From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 15): PAF in the market for C-295 communication, navigation sparesPAF in the market for C-295 communication, navigation spares
The Philippine Air Force (PAF) is allocating the sum of PHP30.31 million for the acquisition of spare parts needed for the maintenance of the communication and navigation system of its three brand-new Airbus Military C-295 medium transport aircraft.
In a bid bulletin posted at the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System website, PAF bids and awards chair, Brig. Gen. Nicolas Parilla, said the parts are for C-295 with tail numbers 129, 140 and 142.
Pre-bid conference is at 1 p.m. on April 21 at the PAF Procurement Center Conference Room, Villamor Air Base, Pasay City, while submission and opening of bids is at 9 a.m. on May 5 at the same venue.
The PAF has three C-295 in its inventory. All three are assigned to the 220th Airlift Wing, which is based in Mactan, Cebu. All three planes are worth PHP5.3 billion.
It uses the medium lift aircraft for tactical and medium airlift requirements, and are essential to internal security operations in ferrying personnel and logistical requirements of different line/combat units to any part of the country.
The timely deployment of troops and supplies is vital to ensure the success of any military operation.
The Airbus Military C-295 is a new generation, very robust and reliable, highly versatile tactical airlifter able to carry up to nine tons of payload or up to 71 personnel, at a maximum cruise speed of 260 kt/480 km/h.
Fitted with a retractable landing gear and a pressurized cabin, it can cruise at altitudes up to 25,000 ft., while retaining remarkable short take-off and landing (STOL) performance from unprepared short, soft and rough airstrips, as well as low-level flight characteristics.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=979980
Friday, April 14, 2017
More assets in the pipeline for PHL Navy: AFP chief
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 15): More assets in the pipeline for PHL Navy: AFP chief
The Philippine Navy (PN) will have more naval assets to patrol the country's vast maritime domains with the arrival of the BRP Davao Del Sur (LD-602), its second strategic sealift vessel (SSV), by May, and two missile-armed MPACs by November.
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff, Gen. Eduardo Año, made the statement when asked what efforts are being undertaken to further secure the country's seas.
This is in the wake of the failed Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) infiltration in Inabanga, Bohol, which resulted in the death of six bandits, including sub-leader Muamar Askali alias "Abu Rami", and three soldiers and a police officer last April 11.
He added that the second SSV, along with the two MPACs, will provide the Navy more assets to patrol the country's waters, especially those in Basilan and Sulu, deterring ASG bandits against making similar attacks in the future.
Aside from these ships, additional fast craft and other assets are being earmarked for the Navy, which Año said is the primary beneficiary of the ongoing AFP Modernization Program.
The BRP Davao Del Sur is expected to be delivered by May 17.
As of this posting, the vessel is 98 percent complete.
The BRP Davao Del Sur, launched on Sept. 29 last year, is the sister ship of the BRP Tarlac (LD-601), currently the largest Filipino warship in commission.
The BRP Tarlac, commissioned on June 1 last year, arrived in the Philippines on May 14, 2016 after a five-day journey from PT PAL's shipyard in Surabaya, Indonesia.
The BRP Davao Del Sur is also a Makassar-class landing platform dock, like her sister ship, the BRP Tarlac.
Its delivery to the Philippines, tentatively scheduled this May, will complete the two-unit SSV procurement project with an approved budget contract of PHP4 billion sourced from the AFP Modernization Act Trust Fund.
Just like the BRP Tarlac, the Navy's latest SSV will serve as a floating command-and-control ship, especially in the conduct of humanitarian assistance and disaster response, and will also serve as a military sealift and transport vessel.
The ship, which has an overall length of 120 meters, breadth of 21 meters, and draft of 5 meters, can carry a payload of 2,800 tons.
She has a cruising speed of 13 knots and maximum speed of 16 knots and a minimum operating range of 7,500 nautical miles.
The BRP Davao Del Sur can carry 500 troops, two rigid-hull inflatable boats, two landing craft units and three helicopters.
Meanwhile, the construction of the country's first two MPACs, with missile armament provisions, is ongoing at the Propmech Corp. shipyard in Subic Bay, Zambales.
MPAC is short for multi-purpose assault craft, a small, maneuverable and highly fast naval vessel.
This was confirmed by Defense public affairs office chief, Arsenio Andolong, in an interview with the Philippine News Agency (PNA) last April 11.
"They are now being constructed at the Propmech Corp. facility in Subic Bay but we do not yet have the timeline for the sea trials," he said.
Andolong added that the missile armaments and other weapons of the MPACs will be fitted at a later time.
The Navy earlier said that these MPACs will be delivered by the third quarter of this year.
These MPACs, the so-called Mark IIIs, are far more advanced and capable than the Mark Is and IIs currently in service.
The PN is operating six gun-armed MPACs as of this posting.
They will be armed with the Israel's Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd.'s Spike ER (extended range) in anti-ship mode, which is capable of penetrating 1,000 mm. (39 inches) of rolled homogeneous armor and has a maximum range of five miles.
The PN's missile-armed MPACs, three of which are in the pipeline, have a budget of PHP270 million.
The money will be sourced from the AFP Modernization Act Trust Fund of 2000.
The contract covers mission essential equipment, which includes day/night electronic navigation systems, communication suites, safety-of-life-at-sea, propulsion system, and seamanship and ship-handling gears.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=979979
The Philippine Navy (PN) will have more naval assets to patrol the country's vast maritime domains with the arrival of the BRP Davao Del Sur (LD-602), its second strategic sealift vessel (SSV), by May, and two missile-armed MPACs by November.
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff, Gen. Eduardo Año, made the statement when asked what efforts are being undertaken to further secure the country's seas.
This is in the wake of the failed Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) infiltration in Inabanga, Bohol, which resulted in the death of six bandits, including sub-leader Muamar Askali alias "Abu Rami", and three soldiers and a police officer last April 11.
He added that the second SSV, along with the two MPACs, will provide the Navy more assets to patrol the country's waters, especially those in Basilan and Sulu, deterring ASG bandits against making similar attacks in the future.
