Malaysia arrests four linked to ISIS cell in Philippines

From the Straits Times (Jan 23): Malaysia arrests four linked to ISIS cell in Philippines



(From left) An Abu Sayyaf fighter with Malaysian militants Mahmud Ahmad, Muhammad Joraimee Awang Raimee and Muamar Gadafi.PHOTO: BUKIT AMAN SPECIAL BRANCH COUNTER TERRORISM DIVISION

Malaysian police said on Monday (Jan 23) they had arrested four people, among them three foreigners, with links to an ISIS cell based out of the southern Philippines.

Muslim-majority Malaysia has been on high alert since an attack last January by ISIS-linked militants in Jakarta, the capital of neighbouring Indonesia.

The cell, operating out of the province of Mindanao, was led by a former university lecturer, Mahmud Ahmad, who is known to be a Malaysian member of ISIS, Malaysian Inspector-General of Police Khalid Abu Bakar said in a statement.

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The cell had planned to use the east Malaysian state of Sabah as a transit point for South Asian and Southeast Asian militant recruits looking to join ISIS in the Philippines, Mr Khalid said.

He said one of the arrested suspects, a Philippine man, had been instructed to recruit new followers from Bangladesh, Malaysia and Indonesia, as well as Rohingya Muslims from Myanmar, and arrange for their travel to Mindanao.

The suspect, a watch-seller, was arrested in Sabah along with a Malaysian woman who was planning to marry and travel with him to the Philippines, Mr Khalid said.

 

Police also arrested two Bangladeshi men in the Malaysian capital, Kuala Lumpur, who had allegedly been recruited by the Philippine suspect.

"The two are suspected of having links with Daesh groups in Bangladesh," Mr Khalid said, using another name for ISIS.

Mr Khalid said Mahmud's cell had joined up with the Philippine militant group, Abu Sayyaf, and pledged its allegiance to the group's leader and the country's most-wanted man, Isnilon Hapilon.

Last June, militants who claimed to be fighting for ISIS said in a video they had chosen Isnilon to lead the group's Southeast Asian faction.

The video, posted on social media, marked ISIS's acceptance of allegiance by Southeast Asian supporters and called for them to launch attacks in the region.

Malaysia has arrested more than 250 people between 2013 and 2016 over militant activities linked to ISIS.
http://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/malaysia-arrests-four-linked-to-isis-cell-in-philippines

Police smash IS terror cell in Malaysia with arrest of four

From the New Straits Times (Jan 23): Police smash IS terror cell in Malaysia with arrest of four 

The Special Branch’s Counter-Terrorism Division have smashed an Islamic State (IS) terrorist cell in Malaysia, with the arrest of four people.

The four were arrested in a series of raids between Jan 13 and 19 in Kuala Lumpur and Sabah.

The suspects, including a woman, were aged between 27 and 31.

 

Announcing this today, Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar said the arrests meant that police had effectively destroyed a new IS cell which had planned to turn Sabah into a transit station for Southeast Asia and South Asia terrorists to join a Philippines-based IS group led by Dr Mahmud Ahmad and Isnilon Hapilon.

Dr Mahmud was a former Universiti Malaya lecturer who had joined IS militants based in the southern Philippines.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that the cell, led by Dr Mahmud, had combined with an Abu Sayyaf group headed by Isnilon, which had pledged allegiance to IS leader Abu Bakar Al Baghdadi.

“Apart from Dr Mahmud, two other Malaysians, Amin Bacho (a member of the Darul Islam Sabah militant group) and Joraimee Awang had also joined the cell which operated out of Marawi City, Mindanao, Phillipines,” he said in a statement.

The first arrest, involving a 31-year-old Filipino, was made in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah on Jan 13. The man, who works as a watch seller, had received instructions from Dr Mahmud to recruit and arrange the infiltration of new IS members from Malaysia, Indonesia, Bangladesh and Rohingya to the southern Philippines.

From there, these operatives would form part of the IS terror group in Marawi City, Mindanao.

The second suspect, meanwhile, is a 27-year-old Malaysian woman, who was arrested together in Kota Kinabalu with the Filipino man. The woman, who hails from Selangor had been recruited earlier this month through social media. She later confessed that she and the Filipino man had planned to marry.

Police said the woman had departed from the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) on Jan 13 to meet the Filipino in Kota Kinabalu, after which they had planned to fly to Sandakan before entering southern Philippines.

The third and fourth suspects, both Bangladeshis aged 27 and 28, worked as salesman, and were arrested last Thursday in Kuala Lumpur.

They were suspected of having ties to Bangladesh IS militants and were planning to join Dr Mahmud’s terror cell.



http://www.nst.com.my/news/2017/01/206759/police-smash-terror-cell-malaysia-arrest-four

Sabah police ramping up cooperation with Philippines cops to battle terror

From The Star Online (Jan 24): Sabah police ramping up cooperation with Philippines cops to battle terror

Sabah police will be increasing cooperation and sharing of intelligence with their Philippines counterparts in light of reports that the state is becoming a focal point of terror activities in Malaysia.

"We will be stepping up collaboration and intelligence gathering with our counterparts in the Philippines to tackle this issue," Police Commissioner Datuk Ramli Din (pix) said after launching the first meeting between the state marine police and Philippine National Police-Maritime Group Tuesday.

Ramli said although it was too early to say that the state is a transit point for militant and terrorism activities – including the Islamic State (IS) – police were not taking any risks.

He said issues on terror groups, cross border crimes, details and procedures on the hot pursuit of criminals in Philippines waters were among the topics discussed at the three-day meeting until Jan 26.

It was reported that Sabah was becoming the focal point of terror activities in the country, with fugitive militant Dr Mahmud Ahmad leading an IS terror cell that has combined forces with the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) to bring in recruits from all over the region into the state.

The cell is using Sabah as a transit point to bring in recruits from peninsular Malaysia, Indonesia, Bangladesh and even Rohingyas from Rakhine state to Marawi City, Mindanao in southern Philippines.

