elements who operate under the guise of religious fervor and holy war," he added.

 

To ensure this, Visaya said the AFP will have to boost its armament acquisition program to further beef up its capacity and capability to search and engage these rogue and lawless elements.

 

"Over and above our role to run after the terrorists, we will also intensify our support to law enforcement agencies, particularly the Philippine National Police and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in their mission to eliminate widespread criminality and the wanton destruction of lives brought about by the spread and use of illegal drugs," he added.

 

"We will star the same advocacy with our ranks by continuously weeding out those scalawags who use drugs, who have links with illegal groups and activities. then we will proceed to build alliances with our counterparts to bring down syndicates and other organized crime groups," the AFP chief pointed out. 

 

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2016/07/04/1599446/afp-use-shock-and-awe-vs-abu-sayyaf