Aside from these ships, additional fast craft and other assets are being earmarked for the Navy, which Año said is the primary beneficiary of the ongoing AFP Modernization Program.
The BRP Davao Del Sur is expected to be delivered by May 17.
As of this posting, the vessel is 98 percent complete.
The BRP Davao Del Sur, launched on Sept. 29 last year, is the sister ship of the BRP Tarlac (LD-601), currently the largest Filipino warship in commission.
The BRP Tarlac, commissioned on June 1 last year, arrived in the Philippines on May 14, 2016 after a five-day journey from PT PAL's shipyard in Surabaya, Indonesia.
The BRP Davao Del Sur is also a Makassar-class landing platform dock, like her sister ship, the BRP Tarlac.
Its delivery to the Philippines, tentatively scheduled this May, will complete the two-unit SSV procurement project with an approved budget contract of PHP4 billion sourced from the AFP Modernization Act Trust Fund.
Just like the BRP Tarlac, the Navy's latest SSV will serve as a floating command-and-control ship, especially in the conduct of humanitarian assistance and disaster response, and will also serve as a military sealift and transport vessel.
The ship, which has an overall length of 120 meters, breadth of 21 meters, and draft of 5 meters, can carry a payload of 2,800 tons.
She has a cruising speed of 13 knots and maximum speed of 16 knots and a minimum operating range of 7,500 nautical miles.
The BRP Davao Del Sur can carry 500 troops, two rigid-hull inflatable boats, two landing craft units and three helicopters.
Meanwhile, the construction of the country's first two MPACs, with missile armament provisions, is ongoing at the Propmech Corp. shipyard in Subic Bay, Zambales.
MPAC is short for multi-purpose assault craft, a small, maneuverable and highly fast naval vessel.
This was confirmed by Defense public affairs office chief, Arsenio Andolong, in an interview with the Philippine News Agency (PNA) last April 11.
"They are now being constructed at the Propmech Corp. facility in Subic Bay but we do not yet have the timeline for the sea trials," he said.
Andolong added that the missile armaments and other weapons of the MPACs will be fitted at a later time.
The Navy earlier said that these MPACs will be delivered by the third quarter of this year.
These MPACs, the so-called Mark IIIs, are far more advanced and capable than the Mark Is and IIs currently in service.
The PN is operating six gun-armed MPACs as of this posting.
They will be armed with the Israel's Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd.'s Spike ER (extended range) in anti-ship mode, which is capable of penetrating 1,000 mm. (39 inches) of rolled homogeneous armor and has a maximum range of five miles.
The PN's missile-armed MPACs, three of which are in the pipeline, have a budget of PHP270 million.
The money will be sourced from the AFP Modernization Act Trust Fund of 2000.
The contract covers mission essential equipment, which includes day/night electronic navigation systems, communication suites, safety-of-life-at-sea, propulsion system, and seamanship and ship-handling gears.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=979979
Soldiers seize BIFF gun factory, sustain 6 casualties in encounter
From the Manila Bulletin (Apr 14): Soldiers seize BIFF gun factory, sustain 6 casualties in encounter
Army troops seized a suspected gun factory but suffered some casualties in a Wednesday (April 12) clash with the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in Maguindanao.
Maj. Gen. Arnel dela Vega, commander of Army’s 6th Infantry Division, said the clash happened at 7:30 a.m. in Sitio Pinaginuman, Barangay Elian, Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Maguindanao.
BIFF (MANILA BULLETIN FILE PHOTO)
“Our troops were to help the police in serving warrants of arrest against some individuals when they were fired at by the BIFF,” dela Vega told reporters.
Six soldiers were slightly wounded in an ensuing 15-minute firefight with the BIFF guerillas, who reportedly fled after sensing reinforcement by other Army contingents.
After the clash, dela Vega said, the pursuing troops discovered a shanty, which the BIFF allegedly used in fabricating bombs and firearms.
Recovered from the shanty were metal molding equipment, fabricating materials, bullets, electrical wirings, and other gun making components, he said.
Abu Misri Mama, speaking for the BIFF in an interview by a radio station in Cotabato City, confirmed the Wednesday clash with soldiers, but denied that the shanty was a gun factory.
Capt. Arvin John Encinas, 6th ID spokesperson, said the BIFF group was led by brothers Saga and Monib Indong.
Lt. Col. Warlito Limet, 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion chief, said sporadic fighting continued up to Wednesday night when soldiers encountered another BIFF band led one Ustadz Boy Roman at barangay Elian, also in Ampatuan town.
The Army officials would not say if the BIFF sustained casualties.
In another incident Wednesday night, two men riding on a motorbike lobbed a hand grenade into a detachment of paramilitary troops at Barangay Magaslong in Datu Piang, Maguindanao.
Nobody was hurt in the blast, which the Army and police believed was motivated by personal grudge involving a militiaman and the unidentified perpetrators.
http://news.mb.com.ph/2017/04/14/soldiers-seize-biff-gun-factory-sustain-6-casualties-in-encounter/
Army troops seized a suspected gun factory but suffered some casualties in a Wednesday (April 12) clash with the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in Maguindanao.
Maj. Gen. Arnel dela Vega, commander of Army’s 6th Infantry Division, said the clash happened at 7:30 a.m. in Sitio Pinaginuman, Barangay Elian, Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Maguindanao.
BIFF (MANILA BULLETIN FILE PHOTO)
“Our troops were to help the police in serving warrants of arrest against some individuals when they were fired at by the BIFF,” dela Vega told reporters.
Six soldiers were slightly wounded in an ensuing 15-minute firefight with the BIFF guerillas, who reportedly fled after sensing reinforcement by other Army contingents.
After the clash, dela Vega said, the pursuing troops discovered a shanty, which the BIFF allegedly used in fabricating bombs and firearms.
Recovered from the shanty were metal molding equipment, fabricating materials, bullets, electrical wirings, and other gun making components, he said.