Marawi City is the stronghold of ASG, which is led by Isnilon Hapilon. The militants from all these countries gather in Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan in Sabah before the cell secures them safe passage to Marawi.

http://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2017/01/24/sabah-police-ramping-up-cooperation-with-philippines-cops/

Two Bangladeshis among four arrested in Malaysia for suspected link to Islamic State cell

From The Financial Express (Jan 24): Two Bangladeshis among four arrested in Malaysia for suspected link to Islamic State cell



Malaysian police have said they have arrested four people, among them three foreigners, including two Bangladeshis, with links to an Islamic State cell based out of the southern Philippines, reports Reuters.
Muslim-majority Malaysia has been on high alert since an attack last January by Islamic State-linked militants in Jakarta, the capital of neighbouring Indonesia.

The cell, operating out of the province of Mindanao, was led by a former university lecturer, Mahmud Ahmad, who is known to be a Malaysian member of Islamic State, Malaysian Inspector-General of Police Khalid Abu Bakar said in a statement on Monday.

The cell had planned to use the east Malaysian state of Sabah as a transit point for South Asian and Southeast Asian militant recruits looking to join Islamic State in the Philippines, Khalid said.

He said one of the arrested suspects, a Philippine man, had been instructed to recruit new followers from Bangladesh, Malaysia, and Indonesia, as well as Rohingya Muslims from Myanmar, and arrange for their travel to Mindanao.

The suspect, a watch-seller, was arrested in Sabah along with a Malaysian woman who was planning to marry and travel with him to the Philippines, Khalid said.

The two Bangladeshi men were arrested in the Malaysian capital, Kuala Lumpur. They had allegedly been recruited by the Philippine suspect.

"The two are suspected of having links with Daesh groups in Bangladesh," Khalid said, using another name for Islamic State.

Khalid said Mahmud's cell had joined up with the Philippine militant group, Abu Sayyaf, and pledged its allegiance to the group's leader and the country's most-wanted man, Isnilon Hapilon.

Last June, militants who claimed to be fighting for Islamic State said in a video they had chosen Isnilon to lead the group's Southeast Asian faction.

The video, posted on social media, marked Islamic State's acceptance of allegiance by Southeast Asian supporters and called for them to launch attacks in the region.

Malaysia has arrested more than 250 people between 2013 and 2016 over militant activities linked to Islamic State.

http://www.thefinancialexpress-bd.com/2017/01/24/59979/Two-Bangladeshis-held-in-Malaysia-over-IS-links

Philippine Air Force opens 2017 recruitment for airmen, officers

From Update.Ph (Jan 24): Philippine Air Force opens 2017 recruitment for airmen, officers

The Philippine Air Force will be conducting recruitment activities from February to March for aspiring soldiers (airman/airwoman) and officers. Among the common qualifications for soldier and officer candidates are: natural born Filipino male or female, single, never married and no legal obligation to support a child or children, at least 5 feet in height (152.5 cm) for both male and female, with good moral character, physically and mentally fit for military training.

Applicants for Candidate Soldier (CS) program must be 18 years old but not a day older than 23 on August 23 this year and with at least 72 units in college. As for Officer Candidate (OC) applicants, 21 years old but not a day older than 29 on August 1 and a Baccalaureate Degree Holder.

 

Below is the location and dates for recruitment.



CS applicants who will pass the written examinations and who will be included in the qualified applicants to be processed will be notified to report at their Processing Centers for their Physical Fitness Test (PFT).

PAFOC applicants who will pass the written examinations will be notified to report at PAFPMC for the Special Written Exam (SWE).

For more information, the Philippine Air Force advises interested individuals to contact PAF Personnel Management Center at 0923 409 0047/854 6701, or visit a nearest PAF unit.

Requirements are: Application Form, 2×2 ID picture in white background, photocopy of NSO/PSA birth certificate, and transcript of record.

http://www.update.ph/2017/01/philippine-air-force-opens-recruitment-for-airmen-officers/13477

Agcaoili: events out to sabotage talks

From the often pro-CPP online publication the Davao Today (Jan 24): Agcaoili: events out to sabotage talks

Peace panels from the National Democratic Front of the Philippines and the Philippine government in Rome, Italy. (Zea Io Ming C. Capistrano/davaotoday.com)

 

National Democratic Front of the Philippines peace panel chair Fidel Agcaoili called the military operations in Southern Philippines and the killings of two activists last week as efforts out to sabotage the peace negotiations.

 

Agcaoili also said the incident in Makilala town North Cotabato is a “breach” of the unilateral ceasefire of the government.

“They acknowledged, si Gen. Rey Guerrero of the Eastmincom said its a military operation against a so-called lawless armed group,” he said in a press conference Monday.

Agcaoili said the military clearly raided a New People’s Army encampment.

The military reported it seized “three high-powered rifles, three improvised explosive devices, 15 backpacks loaded with personal belongings, two handheld radios, assorted medical supplies and several subversive documents” during the operation against the NPAs who allegedly launched “extortion” activities against a construction company.

An NPA guerrilla fighter was killed in the encounter while the Army denied the reports by the NPA that eight soldiers were killed during the first encounter.

Agcaoili added that the attack on Saturday happened just a day after the killing of two activists in Negros and Surigao del Sur.

The incidents are now adding to the already untenable communities where the Red fighters are maneuvering to avoid clash with government troops, he said.

“It’s a ground for speculation pero parang merong nananabotahe while the peace talks are ongoing in Rome,” Agcaoili said.

The NDFP leader described the events as “deliberate, systematic sabotage of the peace talks.”

“I’m saying it appears and it gives more ground for our forces that has been demanding to stop the unilateral ceasefire,” he added.

Agcaoili said the events reminded him of the series of killings of activists in 2005 to 2006 where current Army officials including National Security Adviser Secretary Hermogenes Esperon and AFP Chief of Staff Eduardo Año were implicated by the NDFP.

