17 patay sa sagupaan ng mga MILF commanders

From the Mindanao Examiner (Dec 27): 17 patay sa sagupaan ng mga MILF commanders

Patay umano ang mahigit sa isang dosenang katao matapos na magsagupaan ang dalawang lider ng rebeldeng Moro Islamic Liberation Front sa bayan ng Banisilan sa lalawigan ng North Cotabato.

Sinabi ng pulisya, rido o clan war ang pinagmulan ng kaguluhan na nagsimula pa nitong December 23 sa pagitan nina Commander Ali at Bobby Rajamuda, at Kinig kontra sa grupo nina Commander Tanda at Paron. Ayon sa pulisya, umabot na ang sagupaan sa Sitio Kabugan sa Barangay Guiling sa bayan ng Alamada na kung saan ay umanib na ang grupo ni Commander Palaw at Tahir kina Tanda at Paron.

Ang mga apektadong lugar ng labanan sa Banisilan ay ang Sitio Kinamuran sa Barangay Pantar, Sitio Mapantaw, Hillside, Kulawan at Kibanog sa Barangay Malagap; Sitio Bang-bang sa Barangay Tinimbacan at Sitio Balindong sa Barangay Poblacion 1. Nabatid na 26 na pamilya ang lumikas mula sa Sitio Matampay sa Poblacion 1 habang 142 pamilya naman sa Barangay Malagap na may halos 700 katao.

Base sa salaysay ng mga nagsilikas ay abot na sa 7 ang nasawi sa panig ni Rajamuda at Kinig habang 10 naman kay Tanda at Paron at marami rin ang sugatan sa magkabilang panig. Sa ngayon mahigpit na mobile checkpoint ang isinagawa ng pulisya sa Banisilan, partikular sa mga apektadong barangay.

Tikom naman ang bibig ng liderato ng MILF sa kaguluhan.

http://mindanaoexaminer.com/17-patay-sa-sagupaan-ng-mga-milf-commanders/

120 NPA rebels return to the side of the law

From the Manila Bulletin (Dec 27): 120 NPA rebels return to the side of the law

PATIN-AY, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur — One-hundred twenty members of the New People’s Army (NPA) surrendered to the authorities in the Caraga region from January to Dec. 15, 2016, field unit Army commanders disclosed yesterday.

In a statement, Col. Cristobal N. Zaragoza, commanding officer of the Army’s 401st Infantry Brigade and Lt. Col. Rommel Pagayon, commanding officer of the Army’s 26th Infantry Battalion (26th IB) underscored that the rebel returnees used to live in fear while they were far away from their families.

Their lives were burdened by the hardships of evading the law and fighting against the government, he said.

“But things have changed when they laid down their arms and were welcomed back to the folds of the government,” Col. Pagayon said.

The 26th IB commander emphasized that with the efforts of the Philippine Army to neutralize the left-leaning groups, several NPA rebels already surrendered and returned to the mainstream society.

On July 31, Yoyoy Bat-aw and Rey Pasado Carlos alias “Rex,” both regular fighters from Guerrilla Front Committee 34 of the CPP-NPA Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NMRC), came down from the mountains of Loreto, Agusan del Sur and surrendered with their M1 Garand rifle and KG9, Col. Pagayon said.

On Nov. 10, Wengweng Gumansel of Guerrilla Front Committee 89 and Erwin Mansumangkay alias “RR” of Guerilla Front Committee 88 of NMRC also gave up their arms and hoped to live a better and safer life. They brought along with them three high-powered firearms (1 AR18 rifle, 1 carbine and 1 Garand rifle) to attest their sincerity in surrendering to the government that they once challenged, he said.

“We used to run for our lives where we were told of the presence of the army in our community for we were afraid to die. We walked the mountain trails even at the middle of the night or under the intense heat of the day with little food just to evade them,” Col. Pagayon quoted Gumansel as telling him when the rebel returnee tearfully recalled his past experiences in the revolutionary movement.

In August 2016, Jason Istar Behing, 28, and Jeffry Azarcon Maca, 28, both members of SPP21C, Guerilla Front Committee 21 (GFC21), NEMRC, voluntarily surrendered with two M16 rifle with bandolier and three magazines to 29th IB in Barangay Del Pilar, Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte, Col. Zaragoza also said.

In Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur, another regular fighter of the NPA who surrendered to the 3rd Special Forces Battalion was presented to Agusan del Sur Governor Adolph Edward G. Plaza on Nov. 9. The rebel returnee also surrendered his M16 rifle to the government.

http://news.mb.com.ph/2016/12/27/120-npa-rebels-return-to-the-side-of-the-law/

54th IB commander calls for support

From Baguio Midland Courier (Dec 25): 54th IB commander calls for support

KIANGAN, Ifugao – A military officer enjoined every “Immipuggo” (Ifugao) to support the Philippine Army in the fulfillment of its mandate.

“As we do our best to fulfill these endeavors, we recognize and accept the reality that we, the members of the 54th IB, cannot achieve our mission and objectives alone. We need the support of other agencies, the cooperation of the private sector and each and every one in the community,” said Lt. Col. Nicolas Quemado, Jr., 54th Infantry Battalion (Magilas) commanding officer based in the province, during the unit’s 31st anniversary, recently.

“Let’s put our efforts together to bring light to those who are still blinded by the promise of prosperity by people who do not believe in democracy for a lasting peace in our land,” Quemado said.

He said every Magilas trooper has expressed his or her commitment to continue serving the people and securing the land for the benefit of every Filipino.

Quemado added that when he assumed command of the unit, he prioritized the morale and welfare of personnel. “I believe that human resources are the most important component of an organization. A unit composed of people with high morale is a unit that could maximize the potentials of the personnel to become prolific,” he said.

More than 100 stakeholders and soldiers were commended for their contribution to the success of the 54th IB’s programs and services.

http://baguiomidlandcourier.com.ph/ifugao.asp?mode=%20archives/2016/december/12-25-2016/ifug1.txt

Kuwait jails Pinay for joining jihadists

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Dec 28): Kuwait jails Pinay for joining jihadists

A Kuwaiti court on Monday sentenced a Filipino woman to 10 years in jail after convicting her of joining the Islamic State jihadist group and plotting terror attacks.

The ruling, which is not final, also calls for the deportation of the 32-year-old woman after serving her jail term.

The woman was arrested in August, two months after arriving in the oil-rich Gulf state to work as a domestic helper.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), however,  is still verifying the reported conviction of the  Filipino woman.

According to DFA spokesperson Charles Jose,  the DFA was still in the process of confirming the conviction of the Filipino domestic helper.

But Jose assured that the arrested Filipino woman would be given assistance by the embassy.