Abu Misri Mama, speaking for the BIFF in an interview by a radio station in Cotabato City, confirmed the Wednesday clash with soldiers, but denied that the shanty was a gun factory.
Capt. Arvin John Encinas, 6th ID spokesperson, said the BIFF group was led by brothers Saga and Monib Indong.
Lt. Col. Warlito Limet, 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion chief, said sporadic fighting continued up to Wednesday night when soldiers encountered another BIFF band led one Ustadz Boy Roman at barangay Elian, also in Ampatuan town.
The Army officials would not say if the BIFF sustained casualties.
In another incident Wednesday night, two men riding on a motorbike lobbed a hand grenade into a detachment of paramilitary troops at Barangay Magaslong in Datu Piang, Maguindanao.
Nobody was hurt in the blast, which the Army and police believed was motivated by personal grudge involving a militiaman and the unidentified perpetrators.
http://news.mb.com.ph/2017/04/14/soldiers-seize-biff-gun-factory-sustain-6-casualties-in-encounter/
Moro rebel leader’s brother killed in clash
From The Gulf Today (Apr 14): Moro rebel leader’s brother killed in clash
A brother of a senior leader of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) was killed in a gunbattle with a team of policemen sent to arrest him on orders of the court in Maguindanao province in volatile Mindanao.
Senior Inspector Macille Manzanos, the spokesman of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) police, identified the victim as Mohaimen Abo, the younger brother of Ghazali Jaafar, the MILF vice chairman for political affairs.
Manzanos said Abo, also known as Commander Falcon and Ustadz Mohaimen, allegedly resisted when a police team was sent to arrest him in a village in the town of Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao on Tuesday afternoon.
“Abo resisted by firing at the law enforcers, triggering a brief firefight,” Manzanos said, adding the team were armed with arrest warrants issued by two regional courts where he was facing non-bailable criminal charges like murder, frustrated murder, kidnap-for-ransom and kidnapping with homicide.
Police recovered a.45 caliber pistol allegedly used by Abo in the gunfight and also arrested two of his bodyguards, according to Manzanos.
But Jaafar denounced the killing, saying his brother was a bonafide member of the MILF’s armed component.
He also accused the police of allegedly violating a truce agreement between the government and the MILF which went into effect in 1997 while their representatives were talking peace in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, the third party facilitator.
Under the agreement, Jaafar said MILF members could only be arrested in co-ordination with the ceasefire committee and the Al-Hoc Joint Action Group of the government and the rebel group.
Aside from being a senior MILF leader, President Rodrigo “Rody” Duterte also named Jaafar as the chairman of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission which has been expanded from 16 to 21 members.
The commission is mandated to draft a Bangsamoro Basic Law aimed at bringing just and lasting peace to resource-rich but troubled Southern Philippines.
The proposed law is to set up a new political entity that is to replace ARMM composed of the provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Sulu, Basilan and Tawi-Tawi as well as Marawi City.
http://gulftoday.ae/portal/062bfe76-ad4b-4b60-b6f6-8947fd8a0b0b.aspx
A brother of a senior leader of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) was killed in a gunbattle with a team of policemen sent to arrest him on orders of the court in Maguindanao province in volatile Mindanao.
Senior Inspector Macille Manzanos, the spokesman of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) police, identified the victim as Mohaimen Abo, the younger brother of Ghazali Jaafar, the MILF vice chairman for political affairs.
Manzanos said Abo, also known as Commander Falcon and Ustadz Mohaimen, allegedly resisted when a police team was sent to arrest him in a village in the town of Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao on Tuesday afternoon.
“Abo resisted by firing at the law enforcers, triggering a brief firefight,” Manzanos said, adding the team were armed with arrest warrants issued by two regional courts where he was facing non-bailable criminal charges like murder, frustrated murder, kidnap-for-ransom and kidnapping with homicide.
Police recovered a.45 caliber pistol allegedly used by Abo in the gunfight and also arrested two of his bodyguards, according to Manzanos.
But Jaafar denounced the killing, saying his brother was a bonafide member of the MILF’s armed component.
He also accused the police of allegedly violating a truce agreement between the government and the MILF which went into effect in 1997 while their representatives were talking peace in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, the third party facilitator.
Under the agreement, Jaafar said MILF members could only be arrested in co-ordination with the ceasefire committee and the Al-Hoc Joint Action Group of the government and the rebel group.
Aside from being a senior MILF leader, President Rodrigo “Rody” Duterte also named Jaafar as the chairman of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission which has been expanded from 16 to 21 members.
The commission is mandated to draft a Bangsamoro Basic Law aimed at bringing just and lasting peace to resource-rich but troubled Southern Philippines.
The proposed law is to set up a new political entity that is to replace ARMM composed of the provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Sulu, Basilan and Tawi-Tawi as well as Marawi City.
http://gulftoday.ae/portal/062bfe76-ad4b-4b60-b6f6-8947fd8a0b0b.aspx
Photos of Inabanga, Bohol AFP-PNP/ASG Encounter Site along with bodies of ASG KIA
Photos and captions from the Twitter feed of ABS-CBN journalist Chiara Zambrano (Apr 12-14): Photos of Inabanga, Bohol AFP-PNP/ASG Encounter Site along with bodies of ASG KIA
Pending probes, govt still views elderly Petalco couple as ASG. They were lined up for burial today with ASG leader Abu Rami & the 3 others
AFP/PNP still investigating the Petalcos for possible collusion w/ ASG bec the Boholano ASG member is their nephew & they didnt leave scene
2 of the 6 tagged by AFP/PNP as Abu Sayyaf have been identified by the community as elderly couple Crisanta (70s) & Constancio Petalco (60s)
PRO7 Regional Director CSupt Noli Taliño walks into Inabanga, Bohol encounter site
High powered firearms, pocket Qurans among the items recovered from the Abu Sayyaf in Sitio Ilaya, Barangay, Napo, Inabanga, Bohol
Commanders of AFP Central Command, 3rd Inf Division, Naval Forces Central, and 302nd Brigade inspecting encounter site at Inabanga, Bohol
One of the 5 identified Abu Sayyaf members killed in Sitio Ilaya, Brgy Napo, Inabanga, Bohol, lies beside one of the houses they occupied
Bodies of the 5 killed Abu Sayyaf still in encounter site yesterday. The 2-storey hut said to be house of Inabanga resident who joined ASG.