Agcaoili said with the current situation on the ground and the non-release of prisoners, they cannot prevent the leadership of the Communist Party of the Philippines and the National Operations Command of the NPA to withdraw its unilateral ceasefire declaration.

For his part, Atty. Rene Sarmiento, a member of the government peace panel said, the incident should be addressed with the Joint Monitoring Committee. The two parties recently signed the supplemental guidelines of the JMC on Saturday where both Parties may conduct joint investigation on cases of human rights violations.

http://davaotoday.com/main/politics/agcaoili-events-out-to-sabotage-talks/

PEACE TALKS | Makilala clash, activist murders imperil ceasefire - Reds

From InterAksyon (Jan 24): PEACE TALKS | Makilala clash, activist murders imperil ceasefire - Reds



NDFP chief negotiator Fidel Agcaoili holds a press briefing in Rome. (Kodao Productions photo)

The clash in Makilala, Cotabato in which a New People’s Army guerrilla was killed, and the murders of a peasant leader in Negros Occidental and a lumad leader in Surigao del Norte may prod communist rebels to terminate the unilateral ceasefire they declared last year.

At a press briefing in Rome, where the third round of formal talks between the rebels and the Duterte administration are being held, Fidel Agcaoili, chief negotiator of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines, said there could be quarters in government out to sabotage efforts to seek a peaceful resolution to the almost half-century old armed struggle.

“This is a speculation on my part, but there appears to be sabotage of the peace process.  If such is the case, the continuation of the ceasefire is becoming untenable,” Agcaoili said.

But Agcaoili’s government counterpart, Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III, said the Makilala incident “is more reason to sign a bilateral ceasefire agreement to be guided on what constitutes a violation. For instance, which areas are covered by the ceasefire and which are not,” Sarmiento said.
The government and the rebels declared separate unilateral ceasefires last August to mark the resumption of formal peace negotiations. However, efforts to forge a bilateral ceasefire agreement have been stymied by the continued detention of close to 400 political prisoners and alleged military violations of the government ceasefire.

NDFP INTERNATIONAL VIDEO IF FIDEL AGCAOILI'S PRESS BRIEFING:




The rebels demand that President Rodrigo Duterte stand by his word to declare a general amnesty for the political prisoners but he insists he will free them only if the NDFP agrees to sign a bilateral ceasefire pact.

“What is happening is similar to what happened in 2005 to 2006 where many activists were killed, presided by the very same people like National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon and AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) Chief of Staff Eduardo Año,” he noted.

“The NDFP is preparing a letter of protest and we will issue a statement on the matter after,” he said.
Agcaoili said Friday's clash in Makilala was the result of a clear military raid on an NPA encampment, citing pictures of backpacks and rifles posted online by the Army’s 39th Infantry Battalion.

On the same day, National Federation of Sugar Workers leader Alexander Ceballos and Katribu Party-Surigao del Norte provincial coordinator Veronico Delamente were also murdered.

The NDFP negotiator clarified that the decision to terminate or keep the unilateral ceasefire was for the Communist Party of the Philippines and NPA to make.

“The six-month standing ceasefire was declared by the CPP and the NPA upon our recommendation. It would be up to them to suspend it based on their appreciation of the realities on the ground,” he said.

Despite alleged violations of the government ceasefire, Agcaoili said the NDFP is “set to receive the GRP’s proposal for a bilateral ceasefire and we can even propose a future date for its discussion,” but stressed an agreement will not likely be reached during the current round of talks “unless President Duterte declares he will release all political prisoners tomorrow.”

But he added Duterte himself admitted during their January 2 meeting in Malacañang that the release of political prisoners is “unacceptable to the GRP military.”

“If such is the case, we can just talk while fighting,” Agcaoili said, recalling that they signed 14 major agreements with the government of then President Fidel Ramos without a ceasefire agreement.

Despite the obstacles, Agcaoili described the resumed talks a success.

http://interaksyon.com/article/136468/pace-talks--makilala-clash-activist-murders-imperil-ceasefire---reds

NDF threatens anew to withdraw ceasefire after Cotabato clash

From Rappler (Jan 24): NDF threatens anew to withdraw ceasefire after Cotabato clash

(Updated) Reds tag President Rodrigo Duterte's top security officials – NSA chief Hermogenes Esperon Jr and AFP chief Eduardo Año – as peace spoilers



FIRST ENCOUNTER. It is believed to be the first armed encounter between the military and the New People's Army since both issued separate ceasefire declarations in August 2016. Photo from AFP's 10th Infantry Division

The communist National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDF) threatened anew to withdraw its unilateral indefinite ceasefire declaration following the death of one of its combatants in a firefight with the military in North Cotabato over the weekend.

It is the first armed encounter to disrupt the 5-month-old ceasefire that has been growing untenable because of allegations of abuses coming from both sides. (READ: Backchannel talks to protect ceasefire with Reds)

 

The NDF said the military operation was meant to hunt down communist rebels. "This latest incident could be the last straw that may force the hand of the NDFP leadership to rescind its own unilateral ceasefire," the NDF said in a statement released in Rome on Monday afternoon (evening in Manila), January 23.

 

"The NDFP panel takes this latest incident seriously. There is strong sentiment among the NDF forces on the ground that the continuation of the NDF's unilateral ceasefire has become increasingly untenable due to the widespread and intensified militarization and AFP clearing operations," the NDF statement said.

 

President Rodrigo Duterte met with the military top brass Monday afternoon in Malacañang. He, along with the government panel in Rome, has yet to issue a statement on the incident as of this posting.

 

The military claimed they were running after a "lawless armed group" extorting on a local construction company.

 

"The AFP has not violated its own unilateral ceasefire declaration. It has complied to its declaration of SOMO (Suspensive of Offensive Military Operations) to the letter," said AFP public affairs office chief Colonel Edgard Arevalo.