“Our embassy is prepared to extend legal and consular assistance to the OFW to make sure that she gets due process and her rights are not violated,” he said, referring to the Philippine embassy in Kuwait.

At the time of her arrest, the Kuwait interior ministry said she had confessed to being a member of the Islamic State group and was plotting terrorist attacks in the emirate.

The woman told interrogators that her husband was an active fighter with IS in Libya and he had asked her to come to Kuwait from the Philippines as a domestic helper, according to the ministry.

The Maute group, an IS-affiliated group in the Philippines, has conducted a string of bombings in Mindanao. The Abu Sayyaf which also supports IS is involved in kidnappings for ransom of foreign tourists and Christian missionaries in southern Philippines.

https://globalnation.inquirer.net/151099/kuwait-jails-pinay-joining-jihadists

PAF C-130s conducts mercy missions for 'Nina'-battered Catanduanes

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 28): PAF C-130s conducts mercy missions for 'Nina'-battered Catanduanes

The Philippine Air Force(PAF) Lockheed C-130 "Hercules" cargo aircraft and their crews are now hard at work ferrying relief supplies and other desperately needed materials in "Nina" devastated Catanduanes.

Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said the C-130s started with their relief missions as early as Monday.

He added that another relief mission was flown Tuesday and additional flights will be scheduled if needed.

"We already have started (our mercy missions Monday). This is the second day (Tuesday) they have been at work," Padilla.

In Monday's mission, a total of 1,485 family food packs (FFPs) were flown to Virac while another 3,000 FFPs were transported Tuesday, as reported by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.

The Air Force currently has five C-130 cargo aircraft at its inventory.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=951264

The Fate Of 5 M'sians Kidnapped By Abu Sayyaf Still Unknown, Family Pleads For Their Freedom

From the Malaysian Digest (Dec 27): The Fate Of 5 M'sians Kidnapped By Abu Sayyaf Still Unknown, Family Pleads For Their Freedom

TAWAU: The family of five Malaysian crewmen who have been held captive by the Abu Sayyaf terror group since last July express their hopes that all victims will be released and return home to their families by New Year’s Eve.

 

The family members of the crewmen hope that their release will end the constant nightmare of worrying over the fate of the hostages who are believed to be kept at a remote location in the southern Philippines.

 

One of the hostages’ family members, Gustiah Sultan, 46, wife to kidnapped crewman Tayudin Anjut, 45, hopes that all the hostages will be released by New Year’s Eve.

 

“We have never given up praying that the New Year that is just a few days away will open up a new page in our lives – I plead for the release of my husband and four other hostages in safe condition because their children and family longs for them.

 

“Throughout the course of my husband being held hostage, we have endured many challenging days as the constant worry over their fate is foremost on our minds” she told Berita Harian.

 

Since last September, Gustiah said that the family members of the hostages have organized charity donation drives to raise the ransom for the crewmen, however, the amount of money collected is still not enough to secure their release.

 

On 18 July, five of the crew members of the tugboat Serudong 3 were kidnapped at Dent Heaven in Lahad Datu waters as the crewmen were enroute to Semporna after sending sandbags to Sandakan.

 

The tugboat that was found stuck in between sandbars with the engine still running without an operator; whilst the cargo was ransacked before the crew were confirmed to be kidnapped and taken to the southern Philippines region.

 

http://malaysiandigest.com/news/650057-the-fate-of-5-m-sians-kidnapped-by-abu-sayyaf-still-unknown-family-pleads-for-their-freedom.html

Hostage crisis finally ends with release of last two Indonesians

From Antara (Dec 27): Hostage crisis finally ends with release of last two Indonesians



Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi (center) with four Indonesian crew, Samsir (left), Dede Irfan (second left), M. Arianto Misnan (second right) and Loren Marinus Petrus Romanic (right), who had been held hostage armed groups in the Philippines, during the handover at Gedung Pancasila, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Jakarta, Friday (May 13, 2016). (ANTARA/Puspa Perwitasari/P003)

The year 2016 was tainted by five hostage-taking incidents, occurring between March and July, with a total of 24 Indonesians being kidnapped for ransom by the Abu Sayyaf terrorist group hiding in the Philippine forests.

The first incident occurred on March 26, when 10 Indonesian ship crew members were abducted in waters near the Philippines.

They were released in May as a result of effective cooperation between the Philippine and Indonesian governments, according to President Joko Widodo (Jokowi).

Flanked by Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi and Commander of the Indonesian Defense Forces (TNI) General Gatot Nurmantyo, the head of state revealed that both formal and informal approaches had been deployed to secure the release of the abducted Indonesians.

The latest incident occurred on July 9, when three Indonesians were abducted from a Malaysian-flagged trawler, LLD113/5/F, in the Felda Sahabat waters, Tungku, Lahad Datu, Sabah State, Malaysia.

Most of the captives from all incidents were gradually released unharmed in September and October, except for two persons identified as Mohammad Nazer, 62, and Robin Peter, 32, taken hostage with five other crew members of the tugboat Charles on June 22, off the waters of Sulu.

These last two hostages were released on December 12, according to a statement from Foreign Minister Retno, delivered through the Director of the Protection of Indonesian Citizens and Legal Entities of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Lalu Muhammad Iqbal, ending the hostage crisis that had attracted the attention of the Indonesian government and the public.

Retno, in her statement from New Delhi, India, confirmed that the liberation was the result of total diplomacy involving various elements of the government over the past six months.

"These two are the last remaining hostages from the group of seven crewmen of T/B Charles 00, who were abducted last June 22 off Simisa Island in Sulu," the statement read.

The freed hostages were flown to nearby Zamboanga City and will be handed over to the Indonesian ambassador to the Philippines, Johny Lumintang, by the West Mindanao military.

According to reports, the militants handed the two over to the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF). Later, the MNLF, a former Muslim separatist rebel group on the strife-torn island of Jolo, delivered the hostages to a local official.

"Indonesian (hostages) Mohammad Nazer and Robin Peter were released by their (Abu Sayyaf) captors to MNLF Commander Tahir Sali... after being pressured by non-stop operations (by the military joint task force) in Sulu and with pressure from the MNLF," the military statement noted.

The Abu Sayyaf group are still holding some 18 foreigners and five locals captive. Most of them were abducted from vessels off the coast of the southern Philippines.

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has ordered the military to crush the Abu Sayyaf militants.

The militant group is fairly small, with only 400 members, but it is known for kidnapping people and demanding millions of dollars in ransom. Witnesses have seen them beheading their hostages when they fail to receive a ransom on time. However, in this case, the terms of release for the last two Indonesians had not been disclosed.

With hostage-taking incidents occurring repeatedly along the maritime borders shared by Indonesia, the Philippines, and Malaysia, the Indonesian government has called for trilateral joint patrols to prevent and pre-empt such misadventures.