3ID MGen Jon Aying looks at bodies of 2 Abu Sayyaf killed in Inabanga, Bohol. Body in black said to be ASG leader Muamar Askali / Abu Rami
Inabanga River, where Abu Sayyaf pumpboats passed to reach Brgy Napo, Inabanga, Bohol. They went, presumably to kidnap Holy Week vacationers
https://twitter.com/chiarazambrano
Pending probes, govt still views elderly Petalco couple as ASG. They were lined up for burial today with ASG leader Abu Rami & the 3 others
AFP/PNP still investigating the Petalcos for possible collusion w/ ASG bec the Boholano ASG member is their nephew & they didnt leave scene
2 of the 6 tagged by AFP/PNP as Abu Sayyaf have been identified by the community as elderly couple Crisanta (70s) & Constancio Petalco (60s)
PRO7 Regional Director CSupt Noli Taliño walks into Inabanga, Bohol encounter site
High powered firearms, pocket Qurans among the items recovered from the Abu Sayyaf in Sitio Ilaya, Barangay, Napo, Inabanga, Bohol
Commanders of AFP Central Command, 3rd Inf Division, Naval Forces Central, and 302nd Brigade inspecting encounter site at Inabanga, Bohol
One of the 5 identified Abu Sayyaf members killed in Sitio Ilaya, Brgy Napo, Inabanga, Bohol, lies beside one of the houses they occupied
Bodies of the 5 killed Abu Sayyaf still in encounter site yesterday. The 2-storey hut said to be house of Inabanga resident who joined ASG.
3ID MGen Jon Aying looks at bodies of 2 Abu Sayyaf killed in Inabanga, Bohol. Body in black said to be ASG leader Muamar Askali / Abu Rami
Inabanga River, where Abu Sayyaf pumpboats passed to reach Brgy Napo, Inabanga, Bohol. They went, presumably to kidnap Holy Week vacationers
https://twitter.com/chiarazambrano
Bohol villagers evacuated anew amid Abu Sayyaf threat
From ABS-CBN (Apr 14): Bohol villagers evacuated anew amid Abu Sayyaf threat
Villagers spend the night at a temporary shelter after alleged Abu Sayyaf members knocked on doors of residents to ask for food. Annie Perez, ABS-CBN Ne
Residents of Inabanga town in Bohol province were evacuated again Thursday night amid the continuing threat of Abu Sayyaf bandits.
Many of the evacuees are from Barangay Lonoy Cainsican and Lonoy Roma, where a cadaver of an alleged Abu Sayyaf member was found.
Residents said they were asked again to evacuate for a possible military operation.
They received reports that Abu Sayyaf members who are still on the loose knocked on doors of residents to ask for food.
Joselito Melloria, a man said to be a resident of Barangay Napo and became an Abu Sayyaf recruit, was also seen with a back injury, according to residents.
Soldiers are still scouring the fields of Barangay Napo in Inabanga for bodies and remnants of the firefight that ensued between government forces and Abu Sayyaf members earlier this week.
High-powered firearms were among the items recovered from the remains of the Abu Sayyaf who were killed in Sitio Ilaya.
Eleven Abu Sayyaf members arrived in Bohol from Mindanao on Tuesday to carry out kidnapping plans during the Holy Week, but were thwarted after residents reported sightings of the suspicious men.
Five bandits were killed in the firefight, and government forces are still "tracking" 6 others.
http://news.abs-cbn.com/news/04/13/17/bohol-villagers-evacuated-anew-amid-abu-sayyaf-threat
Villagers spend the night at a temporary shelter after alleged Abu Sayyaf members knocked on doors of residents to ask for food. Annie Perez, ABS-CBN Ne
Residents of Inabanga town in Bohol province were evacuated again Thursday night amid the continuing threat of Abu Sayyaf bandits.
Many of the evacuees are from Barangay Lonoy Cainsican and Lonoy Roma, where a cadaver of an alleged Abu Sayyaf member was found.
Residents said they were asked again to evacuate for a possible military operation.
They received reports that Abu Sayyaf members who are still on the loose knocked on doors of residents to ask for food.
Joselito Melloria, a man said to be a resident of Barangay Napo and became an Abu Sayyaf recruit, was also seen with a back injury, according to residents.
Soldiers are still scouring the fields of Barangay Napo in Inabanga for bodies and remnants of the firefight that ensued between government forces and Abu Sayyaf members earlier this week.
High-powered firearms were among the items recovered from the remains of the Abu Sayyaf who were killed in Sitio Ilaya.
Eleven Abu Sayyaf members arrived in Bohol from Mindanao on Tuesday to carry out kidnapping plans during the Holy Week, but were thwarted after residents reported sightings of the suspicious men.
Five bandits were killed in the firefight, and government forces are still "tracking" 6 others.
http://news.abs-cbn.com/news/04/13/17/bohol-villagers-evacuated-anew-amid-abu-sayyaf-threat
How children helped thwart Abu Sayyaf in Bohol
From ABS-CBN/ANC (Apr 13): How children helped thwart Abu Sayyaf in Bohol
[Video report]
Information from children who noticed strangers in their area played a big role in the government forces' operation that stopped an alleged kidnapping plan by the Abu Sayyaf Group in Bohol, the local officials said Wednesday.
Inabanga Mayor Josephine Jumamoy said the information from the children was passed to their parents, who in turn reported it to the police.
"May nakita daw silang ibang tao at saka sabi nila na ibang klaseng pump boat at parang may nilabas silang parang mga bigas daw. Then nung inilabas nila, parang mga [baril]," she said in a press conference.
