AFP, NPA clash in Rizal; no casualty reported

From the Sun Star-Manila (Mar 2): AFP, NPA clash in Rizal; no casualty reported

ARMY soldiers thwarted an attempt by the New People's Army (NPA) rebels to kill its former supporter and launch offensive against a military base in Rodriguez town, Rizal, on Thursday morning.

 

 The communist rebels had their plans interrupted after a resident in the area tipped off the government forces about their presence.

 

 "As per intelligence reports, the NPA terrorists consolidated in order to launch a tactical offensive at Patrol Base Apia in Barangay Calawis, Antipolo City, and to liquidate their former supporter known as Ka Egay at Sitio Dapis, Barangay Puray, Rodriguez, Rizal," said Second Infantry Division public affairs chief Xy-zon Meneses.

 

 The encounter, which started around 8 a.m. lasted for 10 minutes. No casualty was reported from the government side and the rebel's. Meneses said Major General Rhoderick Parayno of Second Infantry Division ordered his troops to conduct pursuit operations against the fleeing rebels.

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/manila/local-news/2017/03/02/afp-npa-clash-rizal-no-casualty-reported-528727

MNLF played vital role in 8-year-old boy's release--official

From ABS-CBN (Mar 1): MNLF played vital role in 8-year-old boy's release--official



The Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) said it played a vital role in the safe release of an 8-year-old boy who was held hostage by the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in Sulu for over 7 months.

Habib Mudjahab Hashim, chairman of MNLF Islamic Command Council said, their ground commanders in Sulu headed the negotiations, and it took some time before they were able to convince the kidnappers to release the boy without payment of ransom.

He said pressure from military offensives might have also contributed to the ASG’s decision to release the boy.

He added that their assistance in the boy’s release shows the MNLF’s commitment to resume peace negotiations with the Philippine government as they iron out conflicts within their organization.

Although Misuari has been suffering from health issues due to gout for the past few years, he is physically and mentally capable to head the negotiating table for the MNLF, the council chair said.

Misuari is expected to meet other Islamic leaders this month in relation to the pending resumption of peace negotiations with the government.

The suspension of his arrest warrant will expire in April, but Hashim said, they could file an extension in court to give ample time for Misuari to deal with the peace negotiations.

Misuari has a standing arrest warrant for rebellion and violation of international humanitarian law in relation to the 2013 Zamboanga siege, where he led his armed followers in a deadly attack which left hundreds dead and thousands homeless.

http://news.abs-cbn.com/news/03/01/17/mnlf-played-vital-role-in-8-year-old-boys-release-official

5 Abu Sayyaf members killed in Sulu clash –military

From GMA News (Mar 2): 5 Abu Sayyaf members killed in Sulu clash –military

Five suspected Abu Sayyaf members were killed Wednesday in an encounter with government forces in Indanan, Sulu, the military said Thursday.

Eleven soldiers were wounded in the clash, which occurred in Barangay Bud Taran, but only one of them was in serious condition, according to the Armed Forces' Western Mindanao Command (Wesmincom).

The wounded soldiers were evacuated to the Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista Hospital for medical attention, it added. On Wednesday, AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said a total of 43 Abu Sayyaf members have been killed from November 1, 2016 to March 1, 2017.

Meanwhile, Wesmincom commander Maj. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr. said the military is doing its best to neutralize the Abu Sayyaf and rescue its remaining hostages following the beheading of German national Juergen Kantner over the weekend.

"The Joint Task Force Sulu continues to intensify the conduct of offensives against the Abu Sayyaf to neutralize the bandits and ensure the safe rescue of the remaining hostages," Galvez said.

"All measures are being undertaken in accordance with the rules of engagement and with the support from the local government and the populace," he said.

Galvez said the military now is "at an advantage" in its intensified operations against the terrorist group since they are now getting help from other sectors.

"The Command is right now at an advantage since the Local Government Unit, the Moro National Liberation Front, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, and the traditional leaders are helping the government troops in fighting terrorism by means of giving information, thus, resulting in the decisive encounter yesterday," he said.

"Terrorism is a sickening problem that needs all sectors of society's cooperation for it to be defeated. With the renewed vigor of those who are against it, we are optimistic that we will be able to crush the bandits within six months," Galvez added. 

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/601651/news/regions/5-abu-sayyaf-members-killed-in-sulu-clash-military

DWDD: NPA’s Shout for Peace talk Resumption while continuing terror actions: A double-edged sword

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Mar 1): NPA’s Shout for Peace talk Resumption while continuing terror actions: A double-edged sword





CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City– Almost a month ago since the President ordered the scrapping of peace talks with the National Democratic Front after the very horrible massacre took place in Bukidnon as a group of NPAs brutally killed the three unarmed and in civilian attire soldiers, the NPAs continued to undertake terroristic attacks targeting legitimate business entities and civilian communities contrary to their clamor for the resumption of peace talks.

Series of economic sabotage activities and extortion activities by the said terror group are still occurring in the Caraga and Northern Mindanao regions.

For the month of February alone, a total of 4 burning incidents took place in the two regions including one landmine planting inside a proposed site for the hydroelectric power plant in Bukidnon, two kidnapping incidents, and killing of innocent civilians were recorded.

The most recent burning incident happened today, Feb 28, 2017 in Brgy Bit-os, an outskirt community of Butuan City when the NPA torched one backhoe that is used for the development projects in the said area and another in Brgy Sta Cruz, Rosario town of Agusan del Sur when another NPA group burned down a container van-carrying prime mover after the owner refused to give-in to their extortion demand. The NPAs did their terror act near a school that shocked the young students who witnessed the incident.

Moreover, we can still recall the recent attack on Army troops coming from a relief distribution mission in earthquake-stricken areas of Surigao del Norte together with a benevolent NGO reflects the duplicity of the NPAs who violated their own declaration that they will not attack the soldiers on mercy and compassion mission.

“These are the reasons why the AFP has declared an all-out-war against this terror group.

They demand peace but their actions speak otherwise. We cannot let them (NPAs) roam around and lord over the lives of our peace-loving people. Our role is to protect our people and secure their communities from these terrorists,” said MGen Benjamin R Madrigal Jr., 4ID Commander.

Yesterday, Feb 27, 2017, two encounters took place in Misamis Oriental and Surigao del Norte. Troops were able to hit their respective target NPA groups and managed to push them away from the communities they (NPA) have been extorting.

One soldier died and one slightly wounded in a fierce fight. Civilians in the area have reported seeing the NPAs carrying their own casualties exiting the encounter areas.

At around 10:30am today, troops under the 30IB, who were pursuing the NPAs they have encountered earlier in Malimono town of Surigao del Norte, have recovered one M16 rifle with fully loaded magazine, one fully-loaded magazine for AK47, one unexploded Improvised Explosive Device (IED), subversive documents, and extortion letters along the NPA withdrawal route.

“As you can see, the recent encounters in the area are the result of our deliberate and careful planning of the operations. These have been made possible by the timely information given by the concerned civilians who are already fed-up with the lies and deceit of these terror group. However, the death of our soldier will never be forgotten especially by the people to whom he dedicated his life and service. He has offered the ultimate sacrifice so that people in this part of the country may live in peace.” MGen Madrigal added.

“The fact that we are hitting them on all fronts and keeping them on the run encourages us to push further and continue to press the fight until such time that they will cease to continue their terroristic activities in the area,” Madrigal concluded.

President Duterte has underlined that there should be a compelling reason to return to the negotiating table. The NPA must show their sincerity on ending all kinds of violence in the area such as economic sabotage, extortion activities, terrorizing and killing people.

http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/03/01/npas-shout-for-peace-talk-resumption-while-continuing-terror-actions-a-double-edged-sword/

DWDD: NPA Terrorizes School in Agusan del Sur

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Mar 1): NPA Terrorizes School in Agusan del Sur

 

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CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City – Members of the communist terrorist New People’s Army (NPA) terrorized students of the Sta. Cruz Elementary School in Rosario Agusan del Sur after burning a prime mover near the vicinity, Tuesday, February 28.

Reports from the Army’s 401^st Infantry Brigade disclosed that the NPAs flagged down and burned the truck at the national road, just 300 meters away from the school.

The prime mover was drawing a container van of bananas from Sumifru Corporation. It came from Tagbina town and was bound for Davao. Its batteries and tires were partially burned.

“Worried parents rushed to the school to fetch their children upon learning of the incident. They condemned the NPA upon seeing their kids trembling in fear. They vowed to report to us the presence of the NPA next time,” reports Colonel Cristobal N Zaragoza, Commander of 401Bde.

Col Zaragoza also suspects that the NPAs deliberately planned to perpetrate the crime near the school to slow down responding government forces.

“This incident only underscores the NPA’s clear disregard for human life. They endanger the lives of innocent civilians, even children just to attain their ends of bleeding money from private companies,” AFP Public Affairs Chief Marine Colonel Edgard Arevalo said.

“Rest assured that our operations to frustrate the ends of the NPA will continue. And they will be deliberate, focused, surgical, and intelligence driven to ensure the safety of our people, especially children,” Colonel Arevalo concludes.

 

http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/03/01/npas-shout-for-peace-talk-resumption-while-continuing-terror-actions-a-double-edged-sword/

DWDD: Gov’t troops recover another M16 Rifle in Batangas

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Mar 1): Gov’t troops recover another M16 Rifle in Batangas



Another M16 Rifle was recovered by the government troops in a follow-up operation conducted today, March 1, 2017, at the encounter site in Brgy. Lumaniag, Lian, Batangas.

Said operation was conducted by the troops of 730th Combat Group, Philippine Airforce under the operational control of 202nd Bde, 2nd Division, in response to information that engaged terrorists last February 27, 2017, hid their firearms at a grassy area near the encounter site.

It can be recalled that one armed member of the New People’s Army (NPA) was killed and three high-powered firearms were recovered by the government troops at Brgy Lumañag, Lian, Batangas last February 27, 2017.

According to MGen Rhoderick Parayno, Commander, 2nd Infantry Division, the troops are still conducting reconnaissance to check if there are still other firearms, ammunition, and explosives left in the area.

http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/03/01/govt-troops-recover-another-m16-rifle-in-batangas/

DWDD: 8ID Renders Send-off Ceremony to Newly Enlisted Privates

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Mar 1): 8ID Renders Send-off Ceremony to Newly Enlisted Privates



CAMP GENERAL VICENTE LUKBAN, CATBALOGAN CITY – A send-off ceremony was rendered to the 242 newly enlisted privates of this Command during the Monday Flag Raising at Openiano Field on February 27, 2017.

    The newly enlisted privates will report to the line units of the 8^th Infantry Division in Eastern Visayas and units deployed in Mindanao to carry out their mandated task in sustaining operation against any lawless elements that disturbed the peace and development of our nation.

    The newly enlisted privates were blessed by Capt. John O. Geronimo, the Division Chaplain to keep them safe all the time while performing their duties.

    Brig. Gen. Cesar M. Idio, the 8ID Assistant Division Commander, in his message reminded the newly enlisted privates the difficult process they went through before they became part of the AFP. “As new soldiers, love and take care of your profession. Your job will bring a better life not only for you but also for your family. Likewise, respect each human rights, rule of law and international humanitarian law.  Always remember, the security of the people lies on you. May the Lord bless you every day to bring you success in your chosen profession,” Idio added.

 

http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/03/02/8id-renders-send-off-ceremony-to-newly-enlisted-privates/

DWDD: Army starts 120th anniversary celebration

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Mar 1): Army starts 120th anniversary celebration




FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila – The Philippine Army formally starts today the celebration of its 120th founding anniversary with a media fellowship under the theme, “Serving the people. Securing the land.”

 

The Army anniversary activities will focus on its history, transformation, and celebration.

 

The Army history activities include:

·         Open house of the Philippine Army Museum from Mar. 13 to 22

·         Commemoration of the Tejeros Convention in Cavite on Mar. 15

·         Wreathlaying Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers at the Libingan ng mga Bayani on Mar. 17

·         Tribute to the Former Army Commanding Generals on Mar. 17

 

The Army transformation-related programs include:

·         Regional Annual Administrative Tactical Inspection on Mar. 12

·         Static Display and Exhibit in the Bonifacio Global City from Mar. 18 to 19

·         Army Senior Leaders Conference on Mar. 20

 

The Army celebration activities include:

·         Army field anniversary celebration in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao from Mar. 7 to 15

·         Army sports fest from Mar. 11 to 18

·         Army Ball / Fellowship Dinner on Mar. 21

·         Parade and Review on Mar. 22

 

“For 120 years, your Army has always been there to serve the people, secure our land,” said Lt. Gen. Glorioso V. Miranda, the Army Commanding General. “This is part of our commitment to become a world-class Army that is a source of national pride.

 

http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/03/01/army-starts-120th-anniversary-celebration/

DWDD: CAREER GUIDANCE | 14IB Conducts Info Drive to 200 Youths of Maydolong

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Mar 2): CAREER GUIDANCE | 14IB Conducts Info Drive to 200 Youths of Maydolong



Brgy Dao, Oras – Your Army in Eastern Visayas thru personnel of 14^th Infantry (AVENGER) Battalion, Philippine Army facilitated an Information Awareness Drive to two hundred (200) youths from the Eastern Samar State University Maydolong Campus, Maydolong, Eastern Samar last February 23, 2017.

The topic discussed was the Career Guidance on how to apply to become an officer and soldier in the Philippine Army.

This Information Awareness Drive was initiated by the 14^th IB to encourage more applicants to join the profession of arms to supplement the needs of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. 2Lt. Dennis S Carig, CMO Officer of 14^th IB, emphasized that “being a soldier is a noble profession, that each individual dedicates their lives for his/her love of the country.”, Leaflets about the Army recruitment were also distributed to the youths for their reference.

 

 

Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Manuel Leo Gador reaffirms the commitment of 14^th IB in reaching out to the academe and youth sector in order to bring inspiration on their role on nation-building. “We hope that our partners from the academe followed suit and also be our active partners in molding the youth as agents of peace and development of our country,” Gador said.

 

http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/03/02/career-guidance-14ib-conducts-info-drive-to-200-youths-of-maydolong/

DWDD: Jungle Fighters encounters NPA members in Rodriguez Rizal

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Mar 2): Jungle Fighters encounters NPA members in Rodriguez Rizal




Troops of the 2nd Infantry “Jungle Fighter” Division encountered an undetermined number of armed members of the New People’s Army (NPAs) today, March 2, 2017, 8:00 in the morning, at So Lam-aw, Brgy Puray, Rodriguez, Rizal.

The said encounter which lasted for 10 minutes happened after a resident in the area tipped-off the presence of the armed rebels. The report says the NPA terrorists consolidated in order to launch a tactical offensive at Patrol Base Apia in Brgy Calawis, Antipolo City, and to liquidate their former supporter known as Ka Egay at Sitio Dapis, Brgy. Puray, Rodriguez, Rizal.

No casualties was reported from the government side while on the side of the enemies is still undetermined.

According to Major General Rhoderick Parayno, Commander of 2nd Infantry Division, the troops in the area are still conducting pursuit operations in order to track down the fleeing rebels.

Meanwhile, as per record, after the ceasefire was terminated by the NPAs, and later by the government, the 2ID has already neutralized two NPA leaders, and recovered four high-powered firearms along with various ammunitions and explosives.

http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/03/02/jungle-fighters-encounters-npa-members-in-rodriguez-rizal/

NDF/NPA-SMR: NPA tactical offensives, armed engagements inflict 20 fatalities, foil AFP assaults in Davao provinces, North Cotabato

New People's Army propaganda statement posted to the National Democratic Front Website (Mar 1): NPA tactical offensives, armed engagements inflict 20 fatalities, foil AFP assaults in Davao provinces, North Cotabato

New People’s Army Regional Operations Command
Southern Mindanao Region
Press Statement| March 1, 2017

Red fighters fought it out against the intensified combat operations of the AFP in several areas in Southern Mindanao, inflicting a total of 20 fatalities from the enemy troops in its armed engagements over the weekend. This as, NPA units in the region launched daily tactical offensives and effectively thwarted attack operations by AFP troops in Davao Oriental, Davao del Norte, Davao City, and North Cotabato.

On February 25, at around 10:30 in the morning, NPA units under the Mt. Apo Sub-Regional Operations Command engaged a joint operation of the 39th IB and 73rd IB CAFGU in SitioBalotakay , Brgy, Managa in Bansalan, North Cotabato. Enemy fatalities ran up to 11 with several other soldiers severely wounded in the clash.

During the armed engagement the following day, February 26, Red fighters belonging to the ComVal–North Davao–South Agusan Sub-Regional Operations Command killed 9 soldiers of the 60th IB in SitioMadgao, Brgy. Sagayen in Asuncion, Davao del Norte. Two Red fighters were martyred in the hour-long firefight.

By its own account after two day-engagement, the AFP launched massive airstrikes and artillery bombardment in the two separate incidents. More than a total of 500 families in Bansalan and Asuncion towns have been displaced due to the AFP’s indiscriminate shelling.

To make certain its all-out war is sustained, the AFP in the region has already beefed up its infantry by augmenting an additional battalion in Davao City. Their arrival mocked the public statement made by GRP Mayor Sara Duterte to talk with the NPA in the wake of the tactical offensives in Calinan last week.

Even as we welcome talks initiated by well-intentioned peace advocates and GRP officials, the NPA in the region stands by its national leadership and the NDFP as the revolutionary movement’s negotiating entity in the peace process.

Meantime, Red fighters will abide by their duty to defend the masses and the revolutionary movement by launching punitive actions against the AFP, PNP and their paramilitaries who are deaf to the call for peace by carrying on with a futile all-out war.

RIGOBERTO F. SANCHEZ
Spokesperson Regional Operations Command
NPA-Southern Mindanao

https://www.ndfp.org/npa-tactical-offensives-armed-engagements-inflict-20-fatalities-foil-afp-assaults-davao-provinces-north-cotabato/

MILF: Editorial -- Another victim dead

Editorial posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (Mar 1): Editorial -- Another victim dead

The ugly face of kidnapping has surfaced again with the beheading of Jurgen Gustav Kantner, a German, by the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) last February 24. It is so disgusting that despite the all-out war waged by the military against the group, they can still play their usual terror game almost at will.

Something wrong in the over-all strategy? We cannot say so; perhaps, the best to say is that it is not paying off yet. But when will this happen; or will it ever happen?

Or simply, the problem of kidnapping is so complex that it cannot be separated, although not part of it, to the resolution of the Bangsamoro Question in Mindanao. Military solutions to peace and order problem in the region has been at play since the grant of Philippine independence in 1946, starting from the Kamlon and Tawantawan rebellions in Sulu and Lanao respectively, but they barely made a scratch in the surface. This led to the creation of the Commission on National Integration (CNI) with integration of Moros into the national body politic as the ultimate aim. But this approach did not click, because the Moros did not want to be integrated. To them, integration is a prelude to assimilation, and henceforth, to Christianisation.

For now, the most that we can do is to sympathize with the family of the victim and offer them condolences. We cannot do more than that. Sulu is the bastion of the ASG, MNLF, Sulu sultanate, and politicians’ private armies. More importantly, it is heavily militarized.

The long range approach of the MILF is to strengthen its presence in the island provinces; and once that objective is achieved, for sure, we can help neutralize kidnapping in the area especially in Sulu. In Central Mindanao where the MILF is strong, kidnapping has been greatly neutralized. Practically for the last six years or so, there has been no instances of kidnapping. Thanks to the effective partnership of government and MILF through their respective Coordinating Committees on Cessation of Hostilities (CCCHs) and Ad Hoc Joint Action Group (AHJAGs).

The main aspect of the difficulty is that while the MILF, as a revolutionary organization, has the moral obligation to combat kidnapping, as well as drug trafficking and other immoral or criminal acts, but it lacks legal authority, at least what government and other states can afford to concede. This can only happen if the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) will be passed into law and the MILF-led Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) is put into place.

In fairness, the Duterte administration has done everything possible to save the German, but to no avail. The ASG wants nothing but money.

Of course, they have not gotten any money by killing the German. But what they succeeded to send the message that they are determined to do anything if their demand is not met.

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte apologized to Germany for the failure of government to save the German victim: “I am very sorry that the hostage, a national of your country, has been beheaded. I sympathize with the family, I commiserate with the German people. But I said, we tried, there’s a massive operation going on and I have just announced to you, they’re beginning to use air assets.”