The three countries have also held several trilateral meetings to discuss the situation.

Earlier, Indonesian Defense Minister Ryamizard Ryacudu had affirmed that the three countries should conduct a military exercise soon, prior to carrying out trilateral joint patrols along their maritime borders.

Foreign Minister Retno said a cooperation agreement on joint border patrols had been signed by Indonesia and the Philippines in 1975.

Under the agreement, three types of cooperation were to be upheld by the two countries: coordinated cooperation, joint patrols, and coordinated patrols.

Retno underlined the need to enforce the defense cooperation agreement to prevent similar incidents in the future.

"This kind of activity cannot be tolerated at all," Marsudi stressed. "Serious efforts, I repeat, serious efforts must be made immediately, both by the Philippine and Malaysian governments," she stated.

The Indonesian government has offered to conduct joint patrols and to escort cargo vessels sailing to and from the Philippines, the base of the Abu Sayyaf separatist group.

"That is what we wish to do. We can put four to five soldiers on one ship," TNI Commander Gen. Gatot acknowledged on July 11 after attending a coordination meeting at the crisis center on securing the hostages release.

"We have offered everything, but it is up to the Philippines," the four-star general added.

In fact, the Indonesian government has banned Indonesian-flagged vessels from sailing to the Philippines since last month.

The transportation ministry issued a sailing notice, No. 130/VI/DN-16, dated June 24, 2016, to harbormasters, ordering them not to issue permits to Indonesian-flagged vessels intending to sail to the Philippines.

http://www.antaranews.com/en/news/108629/hostage-crisis-finally-ends-with-release-of-last-two-indonesians

MILF chief hopes autonomy law seals deal in 2017

From Anadolu Agency (Dec 27): MILF chief hopes autonomy law seals deal in 2017

Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) hopes for autonomy and development in Muslim south under Rodrigo Duterte presidency

Al Haj Murad Ebrahim, leader of the southern Philippines’ one-time largest rebel group, said Tuesday he hoped the nation’s Congress will submit a regional autonomy bill by July 2017 to seal a peace deal between his group and Manila.

 

In an exclusive interview with Anadolu Agency in Ankara, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) leader said they had expected that the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL), meant to seal a 2014 peace deal with the government, would be passed under then-President Benigno Aquino III, who was succeeded by Rodrigo Duterte on June 30.

 

“But that was not what happened,” he said, adding that it had exacerbated frustration among locals.

 

The MILF has been pushing for the passage of the BBL, which would seal the 2014 peace deal signed with the government, the Comprehensive Agreement on Bangsamoro or CAB, in the country’s Muslim south, which is underdeveloped due to decades of conflict.

 

However the BBL – which would replace the current Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao with a more inclusive Bangsamoro region – was stalled as Congress recessed to campaign for the May 9 election.

 

Ebrahim said that the January 2015 Mamasapano clashes between Special Forces and MILF members fueled those opposed to the peace process.

 

“It gives some frustration among the people. Because after the agreement in 2014 we expected that the text would be passed under the term of the previous president. And it would be implemented. It could not happen because the agreement was not implemented in the expected period. The leadership was changed and there was some fighting between our forces and the government’s special forces. It gives an opportunity to those who were ready to attack the peace process. And the last administration ended without the bill being passed. So the situation here is quite difficult,” he said.

 

He underlined that Duterte committed to the process even before being elected in the May 9 election that gave hope to people of the majority-Muslim provinces of Mindanao.

 

“Immediately after the recent election we engaged with the new administration regarding the peace deal. Even before the election, the current president promised that he would pass the agreement and implement the law regarding the peace deal. And this gives hope to our people because he was very open on his commitment,” Ebrahim said

 

He stated that the MILF was trying to manage the people’s frustration.

 

“Because as long as the agreement is there, we can hold any government to implement it. So that gives us some kind of assurance that we will continue struggling for the final implementation. We will never throw it out. We will assert that all of the deal [must be] implemented. Because this is valid, this is final that had already been signed by both parties.”

 

Addressing recent developments, Ebrahim said the MILF had reformed the Bangsamoro Transition Commission tasked with drafting an autonomy law.

 

“We have already formed the commission and hopefully they can start working to compose a draft law by January next year. So we are drafting a new law. Because this time the president wanted the law to be more inclusive. That means other Moro groups can be included [in the new law].”

 

“We hoped that the law will be submitted to Congress by July 2017,” he stressed.

Signal peace process will continue

 

Speaking on the meeting this August between MILF representatives and the Duterte government, he called it a signal of the start of engagement with the Duterte government to continue the peace process.

 

“The meeting in Kuala Lumpur was a signal that government and the MILF are continuing the peace process. And we agreed that there will be no new negotiations because both parties had already engaged in an agreement. And it was finalized. Now we built a committee, dubbed the Peace Negotiation Panel, which will work to implement the agreement.”

 

Ebrahim said that the MILF had prepared a roadmap for the development of their homeland.

 

“Immediately after signing the agreement [in 2014], we crafted a development plan. We have a blueprint of development programs that includes short-term, medium-term, and long-term programs. These development programs will build our homeland. And we hope the IHH [Turkish Humanitarian Relief Foundation], Japan, and other countries and organizations will help us to implement this development program.”

Immediate implementation needed

 

He said implementation of the deal is crucial to stem local support for some small groups fighting the government, like Abu Sayyaf.

 

“Some people still support them because they see the groups as defenders. But this support will stop if the deal is implemented,” he added.

 

“They are isolated. They are small groups. They have only a few hundred elements. But the solution is immediate implementation of the peace process. Because when the peace agreement is implemented the locals won’t support them anymore.”

 

The MILF leader thanked Turkey for its support during the peace negotiations, calling it a player in the deal.

 

Ebrahim called for more international support, especially from Muslim countries, to rebuild the Moro homeland.

 

Since Duterte won the presidential election this May, his administration has been engaged in efforts to consolidate present and past peace agreements with all indigenous Moro groups in the Mindanao region in an effort to end the decades-old conflict, which has cost some 100,000 lives since the beginning.

 

This includes the MNLF, which the MILF broke away from due to disagreements about another peace process in 1977. Some MNLF factions see the 2014 MILF-government agreement as a betrayal of earlier deals between the MNLF and the government.

 

http://aa.com.tr/en/asia-pacific/milf-chief-hopes-autonomy-law-seals-deal-in-2017/715141

Abu Sayyaf bandit tagged in Samal kidnapping arrested in Sulu (Photo)

From ABS-CBN (Dec 27): Abu Sayyaf bandit tagged in Samal kidnapping arrested in Sulu



SULU – A suspected member of Al Qaeda-linked Abu Sayyaf Group who was allegedly involved in the Samal Island kidnapping incident was arrested in Talipao, Sulu late last week.

