3 kidnapped Malaysians rescued in Sulu

From the Sun Star-Zamboanga (Mar 27): 3 kidnapped Malaysians rescued in Sulu

The Philippines military said authorities have rescued three more Malaysian tugboat crewmen held hostage by Abu Sayyaf bandits for eight months in Mindanao.

 

A brief military report Monday, March 27, said troops rescued Zulkipli Bin Ali, Mohammad Ridzuan Bin Ismail and Fandy Bin Bakran late Sunday in Sulu province. They were taken to a hospital for check-ups.

 

Two other Malaysian crewmen from the same group, who were kidnapped by Abu Sayyaf bandits in July off Malaysia's Sabah state near Mindanao, were rescued last week when they were abandoned by their captors as a naval patrol closed in.

 

Abu Sayyaf bandits survive mostly on ransom kidnappings, extortion and other acts of banditry by targeting tugboats in the seas bordering the southern Philippines, Malaysia and Indonesia. 

 

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/zamboanga/local-news/2017/03/27/3-kidnapped-malaysians-rescued-sulu-533264

Land dispute involving Moro clans in North Cotabato leaves 6 people dead

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 27): Land dispute involving Moro clans in North Cotabato leaves 6 people dead

The clan war involving Moro armed men contesting a vast track of lands in a village here has already claimed the lives of six persons, the military said Monday.

Major Calvin Macatangay, speaking for the Army's 602nd Infantry Brigade, said the "rido" (family feud) between the Matalam and Cua clans in Barangay Gen. Luna, Carmen, North Cotabato was triggered by dispute over vast farmlands.

Both groups are claiming ownership of lands planted to corn and oil palm.

Macatangay said the Army did not intervene with the conflict to allow local leaders, including Moro fronts, to mediate.

Citing intelligence information, the Army said both sides have supporters from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and the Moro National Liberation Front.

Macatangay identified those involved in the clan war as Arlin Matalam, son of former Rep. Jimmy Matalam and the Cua clan getting help from the Kalawan and Akmad armed group.
Macatangay identified the slain protagonists as Ustadz Odin Bala, Mesi Bala and King Kambambalan, all from the side of Cua and Kalawan and Kusain Akmad group.

Killed on the side of the Matalam clan were Zukarno Maguid, Lawan Lakman and Makungan Lakman.

Soldiers and police have set up checkpoints along the Sayre highway that connects North Cotabato and Bukidnon as well as entry and exit routes toward Barangay Gen. Luna to prevent additional reinforcements for both warring clans.

An undetermined number of families from Gen. Luna have moved to nearby communities to avoid getting caught in the cross fire.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=975207

PN formally accepts 2 Japanese TC-90s in Sangley Point ceremony

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 27): PN formally accepts 2 Japanese TC-90s in Sangley Point ceremony

The Philippine Navy (PN)'s humanitarian and patrol capability got a big boost the Japan Ministry of Defense (JMOD) formally transferred two units of the Beechcraft TC-90 training aircraft Monday morning.

Transfer ceremonies took place at the Naval Air Group headquarters, Naval Base Heracleo Alano, Sangley Point, Cavite City.

The two aircraft landed at the said facility around 10 a.m.

Present during the transfer ceremony was Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and his JSMOD counterpart Kenji Wakamiya.

PN spokesperson Capt. Lued Lincuna said these aircraft were leased from the JMOD as part of the Navy's efforts to enhance its capability in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations, limited transport, and maritime domain awareness including maritime air surveillance and intelligence surveillance reconnaissance.

The whole project involves five units of TC-90s. The remaining three units are expected to arrive by mid-2018.

Last November, two PN pilots and six air crews left for Japan to start their TC-90 flight training.

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

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

The DND added it is also looking at the possibility of using the TC-90 for 20 years while the military is upgrading its equipment.

The TC-90, which is part of the Beechcraft King Air aircraft family, was offered by Japan shortly after the Agreement Concerning the Transfer of Defense Equipment and Technology was finalized last Feb. 29, 2016.

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

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=975229

Authorities, MILF vow to thwart spread of extremism, illegal drugs in Maguindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 27): Authorities, MILF vow to thwart spread of extremism, illegal drugs in Maguindanao 

Military, police, local officials and rebel leaders have forged an agreement to prevent the spread of Islamic extremism and illegal drugs in Maguindanao province.

The agreement was signed by Brig. Gen. Arnel dela Vega, Army’s 6th Infantry Division commander, Mayor Midpantao Midtimbang Jr of Guindulungan, Ghadzali Jaafar, Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) political affairs chief, and other local and police officials.

Also present during Sunday's summit against terrorism and lawlessness were Western Mindanao Command chief Maj. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr. and Abuhuraira Udasan, a foreign-trained Islamic theologian and grand “mufti” (cleric) in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

Dela Vega said the summit was meant to unite efforts of local leaders, the police, the military and leaders of the local communities in preventing the entry of religious extremism

Before the signing of the covenant, Udasan shared the "correct interpretation" of Quran, stressing it promotes life.

Guindulungan town in Maguindanao is part of the area of operation of the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), which expressed loyalty and sympathy to the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria.

Galvez earlier said there are a dozen ISIS-inspired terrorist cells in Mindanao, mainly in Maguindanao and Lanao del Sur, both Muslim-dominated communities.

The multi-party cooperation was also aimed at helping the national government’s anti-drug campaign, with local leaders vowing to be in the forefront to eradicate illegal drugs in the province.

Senior Supt. Rodelio Jocson, PNP-ARMM deputy director, represented Chief Supt. Reuben Sindac, ARMM police regional director.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=975225

Manhunt for Maute Group terrorists

From the Business Mirror (Mar 25): Manhunt for Maute Group terrorists

THE Philippine National Police (PNP) is hunting down members of the Maute Group, three of whom have been identified, following the earlier arrest of their colleague during an operation by a combined police and military team in Quezon City.

The three—Isnadie Ibrahim, a certain Najib and Yusof Macoto—were reported members of the group’s terror cell based in Metro Manila, although the Armed Forces is still yet to categorically admit the existence of the Islamic State (IS)-allied group in Metro Manila.

Police Director General Ronald M. dela Rosa said members of the Lanao del Sur-based Maute Group are currently the subjects of continuing operations by the police, although he did not discount the possibility that they could have already slipped back to Mindanao.

Jihad ‘teacher’
Ibrahim, a subleader of the Maute Group, supposedly planned the foiled bombing on the US Embassy in Manila, while Macoto was the mastermind of the attempted attack. Macoto is an imam at the Tejeros Mosque in Tanza, Cavite.

According to a report prepared by the Quezon City Police District, under Chief Supt. Guillermo Lorenzo T. Eleazar, Macoto has been facilitating the teachings of jihad at the mosque.

The presence of the terrorist group in Metro Manila, or at least the existence of a plot to attack, was first confirmed by dela Rosa immediately after the foiled embassy bombing on November 28 last year, which subsequently led to the arrest of four suspects who are members of the Ansar al Khilafa Philippines (AKP).

The AKP and the Maute are two groups allied with the IS. Lately, however, all local terrorist groups in Mindanao have already joined together under the banner of ASG Basilan Commander Isnilon Hapilon as the ISIS-recognized leader in Mindanao.

The existence of a terror cell in Metro Manila was further confirmed by the arrest on Monday of Nasip Ibrahim, 35, a native of Marawi City, Lanao del Sur, and resident of 31-A Libyan Street, Salaam compound, Barangay Culiat, Quezon City.

Eleazar said a joint police and military team took in Ibrahim after his house yielded three firearms and a homemade bomb fashioned out of a 60mm mortar shell with a detonating device.

Plot to bomb US Embassy

The Quezon City police director said the operating team was actually attempting to serve a warrant of arrest against Jamil Baja Tawil for illegal possession of firearms.

“Tawil is a suspected ally of the Maute terrorist group believed being coddled by Nasip Ibrahim y Sarip and sheltered in his residence,” the report prepared by the Quezon City Police said.

The arrest of Ibrahim, who was presented to dela Rosa by National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) Chief Director Oscar Albayalde and Eleazar, completed the picture on the failed US Embassy bombing.

Ibrahim, Eleazar’s report said, was the driver of the blue Toyota Revo with plate number XKT-424 that was used in the attempted bombing. It was reportedly driven all the way to Manila from Mindanao.