Bohol Governor Edgar Chatto said it is practice in their province for information from citizens to be shared with the law enforcers.
"Nakatulong din yung responses natin makukuha natin sa mga tao and as long as the intelligence groups of the military and the police are sharing information, they are sharing information," he said.
Firefight between government troops and members of the terrorist group ensued Tuesday in the town. Six were confirmed dead from the Abu Sayyaf's side, while there were also four casualties from the government side.
Chatto said people should understand "that the Boholanos will never just sit back and relax when there are people sowing fear in our island."
"Sa tulungan ng mga information ng mga tao at the intelligence of the local government, we are able to thwart any possible incident as of this point in time," he said.
"This should encourage us, this should inspire us, and this should even tell us we’re not going to loosen our defenses. We should keep being vigilant all the time," he added.
He said it's also a plus that days before the advisory from the United States warning against travel to Central Visayas was issued, or even before the clashes happened, they already tightened their security measures for the Holy Week and the ASEAN Summit.
"When it comes to Holy Week, talagang maraming taong pumupunta and the ASEAN. We really urged people to report when there are personalities in the area," he said.
"Yes, we are safe as long as all of us will be vigilant—the same vigilance, if not more, than what our people have been showing because our government response will always be there when the right information comes in at the right time," he added.
http://news.abs-cbn.com/news/04/13/17/how-children-helped-thwart-abu-sayyaf-in-bohol
[Video report]
Information from children who noticed strangers in their area played a big role in the government forces' operation that stopped an alleged kidnapping plan by the Abu Sayyaf Group in Bohol, the local officials said Wednesday.
Inabanga Mayor Josephine Jumamoy said the information from the children was passed to their parents, who in turn reported it to the police.
"May nakita daw silang ibang tao at saka sabi nila na ibang klaseng pump boat at parang may nilabas silang parang mga bigas daw. Then nung inilabas nila, parang mga [baril]," she said in a press conference.
Bohol Governor Edgar Chatto said it is practice in their province for information from citizens to be shared with the law enforcers.
"Nakatulong din yung responses natin makukuha natin sa mga tao and as long as the intelligence groups of the military and the police are sharing information, they are sharing information," he said.
Firefight between government troops and members of the terrorist group ensued Tuesday in the town. Six were confirmed dead from the Abu Sayyaf's side, while there were also four casualties from the government side.
Chatto said people should understand "that the Boholanos will never just sit back and relax when there are people sowing fear in our island."
"Sa tulungan ng mga information ng mga tao at the intelligence of the local government, we are able to thwart any possible incident as of this point in time," he said.
"This should encourage us, this should inspire us, and this should even tell us we’re not going to loosen our defenses. We should keep being vigilant all the time," he added.
He said it's also a plus that days before the advisory from the United States warning against travel to Central Visayas was issued, or even before the clashes happened, they already tightened their security measures for the Holy Week and the ASEAN Summit.
"When it comes to Holy Week, talagang maraming taong pumupunta and the ASEAN. We really urged people to report when there are personalities in the area," he said.
"Yes, we are safe as long as all of us will be vigilant—the same vigilance, if not more, than what our people have been showing because our government response will always be there when the right information comes in at the right time," he added.
http://news.abs-cbn.com/news/04/13/17/how-children-helped-thwart-abu-sayyaf-in-bohol
AFP scours Bohol encounter site
From ABS-CBN/ANC (Apr 14): AFP scours Bohol encounter site
Government troops patrol in the town of Inabanga in Bohol province on Wednesday in pursuit of Abu Sayyaf rebels that had entered the province.Jay Rommel Labra, EPA
Military officials on Thursday scoured the fields of Barangay Napo in Inabanga, Bohol for bodies and remnants of the firefight that ensued between government forces and members of the bandit Abu Sayyaf group earlier this week.
High-powered firearms and pocket Qurans were among items recovered from the remains of the Abu Sayyaf who were killed in Sitio Ilaya.
Commanders of the AFP Central Command, 3rd Infantry Division, Naval Forces Central, and 302nd Brigade are expected to do more inspections at the encounter site.
The Philippine National Police Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO) was instructed to process the area to aid investigations, Armed Forces chief of staff Eduardo Año earlier said in a press conference.
Eleven Abu Sayyaf members arrived in Bohol from Mindanao on Tuesday to carry out kidnapping plans during the Holy Week, it was thwarted by the government after residents reported sightings of the suspicious men.
Five Abu Sayyaf men were killed in the firefight, and government forces are still "tracking" 6 others, Año said.
On Thursday night, Inabanga villagers were evacuated anew following reports that the remaining Abu Sayyaf men were going house-to-house looking for food.
http://news.abs-cbn.com/news/04/13/17/how-children-helped-thwart-abu-sayyaf-in-bohol
Government troops patrol in the town of Inabanga in Bohol province on Wednesday in pursuit of Abu Sayyaf rebels that had entered the province.Jay Rommel Labra, EPA
Military officials on Thursday scoured the fields of Barangay Napo in Inabanga, Bohol for bodies and remnants of the firefight that ensued between government forces and members of the bandit Abu Sayyaf group earlier this week.
High-powered firearms and pocket Qurans were among items recovered from the remains of the Abu Sayyaf who were killed in Sitio Ilaya.
Commanders of the AFP Central Command, 3rd Infantry Division, Naval Forces Central, and 302nd Brigade are expected to do more inspections at the encounter site.
The Philippine National Police Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO) was instructed to process the area to aid investigations, Armed Forces chief of staff Eduardo Año earlier said in a press conference.
Eleven Abu Sayyaf members arrived in Bohol from Mindanao on Tuesday to carry out kidnapping plans during the Holy Week, it was thwarted by the government after residents reported sightings of the suspicious men.
Five Abu Sayyaf men were killed in the firefight, and government forces are still "tracking" 6 others, Año said.