“We really tried our best. We have been there, the military operation has been going on for some time already and but we have failed and so that has to be admitted,” he added.

http://www.luwaran.net/home/index.php/editorial/23-1st-issue-1-7/1094-another-victim-dead-2

Duterte reveals he requested China to patrol Sulu Sea

From Update.Ph (Mar 1): Duterte reveals he requested China to patrol Sulu Sea

“It’s not a one-hectare island that you can really overrun. There are many places to hide,” President Rodrigo Duterte said on Tuesday when asked how the government will treat terrorist Abu Sayyaf Group in the wake of German national’s beheadung. “And for the first time, we are even using air assets, which we did not – We were hesitant to use because, you know, sometimes, about the problem of collateral damage.”

He then said that he asked China, through its Ambassador, to conduct patrols in Sulu Sea.

“I don’t know if it is diplomatic or not. But in one of my talks with the Ambassador, I have requested China, through the Ambassador, to do some patrolling there sa strait,” he said. “It’s known dito, nearer the Philippines, it’s known as the Cebu, the Sulu Sea. But not of the vastness of Sulu Sea is really a part of the territorial waters of the Philippines.”

“You always count from the coast, ‘yung seashore diyan, up to 12 miles. That is the territorial, territorial. But beyond that, that’s… Well, if there is any entitlements there, iyo ‘yan. But you do not own it actually,” he added.

“So international sea, sabi ko sa China, if they can contribute sa patrolling. Kasi ang might ng China in terms of sea power, it’s a huge one and if they can patrol the international seas – because if the piracy continues, that thing there below Mindanao is a vital sea lane going to the Pacific,” he said.

However, the President said he has “not heard of any response. And there are so many requests that I have made na — which China has still to entertain.”

http://www.update.ph/2017/03/duterte-reveals-he-requested-china-to-patrol-sulu-sea/15030

Duterte wants more helicopters, improved night-flying capability

From Update.Ph (Mar 1): Duterte wants more helicopters, improved night-flying capability

“Well, we need equipments. Until such time that we have the fast boats, the eight remaining frigates or whatever, that was ordered from Japan, but we paid for it, actually. And the – We plan to purchase more helicopters,” President Rodrigo Duterte told reporters on Tuesday at Malacañang Palace with Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Secretary Jesus Dureza.

The President made the statement when ask regarding the military’s self imposed six-month deadline to crush terrorist Abu Sayyaf Group.

Duterte, when he mentioned the “eight remaining frigates or whatever”, was referring to the Japan-made 44-meter Parola-class patrol vessels for the Philippine Coast Guard, 10 were ordered with 2 already delivered.

He did not mention the number of helicopters to be procured. “The numbers, I would not want to tell you now but I have to improve on our night-flying capability. We’re nearing to it. We’re nearing to it,” he said.

“As a matter of fact, we had an operation by air and by ground the other day in Jolo,” he said.
http://www.update.ph/2017/03/duterte-wants-more-helicopters-improved-night-flying-capability/15025

108 New Army Privates deployed to line battalions

From Update.Ph (Mar 1): 108 New Army Privates deployed to line battalions

108 New Philippine Army privates who completed the Candidate Soldier (CS) ‘Manliyab’ Class 422-2016 were sent off to the line battalions under 10the Infantry Division.

The send off ceremony was conducted at the 10ID Grandstand February 28.

“10ID commander Major General Rafael C Valencia, the Guest of Honor and Speaker of the ceremony reminded the Army privates that soldiers are ‘agents of persons in authority’, as such, soldiers are also ‘agents of the President in securing our country’,” 10ID said.

Major General Valencia said that soldiers should respect the persons in authority which includes the local government officials of provinces, municipalities and barangays.

He reiterated his reminder for the new soldiers to take care of their family, finances, career, and chose their future partners in life wisely.

10ID is operating under the command of Armed Forces of the Philippines Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM). EASTMINCOM conducts Conventional and Unconventional Warfare, and Anti-Guerrilla Operations.

It also conducts Peace and Development Outreach in Communities to enlighthen the people about NPA Propaganda Units’ deception and exploitations.

http://www.update.ph/2017/03/108-new-army-privates-deployed-to-line-battalions/15019

BRP Andres Bonifacio now painted naval gray

From Update.Ph (Mar 2): BRP Andres Bonifacio now painted naval gray

BRP Andres Bonifacio (FF-15), Philippine Navy’s third Gregorio del Pilar-class frigate, is now painted naval gray. Gray is the official color of Navy’s warships. Photos of BRP Andres Bonifacio painted in gray were uploaded by Jess Estaño Ladero Jr. in his social networking account.

FF-15 completed her maiden mission to southern Philippines covering the areas of Cebu, Iloilo, Zamboanga, General Santos City, Davao and Iligan City, early Febraury. The mission, Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class of 2017 sea phase training and shakedown mission for Andres Bonifacio’s personnel, started mid-January.

Once painted naval gray, Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana expects BRP Andres Bonifacio to patrol Sulu waters and help other naval units in curbing down kidnapping and piracy incidents in the area.

“This ship will certainly be a valuable platform in the pursuit of the constitutional mandate of the Armed Forces of the Philippines this will strengthen the PN capabilities in raising the country’s security concerns in the protection of our territorial integrity, and maritime interest,” Lorenzana said in December 2016.

She will be joining the BRP Tarlac (LD-601), the country’s first strategic sealift vessel, in conducting the above-mentioned patrols.



http://www.update.ph/2017/03/brp-andres-bonifacio-now-painted-naval-gray/15053

NIR remains focus of Army operations

From the Visayan Daily Star (Mar 2): NIR remains focus of Army operations

The Negros Island Region remains the “focus” of security operations of the Army's 3rd Infantry Division in the three regions of the Visayas, its commander, Maj. Gen. Jon Aying, said yesterday.

Aying said he tasked Col. EliezerLosañes, newly-installed 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, to take charge of the “focus operations” that will be conducted in Negros Occidental.

The island of Negros used to have two Army brigades that supervised the four Army battalions in the conduct of security operations against lawless armed groups in the hinterlands. Now, there are only two battalions of Army soldiers left in the island.

National Democratic Front-Negros spokesman Frank Fernandez earlier debunked military claims that the NPA in Negros has already become a “spent force”, and stressed during a clandestine interview with selected reporters in central Negros that they are growing in numbers and expanding their mass-base areas.

Aying admitted that he is working for additional security forces to be assigned to Negros, although he did not elaborate.

“Since we have the greater, or the bulk of the problem In the whole (3ID) is here, so I have to concentrate forces here”, Aying further said.

“There will be more efforts on combat operations. civil-military and intelligence operations, and assisting in the delivery of basic services,' he added.

While he received reports of rebels recruitment, when the unilateral ceasefire had been observed for six months, Aying said the NPA has to recruit more members to replace those who had left their organization.

There could be mass recruitment, because of mass leave, he said.

The three Army brigades supervised by the3ID are deployed in the Western Visayas, Negros Island Region, and Central Visayas.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2017/March/02/topstory2.htm

Dela Rosa: Maute group tried to assassinate me

From Rappler (Feb 28): Dela Rosa: Maute group tried to assassinate me

A month after he visits his alma mater in Marawi City, PNP chief Ronald dela Rosa reveals a failed attempt by the Maute Group to assassinate him

MAUTE GROUP TRY? PNP chief Ronald dela Rosa is flanked by MSU officials and his security team during the university's commencement ceremony late January 2017. File photo courtesy of PNP PIO

National police chief Ronald dela Rosa on Tuesday, February 28, revealed that the Maute Group tried to assassinate him during a visit to Marawi City late January.

Speaking in Cavite before the National Police College (NPC)'s anniversary, Dela Rosa revealed that during his visit to Marawi City, members of the Maute Group had tried to first plant an improvised explosive device (IED) which was intercepted by the military.

Another member of the group was also supposed to assassinate him during his visit as guest of honor and speaker during the commencement exercises of his alma mater, Mindanao State University.

"Just yesterday, I received the tactical interrogation report," said Dela Rosa, who has been chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP) since July 2016.

Dela Rosa said the day before he arrived, the IED was recovered by the military. The Maute Group also apparently attempted to steal a new vehicle that would've been used to carry out the mission.

But Iligan City police and Special Action Force operatives deployed to the area were able to catch the stolen vehicle, killing two of the thieves on the spot and killing another one later.

"Big-time na pala ako kasi ia-assassinate ako (because they're attempting to assassinate me)," quipped Dela Rosa, who had been the face of a popular but bloody war on drugs.

The Maute Group's plan failed, Dela Rosa said, because of the sheer amount of people – MSU graduates, among them – who constantly surrounded him.

Photos of Dela Rosa during the commencement exercises show him flanked by several policemen, including his close-in security team – as he marched on stage for the ceremonies.

Dela Rosa studied at MSU before he entered the Philippine Military Academy.

In early January 2017, the military vowed to crush the Maute Group and the Abu Sayyaf within 6 months.

Late 2016, the terrorist group occupied parts of Butig town in Lanao del Sur, prompting a military offensive and a forced evacuation of most of the town's 16,000 residents.

The Maute Group is a local terror group that pledged allegiance to the Islamic State.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/162842-dela-rosa-maute-assassination

US lawmakers back Asia military funding proposal

From InterAksyon (Mar 2): US lawmakers back Asia military funding proposal



American and Japanese warships conduct an exercise in the South China Sea. (Reuters)

A bipartisan group of US members of Congress has backed a proposal for $7.5 billion of new military funding for US forces and their allies in the Asia-Pacific region, where tensions have risen over China's territorial ambitions and military buildup.

Five members of the US House of Representatives and eight senators from both the Democratic and Republican parties wrote to Defense Secretary Jim Mattis to support the Asia-Pacific Stability Initiative proposed in January by John McCain, chair of the Senate Armed Service Committee.

Copies of the letters were seen by Reuters. Their signatories include members of the armed services committees in both houses of Congress.

McCain's proposal calls for $1.5 billion annually for five years to 2022 to boost US munitions stocks in the region, build new military infrastructure, such as runways, and help allies and partners increase their capabilities.

The House letter urged Mattis to incorporate McCain's proposal in the fiscal 2018-22 defense budgets.

"The Asia-Pacific region holds many interests for US foreign policy that will require our government to continue to prioritize our time, energy and resources there," it said.

The letter called former President Barack Obama's policy of giving precedence to the Asia-Pacific "sound" and it was "critical" that this be continued under President Donald Trump.

It expressed concern about "the eroding military and economic balance that is the result of the People's Republic of China's two-decade military modernization, combined with the effect of years of sequestration on the US military and our foreign policy apparatus."

The Senate letter also expressed concern about increasing Russian activity in the region and North Korea's nuclear and missile programs.

"ASPI will show both allies and adversaries that the US remains committed to ensuring peace and security in a region that contains the world's three largest economies, four most populous countries, six of the world's largest armies, and five of the seven US mutual defense agreements," it said.

Trump has vowed to take a tougher line with China and to build up the US military, although it is unclear whether he will succeed in lifting caps on defense spending that have been part of "sequestration" legislation.

China is due to announce its defense budget for this year this weekend, and its navy is likely to secure significant new funding as Beijing seeks to check US dominance of the high seas and step up its projection of global power.

http://interaksyon.com/article/137411/us-lawmakers-back-asia-military-funding-proposal

FOCUS | Is Beijing outflanking the United States in the South China Sea?

From InterAksyon (Mar 1): FOCUS | Is Beijing outflanking the United States in the South China Sea?



A Chinese fighter takes off from the aircraft carrier Liaoning during a drill in the South China Sea. (Reuters)

[Peter Apps is Reuters global affairs columnist, writing on international affairs, globalization, conflict and other issues. He is founder and executive director of the Project for Study of the 21st Century; PS21, a non-national, non-partisan, non-ideological think tank in London, New York and Washington. Before that, he spent 12 years as a reporter for Reuters covering defense, political risk and emerging markets. Since 2016, he has been a member of the British Army Reserve and the UK Labor Party. @pete_apps]

For much of the last week, the US aircraft carrier Carl Vinson has been patrolling the South China Sea. It is just the kind of display of Washington’s power and global reach that the US Navy excels at -- both to reassure allies and, in this case, send a message to potential foes.

How much longer Washington will be able to perform such operations unchallenged, however, is an increasingly open question.

Some military experts project that within a little more than a decade, China’s People’s Liberation Army Navy may have more warships than Washington under its command. Beijing’s military buildup is part of its strategy to dominate many disputed territories in the South China Sea -- and push America back.

Retaining US global military dominance is at the heart of President Donald Trump’s plan to up Pentagon spending by $54 billion, or roughly 9 percent. That alone, however, will not be enough to maintain Washington’s regional military edge. China’s own defense budget has increased by double digits almost every year for the last two decades -- although it slowed slightly last year. More importantly, Beijing is also adopting a range of tactics to which Washington lacks a truly effective response.

While Washington’s approach in Asia has always been focused on its ability to move aircraft carriers through China’s backyard, Beijing has been doing everything it can to tilt the strategic balance against its possible foes. It’s a strategy that includes new weapons systems, considerable conventional naval expansion but also a host of other tactics including building naval bases, floating power stations and artificial islands.

China's plan?
Some current and former US military officials believe it is a question of when, rather than if, a regional conflict takes place. What seems equally plausible is a decades --long -- and perhaps largely bloodless -- confrontation remaining just below the threshold of anything that might trigger actual war.

That may well be China’s plan.

It’s a game that Beijing has played in increasing earnest since 1995, when the Chinese military fired several missiles and conducted military maneuvers around Taiwan, which Beijing sees as a breakaway province. US President Bill Clinton responded by sending two aircraft carriers to patrol the waters between Taiwan and mainland China, a move that Beijing’s military could do little to stop without sparking a war it knew it would not win.

Since then, China has focused on gaining the ability to keep US forces -- particularly aircraft carriers -- out of its immediate neighborhood. Many analysts believe it now possesses enough weapons technology -- submarines, missiles and strike aircraft in particular -- that US planners would be reluctant to risk their carriers that close to China’s coast again.

China is believed to have thousands of ballistic missiles aimed at the island, as well as naval weaponry to destroy nearby warships. Some experts believe Beijing might try to regain control of the island sometime in the next two decades.

Beijing’s next immediate goal appears to be expanding its military capability much further out -- to a number of potentially energy -- rich atolls and islands claimed by the Philippines, Vietnam and Malaysia.

Beijing’s most grandiose claims in the South China Sea were rejected last year by the UN’s top international maritime court. China has, however, continued to build and expand, particularly around the disputed Scarborough Shoal. The Chinese military landed on the islands -- also claimed by the Philippines -- in 2012 and have since built up their presence there.

Disputed bases
From these disputed bases, Beijing’s military claims a range of air and sea areas under its jurisdiction, demanding foreign aircraft and ships register with them. American, Australian and other military forces make a point of flouting these rules -- which have little international legitimacy -- with relative impunity.

No one has a strategy to stop the Chinese. At his confirmation hearings, new US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson raised eyebrows by suggesting US forces might somehow deny China access to the disputed islands. That would almost certainly start a war, however, and the idea has not been mentioned since.

In many ways, what has happened in the South China Sea resembles a more gradual version of what Vladimir Putin’s Russia achieved in Crimea during its 2014 takeover -- using armed men without uniform to change the reality on the ground before Ukraine or its allies could react.

In Ukraine, Russia later proved itself willing to use more overt -- although still officially denied -- military force to seize control of some Russian -- speaking areas in the east of the country. The question in the South China Sea is whether Beijing might consider something similar -- and what might happen if it does.

China has also become increasingly focused on acquiring the kind of high-level, high-value military assets that the United States has used against it in the past. China’s first aircraft carrier -- a former Soviet vessel rebuilt -- is becoming ever more effective, although it remains primarily used for training. In December, it conducted what appeared to be its first long-range patrol outside China’s coastal waters. China is also constructing its first domestically built carrier and reportedly working on another.

Ships boost image
Such ships are important to Beijing’s international image -- witness the attention Russia got through sending its only carrier to conduct airstrikes in Syria late last year. So are the ballistic missile submarines that -- like Russia -- Beijing is increasingly building, a stark reminder to any potential enemies of the cataclysmic consequences of outright war.

According to some estimates, over the next 10 to15 years, China could build its fleet to a total of 500, including up to four aircraft carriers and 100 submarines as well as smaller but sophisticated corvettes, patrol boats and other combat craft. That compares to Trump’s planned expansion of the US Navy to some 350 vessels, including a larger proportion of more powerful vessels, but spread across the entire world.

In sailing through the disputed waters of the South China Sea, the Carl Vinson has once again shown America’s military might. In the event of an actual war, however, it is far from clear how long such a massive vessel would survive before being sunk.

In any case, the Carl Vinson will be gone next week -- although other forces will remain -- and the Chinese will still be building.

http://interaksyon.com/article/137409/focus--is-beijing-outflanking-the-united-states-in-the-south-china-sea

13 rebels give up

From the Mindanao Times (Mar 1): 13 rebels give up

THIRTEEN rebels returned to the folds of law in Davao Oriental on Monday, two of them minors.

 

Alias Dongkoy, 17, a member of NPA’s Guerrilla Front 25, voluntarily submitted himself to the 67th Infantry Battalion.

Two teenagers, Cicel, 17, and Sandara, 18, and a companion named Alex, 25, from the NPA’s Guerrilla Front 71, voluntarily turned themselves to 73rd IB.

 

A teen-ager named Renheart, 18, was also one of the nine members of NPA-Milisya ng Bayan (MB) who gave up to the 73rd IB. Other who gave up were identified as Angelo, 35; Agila, 35; Marcelo, 33; Kabug, 30; Jigger, 29; Joseph, 24; Cristine, 22; and Bayot, 20.

 

Since Feb. 1, a total of 39 NPA members have returned to the folds of the law, bringing five high-powered firearms

Maj. Gen. Rafael Valencia, 10th Infantry Division commander, scored the communist group for recruiting minors for armed struggle.

“The communists must spare the children from directly participating in the armed conflict,” Valencia said. “This irresponsible act of the CPP-NPA should be strongly condemned by the Filipinos.”

Meanwhile, a joint army police team recovered war materiel left by the NPAs in an encounter site at Barangay Sangayen, Asuncion, Davao del Norte, also on Monday.

 

Capt. Rhyan Batchar, 10th ID spokesperson, said the troopers of 60th IB, together with members of Davao del Norte Provincial Public Safety Company (DNPPSC), were scouring the encounter site where the fleeing NPA rebels were subjected to aerial strikes last Sunday.

 

Upon scouring, they recovered an M16 Armalite rifle, backpacks, a voltage regulator and handheld radio apparently left by the NPA.

The 60IB soldiers engaged in a 40-minute gunfight around 20 rebels belonging to Guerrilla Front 33 in the area around 10 a.m. on Sunday.

 

Two bodies of NPA rebels, one of them was identified as Michael Caso, and two AK-47 rifles were recovered in the said area.

 

http://mindanaotimes.net/13-rebels-give-up/

Dwindling strength

From the Mindanao Times (Mar 2): Dwindling strength

NPA chest-thumping as number continues to drop: army

THE EASTERN Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) yesterday said they are trying to sustain their momentum as the strength of the New People’s Army (NPA) has dwindled in recent months.

This is the reason why they are escalating their attacks on military detachments, construction companies and agri-plantations, said Brig. Gen. Gilbert Gapay, commander of Joint Task Force Haribon in yesterday’s AFP-PNP press conference held at Royal Mandaya hotel.

“That’s what they want to project that they are still a force to contend with, but they continue to decline even before the all-out war against the NPA,” he said, adding that the rebel group is even forcing communities to join the recruitment to increase its numbers.

“Naturally, there’s going to be atrocities to attract the attention of the government. The problem is the communities, especially in remote areas, end up being burdened.”

He claimed that the NPAs strength based on their estimates went down from 2,000 to 1,500 with almost the same number of firearms.

“Overall, there is 25 percent reduction in terms of membership and in terms of the number of firearms and this continues to decline as we continue our operation against them,” he further said.

Gapay also said the troops will continue their operations against the New People’s Army in the hinterlands of the city.

Nevertheless, the military welcomes the offer of Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio to talk with the NPAs in light of the lifting of the ceasefire order. As a show of support, he said they can “ease up the pressure” against the NPA for the time being.

For now, they continue to monitor the activities and movement of the rebels in Paquibato, Marilog and Toril. In their patrols, he claimed that they recovered some landmines on areas with heavy foot traffic.

New clashes
Meanwhile, Capt. Rhyan Batchar, spokesperson of 10th Infantry Division, said another encounter ensued for about 40 minutes between troops of 71st Infantry Battalion and communist rebels at Purok 6, Sta. Fe, New Corella and Davao del Norte around 2:15 p.m. on Tuesday.

 

The troops encountered around 20 members of Guerilla Front 33, Southern Mindanao Regional Committee.

At about 3 p.m. of the same day, two MG520 took off from TOG11, Barangay Sasa, Buhangin District to provide air support to troops at Purok 6, Barangay Sta. Fe.

Yesterday early morning, the Owabangon CAA detachment based at Sitioo Owabangon, Barangay San Jose, Boston, Davao Oriental was attacked by NPAs believed to be members of GF20, SMRC.

 

Firefight lasted for about three minutes before the rebels withdrew.

Based on their record, there were 251 clashes between soldiers and NPAs since the lifting of the ceasefire by President Rodrigo Duterte. They also killed and captured 63 rebels while 42 surrendered. In the same period, 23 IEDs and 19 firearms were recovered.

 

Batchar also said around 100 families in Bansalan, Davao del Sur left their homes over the weekend when troops of 39th IB clashed with the rebels.

“We are already coordinating with the local government unit in order to address the areas that are affected by the armed conflict,” he further said.

Brig. Gen. Macairog Alberto, commander of 100st Infantry Brigade, said they are fighting nine NPA units in their area of responsibility. The 100st is operating in the areas of Compostela Valley, Asuncion, Davao del Norte and Trento in Agusan Del Sur.

 

http://mindanaotimes.net/dwindling-strength/

ARMY: Four burning incidents recorded in February

From the Mindanao Times (Mar 2): ARMY: Four burning incidents recorded in February

THE MILITARY has recorded four torching incidents allegedly perpetrated by the New People’s Army in Caraga and Northern Mindanao last month.

 

Capt. Joe Patrick Martinez, spokesperson of 4th Infantry Division, said apart from the incidents, one landmine was planted inside a proposed site for hydroelectric power plant in Bukidnon, two kidnapped and civilians killed.

 

The most recent burning incident happened on Tuesday, Feb. 28, in Barangay Bit-os, an outskirt community of Butuan City when the NPA torched one backhoe that is used for the development projects in the said area.

 

Another NPA group burned down a prime mover after the owner refused to give in to their extortion demand in Barangay Sta. Cruz, Rosario town of Agusan del Sur. The truck was burned near a school, witnessed by students.

“These are the reasons why the AFP has declared an all-out-war against this terror group,” said Maj. Gen. Benjamin Madrigal Jr., division commander. “They demand for peace but their actions speak otherwise. We cannot let them (NPAs) roam around and lord over the lives of our peace-loving people.”

On Monday, two encounters took place in Misamis Oriental and Surigao del Norte. One soldier died and one wounded in a fight.

 

On Tuesday around 10:30am, troops under the 30th Infantry Battalion, who were pursuing the NPAs they encountered earlier in Malimono town of Surigao del Norte, have recovered one M16 rifle with fully loaded magazine, one fully-loaded magazine for AK-47, on IED, subversive documents and extortion letters.

“The death of our soldier will never be forgotten especially by the people to whom he dedicated his life and service. He has offered the ultimate sacrifice so that people in this part of the country may live in peace,” Madrigal said.

Earlier, President Rodrigo Duterte has underlined that there should be a compelling reason to return to the negotiating table.

 

http://mindanaotimes.net/army-four-burning-incidents-recorded-in-february/

‘Doctors to the Barrios’ volunteer shot dead in Lanao del Norte

From MindaNews (Mar 2): ‘Doctors to the Barrios’ volunteer shot dead in Lanao del Norte

KAPATAGAN, Lanao del Norte – A “Doctors to the Barrios” volunteer was shot dead in the municipality of Kapatagan, Lanao del Norte Wednesday evening, reports said.

Dr. Drefuss Perlas, 30, a native of Poblacion Batan in Aklan province, was reportedly riding his motorcycle on his way to his boarding house in the adjacent town of Lala when a still unidentified suspect shot him at the back in a dark portion of Barangay Maranding Annex around 7:30 in the evening.

Perlas reportedly belongs to the 30th batch of the Department of Health’s “Doctors to the Barrios” program.

Senior Insp. Melvin Loquinte, Kapatagan police chief, told MindaNews over phone that people at first thought the victim was suffering from hypertension, but when they noticed it was Dr. Perlas they rushed him to the Kapatagan Provincial Hospital.

Loquinte said they found one empty shell at the crime scene and are still conducting investigation to determine the motive.

Perlas reportedly served as municipal health officer of neighboring Sapad town since 2013 but lived in Barangay Maranding in Lala municipality. Sapad is a hinterland town 18 kilometers away.

“He was a good man and a dedicated health officer,” Loquinte said of the doctor.

1Lt. Marloue Decin, Charlie Company Commander of the Army’s 15th Infantry Battalion, said Dr . Perlas led the One-Stop-Shop Medical Mission in the interior barangay of Karkum only last Tuesday (February 28) together with the local government unit of Sapad, the military and the police.

“He was a great loss for us and the medical team of the province who served and attended the health needs of the Muslim and Christian community in Sapad,” Decin said.

Perlas was once a medical retainer of the 35th Infantry Battalion before the unit was transferred to Jolo, Sulu, Decin added.

The slain doctor’s father, Dennis Perlas, a member of the Sangguniang Bayan of Batan, said in a phone call that Dr. Perlas was the eldest of two siblings. He said they are coming today from Aklan.

http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2017/03/doctors-to-the-barrios-volunteer-shot-dead-in-lanao-del-norte/

PDEA, AFP seal agreement to keep country safe, drug-free

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 1): PDEA, AFP seal agreement to keep country safe, drug-free

The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) signed Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on Tuesday that sealed their cooperation to keep the citizenry safe and free from illegal drugs.

PDEA Director General Isidro S. Lapeña and AFP Chief of Staff, General Eduardo M. Año led the MOA signing, and was witnessed by key officials from the two law enforcement agencies.

Also present during the ceremony were Chairman Benjamin Reyes of the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB), Hon. Robert Ace Barbers, Representative of the 2nd District, Surigao del Norte and Chairperson, Committee on Dangerous Drugs, Hon. Seth Frederick Jalosjos, Representative of the 1st District of Zamboanga del Norte, and Hon. Arnolfo Teves, Jr., Representative of the 3rd District of Negros Oriental.

“Both parties shall exercise administrative control over their respective units and personnel. However, PDEA shall take the lead role, or force employer in the national anti-drug campaign, while the AFP shall be the force provider, most especially in conflict-affected areas wherein terror groups are prevalent” Lapeña said, adding that no anti-drug operations will be conducted without the approval of the Agency.

Under the agreement, PDEA and the AFP have declared their cooperation to safeguard the well-being of the Filipino citizenry particularly the youth, from the harmful effects of dangerous drugs on their physical and mental well-being, and to defend the same against acts or omissions detrimental to their development and preservation.

In addition, Intelligence and counter-intelligence build-up and investigation against personalities in government and influential groups shall be conducted by PDEA and the AFP’s Joint Counter-Intelligence Task Force (JCTF) Noah.

The MOA governs the two parties to establish a national-level intelligence fusion center, together with other law enforcement agencies, national government agencies/offices, and other local government units.

“The intelligence hub will assist PDEA in arresting big-time drug lords and suppression of sources of supply of dangerous drugs and controlled precursors and essential chemicals (CPECs). The Agency, with the AFP’s support, shall conduct continuing investigation to ensure all members of the syndicates will be accounted and identified, as well as gather vital evidence for the successful prosecution of the case,” Lapeña said.
         
PDEA and AFP also agreed to conduct community relations geared towards the clearing of drug-affected barangays and maintain cooperation involving the exchange of trainings that deals on drug enforcement, preventive education and intelligence and counter-intelligence.

“PDEA’s foremost mission is to undertake a national campaign for drug prevention and control, to a same degree that the AFP’s mandate is to protect the people and the State, secure its sovereignty and the integrity of the national territory. These two institutions have their own battles to wage against different adversaries. But nonetheless have vowed to make a united stand against anything or anyone who threatens to inflict drug-related harm to the country and its people,” the PDEA chief said.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/241488358630/pdea-afp-seal-agreement-to-keep-country-safe-drug-free

Anti-terror, anti-kidnapping workshop set for Negros Oriental’s Task Force Leon Kilat

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 1): Anti-terror, anti-kidnapping workshop set for Negros Oriental’s Task Force Leon Kilat

Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo has confirmed the reactivation of the composite Task Force Leon Kilat with its members scheduled for a training/workshop on anti-kidnapping and anti-terrorism next week.

This came following fresh intelligence reports of world-renowned dive destination Apo Island off the coast of Dauin, Negros Oriental as a potential target by the kidnap-for-ransom group Abu Sayyaf.

But Gov. Degamo late Tuesday afternoon downplayed the report, saying that the threat has always been there and “we just have to be on our guard”.

He said it is, indeed, a concern, but “we will isolate the Abu Sayyaf so as not to enter our territory”.

Degamo, in an interview with reporters, said he has a “strong message” for the Abu Sayyaf, a notorious kidnap-for-ransom group that had recently beheaded a German national hostage.

“Do not come to Negros Oriental. Because (if you do) something will happen to you”, the governor said.

Degamo confirmed having held a meeting Tuesday morning with members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Philippine National Police (PNP) and other law enforcement agencies to discuss the latest terror threat report following the reactivation of Task Force Leon Kilat.

He convened the task force to discuss security measures and identify the respective roles and responsibilities of each member-group as well as other operational matters.

The workshop is scheduled on March 7 and 8 and will be spearheaded by the AFP’s Central Command (CentCom) based in Cebu City, said Gov. Degamo.

According to the governor, the Task Force Leon Kilat’s security plan will be “connected” or similarly patterned after that of a regional anti-terror task force.

Task Force Leon Kilat members include the provincial government, the Philippine Army, the PNP, the Philippine Navy, the Philippine Coast Guard, the Maritime Police and the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, among others, Degamo said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=968140

Many NPA bands push for localized peace talks -- AFP

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 1): Many NPA bands push for localized peace talks -- AFP

Not all New People's Army (NPA) ranks are supportive of their top leadership's decision to cancel their existing ceasefire with government forces.

This was proven as various NPA groups in the group are pushing for a localized peace talks in their respective regions, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) public affairs office chief Col. Edgard Arevalo said Wednesday.

"We have heard the report from Davao City Mayor Sarah Duterte who welcomes the expression of the NPA to have a localized peace talk in their area," he added.

"In Compostela Valley, we have received the report from Major General Rafael Valencia who said that members of the NPA are also opting for a localized peace talks. The members of the local government are the ones brokering these loalized peace talks," the AFP official disclosed,

Arevalo said the same is true in the Visayas as 8th Infantry Division commander Major Gen. Raul Farnacio said that rebels in his area-of-operation also signify their intention to go to a localized peace talks.

"This is now being arranged by the local government," he added

In Bondoc Peninsula, Arevalo the provincial board members are catering to this particular desire of the NPA to go to localized peace talks if they cannot attain success in the national level.

We would like to encourage and welcome all those who have expressed their intent to do peace talks even at the localized level in order for us to gain success in this particular area," he added.

The government was forced to cancel its ceasefire and peace talks with the NPA last Feb. 4 after the insurgent earlier announced that they are lifting their unilateral ceasefire effective 11:59 p.m. of Feb. 10.

In wake of that announcement, the rebels also conducted a series of unprovoked attacks against government and civilian targets, killing six unarmed soldiers and abducting three others in the process.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=968133

Military ops to rescue ASG hostages to continue despite Kantner beheading

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 1): Military ops to rescue ASG hostages to continue despite Kantner beheading

Military operations aimed at recovering the remaining 32 hostages being held by the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) terrorists will continue despite the brutal beheading of German captive Juergen Kantner last February 26.

This was the assurance given by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen. Eduardo Año said in a interview Tuesday afternoon.

"We have ongoing operations now in Basilan and Sulu, and (Tawi-Tawi) we will continue until we are able to rescue the remaining hostages and prevent future kidnappings," he stressed.

An AFP estimate places the number of ASG hostages in the hands of the terrorists at 32.

This can be broken down into 27 foreigners and seven Filipinos.

"We sympathize with the family of Mr. Kantner but of course this would even make our (troops) more committed to pursue these perpetrators in order to bring them to justice," the AFP chief added.

Año said he expects the military to get the upperhand in the campaign against the ASG once the AFP gets more equipment that will boosts its capabilities in maritime security as it will help them in preventing attacks against passing merchant ships and isolated coastal areas.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=968196

Military pursuing NPA rebels behind torching of truck near Agusan Del Sur school

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 1): Military pursuing NPA rebels behind torching of truck near Agusan Del Sur school

Military units are now pursuing New People's Army (NPA) insurgents who terrorized students of Sta. Cruz Elementary School in Rosario Agusan Del Sur after burning a prime mover near the facility on Tuesday.

Reports from the 401st Infantry Brigade disclosed that the NPAs flagged down and burned the truck at the national road, just 300 meters away from the school, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) public affairs office chief Col. Edgard Arevalo said in a statement Wednesday.

The prime mover was drawing a container van of bananas from Sumifru Corporation. It came from Tagbina town and was bound for Davao. Its batteries and tires were partially burned.

“Worried parents rushed to the school to fetch their children upon learning of the incident. They condemned the NPA upon seeing their kids trembling in fear. They vowed to report to us the presence of the NPA next time,” 401st Infantry Brigade commander Col. Cristobal N. Zaragoza said.

He also suspects that the NPAs deliberately planned to perpetrate the crime near the school to slow down responding government forces.

“This incident only underscores the NPA’s clear disregard for human life. They endanger the lives of innocent civilians, even children just to attain their ends of bleeding money from private companies,” Arevalo added.

“Rest assured that our operations to frustrate the ends of the NPA will continue. And they will be deliberate, focused, surgical, and intelligence driven to ensure the safety of our people, especially children,” he stressed.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=968213