The report added that a few days before the foiled bombing, Ibrahim met with Najib, Rashid Kilala and his uncle, Isnadie Ibrahim, alias Bro Akh a.k.a. Inspire near SM department store in Marilao, Bulacan.
Ibrahim also facilitated the accommodation of the three at the Park Villa on Quezon Avenue, where they stayed for two nights.

After the failed bombing, the PNP arrested Kilala and three others, identified as Jiaher Guinar, Mohammad Jumao-as and Elmer Romero.

Dela Rosa said the arrest of Ibrahim prevented any other possible attack by the terrorist group in Metro Manila.

ISIS-inspired
“The PNP has foiled another sinister attempt by the ISIS-inspired Maute group to launch terrorist activities. I am glad that alert operatives of the NCRPO discovered and intercepted in time an improvised explosive device being prepared by the suspects even before it can be delivered to its possible target or used elsewhere,” the PNP chief said.

“We are yet to uncover the circumstances surrounding this incident involving the Lanao-based Maute Group, but this discovery leads us to believe that the Maute Group has already established presence in Metro Manila, as to what extent, that is the subject of our follow-up investigation and operations,” he added.

In disclosing the presence of the Maute in the nation’s capital, dela Rosa said he does not want to create an alarm, but wanted Metro residents to be vigilant.

“I do not want to sound alarmist or cause panic, but prudence, it has been said, is the better part of valor. I, therefore, urge our people to remain calm, yet alert and vigilant of the presence of threat groups in our midst,” the PNP chief said.

The military is working with the PNP to validate the reported presence of a terror cell in Metro Manila, saying it does not still have the data on the report, while belying it was contradicting the police stand.

“There is no contradiction with the PNP headquarters on that account because, at that time of the media event of the PNP headquarters, the Armed Forces did not possess the information and the data that were necessary to make a more extensive statement…so, we could not link anything, or conclude anything until we have the information,” military spokesman Brig. Gen. Restituto C. Padilla Jr. said.

Padilla added that whether there is a threat, what is important is the readiness of security forces, including the police, to deal with it.

http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/manhunt-for-maute-group-terrorists/

Iloilo courts order arrest of NDFP negotiator

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Mar 27): Iloilo courts order arrest of NDFP negotiator

Judge says ‘Ka Concha’ no longer protected from arrest after 1st round of talks

Alleged rebel leader and peace consultant Ma. Concepcion Araneta-Bocala is still facing arrest even as peace negotiations are set to resume early next month.

Two branches of the Iloilo Regional Trial Court (RTC) have issued warrants for the arrest of Bocala, known by her nom de guerre “Ka Concha,” last month due to the termination of the previous round of talks held in Oslo, Norway.

Judge Ma. Therese Enriquez-Gaspar, presiding judge of RTC Branch 33, set a P30,000 bail for a rebellion charge against Bocala.

Gaspar denied an omnibus motion filed by Bocala’s lawyers for a reinvestigation, judicial determination of probable cause and lifting of the arrest warrant.

Vain attempt

Gaspar said in her two-page order that the case was filed in 1988 and the motions should have been filed at that time.

She said the recent motions were a “vain attempt” of the accused to evade the legal processes.

Gaspar, who is also acting presiding judge of RTC Branch 23, also issued a warrant for the arrest of Bocala for alleged illegal possession of firearms and ammunition and for another case of illegal possession of firearms.

In her Branch 23 order, Gaspar said the P100,000 cash bond posted by Bocala for her release to attend the peace negotiations on Oct. 6 to 10 was deemed canceled after termination of the talks.

Lawyer Rene Estocapio, of the National Union of People’s Lawyers, said counsels for Bocala would file motions for reconsideration at the courts.

Bocala, 66, is expected to be among the consultants of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) in the fourth round of peace negotiations with the government set on April 2 to 6 in The Netherlands.

She was arrested on Aug. 1, 2015, in Iloilo and was believed to be the head of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) in Panay.

She was released on Aug. 16, 2016, after she was allowed to post bail totaling P400,000 in courts in Iloilo City, Aklan and Antique.

Other charges
Bocala is also facing a 1975 murder charge at the Kalibo, Aklan RTC Branch. She has also been charged with rebellion at the Culasi, Antique RTC Branch 13.

She had denied the allegations saying these were “trumped-up” charges to justify her prolonged detention.

The CPP had announced that it would issue a unilateral declaration of interim ceasefire not later than March 31 as part of goodwill measures in support of the resumption of the peace talks.

In an ambush interview in Malaybalay City on Saturday, President Duterte said he did not decide alone on the peace process with communist rebels.

Mr. Duterte said he had yet to consult other officials on the CPP’s plan to declare a unilateral ceasefire and whether the government needed to reciprocate.

“The presidency is not controlled by me at all, there is no such thing as absolute decision if it involves the interest of the country,” Mr. Duterte said.

“I have to consult the Speaker, I have to consult the Senate President, I have to convene the National Security Council and I have to ask the generals of the Army and the police,” he said.

Duterte’s honor

The President expressed doubt the rebels would heed the ceasefire declaration, citing previous cases of New People’s Army attacks at the height of ceasefire declarations.

He said he ended the government ceasefire declaration in February because of a rebel attack that took place even before the rebels ended their ceasefire declaration.

Citing unconfirmed reports, Mr. Duterte said the attack on soldiers in Bukidnon before the rebels even declared an end to their ceasefire was a display of brutality.

“One Army guy had 74 bullet wounds,” he said. “We fight as warriors but we do not kill people like animals.”

Mr. Duterte said the war with rebels had been going on for the past 50 years already and he did not mind if it dragged for another 50 years. “You honor what you pledge,” he said.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/884023/iloilo-courts-order-arrest-of-ndfp-negotiator

LOOK: PH Air Force, as 'Star Wars' stormtroopers, wins marching band contest

From ABS-CBN (Mar 26): LOOK: PH Air Force, as 'Star Wars' stormtroopers, wins marching band contest



Members of the Philippines Air Force band go about a performance that helped them win the Ihudyat! competition for best marching band, a contest that took place at UP Diliman Amphitheater on Saturday. Angie De Silva, ABS-CBN News

 It's an homage that would certainly make Darth Sidious proud.

The Philippine Air Force bagged 1st place in Ihudyat!, a competition that gathered the best marching bands at UP Diliman Amphitheater on Saturday night.

Members of the PAF band wore Imperial stormtrooper masks inspired by the "Star Wars" movie franchise, as they went about playing brass instruments. (The glow-in-the-dark tops were a functionally appropriate touch, too, given the time of the event.)



Members of the Philippines Air Force band go about a performance that helped them win the Ihudyat! competition for best marching band, a contest that took place at UP Diliman Amphitheater on Saturday. Angie De Silva, ABS-CBN News

 To complete the ensemble, the band leader was all decked out in a Darth Vader costume, red lightsaber in hand. To say it was the most awesome sight to behold is selling short the band's performance and sense of creativity.

Second place was awarded to the Philippine Army for performing Michael Jackson music, while third went to the Philippine Coast Guard for playing a mishmash of classical music.



Members of the Philippines Air Force band go about a performance that helped them win the Ihudyat! competition for best marching band, a contest that took place at UP Diliman Amphitheater on Saturday. Angie De Silva, ABS-CBN News

 http://news.abs-cbn.com/news/03/25/17/look-ph-air-force-as-star-wars-stormtroopers-wins-marching-band-contest

CPP to release 4 more captives, urges gov't troops in 3 Mindanao provinces to 'stand down'

From GMA News (Mar 26): CPP to release 4 more captives, urges gov't troops in 3 Mindanao provinces to 'stand down'

The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) has asked police and military units in three provinces in Mindanao to "stand down" for the release of four "prisoners of war."

The CPP made the call in its statement released on Saturday, where it announced that it will revive its unilateral ceasefire "not later than March 31."

The communist party said the four captives are set to be released by the New People's Army (NPA) in Surigao del Sur, Sultan Kudarat and Bukidnon.

"Their releases are being impeded by ongoing military and police operations in the area. The CPP urges the local commands of the AFP and PNP to stand down and coordinate with third-party facilitators to pave the way for the releases," it said.

Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said they will await instructions from President Rodrigo Duterte before heeding the CPP's request.

"We will await instructions from the Commander-in-Chief," Padilla told GMA News Online.

For his part, Philippine National Police spokesperson Sr. Supt. Dionardo Carlos said the police force welcomes “the efforts of the NPA to release of the hostages as a gesture to move forward the peace process.”