On Thursday night, Inabanga villagers were evacuated anew following reports that the remaining Abu Sayyaf men were going house-to-house looking for food.
http://news.abs-cbn.com/news/04/13/17/how-children-helped-thwart-abu-sayyaf-in-bohol
2 NPAs dead, war materials taken in Agusan del Sur clash
From the Manila Bulletin (Apr 14): 2 NPAs dead, war materials taken in Agusan del Sur clash
Two New People’s Army (NPA) guerrillas were killed while a sniper rifle and other war materials were recovered following a clash between rebels and Army soldiers in Agusan del Sur on Maundy Thursday (April 13).
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesman Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla, said that the encounter took place in Barangay Mahagsay, San Luis town, Agusan del Sur at 3:30 p.m. Thursday.
(Wikimedia / MANILA BULLETIN)
Padilla said troops responded to a report from concerned civilians that a group of fully armed NPA bandits were harassing their community. It said that the NPAs were forcibly taking foodstuffs and money from the residents.
After a 30-minute fierce firefight, the NPAs scampered out of the encounter area, leaving their two comrades, a sniper rifle, 50 rounds of M60 ammunition, war materiel, 34 sacks of rice, 10 backpacks which contained personal belongings, and subversive documents.
Colonel Cristobal N. Zaragoza, 402nd Infantry Brigade Commander, ordered the engaged troops to conduct pursuit operation to hunt down the bandits.
Major General Benjamin R. Madrigal Jr., the Commander of the 4th Infantry Division, lauded the swift execution of the operation and congratulated the troops for successfully hitting the NPA bandits who have been responsible for many atrocities in Agusan del Sur.
“Time and again, we have proven that no evil will triumph. While most of the Filipinos are solemnly reflecting during this Lenten season, the NPA’s are busy doing extortion and other evil activities,” Madrigal said.
“Fortunately, our relentless guardians of peace have displayed distinct acts of courage when they foiled the extortion and recruitment scheme of the NPA group in the peaceful lumad community of Barangay Mahagsay,” he added.
The 402 Brigade is now coordinating with the concerned local officials for the identification of the two dead NPAs and to provide them decent burial.
http://news.mb.com.ph/2017/04/14/2-npas-dead-war-materials-taken-in-agusan-del-sur-clash/
Two New People’s Army (NPA) guerrillas were killed while a sniper rifle and other war materials were recovered following a clash between rebels and Army soldiers in Agusan del Sur on Maundy Thursday (April 13).
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesman Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla, said that the encounter took place in Barangay Mahagsay, San Luis town, Agusan del Sur at 3:30 p.m. Thursday.
(Wikimedia / MANILA BULLETIN)
Padilla said troops responded to a report from concerned civilians that a group of fully armed NPA bandits were harassing their community. It said that the NPAs were forcibly taking foodstuffs and money from the residents.
After a 30-minute fierce firefight, the NPAs scampered out of the encounter area, leaving their two comrades, a sniper rifle, 50 rounds of M60 ammunition, war materiel, 34 sacks of rice, 10 backpacks which contained personal belongings, and subversive documents.
Colonel Cristobal N. Zaragoza, 402nd Infantry Brigade Commander, ordered the engaged troops to conduct pursuit operation to hunt down the bandits.
Major General Benjamin R. Madrigal Jr., the Commander of the 4th Infantry Division, lauded the swift execution of the operation and congratulated the troops for successfully hitting the NPA bandits who have been responsible for many atrocities in Agusan del Sur.
“Time and again, we have proven that no evil will triumph. While most of the Filipinos are solemnly reflecting during this Lenten season, the NPA’s are busy doing extortion and other evil activities,” Madrigal said.
“Fortunately, our relentless guardians of peace have displayed distinct acts of courage when they foiled the extortion and recruitment scheme of the NPA group in the peaceful lumad community of Barangay Mahagsay,” he added.
The 402 Brigade is now coordinating with the concerned local officials for the identification of the two dead NPAs and to provide them decent burial.
http://news.mb.com.ph/2017/04/14/2-npas-dead-war-materials-taken-in-agusan-del-sur-clash/
MILF: Assistance Of Saudi Counterpart To Establish Muslim Salaam TV
Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Apr 14): PCOO Sought Assistance Of Saudi Counterpart To Establish Muslim Salaam TV
The Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) has sought the assistance of its Saudi counterpart in establishing the Philippines’ first government-run Muslim channel Salaam TV, an online report of Manila Bulletin said on April 12.
“This is one avenue they (Muslims) can voice out,” Andanar said, citing Mindanao’s situation as an offshoot of ‘lack of communication.’Duterte ordered the establishment of Salaam TV during his first State of the Nation Address (SONA). Apart from Salaam TV, Andanar is also planning to have Salaam Radio and Salaam Films.
With the dynamics of a Muslim channel being something new to the Philippine broadcast industry, Andanar requested Minister Adel for technical assistance and training for PCOO personnel.
According to the Palace, Adel agreed to give assistance to the PCOO as it will benefit the public and will make sure that it will happen.
“We are happy to assist, committed to help–to assist because it is between the benefit of the sides,” he explained.
“We make sure it happens. We want to give full assistance,” Adel added.
The Saudi minister also congratulated Andanar for working on Salaam TV and underscored the importance of “sending the right message,” especially one that is about peaceful co-existence.
Palace said a series of follow-up meetings are expected to take place leading to the singing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the two countries in the area of information and communication, Manila Bulletin also said in its report.
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/806/pcoo-sought-assistance-of-saudi-counterpart-to-establish-muslim-salaam-tv
The Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) has sought the assistance of its Saudi counterpart in establishing the Philippines’ first government-run Muslim channel Salaam TV, an online report of Manila Bulletin said on April 12.
“This is one avenue they (Muslims) can voice out,” Andanar said, citing Mindanao’s situation as an offshoot of ‘lack of communication.’Duterte ordered the establishment of Salaam TV during his first State of the Nation Address (SONA). Apart from Salaam TV, Andanar is also planning to have Salaam Radio and Salaam Films.
With the dynamics of a Muslim channel being something new to the Philippine broadcast industry, Andanar requested Minister Adel for technical assistance and training for PCOO personnel.