Chief Inspector Norlito Mata, the chief of Talipao Municipal Police Station, identified the suspect as Arkam Baridji, who was identified as one of those who participated in the kidnapping of three foreigners and a Filipina from a resort.

The captives included Canadians John Ridsdel and Robert Hall, Norwegian Kjartan Sekkingstad, and Filipina Marites Flor.

Ridsdel and Hall were killed by the bandits after their families failed to meet ransom demands.
Flor was released in June 2016, while Sekkingstad followed after three months.

Mata said they established a security checkpoint in Sitio Bayog, Barangay Samak, where they apprehended Baridji and his companion, identified as Arnajel Dahim.

Police officers seized a revolver and ammunition from Dahim. They also found 4 sachets of alleged “shabu” on the suspect.

Baridji and Dahim were brought to the municipal police station for investigation.

Mata said they were able to verify the identity of Baridji, who has a standing arrest warrant for kidnapping and serious illegal detention.

Baridji was temporarily detained at the Jolo Municipal Police Station before being transported to Panabo City, Davao del Norte for court hearings.

The police also filed criminal cases against Dahim for illegal possession of firearms and illegal drugs.

http://news.abs-cbn.com/news/12/27/16/abu-sayyaf-bandit-tagged-in-samal-kidnapping-arrested-in-sulu

Defense Sec, AFP chief visit Catanduanes, assess damage brought by Typhoon Nina

From GMA News (Dec 27): Defense Sec, AFP chief visit Catanduanes, assess damage brought by Typhoon Nina

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and Armed Forces of the Philippines chief of staff Lt. Gen. Eduardo Año went to Virac, Catanduanes Tuesday afternoon ahead of the possible visit of President Rodrigo Duterte to assess the damage sustained by the island due to Typhoon Nina.

AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said Lorenzana and Año were met by local officials and military and police personnel assigned on the island.

Approaching the island from the air and upon arrival, the officials saw that Virac was completely devastated and the province’s primary source of livelihood has been severely damaged, Padilla said.

He added that coconut trees, a major source both of livelihood and sustenance, were destroyed and may take five to 10 years before signs of recovery could be seen.

“The abaca industry, the primary source of livelihood here, is also seriously damaged and will need one or more years before it sees recovery and productivity,” he said.

Padilla quoted Catanduanes Governor Joseph Cua as saying that the coconut trees on the island now looked like wilted candles, and except for their timber, would be useless for years to come.
“This is the strongest typhoon to hit us after 10 years,” Padilla quoted Cua as saying.

He said Cua also told them that despite the devastation caused by "Nina" they still consider themselves blessed since the province had zero fatality.

He said the Catanduanes governor also said that the people on the island have been very cooperative and have responded positively to calls for preemptive evacuation.

Catanduanes was one of the hardest hit by Typhoon Nina.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/593832/news/nation/defense-sec-afp-chief-visit-catanduanes-assess-damage-brought-by-typhoon-nina

Reds: We will only die for the people

From the often pro-CPP online publication the Davao Today (Dec 27): Reds: We will only die for the people

The New People’s Army in Southern Mindanao said the revolutionary forces will not die for any person except for the “masses” that they are serving. (Earl O. Condeza/davaotoday.com)

 

The New People’s Army in Southern Mindanao said the revolutionary forces will not die for any person except for the “masses” that they are serving.

 

“Ang Bagong Hukbong Bayan, ang mga pwersa ng rebolusyon ay hindi magpapakamatay para sa isang tao. Magpapakamatay ang BHB para sa masa na minamahal niya, para sa taumbayan (The NPA, the revolutionary forces will not die for any one person except for the masses that it loves, for the people),” said Ka Joaquin, an NPA fighter, when asked for comments about President Rodrigo Duterte’s pronouncement that the Reds are willing to die for him.

“Yun at yun lang.  Ang dinadalang prinsipyo ng Partido Komunista ng Pilipina, ang Bagong Hukbong Bayan ay laging handang mamatay para sa masang minamahal niya, yun at yun lang. Hindi para sa kung sino mang indibidwal na andyan (That’s all there is. The principle carried by the Communist Party of the Philippines is that the BHB is ready to die for the masses that it loves, that’s all. Not for any individual who is in power),” Ka Joaquin added.

On December 12, Duterte spoke before a business forum in Malcañang saying the Reds will “die” for him and would never demand his ouster.

“The Reds would never demand my ouster. They will die for me, believe me,” Duterte said at a Peter Wallace Business Forum.

Meanwhile, National Democratic Front of the Philippines Senior Adviser, Luis Jalandoni said the NDF is a reliable ally of Duterte in fighting the US imperialist threats and anti-people forces.

“After President Duterte declared that he will not be subservient to the United States, we said we are proud of him standing up, as the first Filipino president against the US,” he said.

“Kung may mga pwersa galing sa US or ibang pwersa na anti people ay yung NDF ay handang ipagtanggol si Pres. Duterte (If there are forces from the US or other anti-people forces, the NDF is ready to defend Pres. Duterte),” Jalandoni said.

Duterte was the first President to claim that he is a “Socialist”. However, Jalandoni in a previous engagements said Duterte has his “contradictions.”

“President Duterte is not a saint. He has contradictions,” Jalandoni said during a peace forum here on September 21.

Despite his anti-US stance, the CPP has been critical of Duterte’s anti-drug war and the Marcos’ burial issue.

http://davaotoday.com/main/politics/reds-we-will-only-die-for-the-people/

GRP: 17 to 20 prisoners to be freed before 2017

From the often pro-CPP online publication the Davao Today (Dec 27): GRP: 17 to 20 prisoners to be freed before 2017

Government of the Republic of the Philippines peace panel chief negotiator Silvestre Bello III attends the celebration of the Communist Party of the Philippines’ 48th anniversary here on Monday, Dec. 26. (Earl O. Condeza/davaotoday.com)

 

The government peace panel said around 17 to 20 political prisoners will be released before the year ends.

 

In an interview during the 48th anniversary celebration of the Communist Party of the Philippines here Monday, December 26, GRP peace panel chair Silvestre Bello III said even if the Christmas Day is over, the President will keep his word on releasing the prisoners.

President Rodrigo Duterte earlier announced that in time for Christmas, he would order the release of elderly and sick detainees for humanitarian reasons. However, Duterte also said that there would be no more releases of political prisoners unless the National Democratic Front of the Philippines signs a bilateral agreement.

But the government peace panel said the President is still committed to his promise of releasing the prisoners.

Read: GRP panel says Duterte still committed to release prisoners

Bello assured rebel leaders that some of the sickly and elderly political detainees would be released soon.

He also said that the next release of prisoners for humanitarian reasons is not tied to the bilateral ceasefire agreement.

“It is just a matter of time. The president will keep his word,” Bello said in the sidelines during Monday’s event.

In a press release by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process on Tuesday, it said Presidential Peace Adviser Jesus Dureza also confirmed that a directive has already been issued for the release of some 17 or 20 detained rebels.

“Let us just wait for the formal announcement of the president,” Dureza was quoted as saying.
Bello previously announced in a press conference here that 50 to 70 political prisoners would be released before December 10.

“Maybe before December 10 we will have the release of about 50-70 detainees on humanitarian grounds. There are also five to seven consultants to be released by pardon because they are consultants in the peace process,” said Bello in a press conference on Nov. 30 here.

Asked why the number of the prisoners to be released has decreased, Bello said that the judicial process of releasing the prisoners is causing the delay.

“There are some legal processes that we have to comply before they can be released,” he said.

Bello said he will be meeting with the president on December 29 and will again bring up the matter.

Bello was among the Cabinet secretaries who attended the CPP’s anniversary celebration held in Paquibato district here.

The anniversary coincided with the CPP’s launching of the “National Peace Assembly for Just and Lasting Peace.”

http://davaotoday.com/main/politics/grp-17-to-20-prisoners-to-be-freed-before-2017/

12,000 attend CPP 48th anniversary in Davao peace assembly (Photos)

Posted to the often pro-CPP online publication the Manila Today (Dec 26): 12,000 attend CPP 48th anniversary in Davao peace assembly
                                                       

Coinciding with the celebration of the 48th anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), mass demonstrations were held in and around the guerilla zones and bases across the country to show indignation over President Duterte’s unfulfilled vows of peace. The “National Assembly for Just and Lasting Peace” was held in a guerilla zone in Paquibato district, Davao City for which the event had the theme “People’s War is for People’s Peace”.

The event had gathered around 12,000 people hailing from different regions from Mindanao, from Cordillera, Southern Luzon, Bicol, Panay, Eastern Visayas and the National Capital Region.

The CPP called for peace rallies to be held nationwide as it condemned the continued detention of an estimated 400 political prisoners, a violation of previously signed peace talks agreements. The CPP also hit continuing military operations through Oplan Bayanihan amid unilateral ceasefire declarations and despite the ongoing peace talks between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP).

 

Around 200 NPA members marched in an open field and held a battalion formation. (Manila Today)

“Pinagtitibay ng pagtitipon ang paninindigan na ang just and lasting peace ay makakamit sa pagtupad ng mga adhikain ng mamamayan [This gathering fortifies the stance that the just and lasting peace can be attained by fulfilling the aspirations of the people],” said Ka Joaquin, who spoke in behalf of Jorge “Ka Oris” Madlos, NPA National Operation Command spokesperson.

 

The national assembly commenced with the formation of more than 200 New People’s Army (NPA) combatants from Pulang Bagani Battalion, considered as one of the strongest NPA forces in the country. The tactical inspection was led by the National Democratic (NDF) consultant, Porferio Tuna, Jr.

   

 

                

              

 

Representatives from the GRP and the NDF marched under the flags of NDF member organizations flanked by NPA members to formally start the peace forum.

NDF consultants reiterated that there will be no peace if the roots of the armed struggle have yet to be addressed.

NDF consultant Concha Araneta led the militant dances and speeches for the peace assembly in Davao City. (Manila Today)

NDF consultant Concha Araneta Bocala from Panay said that people want peace and the only way to address roots of violence and unrest is to fulfill land distribution for peasantry, to respect ancestral domain of the indigenous and Moro peoples, to abolish exploitation of workers and to attain justice for victims of human rights abuses.

Press conference and open forum in the peace assembly program. (Manila Today)

At the press conference, representatives discussed the next substantive agenda for peace talks, the Comprehensive Agreement on Socio-economic Reforms (CASER).

“The revolutionary forces are now stronger more than ever to wage armed revolution, gain concrete benefits for the people, and ultimately attain justice and true peace. Indeed, today’s celebration highlighted the militant battlecry: there can be no just and lasting peace without the people’s war,” said Rubi del Mundo of NDF-Southern Mindanao Region spokesperson, in a statement.

People lit up lanterns in celebration of the 48th anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).

http://www.manilatoday.net/12000-attend-cpp-48th-anniversary-in-mindanao-peace-assembly/

GRP chief negotiator visits NPA stronghold

Posted to the often pro-CPP online publication Bicol Today (Dec 27): GRP chief negotiator visits NPA stronghold


Photo by Edwin G. Espejo

Government chief peace negotiator (GRP) Silvestre Bello made a historic first by visiting one of the village strongholds of the rebel New People’s Army (NPA) in Paquibato District, Davao City on Monday (Dec. 26) to attend a peace forum which also coincided with the 48th anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).

Speaking before 8,000 rebel sympathizers and supporters, Bello shared the same optimism with CPP founding chair Jose Maria Sison who, in a video message, said the prospect of achieving peace under the Duterte government is brighter than any point in the rebel’s almost five decades of armed rebellion.

The head of the GRP peace panel was accompanied by his undersecretary Joel Maglungsod and Interior and Local Government Secretary Mike Sueno.

Bello assured rebel leaders that some of the sickly and elderly political detainees would soon be released.

“It is just a matter of time. The president will keep his word,” Bello said in the sidelines during a break in the program of the rebels.

President Rodrigo Duterte earlier announced he would order the release of elderly and sick detained rebels in time for Christmas for humanitarian reasons.

Presidential Adviser for Peace Process Jesus Dureza also confirmed that a directive has already been issued for the release of some 17 or 20 detained rebels.

“Let us just wait for the formal announcement of the president,” Dureza earlier said.

Bello also explained that the next release of rebels for humanitarian reasons is not tied to the bilateral ceasefire agreement that the government is seeking to forge with the rebels.

The National Democratic Front, the political umbrella of the CPP and the NPA, has demanded the release of 434 detained rebel leaders and members as compliance to the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect of Human Rights and International Law (CARHRIL), which the two peace panels signed during the Ramos administration.

Bello however asked for a little more patience.

“There are some legal process that we have to comply before they can be released,” he explained.
He said he will be meeting with the president on December 29 and will again bring up the matter.

Meanwhile, Bello, who is also labor secretary, agreed with Sison that a final peace deal will have to be signed very soon so that “this can be implemented under the Duterte administration.”

A former human rights lawyer, Bello said it is time to end the war in the countryside for the sake of combatants and the communities affected by the war in the countryside.

He said the next round of talks that will be held in Rome, Italy would now focus on the crucial agenda of social and economic reforms.

“We have tapped the expertise of economists from the University of the Philippines to draft the economic reform agenda of the government which we will present on the negotiating table in Rome,” Bello revealed.

At least two days have been dedicated for discussions on social and economic reforms during the five-day formal talks, which begin on January 19.


Photo by Edwin G. Espejo

http://bicoltoday.com/2016/12/27/grp-chief-negotiator-visits-npa-stronghold/

Mere presence of soldiers instill fear in villages

From the often pro-CPP online publication the Northern Dispatch Weekly (NORDIS) (Dec 25): Mere presence of soldiers instill fear in villages

Mere presence of Philippine Army already brings fear to community folk and violates the Comprehensive Agreement on the Respect of Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL) and the unilateral ceasefire declaration of Pres. Rodrigo Duterte, an elder of the Binongan tribe said.

Ama Bansilan Sawadan, an elder of the Binongan tribe, said that the mere sight of army troopers in their villages already instills fear among the community folk because of the human rights violations soldiers have committed. Photo by Divine Loraine Peñaflor

Ama Bansilan Sawadan, an elder of the Binongan tribe who resides in Barangay Buneg said that the mere sight of army troopers in their villages already instills fear among the community folk because of the human rights violations soldiers have committed.

“You cannot blame us, government soldiers who have been deployed to our communities have committed various human rights violations against our people,” he said.

Sawadan admitted that there had not been any violation committed by government troops deployed to their villages under the Duterte administration except for the continued encampment of soldiers inside the community. He said that the last recorded violation against the people of Lacub was the use of civilians as human shields during the September 2014 military operations against New People’s Army rebels.

It can be recalled that during the September 2014 operation, seven NPA rebels and two civilians were killed. Families of Noel Viste, a local of Lacub and Engr. Fidela Salvador, a development worker continue to demand justice for the murder of their kin. Even the families of the rebels cry for justice for the torture, brutal killing and desecration of the remains of their kin by the operation of government soldiers of the 41st IB.

Sawadan further said that the Lacub folk continue to demand justice for the murder of Licuben Ligiw and his sons Eddie and Fermin in March 2014 also by soldiers of the 41st IB. He said that there had been many instances where operating government soldiers would force, threaten and harass farmers and hunters that they meet in the mountains and use them as guides.

Sawadan added that military operations against NPA rebels also involve gunfire and bombings that also destroys and disrupts the peace in the community.

Sawadan said that the issue of military encampment inside villages and other violations to the CARHRIHL was raised with representatives of both peace negotiating panels of the Government of the Philippines (GRP) and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) in 2011 when his village, Buneg hosted a peace consultation.

CARHRIHL was the first agreement signed between the GRP and the NDFP in 1998, which outlines the rules of engagements of both parties for the protection of rights of combatants and civilians in the conduct of war.

“But even after the peace consultation in 2011 soldiers never left town they continued to encamp inside our homes and public buildings disrupting our normal daily lives,” Sawadan said.

He explained that the presence of government soldiers limited the activities of hunters, pocket miners and farmers with kaingins in the forest depriving them of their sources of livelihood.

“When President Duterte declared a ceasefire we were hoping that the soldiers would leave town but that did not happen because until today they are encamped at the stock room of the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office right beside the town hall,” Sawadan said.

“Of what use are these agreements and declarations if they are not being followed?” Sawadan added. # nordis.net

http://www.nordis.net/2016/12/mere-presence-of-soldiers-instill-fear-in-villages/

CPDF calls to invigorate national minority movement

From the often pro-CPP online publication the Northern Dispatch Weekly (NORDIS) (Dec 25): CPDF calls to invigorate national minority movement

The Cordillera Peoples Democratic Front (CPDF) called for the strengthening of the revolutionary movement of national minorities toward self-determination on the 48th anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).

Simon “Ka Filliw” Naogsan Sr., CPDF spokesperson in an emailed press statemen,t said that the CPP in its 48 years has not wavered in the fight for self-determination of national minorities. “There is no other political party more sincere in advancing this right,” he added.

“The CPDF pins its utmost trust that only with the continuing leadership of the Communist Party of the Philippines will genuine regional autonomy be achieved under the revolutionary democratic government of the people,” Naogsan added.

Naogsan reiterated that national minorities continue to suffer national oppression perpetrated by the State. He explained that among the manifestations of national oppression are the inadequate and inaccessible social services to national minorities and entry of large-scale mining and energy projects that undermines the right to self-determination.

He explained that the existing social system that is ruled by imperialism, bureaucrat capitalism and feudalism perpetrates national oppression.

The rebel spokesperson said that the sorry state of national minorities is exacerbated by the ongoing Oplan Bayanihan program of the Armed forces of the Philippines (AFP). He said military operations of the AFP continues amid President Rodrigo Duterte’s ceasfire declaration and the on going peace negotiations.

Naogsan reiterated that the continuing military operations are “deliberate moves to sabotage the ongoing peace talks” and are meant to suppress the struggle of national minorities and all other sectors for their democratic rights. # nordis.net

http://www.nordis.net/2016/12/cpdf-calls-to-invigorate-national-minority-movement/

Continuing AFP offensives defy Pres. Duterte’s ceasefire call

From the often pro-CPP online publication the Northern Dispatch Weekly (NORDIS) (Dec 25): Continuing AFP offensives defy Pres. Duterte’s ceasefire call

The Antonio Licawen Front Operational Command (ALFOC) of the New People’s Army (NPA) condemns the continuing military operations of the 81st IB troops of the Philippine Army in the bounderies of Ilocos Sur and Abra.

ALFOC in a statement emailed to the media pointed out that the Government of the Philippines (GRP) through Duterte and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) issued reciprocal unilateral ceasefire declarations as part of confidence building measures in the current peace negotiations.

“But the 81st IB PA stationed in Cervantes, Ilocos Sur has repeatedly acted in clear defiance of President Duterte’s unilateral ceasefire order issued last July 25, and again on August 21,” the ALFOC statement read.

The rebels said that 81st IB soldiers conducted military operations in barangays Patungcaleo, Malideg, Banoen, Lamag and Legleg in Quirino, Ilocos Sur and barangays Tiempo, Kili and Baclingayan in Tubo, Abra amid the unilateral ceasfire declarations of President Rodrigo Duterte.

According to ALFOC, the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) has instructed the NPA and its militia units to observe the ceasefire it issued. Since then, the NPA forces have taken an active defense stance “in consideration of the positive developments of the first round of talks paving the way for further talks on the more substantive agenda of socio-economic reforms”.

The rebels claimed that the AFP on the other hand continued with their Oplan Bayanihan program deploying Peace and Development Teams (PDT). “This habitual insubordination of the AFP manifests its insincerity in achieving peace through a comprehensive resolution of the root causes of the ongoing armed conflict,” the NPA unit said.