The military and the police resumed operations against the NPA after Duterte lifted the government's ceasefire declaration and suspended the peace talks last February.

Earlier this month, Presidential Peace Adviser Jesus Dureza announced from that the government's talks with the communist rebels are "back on track again."

Dureza made the announcement after a meeting with representatives from the National Democratic Front in Utrecht in The Netherlands last March 11.

On Saturday, the NPA said it released two members of the Citizens Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) on Friday.

The Philippine Army's 10th Infantry Division confirmed the release of CAFGU Active Auxiliary personnel Rene Doller, 34, and Carl Mark Nucos, 24. The two CAFGU members were brought to the 701st Infantry Brigade in Mati City.

Batchar said the Army "welcomes the safe return" of Doller and Nucos. Batchar said the two were abducted by about 30 NPA rebels last February 14 in Barangay Don Mariano in Lupon town following an armed encounter in Barangay New Visayas with the 28th Infantry Battalion.

The NPA rebels flagged down the kidnap victims who were separately riding motorcycles and wearing civilian clothes. The rebels burned the motorcycle of Doller before fleeing. 

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/604687/news/regions/cpp-to-release-4-more-captives-urges-gov-t-troops-in-3-mindanao-provinces-to-stand-down

Army debunks food blockade in Abra

From the Sun Star-Baguio (Mar 26): Army debunks food blockade in Abra 

A CALL for surrender has been made by the government amidst three weeks of ongoing military operations in Malibcong, Abra.

 

24th Infantry Battalion Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Baluga said feelers for surrender have been made by rebel emissaries after a female New People’s Army member yielded to authorities, Friday.

 

Baluga said the female surrendered and has been brought to the battalion for her safety “We are calling on them to surrender and assure them no one will get hurt.”

 

Baluga said there are over 500 combined forces of the Philippine Army and Philippine National Police in the thick of operations in the hinterlands aiming to rid the mountains of rebels.

 

Baluga said a rebel camp has been secured between barangays Mataragan and Lat-ey where documents were confiscated without artillery or rebels owing to early detection of groups in the area.

 

Meanwhile Cordillera youth, Anakbayan hits the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on allegations of a food blockade marring entry of supplies in Malibcong.

 

Anakbayan demanded the government to stop the blockade in war-affected areas in as they claim food scarcity is rising among civilians in the area.

 

Reports from Anakbayan Abra reported army checkpoints were up since March 16, prohibiting the entry of food. The group cited that violations of the international humanitarian laws in the conduct of war, saying civilians are being deprived of their right to aid.

 

Baluga denied the allegations of a food blockade and said supplies for civilians have been freely coming into the area citing deliveries from the provincial government by the governor has reached the villages.

 

Baluga said it is the supply of food of rebels which is fast depleting with three weeks of fighting ongoing, sources from civilians are now hard to come by with the military and police sprawled in the areas.

 

 “The elders have told us there are rebels want to surrender and we will welcome them.”

 

 Abra is still on full alert after an ambush wounded five policemen three weeks ago, sparking the full battle against the NPA.

 

 In the area, a series of bombings was reported by residents with forest fires, allegedly done by the Army, to which they have since denied.

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/baguio/local-news/2017/03/26/army-debunks-food-blockade-abra-533163

DWDD: Army Hits NPA Terrorists in Agusan, 2 Dead, scores wounded and 2 Firearms Recovered

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Mar 24): Army Hits NPA Terrorists in Agusan, 2 Dead, scores wounded and 2 Firearms Recovered




CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City– Troops under the 26th Infantry Battalion encountered an NPA terror group in the outskirts of Sitio Mandanao, Brgy Bunucayan, Loreto town of Agusan del Sur at around 1:30pm yesterday, March 23, 2017, resulting in the death of 2 NPAs and the wounding of several others while troops recovered 2 firearms.

“We acted upon the reported NPA extortion activities in the said community.” As explained by Ltc Rommel Pagayon, 26IB Commanding Officer.

Ltc Pagayon pointed out the total disregard of the NPAs to human rights. He said, “I sent troops to address the situation. However, these NPAs really do not care about the welfare of the civilians nearby when they indiscriminately opened fire on my soldiers.”

The troops managed to position to a vantage position and were able to push the NPAs away from the said community after a 30-minute firefight.

Tracks of blood and flesh from the severely wounded NPA members were seen in their (NPA) escape route. Troops also recovered 2 high-powered firearms (AK47 and an Akkar Shot gun), personal belongings, and subversive documents left by the beleaguered NPAs. Furthermore, civilians also saw the NPAs carrying their wounded and dead. Civilians also confirmed the two (male and female) NPA fatalities that were accordingly left in the outskirt area. Unfortunately, one CAFGU member ( a name is withheld prior notification of kin) also died after suffering a gunshot wound on his inguinal area.

It is very unfortunate that this tragedy has to happen. Our hearts are grieving for the death of our three fellow Filipinos. To those NPAs who died during the clash, they should have been alive by now if only their leaders did not deceive them to join their terror group. We urge the leader of the said NPA group to bring his wounded comrades to the hospital. We shall not let them suffer so much pain in the mountains. We are also offering our medical assistance to help your wounded comrades.” Ltc Pagayon stressed.

 

http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/03/24/army-hits-npa-terrorists-in-agusan-2-dead-scores-wounded-and-2-firearms-recovered/

DWDD: 237 Families Flee To Avoid NPA Forced Recruitment In North Cotabato

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Mar 24): 237 Families Flee To Avoid NPA Forced Recruitment In North Cotabato



MAWAB, COMPOSTELA VALLEY PROVINCE – To avoid being forced by the NPA to join the communist movement, 237 families evacuated their homes in Brgy Camutan, Antipas, North Cotabato in the early morning of Thursday, March 23.

Antipas Mayor Egidio Cadungon convened the Local Crisis Management Committee to facilitate the immediate care of the 237 families who temporarily stayed in Antipas Municipal Gym in Brgy Poblacion. Reports from Cotabato Police Provincial Office (CPPO) revealed that around 30 families who were earlier held hostage by the NPA in Sitio Embangan have managed to leave the said area in the afternoon of the same day.

“As of 4:00 p.m., Sitios Patot, Datu Agod and Embangan of the said barangay are totally vacated by the residents,” the report added.

The report further stated that the arrival of the NPA in Brgy Camutan caused fear and panic among the residents, forcing them to flee to Poblacion Antipas. Additionally, per report from Antipas MDRRMO, the elementary schools in Barangays Canaan, Embangan and Camutan have also suspended their classes until Friday, March 24 to ensure the safety of the children.

A joint Army-PNP team composed of troops of 39IB and the Cotabato Police Public Safety Company (CPPSC) immediately responded to the reported NPA presence and engaged the NPA belonging to Guerrilla Front 53 in a 10-minute firefight at Sitio Malapange of the said barangay around 7:20 in the evening. No soldier or police were hurt in the said encounter.

As of Friday morning, the local government of Antipas, 39IB, and CPPO through the Crisis Management Committee are closely working together to facilitate the safe return of the evacuees to their communities.

Major General Rafael Valencia, 10ID commander condemned the NPA rebels for spreading fear and panic among the peaceful people of Antipas, North Cotabato.

“This incident clearly shows the anti-people character of the nuisance propaganda army (NPA) of the communists, he added.  “It is now high time that the people voice their desire for peace and call on the communists to abandon their armed struggle, which for the last 50 years have only brought miseries to the Filipino people,” MGen Valencia concluded.

http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/03/24/237-families-flee-to-avoid-npa-forced-recruitment-in-north-cotabato/

MNLF-IIO: MNLF Chairman Nur Misuari soon to be president of the BMR Bangsamoro government...Duterte approved

Posted to the Moro National Liberation Front-International Information Office (Mar 25): MNLF Chairman Nur Misuari soon to be president of the BMR Bangsamoro government...Duterte approved



https://www.facebook.com/MNLFINFO/photos/a.1014067655330137.1073741829.404979842905591/1420501981353367/?type=3&theater

MILF: CHD to launch New Training manual to promote peaceful conflict resolution

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Mar 26): CHD to launch New Training manual to promote peaceful conflict resolution



The Center for Humanitarian Dialogue (CHD) is set to launch a new Training Manual on Mediation and Conflict Resolution at 3PM on March 27, 2017 at Pagana Kutawato Restaurant, Cotabato City. More than a hundred personalities were invited including representatives from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) and representative of non-government organizations.

