From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Jul 29): Car loaded with bombs seized in Marawi; suspects flee
MARAWI CITY – Soldiers on Friday intercepted a white Innova loaded with improvised explosive devices and other bomb-making components following a chase here on Friday.
A suspect aboard the vehicle was wounded but he managed to elude capture, along with another man, said Col. Joselito Pastrana, commander of the 65th Infantry Battalion – one of the units that went to the scene.
Pastrana said combined Army units had put up a checkpoint and were on the lookout for the vehicle with conduction sticker YM 6499 as there had been reports it would be transporting IEDs.
He said when the vehicle was spotted, soldiers had tried to flag it down at the checkpoint in Barangay Lilod here but the unidentified driver suddenly made a U-turn.
The soldiers chased the vehicle until they finally caught up with it. The suspects, one of whom was wounded when fired at by the soldiers, had escaped, he said.
Based on the vehicle’s registration, it was owned by a member of the Maute family – whose other members were being hunted down because of involvement in various atrocities in Lanao del Sur, including the beheading of two kidnapping victims in April.
The group being led by Maute family members, which had reportedly pledged allegiance to the Islamic State, was also suspected of staging Wednesday’s attack on the headquarters of the Army’s 103rd Infantry Brigade here.
Lt. Col. Alexander Osop, the local military spokesperson, told the Philippine Daily Inquirer that unidentified men fired an M203 grenade, which exploded at one of the bunkers inside the camp around 7 p.m. but no one was harmed.
He said as troops were investigating the attack, some of them heard a phone ringing inside a garbage bin, just outside the camp’s fence.
When they verified it, Osop said soldiers found an improvised explosive device fitted with a mobile phone as remote detonator. Apparently, the ringing was caused by the mobile detonator but it was still not certain why the bomb – made out of TNT and packed nails – failed to explode.
He said the initial theory was that the IED encountered technical problems compounded by the wet ground as it rained earlier that night.
While soldiers were busy with the IED, Osop said they were fired upon by some men.
“Later, a fast moving vehicle with unidentified armed men fired toward the responding troops,” he said.
Osop said the military had suspected that the attack on the military camp was also perpetrated by members of the Maute group.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/801021/car-loaded-with-bombs-seized-in-marawi-suspects-flee
Saturday, July 30, 2016
Improvised bombs intercepted in Marawi
From the Manila Times (Jul 31): Improvised bombs intercepted in Marawi
MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur: Military forces here intercepted a vehicle carrying improvised explosive devices (IEDs) believed to be transported to Cagayan de Oro City but the carriers eluded arrest.
Officers of the Marawi City-based Philippine Army’s 103rd Infantry Brigade said a white Toyota Innova car with only a conduction sticker (YM 649) was found abandoned by the suspects in Barangay Lilod after eluding soldiers in nearby Barangay Mapandi around 12:10 p.m. on Friday.
Recovered inside the vehicle were a 105mm howitzer ammo rigged with a cellular phone as triggering device and other explosive materials.
Also found inside the car were Special Action Force (SAF) uniform, several documents espousing the Islamic State (IS) ideology and personal belongings, including a camera.
A military officer said investigators have traced the car as registered to a member of the Maute family in Butig town, where the military has been hunting down members of the group, also known as IS Ranao.
The group, headed by Abdullah Maute, has been blamed for atrocities including bombings and beheading of hostages.
But authorities were still confirming whether the suspects are members of the Maute group that had pledged allegiance to international radical group Islamic State in Syria and Iraq.
Sources confirmed that there was “migration” taking place in Butig, where non-Maranaos have joined the group in fighting government forces.
Security forces tightened alert in this city to thwart any attack.
On Wednesday, IS Ranao claimed responsibility for attacks, including one on military bunkers inside the camp here near the provincial government complex, using n M203 grenade launcher.
No casualties were recorded.
An IED was also found in the area but it did not explode.
Local leaders here and the province of Lanao del Sur said they will convene a Peace and Order Council meeting to discuss the renewed hostilities.
The hostilities ensued after senior member of the Khilafah Islamiyah Movement (KIM) Abdul Rahman, who is fighting alongside the IS in Al-Raqqah province in Syria, ordered supporters to wage war on the volatile island Mindanao.
The KIM was previously blamed for bombings in Cagayan de Oro City–July 26, 2013 in Limketkai shopping complex that killed eight people and the October 11, 2012 Maxandrea Hotel blast.
The group was also prime suspect in other bombings in Iligan City, Cotabato City and Bukidnon province.
http://www.manilatimes.net/improvised-bombs-intercepted-in-marawi/276975/
MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur: Military forces here intercepted a vehicle carrying improvised explosive devices (IEDs) believed to be transported to Cagayan de Oro City but the carriers eluded arrest.
Officers of the Marawi City-based Philippine Army’s 103rd Infantry Brigade said a white Toyota Innova car with only a conduction sticker (YM 649) was found abandoned by the suspects in Barangay Lilod after eluding soldiers in nearby Barangay Mapandi around 12:10 p.m. on Friday.
The vehicle was put under surveillance after military intelligence units received reports that the car will be used to transport IEDs to Cagayan de Oro City and other areas in Northern Mindanao.
Also found inside the car were Special Action Force (SAF) uniform, several documents espousing the Islamic State (IS) ideology and personal belongings, including a camera.
A military officer said investigators have traced the car as registered to a member of the Maute family in Butig town, where the military has been hunting down members of the group, also known as IS Ranao.
The group, headed by Abdullah Maute, has been blamed for atrocities including bombings and beheading of hostages.
But authorities were still confirming whether the suspects are members of the Maute group that had pledged allegiance to international radical group Islamic State in Syria and Iraq.
Sources confirmed that there was “migration” taking place in Butig, where non-Maranaos have joined the group in fighting government forces.
Security forces tightened alert in this city to thwart any attack.
On Wednesday, IS Ranao claimed responsibility for attacks, including one on military bunkers inside the camp here near the provincial government complex, using n M203 grenade launcher.
No casualties were recorded.
An IED was also found in the area but it did not explode.
Local leaders here and the province of Lanao del Sur said they will convene a Peace and Order Council meeting to discuss the renewed hostilities.
The hostilities ensued after senior member of the Khilafah Islamiyah Movement (KIM) Abdul Rahman, who is fighting alongside the IS in Al-Raqqah province in Syria, ordered supporters to wage war on the volatile island Mindanao.
The KIM was previously blamed for bombings in Cagayan de Oro City–July 26, 2013 in Limketkai shopping complex that killed eight people and the October 11, 2012 Maxandrea Hotel blast.
The group was also prime suspect in other bombings in Iligan City, Cotabato City and Bukidnon province.
http://www.manilatimes.net/improvised-bombs-intercepted-in-marawi/276975/
Aid workers plead: Protect civilians
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Jul 31): Aid workers plead: Protect civilians
VILLAGERS from the Basilan towns of Al Barka, Tipo-Tipo and Ungkaya Puyan approach a truck loaded with relief goods as military operations against Abu Sayyaf displace scores of civilians from their homes. JULIE S. ALIPALA/INQUIRER MINDANAO
Humanitarian workers pleaded for the safety of villagers caught in renewed fighting between soldiers and the terror group Abu Sayyaf in Basilan province as some evacuees claim soldiers have started targeting civilians.
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) cited unverified reports that some civilians were wounded in the clashes that started on July 6.
“The security situation in Basilan is precarious,” said Yam Fridez, head of an ICRC delegation in Mindanao.
Fridez said government forces should see to it that the impact of the clashes on civilian communities is minimal.
Some evacuees have claimed that they had become more afraid of soldiers because civilians had been targeted in renewed military offensives against Abu Sayyaf.
One of the evacuees, Birgen Saharin, 26, mother of seven from the town of Ungaya Puyan, said houses were burned by soldiers during the offensive.
“They poured gasoline on the houses and set them on fire to allegedly deprive the Abu Sayyaf of shield,” Saharin said.
But she said civilians, not Abu Sayyaf, are the ones getting hit.
“It’s us. We are affected because we no longer have homes to return to,” she said.
Indiscriminate bombings
Saharin also reported indiscriminate bombings of villages and indiscriminate firing by soldiers.
Major Filemon Tan, the spokesperson of the Western Mindanao Command, said there has been no validation of Saharin’s claims, however.
“So far, we don’t have reports about it,” Tan said.
He said government soldiers are trying to penetrate Abu Sayyaf hideouts in Basilan.
The military said at least 35 terrorists and a soldier had been killed since the offensive started on July 6. The military operations continue.
ICRC’s Fridez urged the military to spare civilian communities from attacks.
Displaced residents
The combat operations have displaced thousands of villagers in the towns of Tipo-tipo, Albarka and Ungkaya Pukan.
As of Friday, ICRC said at least 17,000 residents of the three towns had been displaced.
ICRC said it has extended help to the residents, together with the Philippine Red Cross. It said it gave out hygiene kits, blankets, towels, jerry cans, mosquito nets and sleeping mats to evacuees.
The humanitarian group also distributed medical supplies, including medicines and anti-tetanus vaccines.
Saharin, however, said food is the immediate need of evacuees.
She said the second installment of relief good distribution consisted of packages that each contained 5 kilograms of rice, a few cans of sardines, sugar and coffee. The package, however, barely lasted two days for Saharin’s family.
“We are pushed to the wall,” she said. “We gather and cook whatever edible things we see around so we will not go hungry,” she added.
Children, Saharin said, have skipped classes for weeks already.
Darussalam Ladjid, mayor of Al Barka town, said he could not afford to feed his constituents.
He said the town’s internal revenue allotment has not arrived until now. “We just rely on help from the provincial government,” he said.
Jomar Maturan, mayor of Ungkaya Pukan town, said his town is suffering from the same situation.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/801228/aid-workers-plead-protect-civilians
VILLAGERS from the Basilan towns of Al Barka, Tipo-Tipo and Ungkaya Puyan approach a truck loaded with relief goods as military operations against Abu Sayyaf displace scores of civilians from their homes. JULIE S. ALIPALA/INQUIRER MINDANAO
Humanitarian workers pleaded for the safety of villagers caught in renewed fighting between soldiers and the terror group Abu Sayyaf in Basilan province as some evacuees claim soldiers have started targeting civilians.
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) cited unverified reports that some civilians were wounded in the clashes that started on July 6.
“The security situation in Basilan is precarious,” said Yam Fridez, head of an ICRC delegation in Mindanao.
Fridez said government forces should see to it that the impact of the clashes on civilian communities is minimal.
Some evacuees have claimed that they had become more afraid of soldiers because civilians had been targeted in renewed military offensives against Abu Sayyaf.
One of the evacuees, Birgen Saharin, 26, mother of seven from the town of Ungaya Puyan, said houses were burned by soldiers during the offensive.
“They poured gasoline on the houses and set them on fire to allegedly deprive the Abu Sayyaf of shield,” Saharin said.
But she said civilians, not Abu Sayyaf, are the ones getting hit.
“It’s us. We are affected because we no longer have homes to return to,” she said.
Indiscriminate bombings
Saharin also reported indiscriminate bombings of villages and indiscriminate firing by soldiers.
Major Filemon Tan, the spokesperson of the Western Mindanao Command, said there has been no validation of Saharin’s claims, however.
“So far, we don’t have reports about it,” Tan said.
He said government soldiers are trying to penetrate Abu Sayyaf hideouts in Basilan.
The military said at least 35 terrorists and a soldier had been killed since the offensive started on July 6. The military operations continue.
ICRC’s Fridez urged the military to spare civilian communities from attacks.
Displaced residents
The combat operations have displaced thousands of villagers in the towns of Tipo-tipo, Albarka and Ungkaya Pukan.
As of Friday, ICRC said at least 17,000 residents of the three towns had been displaced.
ICRC said it has extended help to the residents, together with the Philippine Red Cross. It said it gave out hygiene kits, blankets, towels, jerry cans, mosquito nets and sleeping mats to evacuees.
The humanitarian group also distributed medical supplies, including medicines and anti-tetanus vaccines.
Saharin, however, said food is the immediate need of evacuees.
She said the second installment of relief good distribution consisted of packages that each contained 5 kilograms of rice, a few cans of sardines, sugar and coffee. The package, however, barely lasted two days for Saharin’s family.
“We are pushed to the wall,” she said. “We gather and cook whatever edible things we see around so we will not go hungry,” she added.
Children, Saharin said, have skipped classes for weeks already.
Darussalam Ladjid, mayor of Al Barka town, said he could not afford to feed his constituents.
He said the town’s internal revenue allotment has not arrived until now. “We just rely on help from the provincial government,” he said.
Jomar Maturan, mayor of Ungkaya Pukan town, said his town is suffering from the same situation.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/801228/aid-workers-plead-protect-civilians
Sison calls out Duterte on 'hasty' decision to end truce
From Rappler (Jul 31): Sison calls out Duterte on 'hasty' decision to end truce
'Volatility, lack of prudence in something as sensitive and delicate as peace negotiations between two armed fighting sides – it's hard to agree with people who are quick to judgment,' says the exiled communist leader
STUDENT VS TEACHER? Communist leader Jose Maria Sison (right) criticizes his former student, President Rodrigo Duterte, for his hasty decision to end the ceasefire with communist rebels.
Exiled communist leader Jose Maria Sison on Saturday night, July 30, called out President Rodrigo Duterte for his hasty decision to end a unilateral government ceasefire with communist rebels.
Sison said in a phone patch interview with ANC that the New People's Army (NPA) was already preparing to reciprocate the government's ceasefire declaration at 8 pm – an hour after the President announced that he was lifting the ceasefire order.
"Volatility, lack of prudence in something as sensitive and delicate as peace negotiations between two armed fighting sides – it's hard to agree with people who are quick to judgment," he said, referring to Duterte.
The President had set a 5 pm, July 30 deadline for the Communist Party of the Philippines to reciprocate the government's ceasefire declaration. With no word from the CPP, Duterte ordered the lifting of his ceasefire declaration at 7 pm that day.
Sison said that the CPP-NPA-NDF (National Democratic Front) cannot be dictated upon by the Philippine leader.
"The revolutionary movement is treated as if it's a servant of the new boss. That cannot be," he said in a mix of Filipino and English.
Sison said Duterte could not give an "ultimatum" to them, adding that they were just asking for "a few more hours, days." The CPP leadership was looking into the incident the prompted Duterte's deadline, an NPA attack on government militias in Davao del Norte, which killed one and hurt 4 others on the government side.
The incident happened two days after Duterte announced the ceasefire in his State of the Nation Address. The NPA, however, claims that the government militias initiated the attack, and the rebels just fought back.
He said, however, that despite the development, formal peace talks will resume as scheduled Oslo, Norway, on August 20.
In April, Sison and his former student, Duterte, had a conversation on Skype where they agreed to observe a ceasefire between government and New People's Army (NPA) if Duterte were elected as president.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/141428-sison-duterte-hasty-decision-end-ceasefire
'Volatility, lack of prudence in something as sensitive and delicate as peace negotiations between two armed fighting sides – it's hard to agree with people who are quick to judgment,' says the exiled communist leader
STUDENT VS TEACHER? Communist leader Jose Maria Sison (right) criticizes his former student, President Rodrigo Duterte, for his hasty decision to end the ceasefire with communist rebels.
Exiled communist leader Jose Maria Sison on Saturday night, July 30, called out President Rodrigo Duterte for his hasty decision to end a unilateral government ceasefire with communist rebels.
Sison said in a phone patch interview with ANC that the New People's Army (NPA) was already preparing to reciprocate the government's ceasefire declaration at 8 pm – an hour after the President announced that he was lifting the ceasefire order.
"Volatility, lack of prudence in something as sensitive and delicate as peace negotiations between two armed fighting sides – it's hard to agree with people who are quick to judgment," he said, referring to Duterte.
The President had set a 5 pm, July 30 deadline for the Communist Party of the Philippines to reciprocate the government's ceasefire declaration. With no word from the CPP, Duterte ordered the lifting of his ceasefire declaration at 7 pm that day.
Sison said that the CPP-NPA-NDF (National Democratic Front) cannot be dictated upon by the Philippine leader.
"The revolutionary movement is treated as if it's a servant of the new boss. That cannot be," he said in a mix of Filipino and English.
Sison said Duterte could not give an "ultimatum" to them, adding that they were just asking for "a few more hours, days." The CPP leadership was looking into the incident the prompted Duterte's deadline, an NPA attack on government militias in Davao del Norte, which killed one and hurt 4 others on the government side.
The incident happened two days after Duterte announced the ceasefire in his State of the Nation Address. The NPA, however, claims that the government militias initiated the attack, and the rebels just fought back.
He said, however, that despite the development, formal peace talks will resume as scheduled Oslo, Norway, on August 20.
In April, Sison and his former student, Duterte, had a conversation on Skype where they agreed to observe a ceasefire between government and New People's Army (NPA) if Duterte were elected as president.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/141428-sison-duterte-hasty-decision-end-ceasefire
Military says 6 Sayyaf killed, 11 soldiers wounded in clashes in Mindanao
From the Mindanao Examiner (Jul 30): Military says 6 Sayyaf killed, 11 soldiers wounded in clashes in Mindanao
The Philippine military on Saturday said troops had killed at least 6 Abu Sayyaf militants in separate clashes in Basilan and Sulu provinces in the restive Muslim autonomous region where security forces are battling the radical jihadist group.
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/military-says-6-sayyaf-killed-11-soldiers-wounded-in-clashes-in-mindanao/
The Philippine military on Saturday said troops had killed at least 6 Abu Sayyaf militants in separate clashes in Basilan and Sulu provinces in the restive Muslim autonomous region where security forces are battling the radical jihadist group.
It said 11 soldiers were also wounded in the fighting since
Friday and had been airlifted to military hospital in Zamboanga City
Both were killed in clashes in Tipo-Tipo town and soldiers
also recovered a .50-caliber machine gun left behind by fleeing militants. Nine
soldiers were injured in the fighting in Tipo-Tipo, according to the Western
Mindanao Command.
It said four Abu Sayyaf gunmen were also slain in the
fighting in the village called Langpas in Indanan town in Sulu and that 2 army
soldiers were wounded in the clash. The cadavers of the militants were
retrieved by troops.
There were no reports about the Abu Sayyaf hostages in
Basilan – five Malaysian tugboat crew members kidnapped off Sabah
recently – and 10 Indonesian sailors in Sulu, who were also abducted near the
Philippine border.
The military said the operations against the Abu Sayyaf were
continuing in the provinces.
On July 29, gunmen also attacked soldiers in Marawi City
The attack has been largely blamed to the group of jihadist
leader Abdullah Maute, who pledged allegiance with ISIS .
Maute was also behind numerous attacks on military targets in the province and
nearby areas.
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/military-says-6-sayyaf-killed-11-soldiers-wounded-in-clashes-in-mindanao/
Troops search for terrorists in Lanao del Sur
From the Mindanao Examiner (Jul 30): Troops search for terrorists in Lanao del Sur
Government troops were searching for suspected terrorists who escaped security forces during a car chase inMarawi
City in Lanao del Sur province in the
Muslim autonomous region in southern Philippines
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/troops-search-for-terrorists-in-lanao-del-sur/
Government troops were searching for suspected terrorists who escaped security forces during a car chase in
Officials said troops recovered the car, including a
powerful improvised explosive assembled from a 105mm howitzer rigged to a
transceiver radio.
Also found inside the car were Special Action Force uniform,
several documents espousing the Islamic State ideology and other personal belongings,
a dash camera among others.
The car was believed being used by the jihadist group of
Abdullah Maute to transport improvised explosives and weapons from Marawi to
Cagayan de Oro City and other areas in northern Mindanao .
Maute’s group was said to be behind the July 27 rocket
attack on a military base in Marawi
City
The hostilities ensued after a senior member of the Khilafah
Islamiyah Movement (KIM) Abdul Rahman, who is currently fighting alongside the
IS in Al-Raqqah province in Syria ,
ordered its supporters in Southeast Asia to wage war in the volatile island of Mindanao
The KIM was also blamed for the bombings in Cagayan De Oro
City in July 26, 2013 that killed eight people, and similar attacks in the
cities of Iligan and Cotabato, including Bukidnon province.
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/troops-search-for-terrorists-in-lanao-del-sur/
2 Negros Army camps to be drug rehab centers
From the Visayan Daily Star (Jul 30): 2 Negros Army camps to be drug rehab centers
Two Army military camps in Negros Occidental and Oriental have been identified as drug rehabilitation centers for the Negros Island Region.
Col. Francisco Delfin, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, yesterday said Camp Maj. Nelson Gerona in Brgy. Minoyan, Murcia has been eyed as the rehabilitation center for drug dependents in Negros Occidental, while the vacated camp of 302nd Infantry Brigade in Tanjay City, Negros Oriental, will be utilized as a drug rehab center for the Negros Island Region.
Public high school classrooms have also been recommended by Negros Oriental Rep. Arnie Teves, who proposed “outpatient drug rehabilitation” for surrendered drug users, to be used for therapy sessions.
Negros Occidental Gov. Alfredo Marañon called for a concerted effort in addressing concerns on the rehabilitation of drug users, with many more coming out to surrender.
“All of us should help,” Marañon said.
More than 18,000 drug pushers and users have surrendered to various police units in Negros island since July 1.
“We have to do something about it now, or else, they ( drug users) will return to their old habits,” Marañon said.
Delfin said members of the province Technical Working Group will meet next week to determine on how to go about the screening of surrendered pushers. He, however, said that Army personnel involvement in the rehabilitation of drug users will be more on training and security.
As to how many will be accommodated in the military camps, Delfin said it will depend on the facilities to be constructed.
But he said they will only need facilities for sleeping of drug users and an exercise area, which will be the parade ground of the 303rd Infantry Brigade headquarters.
Under the proposed outpatient drug rehabilitation of drug dependents, Teves said the reformed drug addicts will be tapped as “counselors” .
The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Negros Occidental approved P5 million to support the drug rehabilitation program of the province.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2016/July/30/topstory1.htm
Two Army military camps in Negros Occidental and Oriental have been identified as drug rehabilitation centers for the Negros Island Region.
Col. Francisco Delfin, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, yesterday said Camp Maj. Nelson Gerona in Brgy. Minoyan, Murcia has been eyed as the rehabilitation center for drug dependents in Negros Occidental, while the vacated camp of 302nd Infantry Brigade in Tanjay City, Negros Oriental, will be utilized as a drug rehab center for the Negros Island Region.
Public high school classrooms have also been recommended by Negros Oriental Rep. Arnie Teves, who proposed “outpatient drug rehabilitation” for surrendered drug users, to be used for therapy sessions.
Negros Occidental Gov. Alfredo Marañon called for a concerted effort in addressing concerns on the rehabilitation of drug users, with many more coming out to surrender.
“All of us should help,” Marañon said.
More than 18,000 drug pushers and users have surrendered to various police units in Negros island since July 1.
“We have to do something about it now, or else, they ( drug users) will return to their old habits,” Marañon said.
Delfin said members of the province Technical Working Group will meet next week to determine on how to go about the screening of surrendered pushers. He, however, said that Army personnel involvement in the rehabilitation of drug users will be more on training and security.
As to how many will be accommodated in the military camps, Delfin said it will depend on the facilities to be constructed.
But he said they will only need facilities for sleeping of drug users and an exercise area, which will be the parade ground of the 303rd Infantry Brigade headquarters.
Under the proposed outpatient drug rehabilitation of drug dependents, Teves said the reformed drug addicts will be tapped as “counselors” .
The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Negros Occidental approved P5 million to support the drug rehabilitation program of the province.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2016/July/30/topstory1.htm
Comval Guv holds 1st Peace and Order Council meeting
From the Philippine Information Agency (Jul 29): Comval Guv holds 1st Peace and Order Council meeting
Compostela Valley Governor Jayvee Tyron Uy leads his first Provincial Peace and Order Council Meeting (PPOC) sitting as the new chairman of the province on July 28, 2016 at the Social Hall, Capitol Building.
The PPOC which convenes just last June 9, chaired by then Governor Arturo Uy, has its quarterly meeting but the new governor has called for an earlier conference saying “importante na maaga tayo because the priority of the national administration is on peace and order.”
The governor also signed through Executive Order No. 31-2016 the reconstitution of the council with new members included such as the Comval provincial offices of Health (PHO), Planning and Development (PPDO), Environment and Natural Resources (PENRO), Veterinarian (PVO), as well as national agencies with established offices in the province like the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), Education (DEPED), National Commission on Indigenous People, and other representatives from the non-government organizations.
Gov. Uy bared his initial plans to hold a regular monthly meeting to put emphasis on the implementation as well as updates on peace and order programs and projects of the province as a whole.
He also wanted to initiate a “mini” Serbisyo Caravan following the successful National Serbisyo Caravan with different government agencies delivering various public services directly to barangays especially to geographically isolated, underdeveloped, and conflict-affected areas.
Meanwhile, Col. Macairog S. Alberto, Commanding Officer of the 1001st IB reported that while the Suspension of Offensive Military Operations (SOMO) is in effect, “the AFP shall continue to perform its mandate of protecting the people and the communities, to continue security operations focused on the neutralization of other threats to national security such as the ASG and the other terrorist groups, protection of communities, government facilities and other infrastructure facilities, and support to law enforcement operations,” among others.
The Comval Provincial Police Office (PNP) under PSSupt. Armando S. De Leon also reveals that on the Double Barrel program, to date there has already been a total of 10,851 drug surrenderees from the 11 towns of the province.
This as various local government agencies continue to lay down and finalize rehabilitation plans and efforts in answer to Pres. Duterte administration’s campaign against illegal drugs. So far, the national government said plans to build rehab centers across the country were on the table.
The PPOC is also attended by Vice-Gov. Manuel Zamora, SP Member Joseph Jauod, Exec. Asst. Gene Maning, Batallion and Brigade Commanders of the AFP and other regular members with the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) as the secretariat headed by Provincial Director Noel Duarte.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1591469760941/comval-guv-holds-1st-peace-and-order-council-meeting
Compostela Valley Governor Jayvee Tyron Uy leads his first Provincial Peace and Order Council Meeting (PPOC) sitting as the new chairman of the province on July 28, 2016 at the Social Hall, Capitol Building.
The PPOC which convenes just last June 9, chaired by then Governor Arturo Uy, has its quarterly meeting but the new governor has called for an earlier conference saying “importante na maaga tayo because the priority of the national administration is on peace and order.”
The governor also signed through Executive Order No. 31-2016 the reconstitution of the council with new members included such as the Comval provincial offices of Health (PHO), Planning and Development (PPDO), Environment and Natural Resources (PENRO), Veterinarian (PVO), as well as national agencies with established offices in the province like the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), Education (DEPED), National Commission on Indigenous People, and other representatives from the non-government organizations.
Gov. Uy bared his initial plans to hold a regular monthly meeting to put emphasis on the implementation as well as updates on peace and order programs and projects of the province as a whole.
He also wanted to initiate a “mini” Serbisyo Caravan following the successful National Serbisyo Caravan with different government agencies delivering various public services directly to barangays especially to geographically isolated, underdeveloped, and conflict-affected areas.
Meanwhile, Col. Macairog S. Alberto, Commanding Officer of the 1001st IB reported that while the Suspension of Offensive Military Operations (SOMO) is in effect, “the AFP shall continue to perform its mandate of protecting the people and the communities, to continue security operations focused on the neutralization of other threats to national security such as the ASG and the other terrorist groups, protection of communities, government facilities and other infrastructure facilities, and support to law enforcement operations,” among others.