According to the Palace, Adel agreed to give assistance to the PCOO as it will benefit the public and will make sure that it will happen.
“We are happy to assist, committed to help–to assist because it is between the benefit of the sides,” he explained.
“We make sure it happens. We want to give full assistance,” Adel added.
The Saudi minister also congratulated Andanar for working on Salaam TV and underscored the importance of “sending the right message,” especially one that is about peaceful co-existence.
Palace said a series of follow-up meetings are expected to take place leading to the singing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the two countries in the area of information and communication, Manila Bulletin also said in its report.
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/806/pcoo-sought-assistance-of-saudi-counterpart-to-establish-muslim-salaam-tv
CPP: Abu Sayaff in Bohol smacks of a US yarn
Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines Website (Apr 14): Abu Sayaff in Bohol smacks of a US yarn
Communist Party of the Philippines
14 April 2017
The news stories regarding the supposed arrival and presence of members of the Abu Sayaff criminal bandit group in Bohol island smacks of a US yarn. The Filipino people find most of the press statements released by the military, police and local government officials as highly suspect.
According to information churned out by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Philippine National Police (PNP), military and police forces were deployed last April 11 to Inabangan town, Bohol, and encountered members of the Abu Sayaff resulting in the killing of three Army soldiers, one police personnel and five bandits.
Two among the so-called bandits killed by the military was a 65-year old couple identified by barangay officials as Constancio and Crisente Petalco who were residents of Barangay Napo, where the clash occured. The Philippine Air Force dropped nine bombs in Barangays Napo, Calenti and Banahao in Inabangan forcing at least 1,200 local residents people to evacuate.
The CPP joins the Filipino people in condemning the overkill military operations conducted by the AFP in Inabangan town which have endangered the lives of civilians.
The AFP media office, known for spinning fake news stories, has produced a highly dubious story of no less than 60 fully armed men who travelled three hundred kilometers by boat from Sulu to Bohol, unhampered by the whole AFP establishment, then upstream to a place unknown to them with only a general plan to “target tourists.”
This story is a typical of the tall tales spun by the US Central Intelligence Agency and their conspirators within the Philippine defense and security establishment.
Making the story even more suspect is the fact that three days prior to the encounter, the US embassy in Manila released a travel advisory warning their citizens against travelling to Cebu and Bohol because of supposed information of a “terror threat” in these places, which the AFP and PNP had no idea of.
The operators of the Abu Sayaff criminal bandit group have long been collaborating with the AFP and the US military. Recall that the Abu Sayaff was originally formed in the 1980s by a group of armed men recruited by the US military to join the Taliban group which waged a CIA-hatched “jihad” against the then Soviet-supported Afghanistan government.
The Abu Sayaff has since been used by the US and AFP as a multi-tool to discredit the Moro people’s struggle for self-determination. It has been used to carry out terrorist bombings and other dirty jobs for the CIA to justify its “war on terror” and the presence of US foreign troops in the country. Its bandit activities, mainly kidnapping-for-ransom, has been lucrative for the Abu Sayaff ringleaders and their AFP handlers.
For more than fifteen years now, the AFP has been downplaying the strength of the Abu Sayaff and making claims it can easily wipe out the criminal bandit group. The Abu Sayaff bandit groups, however, repeatedly reemerges depending on the need of the US and AFP. Military officials now claim it can wipe out the Abu Sayaff in its operations planned up to June 2017.
The tall tale of the presence of the Abu Sayaff in Bohol likely forms part of a US plot to strengthen its foothold and increase the presence of its troops in the Central Visayas region. It broke out just a week prior to the ASEAN ministerial meeting scheduled for later this month Cebu. It is no secret that the US military has long been eyeing to establish facilities in the Mactan air field.
The US military also aims to establish itself more firmly in the Eastern Visayas region having established US facilities in Guian, Samar under the guise of post-Yolanda rescue operations. The annual Balikatan exercises are set to be carried out starting April 24 in Leyte, just north of Bohol.
The full extent of the plans surrounding the “Abu Sayaff in Bohol” yarn will likely unravel itself in the coming days and weeks. The Filipino people should keep a critical eye and spot the fakery in all these.
Communist Party of the Philippines
14 April 2017
The news stories regarding the supposed arrival and presence of members of the Abu Sayaff criminal bandit group in Bohol island smacks of a US yarn. The Filipino people find most of the press statements released by the military, police and local government officials as highly suspect.
According to information churned out by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Philippine National Police (PNP), military and police forces were deployed last April 11 to Inabangan town, Bohol, and encountered members of the Abu Sayaff resulting in the killing of three Army soldiers, one police personnel and five bandits.
Two among the so-called bandits killed by the military was a 65-year old couple identified by barangay officials as Constancio and Crisente Petalco who were residents of Barangay Napo, where the clash occured. The Philippine Air Force dropped nine bombs in Barangays Napo, Calenti and Banahao in Inabangan forcing at least 1,200 local residents people to evacuate.
The CPP joins the Filipino people in condemning the overkill military operations conducted by the AFP in Inabangan town which have endangered the lives of civilians.
The AFP media office, known for spinning fake news stories, has produced a highly dubious story of no less than 60 fully armed men who travelled three hundred kilometers by boat from Sulu to Bohol, unhampered by the whole AFP establishment, then upstream to a place unknown to them with only a general plan to “target tourists.”
This story is a typical of the tall tales spun by the US Central Intelligence Agency and their conspirators within the Philippine defense and security establishment.
Making the story even more suspect is the fact that three days prior to the encounter, the US embassy in Manila released a travel advisory warning their citizens against travelling to Cebu and Bohol because of supposed information of a “terror threat” in these places, which the AFP and PNP had no idea of.
The operators of the Abu Sayaff criminal bandit group have long been collaborating with the AFP and the US military. Recall that the Abu Sayaff was originally formed in the 1980s by a group of armed men recruited by the US military to join the Taliban group which waged a CIA-hatched “jihad” against the then Soviet-supported Afghanistan government.