CHD considers Mediation and dialogue remain the most cost effective and sustainable tools for addressing conflicts, and they are increasingly being recognized as methods for creating durable peace.

As a private diplomacy organisation, the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue (HD) not only works to prevent, mitigate and resolve armed conflicts through dialogue and mediation, it also seeks to promote mediation as an effective method for addressing conflict and one which can be applied at all levels of society.

HD is consequently pleased to announce it is releasing a Trainer’s Manual on Conflict Resolution: A Foundation Course – Understanding, Negotiating and Mediating Conflicts which provides the basis for setting up courses in the subject and inspiring individuals and local communities to use mediation skills to settle their disputes.

Published with support from the European Union, the Trainer’s Manual offers comprehensive information to help people understand conflict, while seeking to equip them with essential conflict negotiation and mediation skills. It also provides trainers who wish to build local mediation capacity in their communities with a useful guide for facilitating a course on conflict resolution. The manual is structured around three modules and outlines how conflicts are conventionally negotiated by the parties involved in them. It also includes suggested mediation techniques and approaches as well as simulation exercises.

The manual captures the essential features of a series of training courses organised by HD with local women, young people and groups involved in building peace in Mindanao in the Philippines. The training courses, supported by the European Union, took place in 2016 and early 2017, and were arranged as part of HD’s efforts to promote mediation as a viable tool for resolving conflicts and establishing peaceful communities.

“We hope that this manual will equip people and institutions with fundamental tools to be able to understand and resolve conflict through the principles of mediation and dialogue.” said Michael Vatikiotis, HD’s Regional Director for Asia. “In whatever small way, we hope that this can make a difference for those facing situations of conflict in their communities both in Mindanao and elsewhere.” he added.

The first launch was officially launched at the Discovery Pimea in Makati City. In all, around 120 representatives from the media, civil society, national and local government agencies, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and the Moro National Liberation Front, as well as the international community, are expected to attend. (CHD Official Website)

http://www.luwaran.net/home/index.php/news/22-davao-region/1120-chd-to-launch-new-training-manual-to-promote-peaceful-conflict-resolution

CPP/NPA-Abra: Bigo at walang saysay ang operasyong kombat ng AFP-PNP sa Abra!

New People's Army propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines Website (Mar 26): Bigo at walang saysay ang operasyong kombat ng AFP-PNP sa Abra! (Frustrated and futile combat operations of the AFP-PNP in Abra!)



Ka Diego Wadagan, Spokesperson
NPA-Abra (Agustin Begnalen Command)

26 March 2017

Bigo ang combat operation ng 24th IB-PRO Cor-Abra PNP. Pinatunayan na palso ang mga pahayag nila Lt. Col. Baluga at PD Tagum na nasukol na nila ang yunit ng NPA sa Malibcong. Mahigit dalawang linggo ang nakalipas walang ni isang NPA ang nasukol pero maraming insidente ng paglabag sa karapatang pantao ang naitala sa iba’t ibang bayan ng Abra dahil sa masaklaw na militarisasyon kabilang na ang pag-aresto, food blockade, pagpapahinto ng eskwela, pagbabawal na pumunta sa kaingin at gubat, panggigipit sa mga cause oriented group at maging sa mga opisyal ng lokal na pamahalaan.

Dahil sa kahihiyan at walang napalang combat operation naglabas muli ng gawa-gawang balita si Lt. Col. Baluga na di umano ay may nahuli silang isang amasona noong March 23. Inililinaw ng ABC-NPA Abra na walang ni isang NPA ang nahuli o nagsurender. Ang pagkabigo ng operasyong militar ay hindi mapagtatakpan sa pamamagitan ng mga hibang na saywar.

Dapat pagbayaran ni Lt. Col. Baluga at PD Tagum ang karahasan sa mamamayan ng Abra. Dapat magsagawa ng imbistigasyon ang mga institusyong nangangalaga sa karapatang pantao. Dapat magsilbing boses ng sambayanan ang mga taong media upang ipaalam sa madla ang tunay na mga kaganapan sa Malibcong at buong probinsya.

Nakikiisa ang Agustin Begnalen Command sa muling pagpapatuloy ng peacetalk at sa naunang pahayag ng pambansang command ng New People’s Army sa Unilateral Ceasefire bilang pagseryoso sa usapang pangkapayapaan. Ngunit habang nananalasa ang mga pwersang militar at pulis sa mga komunidad at kabundukan na saklaw ng rebolusyonaryong kapangyarihan mananatiling aktibong depensa ang moda ng lahat ng yunit sa ilalim ng Agustin Begnalen Command.

Mamamayan ng Abra manindigan, lumaban at biguin ang pasismo ng estado. Maramihang sumampa sa New People’s Army at lumahok sa makatarungang digmang bayan.
Palaganapin sa buong probinsya ang digmang bayan. Marapat lang na pagbayadin ang mga utak at pasimuno ng pagyurak sa karapatang pantao sa pamamagitan ng kapangyarihan ng masa walang iba kundi ang armadong pakikibaka.

https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statements/20170326-bigo-at-walang-saysay-ang-operasyong-kombat-ng-afp-pnp-sa-abra

Duterte recalls time as NPA hostage

From the Business World (Mar 25): Duterte recalls time as NPA hostage
before fresh batch of police force

PRESIDENT Rodrigo R. Duterte, speaking before a fresh batch of the police force on Friday, claimed he was once held “hostage” by the New People’s Army (NPA) -- the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) -- for prosecuting communist fighters.

In his speech during the 38^th commencement exercises of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) class of 2017, Mr. Duterte recalled how he was nabbed by the NPA’s “kangaroo court,” the underground justice system known for sentencing to death many members they had suspected as government spies.

“I was once upon a time a hostage ng NPA at tinutukan ako ng baril na M-14 sa ulo (and I was held at gunpoint),” Mr. Duterte, a former prosecutor, said.

The communists, which projects itself as a sovereign entity, refers to its hostages as “prisoners of war.”

“Pero (But) let the world know...That you killed me because I was doing the prosecution work against your comrades,” the President then recalled telling the armed rebels.

He added to his audience of new police officers: “Hindi tinuloy ng mga gago. Eh di ngayon, magpunta ako doon, sila pa magluto, sila pa mag-guwardiya sa akin. Eh ganon lang ang buhay.” (The fools did not carry out my sentence. So now, when I go there, they even cook for me and provide security. That’s life.)

Also attending the PNPA ceremony was Vice-President Maria Leonor G. Robredo. Ismael D. Sueño, Mr. Duterte’s interior secretary, was supposed to be seated between her and Mr. Duterte, but offered his seat to Ms. Robredo who exchanged pleasantries with Mr. Duterte.

Early this month, the Philippine government and communist rebels have agreed to return to the negotiating table in April and reinstate their respective unilateral cease-fire.

Mr. Duterte, who describes himself as a socialist, launched the peace process soon after he took office in June last year in a bid to end nearly five decades of insurgency. He appointed three leftists to his Cabinet.

But the talks have been stalled time and again. This time, Mr. Duterte had imposed some tough conditions for the continuation of the talks, including an end to the collection of the revolutionary tax.

http://www.bworldonline.com/content.php?section=Nation&title=duterte-recalls-time-as-npa-hostagebr-before-fresh-batch-of-police-force&id=142726

Cases vs leftists on 3 Akbayan supporters

From Business World (Mar 25): Cases vs leftists on 3 Akbayan supporters
killed remanded to Nueva Ecija court

THE Supreme Court (SC) has tasked a Nueva Ecija court to handle the murder cases against former leftist lawmakers instead of remanding the cases to the provincial prosecutor.

Named as accused are former Gabriela Women’s Party Representative and now National Anti-Poverty Commission lead convenor Liza L. Maza, former Anakpawis Representative and now Agrarian Reform Secretary Rafael V. Mariano, and former Bayan Muna Representative Saturnino C. Ocampo and Representative Teodor A. Casiño. The four were indicted on the abduction and killing of Danilo Felipe in 2001; Jimmy Peralta in 2003; and Carlito Bayudang in 2004.

The three victims are supporters of Akbayan, a rival party-list of the accused.

In a statement, the SC Public Information Office disclosed the Feb.15, 2017 decision penned by Associate Justice Marvic M.V.F. Leonen which set aside the July 18, 2008 and Dec. 2, 2008 orders of Palayan City, Regional Trial Court Branch 40. The two orders said the criminal cases were to be sent back to the provincial prosecutor for a new set of preliminary investigation.

The SC’s Second Division further ordered Palayan City, RTC Branch 40 Judge Evelyn A. Turla to “conduct further proceedings with due and deliberate dispatch.”

The SC said that the earlier assailed orders to remand the cases were “improper.” The SC PIO added: “It gave merit to petitioners’ contention that respondent Judge’s action in remanding the case for further preliminary investigation lacks legal basis, considering they already submitted sufficient documents for her to rule on the existence of probable cause.”

Mr. Leonen, for his part, said: “[w]hen Judge Turla held that the prosecutors’ conduct of preliminary investigation was ‘incomplete’ and that their determination of probable cause ‘has not measured up to [the] standard,’ she encroached upon the exclusive function of the prosecutors.”

“Instead of determining probable cause, she ruled on the propriety of the preliminary investigation,” Mr. Leonen added.

The Court further reiterated that it was Judge Turla’s duty to “determine the existence of probable cause against the accused,” adding that the judge could even choose to disregard the report submitted by the prosecutors if she found it unsatisfactory or could order them to submit additional evidence, if necessary.

http://www.bworldonline.com/content.php?section=Nation&title=cases-vs-leftists-on-3-akbayan-supportersbr-killed-remanded-to-nueva-ecija-court&id=142724

Truce useless if NPA continues attacks: AFP chief

From Malaya Business Insight (Mar 27): Truce useless if NPA continues attacks: AFP chief

THE Armed Forces yesterday said no date has been set for the reinstatement of the government’s unilateral ceasefire with the Communist Party of the Philippines/New People’s Army, which President Duterte lifted last month.

On Saturday, the CPP announced it is going to declare a new unilateral ceasefire “not later than March 31,” in anticipation of the resumption of the formal peace negotiations in the Netherlands on April 2 to 6.

Armed Forces chief Gen. Eduardo Año took a shot at the CPP, saying the unilateral ceasefire of the communists will be useless if the NPA will continue “to extort money and burn equipment and properties.” 

President Duterte lifted the government truce and terminated the formal peace talks with the communists on February 4 because of rebel attacks on civilian and military targets. The communists later suspended their own truce.

Last March 12, government and communist negotiators announced the resumption of the talks following informal meetings. The two sides also agreed to re-instate their    unilateral truce before the resumption of the formal talks.

President Duterte initially declared the government ceasefire in August prior to the start of the first round of formal talks in August last year. The communists reciprocated with their own truce.

In South Cotabato Friday, government forces repulsed simultaneous rebel attacks on an Army detachment and a mining firm nearby in Barangay Tablu in Tampakan town.

Capt. Rhyan Batchar, public affairs officer of the Army’s 10th Infantry Division, said about 50 rebels launched the attacks around 7 a.m., targeting the Tablu military detachment and the Sagittarius Mines Inc (SMI).
Batchar said the rebels outnumbered the soldiers and militiamen, who numbered only 14 men. However, he said the government troops were aided by undetermined number of SMI security guards.

Batchar said the soldiers, the militiamen and the security guards “held their ground until artillery fire support from the 27th IB (Infantry Battalion) and three Air Force helicopters arrived, forcing the attackers to flee.”

No soldier, militiaman or security guard was killed or injured in the attacks, which lasted for five hours and 25 minutes. Batchar said the witnesses saw four of the rebels wounded as the rebels were retreating.

During clearing operations, the troops recovered a handheld radio and plastic containers filled with gasoline, which Batchar said the rebels may use in burning the Army detachment and SMI facilities.

Batchar said the rebels launched the attacks due to the refusal of SMI to give in to the extortion demands of the communist movement.

http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/truce-useless-if-npa-continues-attacks-afp-chief

NPA releases 2 CAFGUs in Davao

From Rappler (Mar 25): NPA releases 2 CAFGUs in Davao

The military demands the release of the rest of the prisoners taken by the communist rebels

48 YEARS AND COUNTING. New Peoples Army guerrillas in Davao City during the 48th founding anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines on December 26, 2016. File photo by Edwin G. Espejo

The military on Saturday, March 25, confirmed that the New People's Army (NPA) released two militiamen that the communist armed group took as prisoners in February.

Rene Doller and Carl Mark Nucos, members of the Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unity (CAFGU), in Davao region were released as the NPA committed to declare a unilateral ceasefire before the peace talks reopen in April.

"The 10th Infantry Division (ID) welcomes the safe return of Rene Doller, 34, and Carl Mark Nucos, 24 who were kidnapped by the NPA belonging to Pulang Bagani Company (PBC) 6 at Sitio Upper Waywayan, Brgy Don Mariano, Lupon, Davao Oriental last 14 February 2017," said 10th ID spokesman Captain Rhyan Batchar.

Batchar said the Doller and Nucos are now under the custory of a military brigade in Mati City.

Violence between the military and the NPA resumed in February after both camps withdrew from a 5-month-long ceasefire. President Rodrigo Duterte scrapped the peace talks but was reportedly persuaded by members of the House of Representatives to reopen it.

The military demanded the release of the remaining prisoners taken by the NPA.

"We further demand from the NPA the release of their other kidnap victims and desist from using the victims' hapless situation in advancing their political propaganda," said Batchar.

The release of NPA prisoners is one of the demands Duterte made in greenlighting the resumption of peace talks with the National Democratic Front.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/165214-peace-process-communist-rebels

PRO 10 condemns NPA on their recent atrocities

From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 26): PRO 10 condemns NPA on their recent atrocities

Police Regional Office (PRO) 10 condemns in strongest terms the hostile action of the New People’s Army (NPA) of burning the heavy equipment of Del Monte plantation sites in Northern Mindanao—Bukidnon and Misamis Oriental provinces—since January 2017 up to the present.

PCSupt Agripino G Javier, PRO 10 director said this is a clear indication of the armed rebel’s sustained violation of human rights to earn a living and live peacefully.

PRO 10 declared full alert status effective March 24 as the NPA will celebrate its 48th Founding Anniversary on March 29 as its preemptive effort to protect the community from any atrocities that the NPA may undertake during the celebration of their anniversary.

They might take advantage by conducting series of atrocities. Nonetheless, the public is assured that the PNP and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will support each other in conducting law enforcement operations against these criminals and lawless elements, said PSupt Lemuel Gonda, PRO 10 spokesperson.

PRO 10 encourages the people to strongly deny the rebel group activities and report them immediately to the authorities. The PNP further calls on the armed rebels to lay down their arms and return to the their families who need them very much in order to enjoy the life of being peaceful and to help the government develop the country into a peaceful place to live and enjoy the graces of God.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1461490410153/pro-10-condemns-npa-on-their-recent-atrocities

Pres. Duterte assures welfare of policemen’s families at 38th PNPA commencement exercises

From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 26): Pres. Duterte assures welfare of policemen’s families at 38th PNPA commencement exercises

“The government will be with you as you fight in the frontlines for that dream of a better tomorrow and safer Philippines.”, remarked President Rodrigo Duterte yesterday at the 38th Commencement exercises of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) Masidlak Class of 2017 at the Gen. Cicero C. Campos Grandstand in Silang, Cavite.

The event marks the first time that President Duterte attended the PNPA graduation rites in his term as he urged the new police officers to do the right thing and follow the rules.

“Fight for the country, do it right. You have been lectured on the rules on how to do it. Do it right.”, he stated.

President Duterte recognized the risks that policemen and women take as they perform their duties and took time to acknowledge the fallen comrades as he said, “More than just policemen and women, let us remember that those brave souls who were also family members who selflessly laid down their lives to see a better tomorrow for the present and future generation.”

“We owe it to them, to ourselves, to our children to ensure that their sacrifice will not be in vain. That they died so (we may) have peace and order and stability for our country today,” President Duterte added

The war against drugs and criminality had claimed the lives of law enforcers but the President vowed not to allow them to become mere statistics.

He also assured the PNPA graduates that he would protect them and will take care of their families as he was planning to set up a trust fund worth “billions’.

The President further revealed, “That is why we have increased the combat pay and incentives for our PNP uniformed personnel,” adding that he has issued directives to provide assistance to the immediate families of fallen police personnel and their wives will be given jobs in the government.

President Duterte was joined by Vice President Leni Robredo, Interior Secretary Ismael Sueno and other high ranking officials at the event.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/671490486747/pres-duterte-assures-welfare-of-policemen-s-families-at-38th-pnpa-commencement-exercises

Police, mily, residents foil Kadamay plan to occupy Bustos housing proj.

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 25): Police, mily, residents foil Kadamay plan to occupy Bustos housing proj.

Police and Army personnel, together with some residents, thwarted some 750 members of the urban poor group Kalipunan ng Damayang Mahihirap (Kadamay), who tried to occupy vacant housing units in Bulacan Heights, a National Housing Authority project in Barangay Bonga Mayor here Friday night.

Bulacan Police director, Sr. Supt. Romeo Caramat Jr., said Saturday the Kadamay members arrived on board 39 passenger jeepneys at about 8:30 p.m. Friday and tried to enter the Bulacan Heights housing project but were blocked by a phalanx of policemen, soldiers and residents who barricaded the gates with two firetrucks and some heavy equipment.

He said local policemen, backed up by maneuver platoons from the Public Safety Company of the Bulacan Police, were supported by Army troopers of the 48th Infantry Battalion under the command of Col. Ramil Anoyo.

Most of the residents of Bulacan Heights are policemen and military personnel, Caramat said.

Chief Insp. Victor Bernabe, Bustos Police chief, said a peaceful dialogue ensued, resulting in the dispersal of the Kadamay members, some of whom even asked for transportation to ferry them back to the occupied housing sites in Pandi town.

The municipal government provided trucks that brought them to Pandi.

Bernabe said some Kadamay members warned that they will be back in full force and will occupy idle housing units, claiming that they have rights to government housing projects.
A village official who declined to be identified meanwhile said the government should investigate the series of "invasion" of government housing units because it is becoming a vicious trend.

"Somebody is manipulating this group. They just can’t go around invading government housing units,” the village official said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=974904

Kidnapped tugboat skipper walks two hours to freedom (with photo)

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 25): Kidnapped tugboat skipper walks two hours to freedom (with photo)




Tug boat skipper Aurelio Agac-ac walked for two hours to his freedom at dawn on Saturday following a 37-hour harrowing and tension-filled ordeal with the Abu Sayyaf Group in Basilan province.

“They (captors) were asleep, perhaps because they were too tired. I took the risk and escaped,” he told reporters at the headquarters of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom).

Agac-ac, who was visibly tired, said he walked and run until he was recovered by pursuing troops that have surrounded the mountainous area of Barangay Basakan in the coastal town of Hadji Mohammad Ajul at around 3:20 a.m. Saturday.

“Even at night, we can hear the presence of military choppers in the mountain,” he said explaining the heavy presence of military forces in the area has forced his captors to lessen the grip on him.

“I walked and run. I was tired at same time hungry,” he said.

On Thursday, the Abu Sayyaf bandits hijacked M/T Tug R9 and forcibly took Agac-ac, along with his chief engineer, Laurencio Tiro, in the vicinity of Sibago Island, Hadji Mohammad Ajul, Basilan.

“Although I was scared, but I gather my strength to escape. I always pray and don’t lose hope,” Agac-ac said.

Maj. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., Westmincom commander, said it was the combined efforts of Navy, Air Force, and the local government of Basilan that pressured the Abu Sayyaf bandits and lose its focus.

“It was the constant pressure that we deployed that he was able to escape,” Galvez said.

Following receipt of distress call on Thursday, the Navy dispatched three gun boats to the vicinity of Sibago island, while Air Force helicopters tracked down the locations of the bandits.

“We have increased our capabilities in terms of interdiction. We can react immediately,” Galvez said.

With the enhance military, “this will deter future kidnapping incidents [and seajacking],” Galvez said.

He said the pursuit operation is ongoing in a bid to rescue the remaining kidnapped victim.

“We have strong indications that his companion is still there, and hopefully we can rescue him with the help of the local government units in Basilan,” he said.

Currently, the military is constricting the area of the bandits, saying naval assets and special forces are scouring the area.

“I believed he is alive. He’ll be rescued because of the continuing military operations,” Agac-ac said.

Agacac, who admitted that it was his first time to set sail in the waters of Basilan, said the hijacking occurred so fast.

“I was really scared. But we were able to make a distress call,” he said.

According to him, he were separated from his companion--Tiro.

“They (Abu Sayyaf) told us not to resist or else something wrong might happen to us,” Agac-ac said, adding that he saw three motorboats the Abu Sayyaf bandits used during the hijacking.

“We were about five to six miles when the Navy and military helicopter tried to rescue us. They were shooting the kidnappers,” Agacac said.

“Thank god I was not hit,” he added.

At least one of the bandits was killed, and another was wounded, Galvez said, adding that they were also able to apprehend two more Abu Sayyaf members and recovered five motorboats that were used in the hijacking.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=974931

Grenade explosion kills 4, injures 15 in Jolo

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 26): Grenade explosion kills 4, injures 15 in Jolo

Four people were killed while 15 others were wounded in a grenade explosion late Saturday in downtown Jolo, the capital of Sulu.

Col. Cirilito Sobejana, commander of Joint Task Force Sulu, said the incident occurred around 7:10 p.m. Saturday at Katrina Bakeshop and Grocery in Sitio Lambayong, Barangay Busbus, Jolo.

Two were instantly killed when a grenade was tossed into the bakery. Two others expired while undergoing medical treatment in the hospital.

The 15 wounded victims were also rushed to the hospital.

"A suspect was arrested and now in the custody of Jolo Municipal Police Station. Motive is still under unknown," Sobejana said.

The police said the possible motive was retaliation to a shooting incident on Friday that injured a child in Jolo.

Police said the suspected grenade thrower is relative of the child.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=974965

Manhunt on for 4 gunmen in slay try on Maguindanao town vice mayor's security escorts

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 26): Manhunt on for 4 gunmen in slay try on Maguindanao town vice mayor's security escorts

SHARIFF AGUAK, Maguindanao -- Police here are hunting down four men on board separate motorcycles who attempted to liquidate four security personnel of a Maguindanao vice mayor Saturday night.

Senior Inspector Rasol Pandulo, Maguindanao police spokesperson, said manhunt operations are still going on against four men who tried but failed to kill four escorts of Vice Mayor Akmad Ampatuan of Shariff Aguak town.

Pandulo said Ampatuan's four escorts were on board a Toyota Tamaraw vehicle traversing the national highway here at 6 p.m. when four men riding tandem on two motorcycles opened fire on them.

The vice mayor's escorts returned fire, forcing the attackers to quickly flee. Ampatuan was not in the vehicle during the attack.

Citing witnesses, Pandulo said the four suspects fled toward Barangay Satan, also in Shariff Aguak. An Army base is about a kilometer away from the crime scene.

The motive of the attack was unclear but the four security escorts, identified by police as Mahdi Simpa, 33, Anwarudin Guiman, 25, Mama Ampatuan, 51, and driver Modef Simpal, 19, all local residents, believed it was politically motivated.

One of them told the police the attackers may have thought that the vice mayor was in the vehicle.

Responding police found about 15 empty shells of cal. 45 pistol at the ambush site.

Vice Mayor Ampatuan condemned the attack and called on the police to eradicate the proliferation of loose firearms in Shariff Aguak town, a bailiwick of the Ampatuan clan, some of whose members were implicated in the 2009 Maguindanao massacre where 58 persons, 30 of them media workers, were mercilessly killed in what was touted as the country's worst election-related violence.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=974969

Army accuses NPA of sowing fear in North Cotabato

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 26): Army accuses NPA of sowing fear in North Cotabato

NABUNTURAN, Compostela Valley – The 10th Infantry Division commander has urged the people to call on the communist New People’s Army (NPA) to foster peace instead of sowing fear.

“It is now high time that the people voice their desire for peace and call on the communists to abandon their armed struggle, which for the last 50 years have only brought miseries to the Filipino people,” said Major General Rafael Valencia, commander of 10th Infantry (Agila) Division.

He made the appeal as he condemned the alleged forced recruitment of NPA rebels in some barangays in Antipas town in the province of North Cotabato.

In a press statement on Saturday, Valencia also accused the NPA rebels of spreading fear and panic among the people of Antipas.

"This incident clearly shows the anti-people character of the nuisance propaganda army or "NPA" of the communists,” he added.

Around 237 families fled from their homes in Barangay Camutan, Antipas to avoid being forced by the NPAs to join the communist movement, the 10th ID said in a press statement on Saturday.

The evacuation in the area started last Thursday, March 23.

The 10th ID said Antipas Mayor Egidio Cadungon already convened its Local Crisis Management Committee to facilitate the immediate care of the evacuees.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=975019

1 dead, 2 hurt as clan war erupts in North Cotabato town

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 26): 1 dead, 2 hurt as clan war erupts in North Cotabato town

A long-standing "rido" (family feud) involving Moro families flared up Sunday, leaving one protagonist killed and two others injured, authorities said.

Soldiers and policemen were immediately deployed along the national highway linking North Cotabato and Bukidnon to ensure the safety of commuters, said Capt. Nap Alcarioto, spokesperson for the Army's 602nd Infantry Brigade.

According to the Carmen PNP, the clan war erupted between the Matalam and Cua families, both claiming ownership of a vast track of lands in Barangay Gen. Luna, Carmen, North Cotabato.

Both families have armed followers in the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and Moro National Liberation Front.

The injured members of the Matalam clan were rushed to the North Cotabato provincial hospital. The identity of the slain victim remained unknown, and police could not say what group he belongs.

Joint police and Army personnel are securing the vicinity of Barangay Gen. Luna to prevent armed men affiliated with the warring families from sending reinforcements.

Personnel from the provincial risk reduction and management council are now in Carmen to assess the situation of some families who fled their homes since Friday as sporadic exchange of gunfires have been reported in the village.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=975077

Japan to formally transfer 2 TC-90 aircraft to PHL Navy Monday

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 25): Japan to formally transfer 2 TC-90 aircraft to PHL Navy Monday

The Philippine Navy (PN) will formally receive two units of the Beechcraft TC-90 training aircraft from the Japan Ministry of Defense (JMOD) on Monday.

A transfer ceremony will take place at the Naval Air Group headquarters, Naval Base Heracleo Alano, Sangley Point, Cavite City.

Navy spokesperson Capt. Lued Lincuna said these aircraft were leased from the JMOD as part of the Navy's efforts to enhance its capability in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations, limited transport, and maritime domain awareness, including maritime air surveillance and intelligence surveillance reconnaissance.

The whole project involves five units of TC-90s. The remaining three units are expected to arrive by mid-2018.

Last November, two PN pilots and six air crew members left for Japan to start their TC-90 flight training.

The Department of National Defense (DND) earlier announced that the Philippines will re-equip the TC-90s as Japan had stripped them of some equipment, including their surveillance systems.

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

The DND added it is also looking at the possibility of using the TC-90s for 20 years as the military upgrades its equipment.

The TC-90, which is part of the Beechcraft King Air aircraft family, was offered by Japan shortly after the Agreement Concerning the Transfer of Defense Equipment and Technology was finalized on Feb. 29, 2016.

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

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=974910

Strong community support now turning tide against ASG -- WMC chief

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 26): Strong community support now turning tide against ASG -- WMC chief

With the military getting strong public support, the fight against the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits in Basilan and Sulu is now taking a turn for the better.

This was the observation made by Western Mindanao Command (WMC) commander Major Gen. Carlito Galvez after government troops successfully rescued a tugboat captain, abducted two days ago.

Victim Aurelio Agac-ac was rescued by WMC forces off Barangay Basakan, Hadji Mohammed Ajul town, Basilan 5:30 a.m. of March 25.

"Coordinations with local officials and communities coupled with the continuing pressure brought about by the presence of the troops in the areas believed to be where the sailors where initially hidden, resulted to the rescue of Agac-ac," Galvez said.

Agac-ac was immediately brought to Camp Navarro General Hospital for medical check-up and debriefing.

The former along with his chief engineer, Laurencio Tiro, were aboard manning a tugboat towing Panamanian-registered cargo vessel, Super Shuttle, Ro-Ro 9, off Sibago Island, when abducted by the ASG.

This prompted the WMC to launch a massive operations against the bandits.

"We acknowledge the growing awareness and support of the people in this fight against the Abu Sayyaf. Due recognition is also given to Governor Hataman of Basilan for his unrelenting efforts to rescue the sailor," Galvez said.

"Again, Western Mindanao Command will exhaust all means to track these kidnappers and rescue the other victims. This time, the effort will be stronger as it is backed by the peace-loving people of Western Mindanao," he added.

Operations are still ongoing to rescue Tiro and other ASG captives as of this posting.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=974979

AFP awaits Duterte's order in wake of CPP ceasefire plan

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 26): AFP awaits Duterte's order in wake of CPP ceasefire plan

Despite the pronouncement of the Communist Party of the Philippines that it will be declaring a ceasefire by the end of this month, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said it will first await orders from President Rodrigo Duterte before stopping operations against the insurgents.

"It depends on the President. We shall await for his decision. The CPP (New People's Army) declaration for unilateral ceasefire is useless if they continue to extort money and burn equipment and properties," AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Eduardo Año said Sunday.

He added the AFP and the Philippine National Police will not allow the CPP-NPA to violate the law and imperil lives of innocent people in the communities.
Duterte earlier ordered the lifting of the government ceasefire last February following the series of unprovoked NPA attacks that resulted in the death of six soldiers and abduction of three others.

This took place following the rebel announcement that they are lifting their truce effective 11:59 p.m. Feb. 10.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=975079

Navy ASW helis to be armed with Spike NLOS missiles

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 26): Navy ASW helis to be armed with Spike NLOS missiles

The Philippine Navy (PN)'s first two anti-submarine warfare (ASW) helicopters will be armed with Spike NLOS missiles giving it a capability to engage hostile vessels beyond visual range.

The said weapon manufactured by Israel's Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd. NLOS is short for "non-line of sight". It was originally designed to destroy tanks.

PN spokesperson Capt. Lincuna said these helicopters are the AgustaWestland AW-159 "Wildcats" which are scheduled to be delivered by 2018.

The Department of National Defense signed a contract with AugustaWestland, now Leonardo, to buy two AW-159 ASW helicopters for PHP5.362 billion, last year.

It will be deployed aboard the two frigates the Philippines has ordered from South Korea worth PHP16 billion.

Lincuna said the PN will be using Spike NLOS as a anti-ship weapon due to its claimed range of 25 kilometers.

"The missile has a built-in camera that allows it to be operated day or night," the PN spokesperson.

"The Spike NLOS weapon system can be operated in either direct attack or mid-course navigation based on target coordinates only. These modes enable defeat of long-range hidden targets, with pinpoint precision, damage assessment and the obtaining of real-time intelligence," weapon manufacturer Rafael said in its website.

Lincuna said the missiles will complement the AW-159s' detection and tracking equipment.

"The helicopters will be a full package, from detection, tracking, up to prosecution," he said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=975061

10 NPAs killed in SCotabato encounter

From the Manila Times (Mar 26): 10 NPAs killed in SCotabato encounter

Eighty families were evacuated when about 50 members of the New People’s Army (NPA) attacked a para-military detachment of CAFGU (Citizen’s Armed Forces Geographical Unit) in Tampakan, South Cotabato on Friday morning.

A source of The Manila Times from the military estimated that about six to 10 rebels were killed when two 105 mm howitzer started bombarding the area. The rebels managed to retrieve their wounded comrades and fled at the height of heavy fighting.

Colonel Benjamin Leander, head of the Philippine Army’s 27th Infantry Battalion, believed the attackers are from the NPA’s 73 District Guerilla Unit of the Far South Mindanao Command front.

An evacuee identified only as Bert said prior to the skirmishes, they already sighted the presence of the group who surrounded the mining site of Sagittarius Mines Inc.(SMI) which is heavily guarded by government soldiers.

The SMI had temporarily shut down its operation after the provincial government imposed its environment code that prohibits open pit mining.

Senior Supt. Frank Alvero, police provincial director, said they have received intelligence report about the NPA’s threat to carry out attacks in various parts of South Cotabato “and on Friday they attacked at 6 in the morning as we made our effort to reinforce and help the 27th IB,PA joining the counter operation against the NPA,” he said.

Two Huey helicopters of the Philippine Air Force transported Army and police reinforcements to the site during the height of the fighting in sitio Tablu, Barangay Liberty.

The area can only be reached by motorcycle or by foot since there is no access road.

The heavy firefight lasted for almost seven hours and families in the area were forced to abandon their houses for fear of being caught in the crossfire.

In spite of the heavy exchange of gunfire no casualty or injury was reported on the side of the government soldiers.

Meanwhile, a voice message from certain “Ka Efren” of the NPA Far South Mindanao command dispatched through a local radio claimed they were responsible in the ambush of Private Albino Bahian 3rd, a member of the Marine Battalion Landing Team (MBLT)-2, who was killed during the encounter with the NPA Guerilla Front 73 in Barangay Hinalaan, Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat last week.

He said the ambush done by their comrades was in response to the information they received that soldiers deployed at the SMI mining site have been serving as company guards and receiving salaries from the mining firm.

Alvero denied the allegation saying the soldiers were only safeguarding the area after the NPA’s threat to attack police and military check points and outposts.

Central Mindanao was placed under heightened alert status following a series of ambushes and scale of hostilities perpetrated by the NPA rebels in various parts of the region.

A business tycoon who requested not to be named said eco-tourism business has also been affected by wide scale atrocities by the NPAs in the region.

http://www.manilatimes.net/10-npas-killed-scotabato-encounter/319248/

Duterte to seek military, police guidance as communists announce ceasefire intent

From ABS-CBN (Mar 26): Duterte to seek military, police guidance as communists announce ceasefire intent

President Rodrigo Duterte on Saturday said he will consult with the military and the police regarding the appropriate response to the communist rebels’ announcement declaring a unilateral ceasefire before the end of the month.

Speaking to reporters in Bukidnon, Duterte said he does not have absolute decision-making powers and would get the opinion of law enforcement agencies and security officials.

He said he will convene the National Security Council and conduct consultations with House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez and Senate President Koko Pimentel.

“I have to convene the National Security Council and I have to ask the generals of the army and the police,” he said.

Duterte is concerned that the rebels won't adhere to the ceasefire, recalling the time when New People’s Army rebels attacked soldiers prior to the lifting of the unilateral ceasefire.

“Kapag ganon hindi naman sila sumusunod . . . magkakaroon ng aberration in the system of talking about peace,” he said.

The president added that he also rejects territorial claims of the communists saying the whole country belongs to the republic.

Earlier, the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) said it will declare an interim ceasefire by March 31, in anticipation of the fourth round of peace talks next month.

The announcement came after the release of two militiamen by the New People's Army in Mati City, Davao Oriental.

In a statement on Saturday, the CPP said the declaration of an interim ceasefire is also meant to show support for the talks between the National Democratic Front (NDFP) and the government scheduled on April 2 to 6 in the Netherlands.

http://news.abs-cbn.com/news/03/25/17/duterte-to-seek-military-police-guidance-as-communists-announce-ceasefire-intent

CPP to release 4 more captives, urges gov't troops in 3 Mindanao provinces to 'stand down'

From GMA News (Mar 26): CPP to release 4 more captives, urges gov't troops in 3 Mindanao provinces to 'stand down'

The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) has asked police and military units in three provinces in Mindanao to "stand down" for the release of four "prisoners of war."

The CPP made the call in its statement released on Saturday, where it announced that it will revive its unilateral ceasefire "not later than March 31."

The communist party said the four captives are set to be released by the New People's Army (NPA) in Surigao del Sur, Sultan Kudarat and Bukidnon.

"Their releases are being impeded by ongoing military and police operations in the area. The CPP urges the local commands of the AFP and PNP to stand down and coordinate with third-party facilitators to pave the way for the releases," it said.

Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said they will await instructions from President Rodrigo Duterte before heeding the CPP's request.

"We will await instructions from the Commander-in-Chief," Padilla told GMA News Online.

For his part, Philippine National Police spokesperson Sr. Supt. Dionardo Carlos said the police force welcomes “the efforts of the NPA to release of the hostages as a gesture to move forward the peace process.”

The military and the police resumed operations against the NPA after Duterte lifted the government's ceasefire declaration and suspended the peace talks last February.

Earlier this month, Presidential Peace Adviser Jesus Dureza announced from that the government's talks with the communist rebels are "back on track again."

Dureza made the announcement after a meeting with representatives from the National Democratic Front in Utrecht in The Netherlands last March 11.

On Saturday, the NPA said it released two members of the Citizens Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) on Friday.

The Philippine Army's 10th Infantry Division confirmed the release of CAFGU Active Auxiliary personnel Rene Doller, 34, and Carl Mark Nucos, 24.

The two CAFGU members were brought to the 701st Infantry Brigade in Mati City.

Batchar said the Army "welcomes the safe return" of Doller and Nucos. Batchar said the two were abducted by about 30 NPA rebels last February 14 in Barangay Don Mariano in Lupon town following an armed encounter in Barangay New Visayas with the 28th Infantry Battalion.

The NPA rebels flagged down the kidnap victims who were separately riding motorcycles and wearing civilian clothes. The rebels burned the motorcycle of Doller before fleeing.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/604687/news/regions/cpp-to-release-4-more-captives-urges-gov-t-troops-in-3-mindanao-provinces-to-stand-down

Indonesian police arrest militants setting up jihadi camp

From The Asahi Shimbun (Mar 25): Indonesian police arrest militants setting up jihadi camp

Indonesia's counterterrorism squad has arrested four suspected Islamic militants who were trying to establish a jihadist training camp in eastern Indonesia and who likely had links with Abu Sayyaf militants in the southern Philippines, police said Friday.

National Police spokesman Boy Rafli Amar said the men were arrested in several locations on the island of Java on Thursday and were connected to four militants ambushed by police on the same day near Jakarta. One of those in the ambush was fatally shot by police.

Amar said all eight were members of Jemaah Anshorut Daulah, a network of Indonesian extremist groups led by imprisoned radical cleric Aman Abdurrahman that was formed in 2015 and pledges allegiance to Islamic State group leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi.

Muslim-majority Indonesia has carried out a sustained crackdown on militants since 2002, when bombings on the tourist island of Bali by al-Qaida-affiliated radicals killed 202 people, mostly foreigners. A new threat has emerged in the past several years from IS sympathizers.

Suryadi Mas'ud, one of the suspects arrested Thursday, told police his role was to purchase rifles from militants in the Philippines and he had traveled there several times to meet Isnilon Hapilon, an Abu Sayyaf commander, who agreed to provide M16 and M14 rifles.

Amar said the group was planning to establish a new jihadist training camp after IS-affiliated militants based in Poso on Sulawesi were decimated by a months-long police and military campaign that also killed their leader, Abu Wardah Santoso.

The planned location for the camp, the Halmahera archipelago, was chosen because of its relative proximity to Abu Sayyaf militants in the southern Philippines, he said.

Amar said earlier investigations found that five guns had been sent from the Philippines to Indonesian militants. Two of them were used in a Jakarta suicide bombing and gun attack in January last year that killed eight people including four attackers, he said.

http://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/AJ201703250019.html

Kidnapped boat captain rescued in Basilan waters

From Rappler (Mar 25): Kidnapped boat captain rescued in Basilan waters

The rescue comes two days after the Abu Sayyaf kidnaps boat captain Aurelio Agacac and Chief Engineer Laurencio Tiro from the MV Super Shuttle Roro 9




Government troops on Saturday, March 25, rescued a boat captain who was abducted by the Abu Sayyaf, the military said.

Joint Task Force Basilan under Colonel Juvymax Uy, with joint elements of the Naval-Intelligence Special Group-Western Mindanao, rescued kidnap victim Aurelio Agacac in waters off Barangay Basakan, Hadji Mohammed Ajul town in Basilan at 5:30 am on Saturday.

The troops rescued Agacac two days after the Abu Sayyaf kidnapped him and Chief Engineer Laurencio Tiro from the MV Super Shuttle Roro 9. They were two of the 11 crewmen of a tugboat transitting the Basilan Strait. It was pulling a roll on-roll off shuttle from Cebu going to General Santos when the incident happened.

Agacac was brought to Camp Navarro General Hospital for medical check-up.

"The rescue of Aurelio Agacac is a result of a combined effort of the troops, the PNP, BPATs, CVOs, local government and the community," says Major General Carlito Galvez, Jr, commander of the Western Mindanao Command (Wesmincom) based in Zamboanga City.

"We acknowledge the growing awareness and support of the people in this fight against the Abu Sayyaf. Due recognition is also given to Governor [Jim Saliman] Hataman of Basilan for his unrelenting efforts to rescue the sailor," Galvez added.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/165207-kidnapped-boat-captain-rescued-basilan