 

"Excluded in the SOMO however is support to law enforcement operations (SLEO) when so requested by other law enforcement agencies like the police," Arevalo added.

 

Esperon, Año as peace spoilers?

 

The NDF accused state forces of "sabotaging" the peace talks, raising questions about the sincerity of Duterte's top security appointees.

 

The NDF tagged National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief General Eduardo Año as peace spoilers, recalling allegations of human rights violations against the two generals during the Arroyo administration that saw the spate of extrajudicial killings of political activists.

 

The NDF statement also protested the alleged summary executions of political activitists, particularly of peasant leader Alexander Ceballos of Negros Occidental and lumad leader Veronico Delamente of Surigao del Norte.

 

"There is clearly an emerging pattern by state security forces of flouting the GRP’s unilateral ceasefire and sabotaging the peace negotiations," the NDF statement said.

"The NDF takes note of the fact that these extrajudicial killings and attacks are similar to those carried out by the military in 2005-06 when practically the same people were at the helm of the state’s security forces – current National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. and newly installed Chief of Staff Eduardo Año," the NDF statement added.

 

The incidents happened as the government panel is pushing to elevate the separate unilateral indefinite ceasefire declarations by the military and the NPA into a bilateral ceasefire agreement that will impose common rules for the 2 armed groups. (READ: NDF not ready to sign final peace deal before 2020)

 

The proposed joint agreement is expected to define what constitutes violations of the ceasefire and designate buffer zones, among others.

 

The NDF has refused to sign the agreement – pending government fulfillment of its promise to release more political prisoners – reminding the government panel that the ceasefire was a response that commitment.

 

The 3rd round of talks held in Rome will close on Wednesday, January 25.

 

http://www.rappler.com/nation/159284-ndf-threat-withdraw-ceasefire

Joint truce agreement in peril

From the Manila Bulletin (Jan 23): Joint truce agreement in peril

The prospect of a bilateral ceasefire agreement being signed here between the Philippine Government (GRP) and the National Democratic Front (NDF) may have been put in peril by a clash between the military and communist insurgents in North Cotabato reportedly left eight soldiers and a New People’s Army rebel dead last January 20.

ALL HANDS ON DECK – Leaders of the Philippine Govt and the National Democratic Front put their hands together at the start of the third round of peace negotiations in Rome, Italy. With them is Ambassador Eric Forner of Norway, official third party negotiator of the negotiations. In photo are (from left) Ndf chief political consultant Jose Maria Sison, Ndf peace panel chairman Fidel Agcaoili, Grp peace panel chairman silvestre bello III. Foreign Affairs Sec Perfecto Yasay, and Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jess Dureza.

 

This became apparent after NDF leaders, who are engaged in a third round of peace talks with the GRP in this city, expressed dismay over the bloody encounter in Makilala town that happened right on the second day of the talks that started on January 19. “Kung walang mapapakitang dahilan ang GRP, mas malamang na hindi na ‘to matuloy (If the GRP cannot give a compelling reason, it is most likely that it won’t push through),” said NDF peace panel member Benito Tiamzon with just two more days left on the negotiating table.

In fact, Tiamzon noted, the Makilala encounter only “justified the sentiment of those in the field who have said that the unilateral ceasefire was already untenable.”

Another NDF peace panel member Concha Araneta Bocala pointed out that “a bilateral ceasefire is not the answer to violations, and that it cannot deter violent encounters.” “(The Makilala incident) was an indication that (the military) does not follow the ceasefire,” she said.

Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza, in a message from New York where he is attending two forums on peace, said “a bilateral ceasefire, with guidelines and mechanism in place, is becoming all the more needed and imperative, otherwise the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the NPA will have their own reports and accusations favorable to their own version and interest, or propaganda line.”

“In a bilateral ceasefire, independent monitors (will be able to) conduct their own independent investigations, submit reports with possible sanctions imposed, if warranted,” he said.

Dureza, who is also chairman of the Philippine peace panel dealing with Moro insurgents, said that “the best practices in our peace engagements with the Bangsamoro can be instructive to both sides.” Dureza left for the United Nations in New York Friday, January 20, and is expected to return here in time for the close of this third round of talks on Wednesday, January 25.

http://news.mb.com.ph/2017/01/23/joint-truce-agreement-in-peril/

Duterte govt denies violation of rights deal with Reds

From ABS-CBN (Jan 22): Duterte govt denies violation of rights deal with Reds



President Rodrigo Duterte meets with Communist Party of the Philippines leaders Benito and Wilma Tiamzon, and other heads of the National Democratic Front in Malacañang last September. ABS-CBN News

The Duterte government is determined to uphold the rights of political dissenters and has not violated its Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL) with communist rebels, chief peace negotiator and Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello insisted Sunday.

"The track record of President Duterte will speak for itself. He has always upheld the rights of political dissenters and respected their human rights," Bello said in a statement.

"Some may find his unconventional approach in addressing peace and order issues in the country but he has always maintained high respect for political dissent," he added.

The National Democratic Front (NDF) earlier protested alleged violations of the CARHRIHL, including delays in the release of political detainees and alleged military invasion of rebel-held areas.

Bello assured that the government will look into this and, if warranted, investigate the complaints that NDF and its allied rights organizations submitted prior to opening of the third round of peace talks in Rome.

But he also noted that the government has submitted complaints on CARHRIHL violations allegedly committed by the NDF's armed wing, including the torching of buses and heavy equipment.

The reported violations from both sides, Bello said, will be tackled by the joint monitoring committee (JMC) that was activated by the supplemental CARHRIHL guidelines signed Saturday by state and NDF negotiators.

"Hopefully, the JMC will expedite the forging of a bilateral ceasefire agreement that will address the alleged issues of government violations and provocative and prohibited acts of NPA rebels," Bello explained.

The CARHRIHL primarily encourages all victims of violations and abuses of human rights related to armed conflict to come forward with their complaints and evidence.

CARHRIHL's supplemental guidelines constitute the first agreement signed by NDF and government under the Duterte administration.

All previous documents signed in the August and October rounds of talks were joint statements and declarations.

"In just five months, we have already scored a victory for the Filipino people," Bello declared.

Bello is confident that the government may forge a final peace agreement with NDF within 2017.

He is set to meet leaders of the Filipino community in Rome to brief them on the status of peace process.

http://news.abs-cbn.com/news/01/22/17/duterte-govt-denies-violation-of-rights-deal-with-reds

DND tells COA: Quick response fund used properly

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Jan 23): DND tells COA: Quick response fund used properly

The Commission on Audit (COA). INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

The Department of National Defense on Monday disputed the claims of the Commission on Audit that its quick response fund (QRF) was not used for its intended purpose.

“The construction/repair of AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) camps and facilities were undertaken to address the damage sustained during calamities such as Typhoons ‘Santi,’ ‘Glenda’ and ‘Yolanda,’ among others. It was necessary that certain offices and facilities of the AFP be immediately rehabilitated or repaired so as not to hamper their response to HADR missions,” said DND public affairs office chief Arsenio Andolong in a statement.

A COA report said that the fund amounting to P73,929,934.91 for repairs and reconstruction using the QRF was not in accordance with the authorized DND budget, making them among the biggest violators of the rules on utilization of disaster funds.

The QRF is supposed to address the immediate needs for relief and rescue during calamities.
The COA report said that out of DND’s P572.9 million available fund for 2015, it used only P236.31 million during the year, and only P128.63 million was actually paid by the end of 2015, with the rest still pending approval of the purchase orders.

Some of the facilities that were repaired/ rehabilitated according to the report were the AFP Commissary and Exchange Services, condos of enlisted personnel, Camp Lapu-Lapu Station Hospital, DND Building and the Centcom motorpool. P32.31 million was transferred to the Office of Civil Defense for the construction of offices in Regions 2 and 9 and purchase of equipment for Region 2.

“As to the release of QRF to various implementing agencies with unliquidated fund transfers, the DND saw the need to urgently transfer funds given the extraordinary circumstances at that time.

There was a need to strike a balance between policy and urgency of requirements in order to restore public service and provide support to damaged facilities in disaster-affected areas,” Andolong said.

“An example is supporting the petroleum, oil and lubricant (POL) requirements of various equipment of the AFP out of the QRF. It would be noted that the PIL for HADR is not included in the regular AFP budget,” he added.

As to the items that they purchased that COA marked as overpriced, Andolong said they bought items on retail prices instead of wholesale ones. The “urgency of the situation” also required the relief items “be made available immediately.”

“The procurement was on a small scale, thus big companies did not show interest in the bidding process,” he said.

Andolong said that Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana has issued a guidance for concerned offices to conduct a review of items raised by the COA.http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/864763/dnd-tells-coa-quick-response-fund-used-properly

Cagayan de Oro tribal families flea as NPAs patrol hinterlands

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 23): Cagayan de Oro tribal families flea as NPAs patrol hinterlands

Pastor Roberto Cabaring of the Tribe of Christ Church, one of the groups helping the evacuees, said about 10 families are now staying at a tribal shelter in the village of Dansolihon following reports of the presence of communist New People’s Army (NPA) insurgents in the outskirts of the village.

Cabaring said that the families, members of the Higaonon tribe, were frightened when members of the NPA’s Front 68 allegedly visited their community last week to purposely distribute subversive handouts and flyers.

He said that the tribal members also reported that the NPA even threatened to harm the villagers who would report to the authorities about their presence in the village.

Cabaring said that the church received information that last Friday, residents in the village of Pigsag-an saw a contingent of 60 to 100 armed NPA militants who were reportedly heading to the borders of Misamis Oriental and Bukidnon.

Ranel Lirongan, 34, a farmer in the village of Dansolihon, said that about 60 heavily armed individuals came to talk to them but they did not introduce themselves as NPA members.

Lirongan said the insurgents were aged between 18 to 20 years old, and most of them were carrying long firearms, either an M14 rifle or shotgun.

“They were wearing black pants and black boots, many of them wore face masks,” Lirongan said.

Lirongan appealed to the military to secure the tribal community because the presence of the communist guerillas has affected “our children, and our livelihood.”

Capt. Joe Patrick Martinez, the spokesperson of the army’s 4th Infantry Division, said that the unilateral ceasefire agreement between the government and the NPA prevents authorities from launching a military action against the NPA rebels.

However, Martinez said the military could assist the Philippine National Police (PNP) in securing the area and taking action against the communist insurgents for illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=957460

Palace defends Pres. Duterte decision not to accept Dela Rosa’s resignation

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 23): Palace defends Pres. Duterte decision not to accept Dela Rosa’s resignation

Malacanang on Monday denied speculations that President Rodrigo Duterte is tolerating police scalawags when he rejected the verbal resignation of Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Ronald ‘Bato’ Dela Rosa over the killing of a Korean executive inside Camp Crame.

"I think they misunderstand the situation," Presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella said in an interview with Palace reporters after Miss Universe 2016 contestants paid courtesy call to President Duterte at Rizal Hall.

During his 55th birthday celebration last Sunday night, Dela Rosa reportedly told President Duterte that he will quit his post after House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez called for his resignation over the abduction and slay of Hanjin executive Jee Ick Joo.

Abella explained that the President did not ask Dela Rosa to resign “simply because he understands that whatever has happened exactly speaks about the concerns that he had regarding crime and corruption in government institutions.”

Abella also explained that the PNP chief cannot be faulted for the killing of Korean businessman inside the PNP headquarters at Camp Crame in Quezon City.

"The individuals involved were not part of the PNP Chief’s team and these matters are exactly what the President has said that there is corruption in the institutions,” Abella explained.

He said the people should continue to support the efforts of President Duterte and PNP chief to address crime and corruption.

Last Sunday, Abella assured that there will be no whitewash in the investigation of Jee’s killing reportedly involving rogue cops.