The Abu Sayaff has since been used by the US and AFP as a multi-tool to discredit the Moro people’s struggle for self-determination. It has been used to carry out terrorist bombings and other dirty jobs for the CIA to justify its “war on terror” and the presence of US foreign troops in the country. Its bandit activities, mainly kidnapping-for-ransom, has been lucrative for the Abu Sayaff ringleaders and their AFP handlers.
For more than fifteen years now, the AFP has been downplaying the strength of the Abu Sayaff and making claims it can easily wipe out the criminal bandit group. The Abu Sayaff bandit groups, however, repeatedly reemerges depending on the need of the US and AFP. Military officials now claim it can wipe out the Abu Sayaff in its operations planned up to June 2017.
The tall tale of the presence of the Abu Sayaff in Bohol likely forms part of a US plot to strengthen its foothold and increase the presence of its troops in the Central Visayas region. It broke out just a week prior to the ASEAN ministerial meeting scheduled for later this month Cebu. It is no secret that the US military has long been eyeing to establish facilities in the Mactan air field.
The US military also aims to establish itself more firmly in the Eastern Visayas region having established US facilities in Guian, Samar under the guise of post-Yolanda rescue operations. The annual Balikatan exercises are set to be carried out starting April 24 in Leyte, just north of Bohol.
The full extent of the plans surrounding the “Abu Sayaff in Bohol” yarn will likely unravel itself in the coming days and weeks. The Filipino people should keep a critical eye and spot the fakery in all these.
Body 'buried' by Abu Sayyaf found in Inabanga, Bohol
From the Sun Star-Cebu (Apr 13): Body 'buried' by Abu Sayyaf found in Inabanga, Bohol
ANOTHER body allegedly buried by the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) was found in Barangay Lonay Cainsican, Inabanga, Bohol, Thursday morning, April 13.
Senior Police Officer 1 Edwin Melicor of the Inabanga Police Station said that the body, which was already in a state of decomposition, was that of a male.
The Inabanga police verified the report and it turned out to be positive.
Joselito Melloria, ASG's contact in Inabanga, was last seen in Barangay Lonoy Cainsican by an eyewitness.
The eyewitness (name withheld) said Melloria knocked on his door around 9 p.m. Wednesday, April 12, and asked where they can hide from military and police force.
Melloria, with light wounds on his back and leg made by gunshots, asked if they can borrow a pump boat from the eyewitness.
The eyewitness said he saw seven heavily armed men with Melloria and a dead comrade.
Melloria asked for a shovel and, together with the others, buried their fallen comrade in a shallow grave just a few meters from eyewitness' house.
They also asked for food, which the eyewitness obliged, bringing them cooked rice and cans of sardines.
At 10 p.m., the eyewitness and his family fled their house and alerted the local police of Inabanga about the buried ASG member. The body has been turned over to military custody.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/cebu/local-news/2017/04/13/body-buried-abu-sayyaf-found-inabanga-bohol-536481
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/cebu/local-news/2017/04/13/body-buried-abu-sayyaf-found-inabanga-bohol-536481
Senior Abu Sayyaf Leader Offers to Surrender
From The Maritime Executive (Apr 14): Senior Abu Sayyaf Leader Offers to Surrender
Radullan Sahiron (courtesy FBI)
Officials with the Philippine military's Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) report that Radullan Sahiron, a senior Abu Sayyaf leader who has been with the terrorist organization since the 1990s, has asked to surrender.
Sahiron, the top leader of Abu Sayyaf on the island of Sulu, is on the FBI's most wanted terrorists list for his involvement in the 1993 kidnapping of U.S. national Jeffry Schilling. He has been on the list since 2007, and the FBI considers him to be the overall leader of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG). The State Department has offered a reward of up to $1 million for information leading to his arrest.
Among other conditions, Sahiron does not want to be extradited to the United States if he surrenders. Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., the commander of Westmincom, said that Sahiron was motivated to give up because of his advanced age and because of the ongoing Philippine military offensive. 50 other members of the group have reportedly surrendered since last year, including 11 who gave up in Tawi-Tawi last week.
Military pursues ASG fighters in Bohol
Philippine police and military forces continue to pursue a group of five suspected Abu Sayyaf fighters in Inabanga, on the island of Bohol. Four security personnel and five terrorists were killed in a firefight on April 11, and the body of another militant was found on Thursday morning.
The dead include Muamar Askali (Abu Rami), a prominent Abu Sayyaf spokesman and subleader. General Eduardo Año, the head of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, said that Askali's death was a major victory in the battle against Abu Sayyaf. "Abu Rami is a young, aggressive, and upcoming leader of the Abu Sayyaf who has the potential of being the next leader of the group," he said.
In an interview with Rappler, Año said that he believes that Abu Sayyaf had sought to kidnap tourists on Bohol during Holy Week, the Catholic holiday that is widely observed in the Philippines. "They just want to get kidnap victims for money. Where can they get victims?," Año said. "[They saw that] Bohol and Cebu are tourist destinations during the summer." Given the number of boats that the fighters brought with them, Año estimated that they sought to capture 10-12 victims. The location of the attack, hundreds of miles to the north of Abu Sayyaf’s home base in the Sulu Archipelago, may be a sign that military pressure is making it more difficult for the group to engage in maritime piracy.
http://www.maritime-executive.com/article/senior-abu-sayyaf-leader-offers-to-surrender
Radullan Sahiron (courtesy FBI)
Officials with the Philippine military's Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) report that Radullan Sahiron, a senior Abu Sayyaf leader who has been with the terrorist organization since the 1990s, has asked to surrender.
Sahiron, the top leader of Abu Sayyaf on the island of Sulu, is on the FBI's most wanted terrorists list for his involvement in the 1993 kidnapping of U.S. national Jeffry Schilling. He has been on the list since 2007, and the FBI considers him to be the overall leader of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG). The State Department has offered a reward of up to $1 million for information leading to his arrest.
Among other conditions, