Marcos burial a major issue in peace talks – Jalandoni

From Rappler (Dec 10): Marcos burial a major issue in peace talks – Jalandoni

Marcos

The National Democratic Front says the hero's burial for dictator Ferdinand Marcos and the release of political prisoners will be the top issues it will discuss with the government panel in January



National Democratic Front senior adviser Luis Jalandonivin an interview at the sidelines of the Left's rally on International Human Rights Day. Photo by LeAnne Jazul/Rappler

Contrary to the insistence of government negotiators, the state-sanctioned hero's burial for dictator Ferdinand Marcos will be a major issue when peace talks between the government and the National Democratic Front resume next year, an NDF panel adviser said.

National Democratic Front senior adviser Luis Jalandoni made the statement in an interview at the sidelines of the Left's rally on International Human Rights Day, Saturday, December 10.

"It affects the peace talks because we have to listen to the sensitivities and demands and the rights of the victims of the Martial Law regime and their families and also the decision of the Filipino people to overthrow the dictator," said the former NDF chief negotiator.

Many members of the Left are victims of human rights abuses during Martial Law.

Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III, the chief government negotiator, had a different take on the implications of the Marcos burial. He had said that it would not affect the overall negotiations as there are other important issues to consider.

Jalandoni agreed with Bello but maintained that the Marcos burial, which was allowed by President Rodrigo Duterte, will still be a major point of discussion next to another contentious issue – the release of the political prisoners.

Duterte had repeatedly said he would not release the political prisoners because they are his leverage in the negotiations. (READ: Left's 1st effigy under Duterte depicts fascist monster)

"The issue of political prisoners and the issue of the Marcos burial will also have to be taken up next month, in January. The first to be taken up would be the release of political prisoners and then also the rights of the victims of the Martial Law regime," said Jalandoni.

Last rally

Protests against the burial of the late dictator at the Libingan ng mga Bayani continued at Saturday afternoon's rally, which was co-organized by the Campaign Against the Return of the Marcoses in Malacañang (Carmma).

Carmma lead convenor Boni Ilagan said this will be the group's last major event this year but there will be more next year. Carmma will take the battle from the streets to the classrooms, Ilagan added. (READ: Diokno: Next anti-Marcos campaign is to educate the youth)

"Titiyakin namin. Makikipagdialogue kami sa DepEd. Titiyakin namin iyong sinabi ni Secretary Briones na pagrereview sa mga aklat ay matutupad. Titiyakin namin ang organisasyong masa, napakarami niyan, ay mag-oorganisa ng kanya-kanyang educational assemblies," he said.

(We will make sure. We will have a dialogue with DepEd. We will make sure that what Secretary Briones said – that they will review textbooks – will be implemented . We will make sure that the the mass organizations, there are a lot of them, will set up their own educational assemblies.)

Ilagan said he did not see the Marcos burial issue dying out anytime soon, especially as it had brought to the fore a dark chapter in Philippine history. He expressed disappointment over Duterte, who started his administration on a very hopeful note but disappointed many by allowing the hero's burial.

 

"Duterte started his term with much hope but early on, his administration trampled on human rights and now, burying the dictator. It's like he mocked the battle and sacrifices of the Martial Law victims," he said in Filipino.

 

Ilagan, together with Bayan Muna, filed a motion for reconsideration on the Supreme Court decision favoring Marcos' state interment.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/155150-lusi-jalandoni-marcos-burial-political-prisoners-major-issues-peace-talks

Indonesia proves it has best shooters among ASEAN armies

From Rappler (Dec 11): Indonesia proves it has best shooters among ASEAN armies

It's a close fight between the Royal Thai Army and the Philippine Army for the 2nd place overall at the ASEAN Armies Rifle Meet 2016



AARM2016. The Philippines is the host of the Asean Armies Rifles Meet 2016

The Indonesian Army retakes the championship title at the ASEAN Armies Rifle Meet 2016, proving it has the best shooters among armies in Southeast Asia.

The Indonesian Army bagged 44 gold, 35 silver, and 30 bronze medals, according to Captain Alberto Caber, public affairs chief of the Philippine Army Training and Doctrine Command. 

 

The Indonesian Army bested the Royal Thai Army, who grabbed the championship title last year. They also won overall team and individual championship titles in the carbine match, pistol ladies match, and machine gun match categories.

 

It was a close fight between the Royal Thai Army and the Philippine Army for the 2nd place overall.

 

 The Filipino shooters bagged more gold medals, but the Thais prevailed because they won a significant number of silver medals.

 

The Royal Thai Army bagged 19 gold, 36 silver, 18 bronze medals. It also won overall team and individual championship titles in the pistol men match category.

 

The Philippine Army ranked 3rd overall with 23 gold, 22 silver and 26 bronze. It won the overall team championship title in the rifle match category. Filipino Staff Sergeant Rodney Rizana was the champion in the individual men's rifle match. 

 

The 10-day event hosted by the Philippine Army was held at Camp O'Donnell in Capas, Tarlac from November 28 to December 7. 

 

Learning from each other

 

 

CLENCHED FIST. Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Lieutenant General Eduardo Año (5th from left) and the chiefs of Armies in the region do the signature clenched fist gesture of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte

 

There were 5 categories: pistol for men, pistol for ladies, carbine, rifle, and machine gun. The overall team and individual champions in the categories are the following:

• Rifle match – Philippines
• Carbine match – Indonesia
• Pistol men match – Thailand
• Pistol ladies match – Indonesia
• Machine gun match –  Indonesia

The marksmanship contest that started in 1991 allows the armies to learn techniques from each other. Philippine Army spokesperson Colonel Benjamin Hao said the shooters were particularly impressed with Indonesians' skills in firing the machine guns. 

 

"In this competition, we saw how armies develop their shooting skills and technology. You see how seriously they play the game without losing unity and friendship among each other," said Hao.

 

"You also see how their guns improve every year. They share new techniques on how to shoot the firearms. You learn a lot in firing the machine guns. The Indonesians were really good in the machine guns," added Hao.

 

Notable improvement

 

The Indonesians have won the most number of overall championship titles – 10 times – since the start of the contest. The Thais have won 8.

 

The Philippine Army only bagged the overall championship title once, in 2005, when the contest was held in Brunei. 

 

But Philippine Army Task Force AARM Commander Brigadier General Herminigildo Francisco Aquino noted the improvement of the Filipino shooters.