"We will not tolerate corrupt, abusive, errant policemen who betray the organization and the men and women in uniform who continue their faithful, dedicated and loyal service to the country," Abella said in a statement.

Abella said the Palace is “outraged by the abduction and slay” of Jee who was reportedly strangled to death with his head covered with a packaging tape.

According to news reports, Jee and house helper Marisa D. Morquicho were abducted by two unidentified men from his house in Pampanga on October 18 last year.

Morquicho testified that the abductors told her that her boss was involved in illegal drug trade.
Kyungjin Choi, wife of the slain Korean businessman, said the perpetrators demanded an PHP8-million ransom.

She reportedly paid PHP5 million on Oct. 30, 2016 but did not give the remaining PHP3 million when the kidnappers failed to present proof of life.

The Department of Justice as well as the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) are now investigating the policemen including SPO4 Roy Villegas, SPO3 Rickey Sta. Isabel and PO2 Christopher Baldovino for their possible involvement in the kidnap-slay case of Jee.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=957501

PNP chief to reshuffle AKG

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 23): PNP chief to reshuffle AKG

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa on Monday announced he will reshuffle the whole PNP-Anti Kidnapping Group (AKG) following the kidnapping and execution of South Korean businessman Jee Ick Joo last Oct. 18.

The PNP chief made the announcement during a press conference in Camp Pantaleon Garcia in Imus, Cavite as he clarified that PNP-AKG Director Senior Supt. Glenn Dumlao will retain his current position.

Dela Rosa said it was Dumlao who solved the South Korean kidnapping case, which was barely a month after he assumed office.

The PNP chief has earlier cleared Dumlao, who was being implicated by the camp of SPO3 Ricky Sta. Isabel, the prime suspect in the case.

He was convinced Jinky Sta. Isabel, the wife of SPO3 Sta. Isabel, is only hurling accusations against those investigating her to muddle the case against her husband.

Dela Rosa added the public should not confuse Dumlao with another Dumlao -- Supt. Rafael Dumlao, who is SPO3 Sta. Isabel's boss in the AIDG (Anti-Illegal Drugs Group).

He said this Supt. Rafael Dumlao, who is not related to Senior Supt. Glenn Dumlao, is the one who has strong evidence of being SPO3 Sta. Isabel's partner in crime.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=957563

DWDD: 39IB Kasama ang ilang Makilala MPS, naka-sagupa ang isang LAG sa North Cotobato

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Jan 23): 39IB Kasama ang ilang Makilala MPS, naka-sagupa ang isang LAG sa North Cotobato



Nagkapalitan ng putok ang tropa mula sa 39^th Infantry Battalion kasama ang ilang pulis mula sa Makilala Municipal Office, North Cotabato laban sa isang LAG o lawless armed group noong Sabado ng hapon.

Sinasabing nangingikil umano ang naturang grupo mula sa isang truck driver na si Delio Tongcos at pinagbantaang pagsisisihan ng kanilang kumpanya kung sakaling hindi sila makakapag-bayad sa LAG.

Matapos nakawin ang truck, humingi ng tulong si Tongcos sa Makilala Municipal Police Station na siya namang humingi ng assistance sa 39IB na agad namang inaksyunan.

Kaya naman nang maabutan ng otoridad sa Brgy. Biangan, nakipagbarilan ito laban sa pwersa ng pamahalaan bandang alas-singko ng hapon na tumagal ng halos isang oras.

Sa sumunod na araw bandang alas singko y media ng umaga, ay iniinspeksyon ng mga sundalo ang lugar kung saan naganap ang insidente at muli silang pinaputukan ng naturang grupo.

Matapos tumagal ng kalahating oras ang barilan, narecover ng tropa ang tatlong high-powered rifles, at ilang personal na gamit at isang hindi pa nakikilalang bangkay. Patuloy pa rin ang isinasagawang follow-on pursuit operations laban sa LAG. -EPJA

http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/01/23/39ib-kasama-ang-ilang-makilala-mps-naka-sagupa-ang-isang-lag-sa-north-cotobato/

USS John S. McCain arrives in Subic Bay

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 23): USS John S. McCain arrives in Subic Bay

The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS John S. McCain (DDG 56) arrived in Subic Bay on Monday for a brief port call that highlights the strong community and military connections between the Philippines and the United States.

The McCain crew will participate in a series of community service projects and sporting events during the crew’s visit to the Philippines.

The ship will also use the stop to conduct some minor repairs with the assistance of Filipino companies.

The Philippines is a longstanding treaty ally of the United States with a more than 70-year history of partnership.

The American and Philippine militaries have worked closely together on areas of mutual interest such as humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, counter terrorism, cybersecurity and maritime security.

McCain is forward-deployed to the US 7th Fleet area of operations in support of security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=957362

Bilateral ceasefire with mechanisms needed after Makilala incident - peace adviser

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 23): Bilateral ceasefire with mechanisms needed after Makilala incident - peace adviser

A bilateral ceasefire with guidelines and mechanisms have become vital after the armed confrontation in Makilala, North Cotabato on Saturday involving the 39th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army and an armed group believed to be members of the New People’s Army (NPA).

This was the statement issued by Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Secretary Jesus Dureza, who said that based on reports about the Makilala incident a bilateral ceasefire is more needed otherwise each side, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the NPA will have their own reports and accusations favorable to their own version and interest or propaganda line.

Although he still need to verify the report, Dureza, who is still in New York attending meetings with United Nations officials, said that in a bilateral ceasefire independent monitors conduct their own independent investigations, submit reports with possible sanctions imposed, if warranted.

Dureza cited the best practices in the government’s peace engagements with the Bangsamoro that can be instructive to both sides.

There are concerns that the Makilala incident could affect the ongoing peace talks between the Government of the Philippines (GRP) and the National Democratic Front (NDFP) and may prompt the communist revolutionaries to lift its unilateral ceasefire especially that there is an ongoing pursuit operations against an armed group allegedly involved in harassment and extortion activities in the area.