The Comval Provincial Police Office (PNP) under PSSupt. Armando S. De Leon also reveals that on the Double Barrel program, to date there has already been a total of 10,851 drug surrenderees from the 11 towns of the province.
This as various local government agencies continue to lay down and finalize rehabilitation plans and efforts in answer to Pres. Duterte administration’s campaign against illegal drugs. So far, the national government said plans to build rehab centers across the country were on the table.
The PPOC is also attended by Vice-Gov. Manuel Zamora, SP Member Joseph Jauod, Exec. Asst. Gene Maning, Batallion and Brigade Commanders of the AFP and other regular members with the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) as the secretariat headed by Provincial Director Noel Duarte.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1591469760941/comval-guv-holds-1st-peace-and-order-council-meeting
PH Navy formally receives 3rd Del Pilar Class Frigate
From the Philippine Information Agency (Jul 29): PH Navy formally receives 3rd Del Pilar Class Frigate
The Philippine Navy (PN) formally received its third Del Pilar Class Frigate (DPCF), the former US Coast Guard (USCG) Boutwell, the Weather High-Endurance Cutter (WHEC) 719, through the Decommissioning by the USCG and the subsequent Christening and Commissioning Ceremonies by the PN conducted at USCG Base in Alameda, California on July 21, 8 a.m. (US time).
The third DCPF was christened and commissioned into the active service of the Philippine Navy effective July 21 as Barko ng Republika ng Pilipinas (BRP) Andres Bonifacio (FF17).
Naming the vessel after him is a fitting tribute as a Filipino revolutionary leader and the president of the Tagalog Republic. It also gives him further recognition as he was considered de facto national hero of the Philippines.
The PN contingent witnessing the said event was headed by the Commander, Philippine Fleet, Rear Adm. Bayani R. Gaerlan, together with Commo. Robert A. Empedrad, Commander, Offshore Combat Force; Capt. Alberto B. Carlos, Assistant Chief of Naval Staff (AC of NS) for Operations; Col. Antonio N. Mangoroban, AC of NS for Logistics; and Capt. Mac Raul B. Racacho, AC of NS for Naval Systems Engineering.
Their US counterparts were headed by Rear Adm. Joseph Vojvodich, the Assistant Commandant for Acquisition and Chief Acquisition Officer.FF17 is skippered by Capt. Brendo J. Casaclang.
The crew will undergo training and preparations for its voyage for almost three months and will tentatively depart the continental US on October of this year.
It can be recalled that US President Barrack Obama pledged this ship to the Philippines, along with Research Vessel Melville now BRP Gregorio Velasquez (AGR702), during his visit to the country on November 2015 on the sidelines of APEC Leader’s Summit.
Just like BRP Gregorio del Pilar (FF15) and BRP Ramon Alcaraz (FF16), the other two DCPFs, FF17 will be primarily important for the PN’s maritime security and sovereignty patrols in line with the Navy’s mandate to protect the people and the state.
It will also serve as platform in empowering and upgrading our soldiers’ knowledge and skills in handling such high-level and advanced equipment/vessel. This will be done through series of trainings of the crew of the ship. (PN)
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2131469711006/ph-navy-formally-receives-3rd-del-pilar-class-frigate
The Philippine Navy (PN) formally received its third Del Pilar Class Frigate (DPCF), the former US Coast Guard (USCG) Boutwell, the Weather High-Endurance Cutter (WHEC) 719, through the Decommissioning by the USCG and the subsequent Christening and Commissioning Ceremonies by the PN conducted at USCG Base in Alameda, California on July 21, 8 a.m. (US time).
The third DCPF was christened and commissioned into the active service of the Philippine Navy effective July 21 as Barko ng Republika ng Pilipinas (BRP) Andres Bonifacio (FF17).
Naming the vessel after him is a fitting tribute as a Filipino revolutionary leader and the president of the Tagalog Republic. It also gives him further recognition as he was considered de facto national hero of the Philippines.
The PN contingent witnessing the said event was headed by the Commander, Philippine Fleet, Rear Adm. Bayani R. Gaerlan, together with Commo. Robert A. Empedrad, Commander, Offshore Combat Force; Capt. Alberto B. Carlos, Assistant Chief of Naval Staff (AC of NS) for Operations; Col. Antonio N. Mangoroban, AC of NS for Logistics; and Capt. Mac Raul B. Racacho, AC of NS for Naval Systems Engineering.
Their US counterparts were headed by Rear Adm. Joseph Vojvodich, the Assistant Commandant for Acquisition and Chief Acquisition Officer.FF17 is skippered by Capt. Brendo J. Casaclang.
The crew will undergo training and preparations for its voyage for almost three months and will tentatively depart the continental US on October of this year.
It can be recalled that US President Barrack Obama pledged this ship to the Philippines, along with Research Vessel Melville now BRP Gregorio Velasquez (AGR702), during his visit to the country on November 2015 on the sidelines of APEC Leader’s Summit.
Just like BRP Gregorio del Pilar (FF15) and BRP Ramon Alcaraz (FF16), the other two DCPFs, FF17 will be primarily important for the PN’s maritime security and sovereignty patrols in line with the Navy’s mandate to protect the people and the state.
It will also serve as platform in empowering and upgrading our soldiers’ knowledge and skills in handling such high-level and advanced equipment/vessel. This will be done through series of trainings of the crew of the ship. (PN)
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2131469711006/ph-navy-formally-receives-3rd-del-pilar-class-frigate
GPH Panel Chair issues statement on ambush incident in Davao del Norte
From the Philippine Information Agency (Jul 30): GPH Panel Chair issues statement on ambush incident in Davao del Norte
GPH Panel Chair Secretary Silvestre Bello III issues a statement, expressing sadness over the ambush on Wednesday of government troops by members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Sitio Patil, Barangay Gupitan, Davao del Norte.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2131469798198/gph-panel-chair-issues-statement-on-ambush-incident-in-davao-del-norte
GPH Panel Chair Secretary Silvestre Bello III issues a statement, expressing sadness over the ambush on Wednesday of government troops by members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Sitio Patil, Barangay Gupitan, Davao del Norte.
“It is
disheartening that the NPA failed to respect the unilateral ceasefire declared
by President Duterte last Monday during the SONA. Barely two days after this
ceasefire declaration, the NPA ambushed yesterday government forces killing one
CAFGU member and wounding four others in Davao del Norte”.
Sec. Bello said
that he confronted NDF Panel member Fidel Agcaoili on this tragic incident and
he was informed that as far as he knows, the NPA is on active defense mode
since July 26 as announced by Ka Oris. He, however, promised Sec. Bello to
look into the matter. The GPH Panel Chair said that government will await the
results of NDF’s verification on the matter.
Agcaoli further
said that, just like PRRD, the NDFP is committed to resume the peace
negotiations to address the roots of the armed conflict towards a just and
lasting peace as reiterated in the 15 June 2016 Oslo Joint Statement that
affirms all past agreements.
“I strongly
reiterate the call of President Duterte to the CPP/NPA/NDF to reciprocate
government’s ceasefire declaration in order to immediately stop violence on the
ground, protect our communities from conflict, and provide an enabling
environment for the resumption of formal peace negotiations”.
Sec. Bello made
this appeal and stressed that as both sides continue to undertake preparations
for the re-starting of formal talks on August 20-27 in Oslo, it is
best that the government’s ceasefire is reciprocated unconditionally by the NDF
to build trust and confidence on the peace process and more importantly bring
peace in our communities for the good of the people. (OPAPP)
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2131469798198/gph-panel-chair-issues-statement-on-ambush-incident-in-davao-del-norte
Military to stay alert upon President Duterte's orders
From the Philippine Information Agency (Jul 30): Military to stay alert upon President Duterte's orders
Even with the unilateral ceasefire with the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) President Rodrigo Duterte declared on his State of the Nationan Address on Monday, he encouraged the military to stay on alert, saying that they should be involved in assuring the safety of residents in their respective jurisdictions.
The ceasefire declaration is a sign of the government’s goodwill towards the realization of a peace agreement with the rebels.
“As President, I have to seek peace for our country. Not only with the communist insurgency but doon rin sa (but also with the) Muslim insurgency,” he said.
He also reminded the AFP and the PNP not to provoke any elements of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), and the NPA as their members are fellow Filipinos who are fighting for an ideology, unlike the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) which is a mere criminal group with no clear ideological agenda attached to its cause.
But speaking before members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) at Camp Nakar in Lucena City on Thursday, The President expressed his disappointment with the NPA rebels who ambushed a Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU) in Davao del Norte resulting in the death of a CAFGU member and wounding four others.
“If we cannot honor a ceasefire, let’s just fight!” President Duterte said, calling on the rebel group to investigate and discipline those responsible for the incident.
The President mentioned that government law enforcers who commit infractions are meted penalties, which must also be done among their ranks by those from the NPA, CPP, and the NDF.
The President further reiterated the new role of the military in the campaign against drugs. “We cannot hand over to the next generation this problem on drugs because it reaches far and wide. There is no negotiating with criminals. You have to destroy them. There is no other choice. There is no ideology.”
President Duterte emphasized the need for intensified operations against illegal drug syndicates. He explained that the reason why no “big fish” have been caught is due to the fact that drug lords operate outside the country utilizing state-of-the-art technology to facilitate shipments and distribution. Going after these top-tier personalities would mean an incursion into foreign territory, short of declaring war on the country where these drug lords reside.
Moreover, he said that the $32 million fund, which the United States offered through Secretary of State John Kerry, will be used for national security and the campaign against illegal drugs. He also promised to provide the best armaments to the military for them to be able to carry out their mandate and accomplish their missions, but reminding the soldiers to exercise restraint and calmness.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2131469801369/military-to-stay-alert-upon-president-duterte-s-orders
Even with the unilateral ceasefire with the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) President Rodrigo Duterte declared on his State of the Nationan Address on Monday, he encouraged the military to stay on alert, saying that they should be involved in assuring the safety of residents in their respective jurisdictions.
The ceasefire declaration is a sign of the government’s goodwill towards the realization of a peace agreement with the rebels.
“As President, I have to seek peace for our country. Not only with the communist insurgency but doon rin sa (but also with the) Muslim insurgency,” he said.
He also reminded the AFP and the PNP not to provoke any elements of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), and the NPA as their members are fellow Filipinos who are fighting for an ideology, unlike the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) which is a mere criminal group with no clear ideological agenda attached to its cause.
But speaking before members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) at Camp Nakar in Lucena City on Thursday, The President expressed his disappointment with the NPA rebels who ambushed a Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU) in Davao del Norte resulting in the death of a CAFGU member and wounding four others.
“If we cannot honor a ceasefire, let’s just fight!” President Duterte said, calling on the rebel group to investigate and discipline those responsible for the incident.
The President mentioned that government law enforcers who commit infractions are meted penalties, which must also be done among their ranks by those from the NPA, CPP, and the NDF.
The President further reiterated the new role of the military in the campaign against drugs. “We cannot hand over to the next generation this problem on drugs because it reaches far and wide. There is no negotiating with criminals. You have to destroy them. There is no other choice. There is no ideology.”
President Duterte emphasized the need for intensified operations against illegal drug syndicates. He explained that the reason why no “big fish” have been caught is due to the fact that drug lords operate outside the country utilizing state-of-the-art technology to facilitate shipments and distribution. Going after these top-tier personalities would mean an incursion into foreign territory, short of declaring war on the country where these drug lords reside.
Moreover, he said that the $32 million fund, which the United States offered through Secretary of State John Kerry, will be used for national security and the campaign against illegal drugs. He also promised to provide the best armaments to the military for them to be able to carry out their mandate and accomplish their missions, but reminding the soldiers to exercise restraint and calmness.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2131469801369/military-to-stay-alert-upon-president-duterte-s-orders
Statement of President Duterte on the lifting of the unilateral ceasefire
From the Philippine Information Agency (Jul 31): Statement of President Duterte on the lifting of the unilateral ceasefire
Let me now announce that I am hereby ordering for the immediate lifting of the unilateral ceasefire that I ordered last July 25 against the communist rebels.
Correspondingly, I am ordering the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police to also withdraw the operational guidelines they issued in pursuance to that ceasefire declaration.
I am ordering all security forces to be on high alert and continue to discharge their normal functions and mandate to neutralize all threats to national security, protect the citizenry, enforce the laws and maintain peace in the land.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2131469898417/statement-of-president-duterte-on-the-lifting-of-the-unilateral-ceasefire
Let me now announce that I am hereby ordering for the immediate lifting of the unilateral ceasefire that I ordered last July 25 against the communist rebels.
Correspondingly, I am ordering the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police to also withdraw the operational guidelines they issued in pursuance to that ceasefire declaration.
I am ordering all security forces to be on high alert and continue to discharge their normal functions and mandate to neutralize all threats to national security, protect the citizenry, enforce the laws and maintain peace in the land.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2131469898417/statement-of-president-duterte-on-the-lifting-of-the-unilateral-ceasefire
Eastern Visayas rebels welcome truce
From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 30): Eastern Visayas rebels welcome truce
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=908807
The National Democratic Front-Eastern Visayas (NDF-EV) has
welcomed the unilateral ceasefire declared by President Rodrigo Duterte in his
first State of the Nation Address.
In a statement posted in their website, NDF-EV said that
“the unilateral ceasefire declaration of Government of the Republic of the
Philippines (GRP), through President Rodrigo Duterte, is a positive development
for the resumption of the peace talks.”
“We believe the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP)
will be issuing a reciprocal unilateral ceasefire declaration soon. In the
meantime, the NDF-EV calls on the New People's Army (NPA) in Eastern
Visayas to maintain active defense mode as ordered by the CPP and
the NPA National Operational Command,” the group stated.
The NDF-EV claimed that in the towns of Calbiga and
Pinabacdao in Samar province and towns of Las Navas and Catubig in Northern Samar where soldiers still “conduct combat
operation or occupying civilian communities.”
“Be that as it may, the NDF-EV believes the NPA will be carefully
restrained toward the GRP ceasefire and will also carry out any reciprocal
ceasefire by the CPP with utmost discipline.
When asked to comment over the rebel’s statement, Philippine
Army’s 8th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office chief, Captain Ian Andres
Fabellon said that government troops in the region have been supportive in the
advocacy of lasting peace.
“The Philippine Army actively support, advocates peace
building in the region, and always adhere on the primacy of peace process. We
remain to be a partner of in promoting peace and resolution of conflict and we
remain sincere and follows the laws of the land,” Fabellon said.
The military official added that throughout history, the
Philippine Army always offer openness to the New People’s Army (NPA) in
convincing them to return to the folds of the law and live in a normal and
peaceful environment.
“The irony of being in the NPA is that they suffer all the
hardship and dislocated lives bearing arms, while we are just performing our
mandate as a protector of the people and the community for terrorist group and
other lawless elements including protection of government installations and
infrastructures,” Fabellon said.
The military added that for the past decades the NPA is
insincere and continuously violates human rights by conducting ambuscades on
Army forces involved in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief and
response operation, which clearly violates international law and Geneva
convention.
The army official then denied the accusation of the NDF that
despite the declaration of the President for unilateral ceasefire government
troops in the region specifically in Samar are
conducting military operation.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=908807
Modernization of the Philippine Coast Guard is a must - Magdalo Partylist
From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 30): Modernization of the Philippine Coast Guard is a must - Magdalo Partylist
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=908824
In the wake of the growing challenges to the country’s
territorial security, a party-list lawmaker is insisting on a modernization
program for the Philippine Coast Guard.
“Most nations have invested greatly in the safeguarding of
their ports, waterways, and coastal security,” Magdalo party-list Rep. Gary C.
Alejano pointed out when he filed HB 111.
HB 111 is entitled “An Act providing for the modernization
of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and for other purposes.”
Alejano stressed that the proposed modernization program
shall develop and enhance the capabilities of the PCG in order to effectively
and efficiently perform under the following functional areas: a) Maritime Safety;
b) Maritime Search and Rescue; c) Maritime Security; d) Maritime Law
Enforcement; and e) Maritime Environmental Protection.
The components of the modernization program shall include:
1) Organization Development; 2) Human Resource; 3) Doctrine Development; 4)
Infrastructure Development; and 5) Equipment and Facilities Acquisition and
Modernization.
The author said that the funds to be appropriated by
Congress under the proposed Act shall be treated as a distinct and separate
budget item from the regular appropriation for the PCG and shall be
administered by the DOTC Secretary.
The proposed program shall be based on a ceiling, for the
first five (5) years, of fifty billion (P50-Billion) which may be increased
commensurate to the increase in the Gross National Product (GNP).
Among other salient provisions of the Act, the DOTC
Secretary is mandated to submit to Congress, through the Congressional
Oversight Committee, copies of multi-year contracts and other agreements or
arrangement to enable Congress to appropriate funds.
Likewise, the PCG shall, as far as practicable, give
preference to Filipino contractors and suppliers and secondly to foreign
contractors and suppliers, willing to locate a substantial portion of, if not
the entire, production process of the terms involved, within the Philippines
Alejano also proposes, among others, that “in order to
reduce foreign exchange outflow, generate local employment opportunities and
enhance national productivity, provisions shall be incorporated in each
contract/agreement on special foreign exchange reduction schemes such as
counter trade, in-country manufacture, co-production, or other innovative
arrangements or combinations thereof.”
To emphasize his point, Alejano said many nations have
realized the immense responsibility in securing their territories, ports, and
their economic interest.
“Ports in Romania
Another example is the Port
of Manzanillo in Mexico
Alejano noted that in the Philippines where there are twelve
(12) CG Districts, sixty-three (63) CG Stations and two hundred thirty eight
()238) CG Detachments strategically situated from Basco, Batanes to Bongao,
Tawi-Tawi, the PCG continues to perform with very limited resources.
“While other countries are investing heavily in their ports
and improving their coastal security, the capability of our PCG to secure our
vast coastline and waterways lags behind,” he lamented, stressing that “we have
to act now!”
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=908824
President Duterte lifts ceasefire with communist rebels
From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 30): President Duterte lifts ceasefire with communist rebels
Bello
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=908969
President Rodrigo Duterte on Saturday night ordered the
immediate lifting of the unilateral ceasefire against the communist rebels.
“I am ordering all security forces to be on high alert and
continue to discharge their normal functions and mandate to neutralize all
threats to national security, protect the citizenry, enforce the laws and
maintain peace in the land,” he said in a statement.
President Duterte declared unilateral ceasefire with the
Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front
(CPP-NPA-NDF) during his first State-of-the-Nation Address (SONA) last July 25
in line with achieving the government’s goal of final and lasting peace.
But the Chief Executive announced the lifting of the
unilateral ceasefire that he ordered after the 5 p.m. Saturday ultimatum he
gave lapsed without reciprocation from the communist rebels.
“Correspondingly, I am ordering the Armed Forces of the
Philippines and the Philippine National Police to also withdraw the operational
guidelines they issued in pursuance to that ceasefire declaration,” President
Duterte
In Davao
City
The President also ordered the Armed Forces of the Philippines
"I am ordering all security forces to be on high alert
and continue to discharge their normal functions and mandate to neutralize all
threats to national security, protect the citizenry , enforce the laws and
maintain peace in the land," the President said.
The lifting came after the National Democratic Front (NDF)
failed to reciprocate the ceasefire declaration of the President for the 5 p.m
deadline.
Although at 6:30 p.m the NDF said it would reciprocate the
unilateral ceasefire but had asked for time to finish its investigation on the
attack of the Army's militiamen last Wednesday.
This was confirmed by GPH Peace panel chair Silvestre Bello
Saturday evening as the 5:00 p.m deadline lapses for the communist movement to
reciprocate ceasefire.
"Please give us time to finish our investigation of the
incident as reported by concerned NPA command," Bello
Duterte on Friday gave the CPP-NDF an ultimatum to also
declare a truce after a rebel attack on militiamen on Wednesday, two days
following the Chief Executive's pronouncement of a unilateral ceasefire.
He gave the ultimatum during his visit at the 60th Infantry
Battalion headquarters in Barangay Doña Andrea, Asuncion
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=908969
No supervening factor that will affect the upcoming talks in Oslo – Dureza
From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 30): No supervening factor that will affect the upcoming talks in Oslo – Dureza
Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza said there is no supervening factor that will affect the resumption of the formal peace talks with the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) on August 20 inOslo , Norway
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=908975
Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza said there is no supervening factor that will affect the resumption of the formal peace talks with the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) on August 20 in
”Let’s wait and see. But so far, as the moment, there is no
supervening factor that will affect the upcoming talks in Oslo
Dureza made this reaction after President Rodrigo Duterte ordered
on Saturday night the immediate lifting of the unilateral ceasefire with the
communist rebels after the CPP-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front
(CPP-NPA-NDF) failed to reciprocate within the Saturday’s 5 p.m. ultimatum.
”Let me now announce that I am hereby ordering for the
lifting of the unilateral ceasefire that I ordered last July 25 against the
communist rebels,” Duterte said in a press statement.
Correspondingly, the President ordered the Armed Forces of
the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) “to also
withdraw the operational guidelines they issued in pursuance to that ceasefire
declaration.”
”I’m ordering all security forces to be on high alert and
continue to discharge their normal functions and mandate to neutralize all
threats to national security, protect the citizenry, enforce the laws and
maintain peace in the land,” the President added.
In his first state of the nation address last Monday,
President Duterte declared a unilateral ceasefire with the communist rebels.
However, the NPA rebels attacked a group of the Citizen
Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU), killing one militiaman and wounding four
others in Davao del Norte while the military troops were observing the
unilateral ceasefire.
This prompted President Duterte to set last Friday a
deadline until 5p.m. Saturday for the communist rebels to reciprocate his
offered unilateral ceasefire.
Meanwhile, communist leader Jose Maria Sison said in an
interview with cable ANC television they were planning to declare a ceasefire
at 8 p.m. on Saturday.
The CPP founder called President Duterte ‘volatile’ for
revoking the government ceasefire with the communist rebels.
Sison, however, said the resumption of peace talks in Norway
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=908975
AFP ready to carry out Duterte's order on ceasefire lifting
From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 30): AFP ready to carry out Duterte's order on ceasefire lifting
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=908976
With President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on Saturday ordering the
lifting of the unilateral ceasefire against the CPP-NPA-NDF, the AFP said it
remains duty bound to comply with any orders issued by the Chief Executive
regarding this development.
"The AFP will abide by the ensuing orders of the
Commander-in-Chief, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte following this
development," AFP public affairs office chief Col. Edgard Arevalo said.
Duterte declared the unilateral ceasefire against the rebels
during his first State-of-the-Nation Address last July 25 in line with
achieving the government’s goal of final and lasting peace.
But the Chief Executive ordered the lifting of the
unilateral ceasefire that he ordered after the 5 p.m. Saturday ultimatum he
gave lapsed without reciprocation from the rebels.
“Correspondingly, I am ordering the Armed Forces of the
Philippines and the Philippine National Police to also withdraw the operational
guidelines they issued in pursuance to that ceasefire declaration,” Duterte
stressed.
Prior the deadline, the President demanded a concrete
explanation from the rebels regarding its July 27 attack against militia units
in Kapalong, Davao Del Norte which killed one and wounded four others.
"Opportunity missed!
This could have been what the Filipino nation had been waiting for -- the
silencing of the guns that could have hastened development especially in the
countryside," Arevalo stressed.
As this develops, AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto
Padilla said the military was now issuing appropriate orders to all its units
nationwide regarding the lifting of the unilateral ceasefire.
"All our forces remain on high alert and will resume to
discharge their normal functions and constitutional mandated tasks," he
added.
Padilla also said the rebels missed a golden opportunity to
manifest their commitment to the attainment of peace.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=908976
PNP follows ceasefire lifting order
From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 30): PNP follows ceasefire lifting order
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=908977
With the order of President Rodrigo Duterte immediate
lifting of the unilateral ceasefire against communist rebel, PNP Chief Director
General Ronald Dela Rosa on Saturday said the PNP will follow.
"The PNP will follow the instructions of
Commander-in-Chief," Dela Rosa said in a text message sent to PNA.
Duterte ordered the immediate lifting of the unilateral
ceasefire that he declared last July 25 against the communist rebels.
"Correspondingly, I am ordering the Armed Forces of the
Philippines and the Phil National Police to also withdraw the operational
guidelines they issued in pursuance to that ceasefire declaration," the
Chief Executive said.
" I am ordering all security forces to be on high alert
and continue to discharge their normal functions and mandate to neutralize all
threats to national security, protect the citizenry, enforce the laws and
maintain peace in the land," Duterte added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=908977
Military reserves, LGUs to play a key role in HADR
From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 31): Military reserves, LGUs to play a key role in HADR
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=908979
Military reservist units and the local government units will
now have to play a major rule in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief
operations (HADR), AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Ricardo Visaya said Saturday.
"With its sights now on full force operations against
terrorism and illegal drugs, the AFP will have to rely more on its reserve
force for humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations," he
added.
He made this statement during the AFP Reserve Command
(AFPRESCOM) Joint Capability Demonstration held in Diego Silang, Taguig on
Saturday in line the observation of National Disasters Preparedness Month.
And the growing threats of disasters and calamities, there
is a strong need for for reservists and LGUs to step up.
“Our reserve force will play a greater role in the years to
come and it is good to know that the AFP Reserve Command recognizes this and
has sought steps to prepare itself for joint HADR operations,” Visaya said.
During Saturday's event, AFP reserve units, together with
partner agencies, simulated several scenarios caused by a 7.2-magnitutde
earthquake generated by the West Valley Fault.
“The conduct was meant to measure preparedness, readiness,
and interoperability of Reserve units side by side with our partner agencies,”
AFPRESCOM said Brig. Gen. Leoncio A. Cirunay said.
“This way, we can determine how far we’ve come in terms of
capability and what others we need to improve on in saving lives and mitigating
the effects of disasters in the shortest timeframe,” he added.
Scenarios included high casualty multiple vehicle collision,
explosion, collapsed building rescue, high angle rescue, and airlift evacuation
that tested the capabilities of participating responders from crowd control to
high altitude urban maneuvers.
Responders were from the AFP Joint Task Force-National
Capital Region, Office of Civil Defense, Department of Interior and Local
Government, Taguig City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council,
Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection, University of Perpetual
Help
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=908979
All AFP units on high alert after lifting of truce with Reds
From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 31): All AFP units on high alert after lifting of truce with Reds
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=908978
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has placed all of
its units on high alert following the lifting of the government's unilateral
ceasefire with the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's
Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) on Saturday night.
This was stressed by AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto
Padilla in message to the PNA.
"In compliance to the Commander-in-Chief's order, the
AFP is immediately issuing the appropriate guidance to all AFP units all
throughout the archipelago that the operational guidelines earlier issued in
pursuance to the government's ceasefire declaration is hereby lifted. All our
forces remain on high alert and will resume to discharge their normal functions
and constitutional mandated tasks," he added.
President Rodrigo Roa Duterte declared the unilateral
ceasefire against the rebels during his first State-of-the-Nation Address on
Monday in line with achieving the government’s goal of final and lasting peace.
But the Chief Executive ordered the lifting of the
unilateral ceasefire after the 5:00 p.m. Saturday after the ultimatum he gave
lapsed without reciprocation from the rebel groups.
“Correspondingly, I am ordering the Armed Forces of the
Philippines and the Philippine National Police to also withdraw the operational
guidelines they issued in pursuance to that ceasefire declaration,” Duterte
stressed.
Prior the deadline, the President demanded a concrete
explanation from the rebels regarding its July 27 attack against militia units
in Kapalong, Davao Del Norte which killed one and wounded four others.
"The NPA have missed a golden opportunity to manifest
their commitment to the attainment of our citizen's much sought peace
throughout the land," Padilla said.
"This could have been what the Filipino nation had been
waiting for -- the silencing of the guns that could have hastened development
especially in the countryside. As things now stand, the AFP will abide by the
ensuing orders of the Commander-in-Chief President Rodrigo Duterte following
this development," AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Ricardo Visaya said.
"I am ordering all our forces to resume their normal
mandated tasks and work to neutralize all threats to national security, protect
the citizenry, enforce the laws and maintain peace in the land," he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=908978
AFP pulls out elite units in response to ceasefire
From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 31): AFP pulls out elite units in response to ceasefire
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=908960
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) ordered a pullout
of its elite forces from combat operations after the deadline imposed by
President Rodrigo Duterte for the Communist Party of the Philippines-New
People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) to declare its own
ceasefire at 5:00 p.m. on Saturday.
According to AFP Public Affairs Chief Col. Edgard Arevalo
that Lieutenant General Eduardo Año, the Commanding General of the Philippine
Army has completed the pullout of the 2nd Special Forces Battalion from San
Miguel, Surigao del Sur on orders of General Ricardo Visaya, the AFP Chief of
Staff.
Arevalo said that recent movement of Army elite units,
another company of Scout Rangers, and other infantry units in pulling out from
the area of combat operations of the 4th Infantry Division under the Command of
MGen Banjamin Madrigal manifests the AFP's resolve to comply with the directive
of the President to step back from the operational area where there are likely
armed engagement between government security forces and members of the
CPP-NPA-NDF.
He said the recent movements by AFP combat units away from
conflict areas happen even at the wake of a fresh attack by avowed NPA units on
CAFGU units that were also pulling out from forward deployment in Brgy.
Gupitan, Kapalong, Davao
The AFP firmly believes on the primacy of peace as the road
to sustainable development and enduring prosperity for our countrymen, Arevalo
noted.
He added the AFP will not renege on its commitment to the
CIC that it will be a willing instrument of security and stability.
"That it will be glad to set aside ideological
differences, to partner, and to cooperate with any entities or groups in order
to engender peace and development for the people it sworn to protect and defend,"
Arevalo said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=908960
Philippine president withdraws cease-fire with rebels
From UPI (Jul 30): Philippine president withdraws cease-fire with rebels
Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte (center) visited the country's Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. Duterte called lifted a unilateral cease-fire he had issued against communist rebels after they failed to announce their own cease-fire by his deadline of 5 p.m. Saturday. He also ordered the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police to withdraw the operational guidelines from the cease-fire and remain on high alert. Photo courtesy of Anadolu Agency
Newly elected Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte lifted his cease-fire against communist rebels after the two sides were unable to reach an agreement.
Duterte announced the end of the cease-fire on Saturday after the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army failed to declare their own cease-fire by Duterte's deadline of 5 p.m. local time on Saturday.
"Let me now announce that I am hereby ordering the immediate lifting of the unilateral cease-fire that I ordered last July 25 against the communist rebels," Duterte said in a statement.
Duterte declared the cease-fire during his first national address on July 25 in hopes of ending "centuries of mistrust and warfare" between the government and communist rebels.
He then issued an ultimatum, threatening to lift the unilateral cease-fire, following an attack by rebels in Davao del Norte.
"I have dealt with you in good faith. Tell me if you are not ready to deal in the same manner. I am asking you: are you ready to declare a ceasefire or not? It's 5 p.m.," he said. "I will wait for the declaration at 5 p.m. [Saturday]. I better get a word from you or I will lift the [ceasefire] order."
During his declaration on Saturday, Duterte also ordered the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police to withdraw the operational guidelines which were issued in compliance with the cease-fire.
"I am ordering all security forces to be on high alert and continue to discharge their normal functions and mandate to neutralize all threats to national security, protect the citizenry, enforce the laws and maintain peace in the land," he said.
According to CNN Philippines, PNP Chief Ronal Dela Rosa said police would follow Duterte's instructions.
AFP spokesman Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla condemned the communist rebel's New People's Army for rejecting a chance at peace.
"The NPA have missed a golden opportunity to manifest their commitment to the attainment of our citizen's much sought peace throughout the land," he said.
http://www.upi.com/Top_News/World-News/2016/07/30/Philippine-president-withdraws-cease-fire-with-rebels/7291469885024/
Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte (center) visited the country's Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. Duterte called lifted a unilateral cease-fire he had issued against communist rebels after they failed to announce their own cease-fire by his deadline of 5 p.m. Saturday. He also ordered the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police to withdraw the operational guidelines from the cease-fire and remain on high alert. Photo courtesy of Anadolu Agency
Newly elected Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte lifted his cease-fire against communist rebels after the two sides were unable to reach an agreement.
Duterte announced the end of the cease-fire on Saturday after the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army failed to declare their own cease-fire by Duterte's deadline of 5 p.m. local time on Saturday.
Duterte declared the cease-fire during his first national address on July 25 in hopes of ending "centuries of mistrust and warfare" between the government and communist rebels.
He then issued an ultimatum, threatening to lift the unilateral cease-fire, following an attack by rebels in Davao del Norte.
"I have dealt with you in good faith. Tell me if you are not ready to deal in the same manner. I am asking you: are you ready to declare a ceasefire or not? It's 5 p.m.," he said. "I will wait for the declaration at 5 p.m. [Saturday]. I better get a word from you or I will lift the [ceasefire] order."
During his declaration on Saturday, Duterte also ordered the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police to withdraw the operational guidelines which were issued in compliance with the cease-fire.
"I am ordering all security forces to be on high alert and continue to discharge their normal functions and mandate to neutralize all threats to national security, protect the citizenry, enforce the laws and maintain peace in the land," he said.
According to CNN Philippines, PNP Chief Ronal Dela Rosa said police would follow Duterte's instructions.
AFP spokesman Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla condemned the communist rebel's New People's Army for rejecting a chance at peace.
"The NPA have missed a golden opportunity to manifest their commitment to the attainment of our citizen's much sought peace throughout the land," he said.
http://www.upi.com/Top_News/World-News/2016/07/30/Philippine-president-withdraws-cease-fire-with-rebels/7291469885024/
Malaysia extends cooperation in fight against Daesh
From The Sun Daily (Jul 30): Malaysia extends cooperation in fight against Daesh
Defence Minister Hishammuddin Hussein said this when attending a Hari Raya open house at his constituency.
"We need more exchange of information with Asean and other countries.
“We also can learn from their experience in dealing with these terrorists groups," he said.
Hishammuddin added he had voiced out the dangers and threats of Daesh in Sabah two years ago.
"Ten defense ministers from ten Asean member countries had taken the same stand for fighting against Daesh since April last year," he said.
He added that the current approach used by Daesh is very different, citing the truck attack in Nice, France as an example.
"Daesh have a different ideology when compared with previous extremist groups. So, it is difficult to say we have 100% preventive measures and enough assets in fighting them," Hishammuddin said.
The defence minister has identified several approaches to focus on, such as tightening up border security, especially near the Sulu Sea and more army, navy marine teams will be stationed in Sabah.
On top of this, more army, police and other related agencies will carry out joint patrol in strategic areas and deradicalisation programmes for Daesh supporters.
The defence minister will meet his counterparts from Indonesia and Philippine to discuss regional security issues on Sulu Sea next Monday.
http://www.thesundaily.my/news/1918928
Defence Minister and Sembrong MP Hishammuddin Hussein at a Hari Raya open house at Dewan Kejora, Taman Sri Lambak, July 30, 2016. — Sunpix by Low Sock Ken
Malaysia will extend its cooperation with China, United States, France, and Turkey in the fight against terrorist group Daesh.
"We need more exchange of information with Asean and other countries.
“We also can learn from their experience in dealing with these terrorists groups," he said.
Hishammuddin added he had voiced out the dangers and threats of Daesh in Sabah two years ago.
"Ten defense ministers from ten Asean member countries had taken the same stand for fighting against Daesh since April last year," he said.
He added that the current approach used by Daesh is very different, citing the truck attack in Nice, France as an example.
"Daesh have a different ideology when compared with previous extremist groups. So, it is difficult to say we have 100% preventive measures and enough assets in fighting them," Hishammuddin said.
The defence minister has identified several approaches to focus on, such as tightening up border security, especially near the Sulu Sea and more army, navy marine teams will be stationed in Sabah.
On top of this, more army, police and other related agencies will carry out joint patrol in strategic areas and deradicalisation programmes for Daesh supporters.
The defence minister will meet his counterparts from Indonesia and Philippine to discuss regional security issues on Sulu Sea next Monday.
http://www.thesundaily.my/news/1918928
Malaysia to discuss Sulu Sea security issues with neighbours
From The Straits Times (Jul 30): Malaysia to discuss Sulu Sea security issues with neighbours
The defence ministers of Malaysia, Philippines and Indonesia will be meeting in Bali next week to discuss security issues in regards to the Sulu Sea.
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein is scheduled to meet his counterparts from the two countries on Monday and Tuesday to discuss the Sulu Sea Patrol Initiative (SSPI).
The initiative comprises joint air patrols, coordinated naval patrols and exchange of military intelligence between the three countries to fight maritime crime and terrorism in the Sulu Sea.
It aims to emulate the success of the Malacca Strait Sea Patrol (MSSP), which has reduced piracy, robbery, kidnapping and smuggling in the busy waterway since 2004.
The waterway located off the southern Philippines has recently been hit by spate of kidnappings of dozens of Indonesian and Malaysian sailors that have been blamed on the Abu Sayyaf militant group.
"We will discussing the matter in detail to strengthen the cooperation between the three countries in tackling the security issues along the coastline," Mr Hishammuddin said on Saturday.
"They (Philippines and Indonesia) can be our additional eyes and ears as we monitor the coastlines together," he told reporters.
http://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/malaysia-to-discuss-sulu-sea-security-issues-with-neighbours
The defence ministers of Malaysia, Philippines and Indonesia will be meeting in Bali next week to discuss security issues in regards to the Sulu Sea.
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein is scheduled to meet his counterparts from the two countries on Monday and Tuesday to discuss the Sulu Sea Patrol Initiative (SSPI).
The initiative comprises joint air patrols, coordinated naval patrols and exchange of military intelligence between the three countries to fight maritime crime and terrorism in the Sulu Sea.
The waterway located off the southern Philippines has recently been hit by spate of kidnappings of dozens of Indonesian and Malaysian sailors that have been blamed on the Abu Sayyaf militant group.
"They (Philippines and Indonesia) can be our additional eyes and ears as we monitor the coastlines together," he told reporters.
http://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/malaysia-to-discuss-sulu-sea-security-issues-with-neighbours
LOOK: Scout Rangers gain control of Abu Sayyaf position in Basilan
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Jul 30): LOOK: Scout Rangers gain control of Abu Sayyaf position in Basilan
Army Scout Rangers hoist the Philippine flag on Friday after gaining control of one of the defensive positions of Abu Sayyaf in Basilan. The military offensives against the terror group continue. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
Army Scout Rangers hoist the Philippine flag on Friday after gaining control of one of the defensive positions of Abu Sayyaf in Basilan. The military offensives against the terror group continue. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
Scout rangers take over a defensive position of the Abu Sayyaf in Basilan. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
The site had foxholes, which go about 10-feet deep and are bomb-resistant. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
The Army’s elite Scout Rangers made a symbolic hoisting of the Philippine flag on Friday afternoon after it gained full control of one of the defensive positions of the notorious Abu Sayyaf Group in Tipo-Tipo, Basilan.
The flag was raised at Hill 490, one of the staging points of the Abu Sayyaf in trying to shoot down choppers, and attacking military detachments and headquarters.
An insider from the Joint Task Group Basilan, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to the media, narrated that the Scout Rangers trekked the opposite side of the cliff, where the terrorists least expected them, for three days to evade detection.
The Western Mindanao Command said that nine soldiers were wounded from the clashes that started Friday morning.
But the officer claimed 17 Scout Rangers were wounded from the clashes with the Abu Sayyaf. Only 11 soldiers were brought to the hospital, while the rest with minor injuries did not seek further medical treatment.
Four Abu Sayyaf members were killed from the clashes, which the soldier described as a “bunker-to-bunker fight.” The troops were able to recover a .50 caliber machine gun while other rebels fled.
Hill 490, which appears to have been designed for battle, has foxholes around — the fortified shelters with overhead covers made of round logs. Landmines were also all over the place in order for government troops to have a hard time getting in.
The Joint Task Group Basilan — a mix of Army and Marine troops — had been battling the Abu Sayyaf for nearly a month now, in attempts to flush out the IS-inspired group from the province.
In order to prevent the Abu Sayyaf from returning, soldiers from the Army will secure Hill 490, the officer said.
Government forces are currently clearing Hill 490 from the remaining landmines. The Wesmincom said the all-out offensives against the Abu Sayyaf continue in Basilan and Sulu.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/801141/look-scout-rangers-gain-control-of-abu-sayyaf-position-in-basilan
Army Scout Rangers hoist the Philippine flag on Friday after gaining control of one of the defensive positions of Abu Sayyaf in Basilan. The military offensives against the terror group continue. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
Army Scout Rangers hoist the Philippine flag on Friday after gaining control of one of the defensive positions of Abu Sayyaf in Basilan. The military offensives against the terror group continue. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
Scout rangers take over a defensive position of the Abu Sayyaf in Basilan. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
The site had foxholes, which go about 10-feet deep and are bomb-resistant. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
The Army’s elite Scout Rangers made a symbolic hoisting of the Philippine flag on Friday afternoon after it gained full control of one of the defensive positions of the notorious Abu Sayyaf Group in Tipo-Tipo, Basilan.
The flag was raised at Hill 490, one of the staging points of the Abu Sayyaf in trying to shoot down choppers, and attacking military detachments and headquarters.
An insider from the Joint Task Group Basilan, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to the media, narrated that the Scout Rangers trekked the opposite side of the cliff, where the terrorists least expected them, for three days to evade detection.
The Western Mindanao Command said that nine soldiers were wounded from the clashes that started Friday morning.
But the officer claimed 17 Scout Rangers were wounded from the clashes with the Abu Sayyaf. Only 11 soldiers were brought to the hospital, while the rest with minor injuries did not seek further medical treatment.
Four Abu Sayyaf members were killed from the clashes, which the soldier described as a “bunker-to-bunker fight.” The troops were able to recover a .50 caliber machine gun while other rebels fled.
Hill 490, which appears to have been designed for battle, has foxholes around — the fortified shelters with overhead covers made of round logs. Landmines were also all over the place in order for government troops to have a hard time getting in.
The Joint Task Group Basilan — a mix of Army and Marine troops — had been battling the Abu Sayyaf for nearly a month now, in attempts to flush out the IS-inspired group from the province.
In order to prevent the Abu Sayyaf from returning, soldiers from the Army will secure Hill 490, the officer said.
Government forces are currently clearing Hill 490 from the remaining landmines. The Wesmincom said the all-out offensives against the Abu Sayyaf continue in Basilan and Sulu.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/801141/look-scout-rangers-gain-control-of-abu-sayyaf-position-in-basilan
AFP pulls out troops in Surigao del Sur town
From GMA News (Jul 30): AFP pulls out troops in Surigao del Sur town
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), in line with President Rodrigo Duterte's unilateral ceasefire with the insurgents, has pulled out troops in San Miguel, Surigao del Sur, the site of previous skirmishes between government soldiers and communist rebels.
AFP Public Affairs Office chief Colonel Edgard Arevalo said Lieutenant General Eduardo Año, commanding general of the Philippine Army, reported the removal of the 2nd Special Forces Battalion from San Miguel, Surigao del Sur on orders of AFP chief General Ricardo Visaya.
"This recent movement of Army elite units, another company of Scout Rangers, and other infantry units in pulling out from the area of combat operations of the 4th Infantry Division...manifests the AFP's resolve to comply with the directive of the President to step back from the operational area where there are likely armed engagement between government security forces and members of the CPP-NPA-NDF (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front)," Arevalo said in a statement.
In April 2015, two soldiers and a civilian were killed while another seven were injured in an ambush allegedly perpetrated by the NPA in Barangay Mahayag in San Miguel town. This was followed by series of firefights in September last year.
Militant group Kabataan partylist earlier said the ceasefire will only bring peace to people affected by alleged militarization if government troops will pull out of their schools and communities immediately.
Duterte, however, has threatened to lift the ceasefire declaration following the ambush government militiamen in Davao del Norte on July 28, killing one and wounding four others. He also set a deadline for the rebels to declare ceasefire, which lapsed at 5 p.m. Saturday.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/575701/news/regions/afp-pulls-out-troops-in-surigao-del-sur-town
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), in line with President Rodrigo Duterte's unilateral ceasefire with the insurgents, has pulled out troops in San Miguel, Surigao del Sur, the site of previous skirmishes between government soldiers and communist rebels.
AFP Public Affairs Office chief Colonel Edgard Arevalo said Lieutenant General Eduardo Año, commanding general of the Philippine Army, reported the removal of the 2nd Special Forces Battalion from San Miguel, Surigao del Sur on orders of AFP chief General Ricardo Visaya.
"This recent movement of Army elite units, another company of Scout Rangers, and other infantry units in pulling out from the area of combat operations of the 4th Infantry Division...manifests the AFP's resolve to comply with the directive of the President to step back from the operational area where there are likely armed engagement between government security forces and members of the CPP-NPA-NDF (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front)," Arevalo said in a statement.
In April 2015, two soldiers and a civilian were killed while another seven were injured in an ambush allegedly perpetrated by the NPA in Barangay Mahayag in San Miguel town. This was followed by series of firefights in September last year.
Militant group Kabataan partylist earlier said the ceasefire will only bring peace to people affected by alleged militarization if government troops will pull out of their schools and communities immediately.
Duterte, however, has threatened to lift the ceasefire declaration following the ambush government militiamen in Davao del Norte on July 28, killing one and wounding four others. He also set a deadline for the rebels to declare ceasefire, which lapsed at 5 p.m. Saturday.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/575701/news/regions/afp-pulls-out-troops-in-surigao-del-sur-town
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