 

“We bagged more gold than expected, always at the top 3 competing for the the top spot. Always slugging it out with ASEAN’s heavyweights, Indonesia and Thailand. All contenders having a good time competing nonetheless, with mutual respect and friendship," Aquino said. 

 

The ASEAN Armies Rifle Meet 2017 will be hosted by Singapore.

 

http://www.rappler.com/world/regions/asia-pacific/155167-asean-armies-rifles-meet-philippines

Air Force fighter pilot is new guard of West PH Sea

From Rappler (Dec 11): Air Force fighter pilot is new guard of West PH Sea

The appointment of Lt. Gen. Raul Del Rosario as chief of the Western Command is part of the key reshuffles in the Armed Forces of the Philippines in the past week   



WESCOM. Lieutenant General Raul Del Rosario fill the post vacated by Navy chief Vice Admiral Ronald Joseph Mercado. Wescom photo

The military command responsible for the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea) has a new commander.

Lieutenant General Raul Del Rosario is now the commanding general of the Western Command (Wescom), overseeing entire Palawan province and the Kalayaan Group of Islands (Spratlys). The post was vacated a month ago when Vice Admiral Ronald Joseph Mercado was appointed the new Philippine Navy chief. (READ: Duterte picks West PH Sea commander as new Navy chief)

Del Rosario assumes the post at a time when Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte seeks warmer relations with China, the military superpower that has aggressively claimed almost all of the South China Sea.



CHANGE OF COMMAND. Lieutenant General Raul Del Rosario fills post vacated by Navy chief Vice Admiral Ronald Joseph Mercado (center). Wescom photo

Discovering China's 'mischief'

Del Rosario was pulled out as commanding general of the Central Command (Centcom) – responsible for the Visayas region – after serving only 4 months there. Army Major General Oscaro Lactao was appointed to take his place in Centcom. They are classmates at the Philippine Military Academy Class (PMA) of 1984.

It is a return to the area for Del Rosario, who was the fighter pilot who discovered in 1994 China's invasion of the previously Philippine-controlled Mischief Reef, one of the maritime features in the Kalayaan Group of Islands (Spratlys). An international tribunal recently ruled that the reef, already turned into an artificial island by China, is part of the Philippine exclusive economic zone. (READ: Highlights of ruling: China violated Philippine sovereign rights)

Del Rosario was back then doing his regular patrol over the disputed waters, flying one of the now-retired US-made F-5 fighter jets of the Philippine Air Force.

The Philippine Air Force has only recently re-acquired its fighter jet capability. Four of the 12 FA-50 fighter jets from South Korea have arrived in the Philippines, but have yet to be deployed pending the training of the pilots. (READ: Air Force a joke no more, gets fighter jets)

They are expected to be deployed in the West Philippine Sea, which will put them under Del Rosario's command.

Reshuffle in the military



CENTCOM. Major General Oscar Lactao is the new chief of the military command responsible for the Visayas. Centcom photo

The appointment of Del Rosario and Lactao are two of the key reshuffles the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) made the past week.

The military also has a new chief of staff, Lieutenant General Eduardo Año, and new Army chief, Lieutenant General Glorioso Miranda. They are classmates at the PMA Class of 1983.

Del Rosario also served in the AFP headquarters as Deputy Chief of Staff for Plans and then commander of the 1st Air Division before he was appointed to command Centcom.

Lactao served as AFP Inspector General before his appointment to Centcom. He also previously served as Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations and later commander of the 4th Infantry Division.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/155165-reshuffle-wescom-centcom

Kidnap group frees captive in Iligan City

From GMA News (Dec 9): Kidnap group frees captive in Iligan City 

Kidnappers released early Friday morning the victim they seized in a town in Lanao del Norte on September 12, 2016, local authorities said.

Victim Clarita Belisario was released at about 5:45 a.m. Friday near the Mercy Hospital in Camagui, Iligan City.

She was accompanied by an unidentified Maranao woman during her release.

Authorities said that Belisario's release was facilitated by Atty. Jam Dimaporo of the National Bureau of Investigation-Lanao del Norte, Manai town mayor Casan Maquiling and Linamon town Sagguniang Bayan member Renato Pestolante.

Belisario was seized on her way to the gasoline station that she owns in Linamon town in Lanao.

She is now reunited with her family, who said that she is experiencing trauma and fears the presence of any person other than her kin.

Authorities are still confirming information that P750,000 was paid for Belisario's release.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/591848/news/regions/kidnap-group-frees-captive-in-iligan-city-nbsp

Entry of foreign jihadists in Mindanao being verified – Esperon

From the Philippine Star (Dec 11): Entry of foreign jihadists in Mindanao being verified – Esperon                 



National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. issued the statement in response to the series of intelligence information reaching The STAR, claiming that Indonesian and Malaysian jihadists, along with their Middle East counterparts, have entered Mindanao through the country’s southern backdoor. File photo

The reported presence of foreign jihadists in Mindanao, particularly in Lanao and nearby provinces, is being validated by concerned government agencies, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. said.

Esperon issued the statement in response to the series of intelligence information reaching The STAR, claiming that Indonesian and Malaysian jihadists, along with their Middle East counterparts, have entered Mindanao through the country’s southern backdoor.

“That (information) is still subject for verification,” Esperon told The STAR as he attended a closed-door command conference at the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo on Wednesday.

These foreign jihadists allied with the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) are reportedly occupying the former base of the Jemaah Islamiyah at Mt. Cararao in Butig, Lanao Del Sur.

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Other reports claimed the foreign jihadists have linked-up with IS-inspired Maute terror group who for more than two weeks has been the subject of massive military and police operations.

“The Maute brothers and their followers appear to be protecting their foreign guests,” a senior military official said.

But the presence of these foreign terrorists in Mt. Cararao can only be confirmed if there is already the so-called body count, he said.

Two weeks ago, the Maute group occupied the old municipal building of Butig where they raised the black flag of ISIS, prompting the military to launch an all-out assault against the extremist group.

After days of fighting, government troops eventually drove away the homegrown terror group from their well-entrenched Poblacion Butig, leaving 63 of its fighters dead and scores wounded.

The group withdrew towards a nearby mountain where they are currently being pounded with heavy artillery fire.

On Friday, the extremist group headed by Abdullah Maute clashed with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) forces under Jimmy Balitor at Mt. Cararao complex.

Two MILF fighters were wounded in the fighting, with the Joint Task Force Central through the Army’s 37th Infantry Battalion supporting the MILF group of Balitor.

The Maute group is trying to withdraw towards the Maguindanao side of Mt. Cararao complex to be out of reach of the sustained artillery bombardment.

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2016/12/11/1652361/entry-foreign-jihadists-mindanao-being-verified-esperon

3 soldiers killed, 17 hurt in Sulu clash with Abu Sayyaf

From the Manila Bulletin (Dec 11): 3 soldiers killed, 17 hurt in Sulu clash with Abu Sayyaf

Pursuit operations ongoing for Abu Sayyaf group led by Radullan Sahiron

Three soldiers died while 17 others were wounded in action in a fierce encounter with Abu Sayyaf Group members in Patikul, Sulu on Saturday morning, December 10.

Photo courtesy of Google Maps | Manila Bulletin

 

The identities of the killed soldiers were not disclosed as their families have yet to be notified, while the wounded were transported to hospitals.

“Fifteen were slightly wounded and were brought to Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista Hospital while two others who needed additional medical attention were airlifted to Zamboanga City for further medical attention at the Camp Navarro General Hospital,” said Army Major Filemon Tan Jr., AFP Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) spokesman.

There are no details yet about the number of casualties from the bandits’ side.

Tan said the firefight with about 150 Abu Sayyaf members occurred at around 10:00 a.m. while troops of the Army’s 35th Infantry Battalion under the Joint Task Force Sulu were conducting focused military operations in Bud Taming at Barangay Kabbon Takas.

The armed confrontation lasted for an hour and 45 minutes before the Abu Sayyaf withdrew.

The group, Tan said, were led by top leader Radullan Sahiron and sub-leaders Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan, Yasser Igasan and Mujer Yadah.

The military is now hunting down the terrorists as part of its intense crackdown that began in July.

Tan said since the intensified military operations was launched, a total of 105 bandits have been killed with 14 bandits apprehended.

Saturday’s Sulu encounter occurred three days after three ASG bandits with alleged kidnapping plans were killed in a shootout with security forces in Lahad Datu in Sabah, Malaysia.

http://news.mb.com.ph/2016/12/11/3-soldiers-killed-17-hurt-in-sulu-clash-with-abu-sayyaf/

Sabah Police Probing Claims That Kidnapper Shot Dead Was Abu Sayyaf Leader

From Malaysian Digest (Dec 11): Sabah Police Probing Claims That Kidnapper Shot Dead Was Abu Sayyaf Leader

Police are looking into claims by Philippine authorities that one of the three kidnappers shot dead during a gunfight in waters off Sabah east coast was a key Abu Sayyaf leader.

 

Sabah police commissioner Datuk Abdul Rashid Harun said they received information that the man, identified as Abraham Hamid, was among three killed in the firefight off Semporna on Thursday night.

 

"Once we have confirmed his identity as well as the others, I will announce it," he said.

 

On whether the two other deceased and two others arrested were among those listed in the Eastern Sabah Security Command's (Esscom) wanted persons list, he said the police were also probing the matter.

 

"At this juncture, I cannot confirm it. Let us do our investigation as we are tackling this very carefully."

 

An AFP report tonight quoted Western Mindanao Command spokesman Major Filemon Tan as confirming that Malaysian security forces have killed Abraham, a key member of Abu Sayyaf militant group, in the confrontation that followed three attacks by a group of seven armed men in Lahad Datu and Semporna.

 

Tan was quoted as saying that Abraham was responsible for several kidnappings of foreigners from a tourist resort in the southern Philippines last year as well as the abduction of four Indonesian crewmen in April.

 

Last month, Esscom disclosed a list of wanted individuals believed to be responsible for a series of kidnappings in Sabah’s east coast.

 

This year at least 11 attacks by armed men at sea were reported off Sabah waters, including seven that involved kidnappings.

 

The wanted persons are two Muktadil brothers – Khadafy and Salvador @ Badong, Salip Sosong @ Mohamad Apsa Abdulla, Halipa, Ibrahim, Sabri Madrasul @ Salip Jul, Las Pangit, Apo Mike @ Majan Sahidjuan, Hatib Hajan @ Sawadjaan, Alden Bagde @ Sayning, Alhabsy Misaya, Marajan Asiri, Muaamar Askali @ Abu Rami, Idang Susukan, Raden Abuh, Bocoi, Sangbas, Berong Sairol @ Boy Master, Bensaudi Sairol @ Boy Pangit, Boy Intel, Atai Susukan, Durog Hussein, and Saidul Idul.

 

It was reported that Badong was killed in September this year while trying the escape the military offensive in southern Philippines.

 

His brother Khadafy was arrested by Philippines security forces in November last year and is currently in jail.

 

As for Alden Bagde @ Sayning and Idang Susukan, the two were reported to have been responsible for the kidnapping of Sarawakian Bernard Then, who was beheaded last year.

 

http://malaysiandigest.com/frontpage/29-4-tile/647522-sabah-police-probing-claims-that-kidnapper-shot-dead-was-abu-sayyaf-leader.html

Is The Abu Sayyaf Group Still Operating? Netflix's 'Captive' Takes A Look At The Terrorist Organization

From Bustle (Dec 10): Is The Abu Sayyaf Group Still Operating? Netflix's 'Captive' Takes A Look At The Terrorist Organization



Netflix’s newest docuseries Captive focuses on the business of for-profit kidnapping and hostage situations. Every episode focuses on a different region, a different group, a different hostage situation, and for someone who is fascinated by true crime like myself, it is so, so interesting (and mildly terrifying). One of the stories that caught my eye was the kidnapping of American missionaries Martin and Gracia Burnham by the Abu Sayyaf Group in the Philippines in 2001. Is the Abu Sayyaf Group still operating?

According to the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC), the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) is “the most violent of the Islamic separatist groups operating in the southern Philippines and claims to promote an independent Islamic state in western Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago.” The ASG — whose name means “bearer of the sword” — split from another group, the Moro National Liberation Front, in the early 1990s, and their usual MOs are kidnappings, assassinations, bombings, and extortion. The ASG uses terrorism to promote a jihadist agenda. According to the BBC, ASG operates out of the southern part of the Philippines because of the demographics of the region — most of the country is Roman Catholic, but the south is predominantly Muslim.

Source: STR/AFP/Getty Images

The ASG kidnapped the Burnhams and 18 other people from Palawan, Philippines in May 2001 (the Burnhams were vacationing there for their wedding anniversary, according to her website). The site reports that some of the hostages were killed, but most were set free, until it was just the Burnhams and one other hostage remained with Abu Sayyaf. In June 2002, Martin and the other hostage were killed in a firefight between ASG and the Philippine military, and Gracia was evacuated.

Source: STR/AFP/Getty Images

ASG didn’t stop after this situation, though — the NCTC reports that members of the ASG bombed a ferry in Manila Bay in 2004, killing 116 people, and killed eight and injured 150 in simultaneous bombings throughout the city of Manila in 2005. Unfortunately, the terrorism hasn’t stopped in recent years — Bernard Then, a Malaysian hostage captured by ASG, was beheaded in 2015 after ransom negotiations broke down. According to Al Jazeera, 12 Philippine soldiers were killed in clashes with the ASG in August 2016, and as of that time, “eight Indonesians, eight Filipinos, five Malaysians, a Dutch, and a Norwegian national are still being held by the group.”

Captive explores the harrowing tale of the Burnhams and their capture by the Abu Sayyaf Group, and unfortunately, this group is still in full force, despite the best efforts of the Philippine army. I think that one of the biggest takeaways is that extremist groups have existed long before ISIS came onto the world’s stage, and not just in the Middle East.

https://www.bustle.com/articles/199174-is-the-abu-sayyaf-group-still-operating-netflixs-captive-takes-a-look-at-the-terrorist-organization

1-star general to get Army division

From The Standard (Dec 9): 1-star general to get Army division

BRIG. Gen. Melquiades Feliciano, Armed Forces of the Philippines Deputy Chief of Staff for Civil-Military Operations (J7), is being eyed to get an Army division command based in Mindanao.

Feliciano was also implicated in the abduction in 2007 of still missing activist Jonas Burgos, son of former Malaya publisher and officer-in-charge Ilocos Sur Gov. Jose Burgos.

A reliable source said Feliciano’s marching orders to lead the 4th Infantry Division based in Cagayan de Oro City was already “up for signature” by President Rodrigo Duterte.

Last Wednesday, Lt. Gen. Eduardo Año, also implicated in the Burgos case, was installed chief of staff of the Armed Forces.

The high tribunal eventually cleared Año and other officers. Año dismissed allegations by leftists and Burgos’ mother Editha, that he was involved in the abduction.

If Duterte signed his designation order, Feliciano would be replacing Maj. Gen. Benjamin Madrigal Jr. who was reported to be promoted for a unified area command position.

Both Madrigal and Feliciano are classmates at the Philippine Military Academy “Sandiwa” Class 1985.

Camp Aguinaldo insiders said Madrigal would be taking command of the Western Mindanao Command (Wesmincom) based in Zamboanga City as its current commander, Lt. Gen. Mayoralgo dela Cruz, would be laterally transferred to an equally three-star position based at Camp Aguinaldo, the AFP Inspector General.

Dela Cruz is classmate of Ano, of PMA “Matikas” Class ’83.

The current AFP Inspector General, Maj. Gen. Oscar Lactao (PMA “Maharlika” Class ’84), had earlier been designated commander of Central Command based in Cebu City.

The current commander of Centcom, Maj. Gen. Raul del Rosario, is set to lead the Western Command based in Puerto Princess City.

http://thestandard.com.ph/news/-main-stories/top-stories/223719/1-star-general-to-get-army-division.html

First TC-90 aircraft leased from Japan to arrive by Q1 of 2017 -- PN spokesperson

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 11): First TC-90 aircraft leased from Japan to arrive by Q1 of 2017 -- PN spokesperson

One out of the five TC-90 aircraft, earlier leased from Japan, will be arriving in the Philippines by the first quarter of 2017.

This was disclosed by Philippine Navy (PN) spokesperson Capt. Lued Lincuna who added that the aircraft may arrive either in February or March at the Sangley Point air facility in Cavite.

Last November, two PN pilots and six air crews left for Japan to start training on the above-mentioned aircraft.

The Department of National Defense (DND) earlier announced that the Philippines will be re-equipping the TC-90s as Japan have stripped of some its equipment, including its surveillance systems.

The country will pay Japan USD7,000 each for the first four aircraft yearly and only USD200 for the fifth, or total of USD28,200 as stipulated in its lease agreement.

It is renewable every year. The TC-90s will come from the stocks of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and it also useful for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief and maritime security.

The DND said that they are looking at the possibility of using for 20 years as it will proved very handy for the Philippines while its military is upgrading its equipment.

The TC-90, which is part of the Beechcraft King Air aircraft family, was offered by Japan shortly after the Agreement Concerning the Transfer of Defense Equipment and Technology was finalized last February 29.

The TC-90's patrol range is double those of small Philippine aircraft which only has a maximum range of 300 kilometers.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=947479

Key PA offices get new chiefs

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 11): Key PA offices get new chiefs

The Philippine Army (PA) formally installed new heads at the offices of logistics, plans and programs, and the secretary of the Army general staff in a joint ceremony held at the Luna Hall, PA Officers Club House, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City on Friday.

PA spokesperson Col. Benjamin Hao, in a statement Sunday, said Col. Glenn E. Cruz is now the Army’s Assistant Chief of Staff for Logistics, replacing Col. Pio Q. Diñoso III who now heads the 301st Infantry Brigade based in Western Visayas.

Cruz is the former deputy and executive officer of the Army logistics office prior to his latest appointment.

Meanwhile, Col. Roberto S. Capulong replaced Col. Cornelio H. Valencia as the new Army Assistant Chief of Staff for Plans and Programs.

Valencia moved up to the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ General Headquarters as the new Assistant Deputy Chief of Staff for Plans and Programs.

Capulong, on the other hand, is the former Secretary of the Army General Staff and he was replaced by Lt. Col. Arvin R. Lagamon, who has just graduated with the degree Masters in National Security Administration at the National Defense College of the Philippines.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=947481

Semporna shootout: Police ready for any retaliation

From The Star Online (Dec 10): Semporna shootout: Police ready for any retaliation



The group involved in Thursday night’s robbery and shootout with Malaysian security forces off Semporna are believed to have entered Sabah via international waters.

Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Abdul Rashid Harun said the criminals came from outside Malaysian borders.

“We are still trying to get more information,” he told a press conference here, Saturday.

He said two men and a possible hostage were missing following the gunfights which saw three kidnappers killed.

A policemen was injured and a victim was rescued while two from the group have been arrested following the incident between 9pm and 10pm.

“We are still interrogating the suspects,” he said.

Abdul Rashid said police were working closely with the Philippines on the case.

On possible threats of retaliation by the group, He said he has not received such information.

“Our security forces comprising various agencies including the Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom) are always on the alert and are prepared to face any possibilities,” he said.

In the incident, a brazen kidnapping and robbing spree by seven foreign gunmen ended in a face-off with the police elite outfit Tiger Platoon off Pulau Gaya in Semporna.

The gunmen, who had earlier kidnapped two fishermen in three robberies, were suspected to have headed towards a fishing boat to rob and probably kidnap another victim when they realised that they were up against the General Operations Forces elite squad.

Three of them were killed, two captured and another two missing at sea after their twin-engine 80HP speedboat capsized.

Police rescued a skipper of a trawler who was unhurt but the second trawler crew member was still missing.

A lance corporal from the platoon suffered a bullet injury to his calf.

http://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2016/12/10/police-gunmen-in-semporna-shootout-came-via-international-waters/

Duterte to NPA: End transmission tower bombings

From Sun Star-Manila (Dec 9): Duterte to NPA: End transmission tower bombings

PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte on Friday asked the New People’s Army (NPA) to stop bombing transmission towers.

Duterte made the call at the groundbreaking of the Pulanai 10.6 megawatts (MW) hydroelectric power plant in Valencia, Bukidnon.

“The style of the NPA is that if you can’t give [what they want], they will bomb [power transmission towers]. Listen to me, do not intrude the people’s [transmission towers] – energy, communications, everything. Lay off. Lay off,” the President said.

The NPA, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), have bombed several power transmission towers and cell sites.

Currently, the government is now having talks with the CPP’s political wing, the National Democratic Front, to patch their differences and sign a peace deal that will resolve the longstanding communist insurgency in the country.

In his speech, Duterte also reiterated that he could not release the political prisoners because he had already given “so much too soon,” adding that he would allow the release if the bilateral ceasefire agreement has been signed.

“You (Communist rebels) are demanding the release of 120 political prisoners. I denied it. I declined to do it because I have given so much too soon. So I said to them, produce to me a document, which says that you have agreed to indefinite ceasefire,” the President said.

 

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/manila/local-news/2016/12/09/duterte-npa-end-transmission-tower-bombings-514198

Duterte's defense chief vows to modernize PH Navy

From Rappler (Dec 10): Duterte's defense chief vows to modernize PH Navy

The newly acquired BRP Andres Bonifacio will be deployed to fight terrorism in Sulu, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana says

WARSHIP FROM US. BRP Andres Bonifacio arrives on December 9, 2016. PH Navy photo

 

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana vowed to modernize the Philippine Navy, saying he will continue the efforts of the previous administration.

 

"We are a maritime country. Our maritime territory is bigger than our land mass. It is just right that we embark on a program to upgrade our Navy. That will be my mission as secretary of defense for the next 6 years," Lorenzana said on Friday, December 9, during the arrival ceremony for the navy's latest warship, BRP Andres Bonifacio.

Lorenzana's statement also ends talk that he plans to leave the post as soon as his replacement is found. It comes after a news report said newly-retired Armed Forces chief General Ricardo Visaya could replace him, a scenario that drew attention after President Rodrigo Duterte joked about it in Camp Aguinaldo. (READ: Duterte to retired AFP chief: 'Mamili ka na ng puwesto diyan, sir')

The Duterte administration's drive to modernize the Navy will have a focus different from the previous Aquino administration, which poured money into the Philippine Navy to deter China's "bullying" in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea).

Duterte had expressed fears about the influence of the Islamic State (ISIS) among extremists in the region, particularly about plans to establish a caliphate here.

"Yung mga ISIS diyan ngayon, mga extremists they're fighting it out in Aleppo and Mosul in Syria and Iraq. Once mawalan ng land base 'yan, paatras nang paatras sa dagat, magsibatan na 'yan, and they have this dream of a caliphate, a kingdom that would comprise Indonesia, Philippines, Malaysia and Brunei," Duterte said on Wednesday, December 7. (Those who are part of ISIS now, they're extremists, they're fighting it out in Aleppo and Mosul in Syria and Iraq. Once they lose their land base, they will retreat to the sea, they'll leave, and they have this dream of a caliphate, a kingdom that would comprise Indonesia, Philippines, Malaysia and Brunei.)

Lorenzana said he wants to see BRP Andres Bonifacio deployed to fight kidnapping in Sulu, the playground of the homegrown terror group Abu Sayyaf known for crossing the seas to get hostage victims in nearby countries.

"I intend to see this ship plying the Sulu seas to help in kidnapping," Lorenzana said.

Navy chief Vice Admiral Ronald Joseph Mercardo said BRP Andres Bonifacio will be ready for deployment by the first quarter of 2017. The vessel arrived as a white ship and will need to be painted gray like the other navy ships.

Lorenzana also plans to begin the decommissioning of the Navy's World War 2 ships as the institution acquires newer hardware. (READ: PH to decommission World War 2 ships)

Aside from the Abu Sayyaf, newly-installed Armed Forces chief of staff Lieutenant General Eduardo Año singled out the Maute Group operating in Lanao del Sur and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF). (READ: Rebel hunter Año is new AFP chief)

"Your AFP shall be the relentless force ensuring that the Philippine flag is the only flag waving and flying across our land, air and seas," Año said during the change of command ceremony on Wednesday afternoon, December 7. (READ: New AFP chief: Only PH flag will fly across our land, air, and seas)

http://www.rappler.com/nation/155124-duterte-navy-modernization

MILF: CBCS convenes Bangsamoro Multi-Sectoral Leaders’ Summit

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Dec 9): CBCS convenes Bangsamoro Multi-Sectoral Leaders’ Summit



The Consortium of Bangsamoro Civil Society Organizations (CBCS) convened the Bangsamoro Multi-Sectoral Leaders’ Summit for Unity and Solidarity with120 participants from Western Mindanao, Northern Mindanao, Southern Mindanao, Central Mindanao, and Davao Region at the Royal Mandaya Hotel Davao City on December 5-9, 2016.

Guiamel M. Alim said that there were 10 provincial consultations conducted in Davao City, General Santos City, Cotabato City, Pagadian City, Iligan Ciity, Provinces of Basilan, Tawi-Tawi and Zambaonga City and 4 regional assemblies. “We have conducted those consultations and assemblies prior to this multi-sectoral summit in Davao”, Alim said.

The theme for this event is “Towards Creating a Platform for Consensus-Building among Bangsamoro Stakeholders.

 “We invited the OPAPP, MILF, MNLFs, CSO leaders and academe so that they share updates on the peace processes and what are their prospects on Bangsamoro Basic Law and Federalism”, Alim told Luwaran in an interview.

Alim said that the summit issued a unity and solidarity declaration as one of the highlights of the program. He also disclosed that they will be sending official letter to MILF and MNLF leadership, to the Office of the Philippine President, and a letter of appeal to the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

The participants said in their declaration that, they COLLECTIVELY COMMIT TO:

1. Relentlessly pursue the call for unity and solidarity among our leaders;
2. Reach out to the different stakeholders and communities to build constituencies to support the peace process;
3. Engage in sustained intra-Moro dialogue and consultations with the various stakeholders in the Bangsamoro; 
4. Support the Bangsamoro Fronts in coordinating their efforts towards a draft law that will create/ strengthen self-governance of the Bangsamoro as part of our exercise of the right of self-determination; and 
5. Directly engage the government, the Moro Fronts, the Philippine Congress, and local government units to appeal for their support to lead the peace process to a successful end.

Other concerns presented and agreed upon during the summit Mindanao is the creation of the BM-PUSH or Bangsamoro Platform for Unity, Solidarity, and Harmony towards consensus building that serves as mediators-insiders  in the peace processes.

http://www.luwaran.net/home/index.php/news/22-davao-region/952-cbcs-convenes-bangsamoro-multi-sectoral-leaders-summit

FA-50PHs to patrol WPS, soon using ground attack capabilities – New AFP Chief

From Update.Ph (Dec 9): FA-50PHs to patrol WPS, soon using ground attack capabilities – New AFP Chief

The country’s newly-acquired FA-50PHs “Fighting Eagle” jet fighters will be used to patrol the West Philippine Sea (WPS). Newly-appointed Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Lt. Gen. Eduardo Año on Thursday said.

“[The FA-50PHs] will be used to patrol the West Philippine Sea and later on, the aircraft can help ground troops in their operations in priority area,” newly-installed Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Lt. Gen. Eduardo Año on Thursday said.

Año was referring to the ground attack capabilities of the Mach 1.5 capable jet aircraft which is useful when conducting pursuit operations against lawless groups and bandits.

There are currently four FA-50PHs in the Philippine Air Force’s inventory. Another eight units are scheduled to be delivered by 2017 and 2018.

The Philippines acquired 12 units of the Korean Aerospace Industries-made FA-50PHs for PHP18.9 billion.

These aircraft are the interim replacements for the Northrop F-5 “Tiger” jet fighters retired in 2005 due to airframe aging and lack of spare parts.

http://www.update.ph/2016/12/fa-50phs-to-patrol-wps-soon-using-ground-attack-capabilities-new-afp-chief/11987

Miranda is acting Army chief

From Rappler (Dec 9): Miranda is acting Army chief

(UPDATED) Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana suggests that Lieutenant General Glorioso Miranda could still be replaced and he will go back to his post as AFP vice chief of staff



ACTING ARMY CHIEF. Lieutenant General Glorioso Miranda, who retires in less than a year, is acting army chief

Lieutenant General Glorioso Miranda was named acting chief of the 85,000-strong Philippine Army, replacing Lieutenant General Eduardo Año who was recently appointed chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. (READ: Rebel hunter Año is new AFP chief)

Miranda vowed to continue the programs of Año, his mistah at the Philippine Military Academy Matikas Class of 1983.

But Miranda's appointment raises questions among military observers and some Army officers who spoke to Rappler.

He has less than one year left in the service before he reaches the retirement age of 56 in October 2017.

But the law requires that appointees to the major services – army, navy, and air force – should have at least one year left in the service.

Section IV of Republic Act No. 8186 states: “except for the Chief of Staff of the AFP, no officer shall be assigned/designated to the aforementioned key positions or promoted to the rank of Brigadier General/Commodore or higher if he has less than one (1) year of active service remaining prior to compulsory retirement.”

Temporary post?

The plans for Mirada are not clear. Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana told reporters after the ceremony that Miranda might not be relieved as AFP vice chief of staff because he might have to return to the post.



It suggests that President Rodrigo Duterte has not chosen who he'd want to command the Army and Miranda is only holding the post temporarily. But Lorenzana was laughing when Rappler pressed him for answers.

Asked who will replace Miranda as AFP vice chief of staff, Lorenzana replied: "Huwag muna kasi hindi pa namin i-relieve siya e (Let's not talk about it yet because we will not relieve him from that post yet)."

Why did they opt to appoint an acting chief of the Army? "Acting siya kasi nga hindi pa makapag... baka mapalitan siya e di babalik siya sa vice chief (He's only serving in acting capacity because .... he might be replaced so he will go back to his post as vice chief of staff)," Lorenzana said.

When pressed to say when Miranda will go back to his post as AFP vice chief, Lorenzana replied: "Hindi naman. Kung lang... (Well, no. It' s not sure yet)," said Lorenzana.

The Army could also be served by an Officer in Charge (OIC) while Duterte decides who to appoint to the post. An OIC, however, will not have the power to decide, for example, how to move the troops and how to spend its finances.

As "Acting chief," Miranda will have all the vast powers of position.

MISTAHS. AFP chief Lieutenant General Eduardo Año and Army chief Lieutenant General Glorioso Miranda are classmates at the PMA Matikas Class of 1983

 

Miranda also served as acting AFP chief when General Hernando Iriberri retired in April 2016 at the tail-end of the term of President Benigno Aquino III.

The arrangement allowed President Rodrigo Duterte to appoint his own his own AFP chief when he assumed office.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/154999-acting-army-chief-glorioso-miranda

Duterte to NPA: Don't attack energy, communication facilities

From Rappler (Dec 9): Duterte to NPA: Don't attack energy, communication facilities

'Ang style kasi ng NPA, pag hindi niyo naibigay, sunugin. Hoy. Makinig kayo ha. Huwag ninyong pakialaman ‘yung sa tao,' says the President



MESSAGE TO REBELS. President Duterte wants NPA rebels not to damage energy and communication facilities if companies refuse to pay revolutionary tax. Photo from PPD

At an inauguration of a new power plant, President Rodrigo Duterte asked New People's Army rebels not to damage energy and communication facilities.

"Ang style kasi ng NPA, pag hindi niyo naibigay, sunugin. Hoy. Makinig kayo ha. Huwag ninyong pakialaman ‘yung sa tao," said Duterte on Friday, December 9, in Valencia City, Bukidnon. (The style of the NPA is, if you don't pay revolutionary tax, they burn property. You listen. Don't interfere with what's for the people.)

 

He was there to lead the groundbreaking of the 10.6-megawatt Pulanai hydroelectric powerplant. "Energy, communications, everything, lay off, lay off," he added.

 

The Philippine military and NPA are currently upholding unilateral ceasefires as the government and the communist-led National Democratic Front pursue peace talks.

 

Duterte repeated his call for both sides to sign a deal establishing an indefinite bilateral ceasefire. This is the condition he laid down for the release of over 100 political detainees.

 

"You’re asking or demanding the release of 120 political prisoners. I denied it. I declined to do it because I have given so much too soon. Sabi ko sa kanila (I told them), produce to me a document which is that you have agreed to an indefinite ceasefire," said Duterte.

 

He asked the communists not to put time restrictions in the ceasefire deal because he expects the peace talks to take a while. "Do not put the term there, huwag kang magbigay ng (don't put a) timeline because this will be a long and winding road sa negotiation."

 

The NDF has demanded the release of 432 political prisoners by January.

 

The government hopes to sign a bilateral ceasefire deal on Saturday, December 10.

 

http://www.rappler.com/nation/155074-duterte-npa-energy-communicaton-facilities

Left's 1st effigy under Duterte depicts ‘full fascist monster’

From Rappler (Dec 10): Left's 1st effigy under Duterte depicts ‘full fascist monster’

The effigy depicts the 'resurrection and rehabilitation of the Marcoses' and concerns over the rise in extrajudicial killings, Karapatan says



HUMAN RIGHTS DAY. On December 10, 2016, a child looks at a pile of 'dead bodies' that forms part of an effigy depicting the culture of impunity in the Philippines and the authoritarian tendencies of President Rodrigo Duterte. Photo by Voltaire Tupaz/Rappler

For the first time since President Rodrigo Duterte assumed power, militant groups will feature, and burn, a monstrous effigy said to embody the "authoritarian tendencies" of the new leader.

The effigy, which illustrates the thorny issues that increasingly test the endurance of the alliance between the Duterte administration and the Left, will be the centerpiece of the groups' parade marking International Human Rights Day on Saturday, December 10.

 

Measuring 12 feet high and 30 feet long, the effigy bears elements that symbolize, among others, the growing human rights concerns of local advocates and the international community, spurred by the rising number of deaths in the government's war on drugs.

"The effigy depicts the political rehabilitation of the Marcoses and continuing state fascism, including extrajudicial killings, the non-release of political prisoners, and continuing military operations,” militant rights group Karapatan said.

 

The effigy features the head of dictator Ferdinand Marcos attached to a skeleton to symbolize the “resurrection and rehabilitation of the Marcoses” under the Duterte administration, according to artist Luigi Almuena, spokesperson of UgatLahi, which created the centerpiece of Saturday’s protest.

 

This is in reference to the dictator's burial at the Libingan ng mga Bayani which Duterte had allowed in fulfillment of a campaign promise to the Marcoses.

 

One of the figure’s hands is ironclad, dripping with blood. Below it are piled-up bodies symbolizing impunity and the spate of alleged extrajudicial killings linked to Duterte’s drug war.

The corpses also represens continued military operations despite an indefinite ceasefire declaration from the government to boost peace talks with the National Democratic Front (NDF).

 

"Despite a unilateral ceasefire declaration from the Duterte government, there has been no let-up in combat operations in rural communities,” Palabay said.

 

.

 

'Kalansay na nga, binuhay pa’

 

The use of the late strongman’s head in the effigy highlights the issue that has recently mobilized thousands of young people and various groups – Duterte’s ties with the Marcoses that paved the way for the burial of the late strongman in the Libingan ng mga Bayani.

 

“Kalansay na nga, binuhay pa (He resurrected the dead),” a young activist said as she stared at the effigy.

 

She is appalled that a hero’s burial was given to Marcos while Martial Law victims are still crying for justice.

 

Based on estimates of Amnesty International (AI), 70,000 people were imprisoned, 34,000 were tortured, and 3,240 were killed during Martial Law.

The Marcoses had been accused of amassing ill-gotten wealth with various estimates pegging the loot between $5 billion to $10 billion. (READ: Recovering Marcos’ ill-gotten wealth: After 30 years, what?)

 

Imprint of martial law

 

Karapatan also called on Duterte to release about 400 political prisoners from the administration of Marcos to the present.

"Political prisoners, a vivid imprint of Martial Law, exist to this day despite commitments and agreements in the (government and NDF) peace process,” Palabay said.

 

Relatives of political prisoners reminded Duterte that their call is long overdue.

 

“Matagal ko nang ninanais ang paglaya ng aking asawa. Alalang-alala ako sa kalagayan niya kasi may karamdaman siya,” Gloria Almonte said.

 

Almonte’s 59-year-old husband, Dionisio, who is detained at Camp Bagong Diwa, suffers from hypertensive cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

 

Almonte participated in the 7-day “solidarity fasting” with other relatives and supporters of political prisoners that dramatized their call to free political prisoners on humanitarian grounds.

 

The President had said that he would not release political prisoners as they were the government's leverage in the peace negotiations.

 

‘Full fascist monster’

 

Karapatan urged Duterte to listen to the growing clamor to stop impunity in the Philippines allegedly caused by his so-called "war on drugs.”

 

“People will eventually brand him as a full fascist monster. Time is ticking for him to act on these human rights issues,” Palabay said, warning that protest actions will intensify if the President would refuse to address human rights violations.

 

Between July 1 and December 3, there have been over 5,800 deaths linked to the "war on drugs" – both from legitimate police operations and vigilante-style or unexplained killings (including deaths under investigation). (READ: IN NUMBERS: The Philippines' war on drugs)

The Philippine National Police (PNP) calls its campaigns against illegal drugs Oplan Double Barrel and Oplan TokHang. (READ: Warning to drug dealers: PNP has 'double barrel' plan)

After holding hearings on extrajudicial killings under the Duterte administration, the Senate committee on justice and human rights recently concluded that Oplan TokHang violates the people's constitutional rights. However, it noted that neither Duterte nor the state is sponsoring the killings. (READ: Draft Senate report on killings: Oplan TokHang unconstitutional)

Karapatan also blasted Duterte for appointing Lieutenant General Eduardo Año as the new Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff.

A veteran intelligence officer, Año scored some of the biggest arrests of communist leaders including Communist Party of the Philippines leaders Benito and Wilma Tiamzon, now temporarily freed from detention as NDF consultants in the peace negotiations.

 

"Año is expected to adhere to the same counter-insurgency framework that results in more human rights violations,” Palabay said referring to Oplan Bayanihan.

 

About 10,000 protesters are expected to converge at Liwasang Bonifacio where they will hold a program late Saturday afternoon. After the program, they will march to the historic Mendiola bridge near Malacañang where they will torch the effigy.

 

In July, militant groups broke tradition when they shunned the usual effigy of the sitting president and featured a peace-oriented mural as the centerpiece of their State of the Nation Address rally – a reflection of their alliance with the Duterte administration.

 

http://www.rappler.com/move-ph/155140-left-burn-effigy-duterte-authoritarian-tendencies

3 suspected ASG members killed in kidnap attempt off Sabah

From Rappler (Dec 10): 3 suspected ASG members killed in kidnap attempt off Sabah

(UPDATED) Little did the abductors know that the 'fishermen' they wanted to kidnap were Malaysian maritime policemen



Three suspected members of the terrorist Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) were killed after reportedly trying to kidnap "fishermen" who turned out to be undercover Malaysian maritime policemen.

Major Filemon Tan, spokesman of the Western Mindanao Command of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), confirmed that 3 ASG members were killed, two were apprehended, while two others were missing after the incident.

 

This happened off Sabah and Borneo, between Lahad Datu and Semporna, past 9 pm on Thursday, December 8.

 

In a statement, the AFP identified one of the casualties as Abraham Hamid, known as an ASG spotter, also reportedly the leader of ASG members involved in the kidnapping of Robert Hall, John Ridsdel, Kjartan Sekkingstad, and Maritess Flor in a Samal City resort in September 2015.

 

Hamid was also allegedly involved in the kidnapping of 4 Indonesian crew members.

 

The two other casualties were suspected ASG members Samsung Aljan and Awal Hajal.

 

The AFP said ASG members "were prevented by security forces in Sabah from executing their kidnapping plans by engaging them in a surprise shootout."

 

Covert anti-kidnapping ops

 

Based on initial information reaching the military, 6 fully armed men on a speedboat boarded a Malaysian fishing boat and attempted to abduct its crew members.

 

Little did the abductors know that the people they wanted to kidnap were Malaysian maritime policemen disguised as fishermen.

 

It was apparently a covert anti-kidnapping operation. Malaysian maritime policemen ended up killing 3 suspected ASG members, the initial report reaching the military said.

 

Philippine military and police officials have been validating this initial report with their Malaysian counterparts as of posting time.

 

There was no information whether Malaysians were injured or killed in the firefight that ensued.

 

The AFP said Hamid's death "is a big blow to the ASG as it neutralized one of the notorious bandit leaders and will degrade their capability for spotting and kidnapping victims in the future."–

http://www.rappler.com/nation/155125-abu-sayyaf-kidnap-malaysian-policemen-sabah

3 soldiers killed in clash with Abu Sayyaf

From Rappler (Dec 10): 3 soldiers killed in clash with Abu Sayyaf

The group that clashed with the military is believed to be led by Abu Sayyaf senior leader Radullan Sahiron



Three soldiers were killed and 10 others wounded in a clash with the Abu Sayyaf Group in Patikul, Sulu, Saturday morning, December 10, according to sources in the security sector.

The 35th Infantry Battalion led by Lieutenant Colonel Vlademir Villanueva was conducting focused military operations in the area of Bud Taming in Barangay Kabbon Takkas when they encountered a group of over a hundred members of the Abu Sayyaf at around 10 am on Saturday.

The group that clashed with the 35th IB is believed to be led by Abu Sayyaf senior leader Radullan Sahiron and sub-leaders Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan, Yasser Igasan, and Mujer Yadah.

They exchanged gunfire for nearly two hours before the Abu Sayyaf withdrew with an undetermined number of casualties, according to the sources.

Rappler is withholding the names of troops killed in the encounter pending notice to their families.
Two Huey choppers immediately airlifted government casualties where they could be given medical attention.

The firefight with Sahiron's group means the military had gotten close to the Abu Sayyaf leaders, subjects of the troops' months-long manhunt.

The military intensifed operations against the Abu Sayyaf as President Rodrigo Duterte expressed fears about the influence of the Islamic State (ISIS) among extremists in the region, particularly about plans to establish a caliphate in Southeast Asia, including the Philippines.

The Abu Sayyaf is one of the country's homegrown terrorist groups that pledged allegiance to ISIS. (READ: 4 PH terror groups link up with pro-ISIS figthers in region)

The peace process with the communist National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDF) allowed the military to move troops to Sulu to address the Abu Sayyaf threat.

Attacks in other parts of Mindanao, including the bombing of the night market in Davao City and the Maute Group's occupation of the Butig Municipal Hall, are believed to be tactics to divert military attention from the Abu Sayyaf.

The Maute Group, which previously raised the ISIS black flag in Butig, is also inspired by the foreign terrorist group.

Malaysia has been helping the Philippines in the fight against theAbu Sayyaf, too. On Thursday, December 8, 3 Abu Sayyaf leaders were killed in Sabah when they tried to kidnap fishermen who turned out to be undercover Malaysian maritime cops.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/155144-soldiers-killed-abu-sayyaf-clash-sahiron