Soldiers of the 39 Infantry Battalion and operatives of Makilala Municipal Police Station in North Cotabato are now conducting manhunt operations against the lawless armed groups involved in extorting a driver of a construction company.

In a report from the 10th Infantry Division, at about 5:30 a.m. of Jan. 22, the military and operatives of Makilala Municipal Police Station were fired by unidentified armed groups.

A 30-minute firefight ensued. Troops recovered from the site three high-powered rifles, several personal belongings and a body of an unidentified man.

On Jan. 21, the police and soldiers were conducting a joint operation to arrest the groups behind the harassment and extorting a truck driver from a construction company around 5:00 p.m.

While on their way, an armed group fired upon the operatives that resulted in an hour-long exchange of gunfire.

Earlier at around 2:10 p.m. of Jan. 20, the office of Santos Land Development Corporation reported to the Makilala Police Station that a company driver, Delio Tongcos, was harassed by four armed men riding in tandem on-board two motorcycles at Purok Pili Nut, Malasila, Makilala, North Cotabato.

The driver of the 10-wheeler truck reported that armed men fired at him and threatened the management will suffer the consequences if they fail to give in to their extortion demands. The armed men forcibly took the key of the said truck and escaped immediately.

The Makilala PNP immediately responded and requested the assistance of 39th Infantry Battalion for the pursuit of the armed extortionists who escaped towards Barangay Biangan, Makilala, North Cotabato.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=957305

NPA rebels ambush soldiers in North Cotabato amid Rome peace talks

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 23): NPA rebels ambush soldiers in North Cotabato amid Rome peace talks

A New People's Army rebel was killed and five others were hurt in a clash between them and government forces over the weekend in a communist-infiltrated village here, police and the military said.

Army Colonel Harold Argamosa, 39th Infantry Battalion commanding officer, in a report, identified the slain rebel as Rojit Ranara of CPP-NPA-NDF Front 51.

In a statement released by 10th Infantry Division, elements of the 39th Infantry Battalion and Makilala PNP responded to a report that communist rebels have harassed the driver and cargo truck of Santos Land Development Corporation (SLDC), a banana firm operating in North Cotabato.

The 10th ID said as the soldiers were heading toward Barangay Biangan at 5 p.m., they were fired upon by still undetermined number of rebels. An hour-long firefight erupted.

The next day, clashes erupted anew at 5:30 a.m., leaving one rebel killed and the recovery of three M-16 rifles and personal belongings of the slain rebel.

The 10th ID said the soldiers were only responding to a harassment against a cargo truck and not a military offensive against communist rebels.

Earlier, Delio Tongco, SLDC truck driver, reported to the police that gunmen flagged down his truck, took the vehicles ignition key, and fled. The gunmen also threatened to burn SLDC vehicles if revolutionary tax demands are ignored.

A spokesperson for the communist movement in Southern Mindanao, Rigoberto Sanchez, said in a statement that eight soldiers and an NPA rebel were killed in the clashes.

But the military denied the report, calling it a propaganda.

The clashes erupted amid peace talks between the government and NPA leaders in Rome.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=957333

Pres. Duterte meets AFP, PNP top brass

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 23): Pres. Duterte meets AFP, PNP top brass

President Rodrigo Duterte met on Monday with top officials of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Philippine National Police (PNP) following an encounter between government troops and New People's Army (NPA) in Makilala, North Cotabato over the weekend.

"I’m sure it’s going to deal with peace situation in Mindanao," Presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella said when asked by Palace reporters about President Duterte’s scheduled meeting with AFP and PNP top brass on Monday.

President Duterte met with AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Eduardo Ano, Philippine Army Lt. Gen. Glorioso Miranda, Philippine Navy Vice Admiral Ronald Joseph Mercardo, Philippine Air Force Lt. Gen. Edgar Fallorina and PNP chief of Director General Ronald Dela Rosa.

The Makilala encounter took place five months after the government and the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) declared indefinite ceasefire to give way to an ongoing peace talks in Oslo, Norway.

Abella said the encounter that resulted to the death of a communist rebel will not affect the ongoing peace negotiations.

"It should not affect any of the ongoing talks. Ceasefire holds," Abella said.

He explained that the ongoing peace talks are focused on settling the disputes between the government and the communist rebels in the country.

Contrary to the NPA’s claim that eight soldiers were killed in Makilala clash, Abella repeated an official statement from the AFP that there was no casualty from the government side.

Aside from the communist rebels, the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte is talking peace with the Moro rebels in Mindanao particularly with Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF).

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=957475

DND maintains facilities repairs, reconstructed by QRF needed for HADR missions

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 23): DND maintains facilities repairs, reconstructed by QRF needed for HADR missions

The Department of National Defense (DND) on Monday maintained that repairs and reconstruction of military facilities, which were earlier said by the Commission on Audit as not in accordance with the purpose of the Quick Reaction Fund (QRF), was done to ensure that these installations can be utilized by humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions (HADR) personnel affected by calamities.

In the same vein, DND public affairs chief Arsenio Andolong added that these activities are aimed at normalizing areas severely affected by disasters.

"The construction/repair of AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) camps and facilities were undertaken to address the damage sustained during calamities such as Typhoons Santi, Glenda, and Yolanda, among others. It was necessary that certain offices and facilities of the AFP be immediately rehabilitated or repaired so as not to hamper their response to HADR missions," he added.

"As to the release of QRF to various implementing agencies with unliquidated fund transfers, the DND saw the need to urgently transfer funds given the extraordinary circumstances at that time. There was a need to strike a balance between policy and urgency of requirements in order to restore public service and provide support to damaged facilities in disaster-affected areas," Andolong stressed.

An example is supporting the petroleum, oil, and lubricant (POL) requirements of various equipment of the AFP out of the DND QRF, he added.

Andolong noted that POL for HADR missions is not included in the regular AFP budget.

"On the items procured out of the QRF that were marked by COA as overpriced, we reiterate our position that the use of retail prices, instead of wholesale prices, was necessitated by the fact that the procurement was on a small scale, thus big companies did not show interest in joining the bidding process. Furthermore, the urgency of the situation required that the items related to disaster response and relief, such as personal protective equipment, medicines, medical supplies, and purified water be made available immediately," Andolong pointed out.

"Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana nonetheless issued guidance for relevant offices to conduct a review on the items raised in the COA consolidated report," he added.

Earlier, the auditing body said the DND made improper charges in QRF and non-observance of regulations regarding fund transfers to offices with unsettled cash accountabilities.

"The utilization of funds amounting to PHP73,929,934.91 for repairs/reconstruction, using the QRF, was not in accordance with the intended purpose of the QRF as authorized in the DND's budget," the COA said.

It also clarified that the QRF is strictly earmarked for immediate needs for relief and rescue during calamities.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=957452

Seized rifles in N. Cotabato clash from NPA -- 10th ID

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 23): Seized rifles in N. Cotabato clash from NPA -- 10th ID

The three automatic rifles captured during Sunday's encounter in Makilala, North Cotabato, which also resulted in the death of one suspect, are reportedly from the New People's Army (NPA).

This was confirmed by 10th Infantry Division public affairs office chief Capt. Rhyan Batchar in a statement.

"The confirmation came after the PNP SOCO (Scene-of-the-Crime Operatives) processed the incident site and examined the recovered cadaver of a dead man and war items which include three high-powered rifles, three improvised explosive devices, 15 backpacks loaded with personal belongings, two handheld radios, assorted medical supplies and several subversive documents," he added.

The clash which took place 5:30 a.m. Sunday in Barangay Biangan, Makilala town, of the above-mentioned province, stemmed from alleged NPA harassment of a truck driver from the Santos Land Development Corporation on Saturday afternoon.

The harassment stemmed from the company's refusal to give in to the rebels' extortion attempts.
This prompted troops from the 39th Infantry Battalion and the Makilala Police Station to conduct operations, resulting in an hour-long firefight with inconclusive results.

Succeeding operations, 5:30 a.m. Sunday, also resulting in another encounter, only this time, a suspected rebel was killed and three automatic rifles seized in the a 30-minute gun-battle.

Several extortion letters signed by a certain Ricardo Fermiza, spokesman of Guerilla 51, Davao del Sur-North Cotabato Operation Command of the NPA, Southern Mindanao Region were also recovered.

Per reports, Fermiza had been extorting from business owners and ordinary civilians since 2014.
The said items were brought by PNP SOCO at the Provincial Crime Laboratory in Kidapawan City for further evaluation and proper disposition.

On the other-hand, the recovered body was identified as Rojit Estampa Ranara, 33, married, resident of Sito Patulangon, Brgy Zone 1, Sta Cruz, Davao Del Sur.

The cadaver was claimed by his sister Lolita Estampa Ranara.

Ranara's remains are now at Torreda Funeral Homes, Makilala, North Cotabato.

“It is very sad that while the peace talks is on-going, there are armed groups who continue to use force and violence to terrorize and extort from the people,” 10th Infantry Division head Major General Valencia said.

“The Armed Forces of the Philippines together with the PNP as mandated by law, will always take actions to secure and protect the people against these wanton attacks,” he added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=957356

AFP chief urges troops participating in anti-ASG campaign urged to give their all

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 23): AFP chief urges troops participating in anti-ASG campaign urged to give their all

Officers and troops tasked to participate in the ongoing offensive against the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) are urged to give it their all to finish the bandit threat once and for all.

This was stressed by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen. Eduardo Año during a recent visit to the frontlines in Western Mindanao Command.

“I urge you to trail all your thoughts, focus all your efforts, muster all your courage, summon all your energy and give it all to this fight. So that once and for all, we will neutralize the Abu Sayyaf Group, the other terrorist groups, and their infrastructures,” he stressed.

In line with this, Año directed the members of Joint Staff to make good his prior commitment to put the best officers, enlisted personnel, and equipment in this campaign.

“I am satisfied with your preparations especially personnel and equipment readiness of your combat, intelligence, psychological operations, and support units," he added.

“We are advancing in our campaign to finish the Abu Sayyaf Group within six months with renewed and modified plans derived from the strength of our past operational plans and the renewed vigor of the Defense and AFP leaderships,” Año disclosed.

 http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=957385

Navy, Air Force to play key role in defeating ASG threat -- Año

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 23): Navy, Air Force to play key role in defeating ASG threat -- Año

The Navy and Air Force will play a critical role in defeating the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) threat and lawless elements.

This was stressed by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen. Eduardo Año in a statement Monday.

He made this pronouncements during recent visits to Philippine Navy (PN) headquarters in Roxas Boulevard, Manila and Philippine Air Force (PAF) headquarters in Villamor Air Base, Pasay City.

“Sailors and marines, you guard the many isolated and distant posts in the islands and features in the West Philippine Sea. I would like you to know that I am inspired by your dedication – missing important occasions and happy moments you could have spent with your families. Once more, your AFP needs your support in this quest to end the Abu Sayyaf Group and other terrorist groups in Mindanao. Be prepared to render service which requires your energy, time, and personal sacrifices,” Año said.

He also lauded the 21,000-strong PN for their accomplishments and its many contributions to the accomplishment of the AFP mission – both in internal security and in territorial defense operations.
Año said the same thing to the PAF whom he said conducts close-air support, medical evacuations to hard-pressed troops.

“I remember how the pilots conducted close air supports and medical evacuations above and beyond the call of duty, of selfless devotion to duty of the pilots and crew, and how they offered the ultimate sacrifice just to save other people’s lives," he added.

"I now summon you to join the charge against the Abu Sayyaf Group and other terrorist groups that I, as your Chief of Staff committed to significantly defeat in six months period,” Año said.

 http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=957424