The NPA accused the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) of serving the US by sabotaging the peace talks. The rebel group said the “ AFP is a pillar of US military might in the Philippines”. The rebel group added that the collapse of the current talks with socio-economic reforms as the main agenda will be a major setback in reaching a final peace agreement.

“Evidently, the US has nothing to lose and everything to gain in case of a breakdown of the ongoing GRP-NDFP peace negotiations,” the NPA statement said.

ALFOC further claimed that the US has been trying to outmanuever the Duterte administration especially after President Duterte’s announcement that he wants US troops out of the country.

ALFOC challenged the Duterte administration to stand up against this obvious US intervention in the peace negotiations. # nordis.net

http://www.nordis.net/2016/12/continuing-afp-offensives-defy-pres-dutertes-ceasefire-call/

DWDD: AFP Camps Damaged, Deploys Personnel Assets in NIÑA Devastated Area

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Dec 27): AFP Camps Damaged, Deploys Personnel Assets in NIÑA Devastated Area



CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City—Several camps and outposts of the Armed Forces of the Philippines were themselves severely damaged by Typhoon “Nina” that battered the provinces of Bicol and Southern Tagalog Regions including , Eastern Visayas, MIMAROPA, the National Capital Region, and the rest of Central Luzon.

According to Public Affairs Office Chief Colonel Edgard A Arevalo, initial damage reports from the units of the 9th Infantry Divison posted in some areas of Quezon Province and Bicol Region reported that eight patrol bases were severely damaged while 12 others were partially damaged by the typhoon. All the floating assets of the Naval Forces Southern Luzon, meanwhile, were safe in the areas where they sought refuge.

“Report receive indicate that the 83rd Infantry Battalion headquarters in Camarines Sur and a company headquarters under the 22nd Infantry Battalion were totally damaged by the typhoon, although no casualties on government troops was recorded,” Col Arevalo said.

In anticipation of the onslaught of the Typhoon meanwhile, the Southern Luzon Command ordered the prepositioning of disaster response units and medical teams at disaster prone areas to ensure the quick delivery of assistance when needed.

“SOLCOM was already on heightened alert status even prior Christmas Day in anticipation of Typhoon “Nina”. This placed all personnel and equipment on standby for the conduct of humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations,” Col Arevalo added.

Various AFP units including the 203rd IB, 503rd IB, 810th IB, and 202nd IB among others are currently assisting local government units in road clearing, relief, and evacuation operations.

“These are initial damage assessment reports. We are expecting updates from other forward deployed AFP units to come in. These are available information as at press time the delays owing to the communications issues,” Col Arevalo said.

“Amidst the devastation in some AFP camps, the soldiers, airmen, sailors and marines remain steadfast and are still prepared to discharge its duties and responsibilities. They have prepared for this eventuality 3-4 days prior the onslaught of “Nina” and thus were able to respond to the call for help of our people although they were victims as well, concluded Arevalo.

Meanwhile, AFP Chief of Staff LtGen Eduardo M Año lauded the troops for their foresight and for rising to the occasion. He expressed elation that the soldiers were on their toes and are of help when needed –on or before Christmas Day.

“Our units ‘celebrated’ Christmas Day under severe weather conditions.

“As expected of them, they manifested their preparedness for any disasters and calamities borne of their continuing training in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief and rehabilitation operations.

No one desires that this readiness be applied, but must –as they did– efficiently and effectively discharged when situations like this call for it,” LtGen Año said.

“Our people can count on their soldiers, airmen, sailors and marines to assist local government’s disaster and relief teams in responding to the people’s call for help.

“The AFP will be a reliable partner in capacitating the local government and their constituents to weather the storms”, concludes LtGen Año.

http://dwdd.com.ph/2016/12/27/afp-camps-damaged-deploys-personnel-assets-in-nina-devastated-area/

Photo: Platoon of fully armed NPA fighters

From the Visayan Daily Star (Dec 27): Photo: Platoon of fully armed NPA fighters



A platoon of fully armed NPA fighters prepare for a parade and review before their leaders and supporters somewhere in southern Negros.* ( Shiela Gelera photo )

http://www.visayandailystar.com/

Suspected Abu Sayyaf sub-leader arrested in Zamboanga (Photo)

From Rappler (Dec 27): Suspected Abu Sayyaf sub-leader arrested in Zamboanga

Hairulla Asbang, who was wounded in a previous encounter with government troops, is captured inside a hospital



CAPTURED. Suspected Abu Sayyaf sub-leader Hairulla Asbang is arrested while having medical treatment at the Zamboanga Peninsula Medical Center in Zamboanga City. Photo by Richard Falcatan

A suspected sub-leader of the Abu Sayyaf was arrested inside a private hospital in Zamboanga City on Monday, December 26.

Operatives of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Western Mindanao Command and the Zamboanga City Police Office identified the suspect as Hairulla Asbang.

Police said Asbang was admitted to the Zamboanga Peninsula Medical Center at 7:30 am on Monday to get medical treatment for a gunshot wound he sustained in a previous encounter with government troops in Sulu.

Asbang's companion, identified as Jaber, was also arrested inside the hospital. A government witness claimed Jaber is an Abu Sayyaf member as well.

Asbang faces several kidnapping cases, including a kidnapping with homicide case for the Samal abduction in September 2015. (READ: Waiting to be freed: 22 foreign hostages in Sulu)

The suspected Abu Sayyaf sub-leader is under tight watch by police in the hospital. The cops said appropriate legal procedures are also underway.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/156735-suspected-abu-sayyaf-sub-leader-hairulla-asbang-arrested-zamboanga

48TH ANNIVERSARY | NPA show of force marks CPP rites in Caraga, Northern Mindanao (Photos)

From InterAksyon (Dec 27): 48TH ANNIVERSARY | NPA show of force marks CPP rites in Caraga, Northern Mindanao



NPA cadres simulate a firefight during Communist Party of the Philippines 48th anniversary rites in Caraga. Photographed by Erwin Mascariñas, InterAksyon

Medina, Misamis Oriental - Cadres of the New People's Army (NPA) came out in a show of force during the 48th anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) at various venues in Caraga Region and Northern Mindanao on Monday, December 26, 2016.

In Misamis Oriental, an estimated 5,000 supporters of the NPA traveled from different parts of Misamis Oriental, Bukidnon, Lanao and Agusan del Norte to the town of Medina to take part in the anniversary celebration.

The event kicked off with a Peace Forum with the participation of various sectors and stakeholders from different communities, socio-civic and church groups.

Bishop Felixberto Calang of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente (IFI), who is an official of the Philippine Ecumenical Peace Platform (PEPP), explained why it was crucial to take part in the peace forum: "To get the perspective of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) and its views on the peace process and also towards socio-economic reforms. We hope to hear these things on the peace talks and, we hope, the effects would be the transformation and change within our society and its economic advantages. With this we should be vigilant and look closely at the process from both sides of the table."

Calang added that, "It is important ... we should not be left behind in this undertaking. We should be at the forefront in the talks for peace because it is us, the people, who will benefit from this. We should not allow anyone to block our path toward peace. We have high hopes since President Duterte is at the forefront of the ongoing talks. We hope that the two parties will push on and move forward amid the trials and hardship in achieving peace."

Alfredo Mapano, also known as "Ka Paris" representing the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) as one of its consultants in the peace talks, explained why the alliance with the Duterte administration has brought positive hallmarks in the struggle.

"The next round of talks will be held on January 18 to 24 in Rome, Italy; we hope with this the root cause of the armed conflict will be addressed and answered. Our alliance with President Duterte has brought several good directions towards the peace talks, one of which has been the release of the imprisoned consultants of the NDF, of which I am one. This administration has also given several key positions to several left leaning leaders in government agencies that are directly involved in the service for the people," said Ka Paris. 

He added: "This administration is also the first to respect several of the previous agreements with the NDF. We cannot just hope that everything will be addressed immediately, but we will find ways to push for certain reforms. We are also eager to continue our alliance with the President since he is not a puppet of the imperialist power, the United States, unlike previous presidents, and he doesn't see the left leaning groups as an enemy, unlike all the past presidents."

Yet, Ka Paris also reminded there is a need to also "be vigilant and reminded of certain issues that we don't see eye-to-eye."

"But all of this doesn't mean we will be silent if there is a need to criticize President Duterte, since we also harbor opposite opinions on his policies, such as on the Marcos Burial and the massive killings in the war on drugs and several more."

Celebrations and peace forums were also held in Barangay Anticala in Butuan City, which is 30 minutes away from the main thoroughfare of the city, while another was held in the town of San Luis in Agusan del Sur. In the Surigao provinces, in Marihatag town in Surigao del Sur, thousands gathered to celebrate the event. While another event was also celebrated in Surigao City. 

ALL PHOTOGRAPHS BY ERWIN MASCARIÑAS, InterAksyon



Members of the NPA resting under the shade of an acacia tree waiting for the program to start.



Simulated depiction of an armed encounter between NPA and the AFP.



National Democratic Front peace talks consultant Alfredo Mapano, also known as "Ka Paris" talks about the progress of the on going peace negotiations with the government.



Tribal folk from tribal indigenous people of Bukidnon perform during the Peace Forum.



Supporters gather around the activity area under the shade of large acacia trees.



Female members of the NPA stand in formation



Members of the NPA show-off their long firearms at the company formation drill.





http://interaksyon.com/article/135628/48th-anniversary--npa-show-of-force-marks-cpp-rites-in-caraga-northern-mindanao

Taiwan warns of increasing threat as Chinese warships conduct drill in South China Sea

From InterAksyon (Dec 27): Taiwan warns of increasing threat as Chinese warships conduct drill in South China Sea



China's Kuznetsov-class aircraft carrier Liaoning sails through the East China Sea in this handout photo taken December 25 by the Japan Self-Defense Force and released by the Joint Staff Office of the Defense Ministry of Japan. (Joint Staff Office of the Defense Ministry of Japan/Reuters)

Taiwan warned on Tuesday that "the threat of our enemies is growing day by day," as Chinese warships led by the country's sole aircraft carrier sailed towards the island province of Hainan through the South China Sea on a routine drill.

The drill comes amid renewed tension over Taiwan, which Beijing claims as its own, following US President-elect Donald Trump's telephone call with the island's president that upset Beijing.

"The threat of our enemies is growing day by day. We should always be maintaining our combat alertness," Taiwan Defense Minister Feng Shih-kuan said.

"We need to strengthen the training (of our soldiers) so that they can not only survive in battle but also destroy the enemy and accomplish the mission," he said.

Feng's remarks were given in a speech at a ministry event marking the promotion of senior military officers.

The carrier group has already rounded Taiwan, passing first between the southern Japanese islands of Miyako and Okinawa and then skirting southern Taiwan via the Bashi Channel, between Taiwan and the Philippines.

China has given few details of what the Soviet-built Liaoning aircraft carrier is up to, save that it is on a routine exercise.

However, the drill comes amid renewed tension over Taiwan, which Beijing claims as its own, following US President-elect Donald Trump's telephone call with the island's president that upset Beijing.

In Taipei, a Defence Ministry official said the Liaoning was maintaining a southwest course towards Hainan, rather than heading deeper into the disputed South China Sea near the Spratly Islands that lie close to the Philippines, Malaysia and Vietnam.

"It is still heading southwest towards Hainan," a senior Taiwanese military official told Reuters, on condition of anonymity.

The official said the carrier had not sailed close to Itu Abu, referring to Taiwan's only holding in the Spratly Islands, and that Taipei continues to monitor its movements.

China's air force conducted long-range drills this month above the East and South China Seas that rattled Japan and Taiwan. China said those exercises were also routine.

China claims most of the South China Sea, through which about $5 trillion in ship-borne trade passes every year. Neighbors Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam also have claims.

The Liaoning aircraft carrier has taken part in previous exercises, including in the South China Sea, but China is years away from perfecting carrier operations similar to those the United States has practiced for decades.

Last December, the defense ministry confirmed China was building a second aircraft carrier but its launch date is unclear. The aircraft carrier program is a state secret.

Beijing could build multiple aircraft carriers over the next 15 years, the Pentagon said in a report last year.

http://interaksyon.com/article/135604/taiwan-warns-of-increasing-threat-as-chinese-warships-conduct-drill-in-south-china-sea

Soldier killed in Alabel

From the Mindanao Times (Dec 27): Soldier killed in Alabel

A SOLDIER was shot to death by an unidentified perpetrator on Christmas Day at his residence in Purok 110, Barangay Maribulan in Alabel, Sarangani around 10:20 p.m. on Sunday.

 

Capt. Rhyan Batchar, the spokesperson of 10th Infantry Division, identified the victim as Cpl. Diomar Estifano of 73rd Infantry Battalion, detailed at Malita, Davao Occidental.

 

Batchar said they received information for the victim’s widow on the incident.

 

The wife said that they went to her cousin at Greenville Calumpang, General Santos City early on that day.

 

At around 9:30 p.m. that day, they went home to Alabel.

 

Upon their arrival at their house, an unidentified man shot her husband.

 

The soldier was rushed to Elizabeth Hospital in General Santos City by his relatives. He was declared dead on arrival by the attending physician.

 

Authorities are still conducting investigation to know the motive of the incident.

 

http://mindanaotimes.net/soldier-killed-in-alabel/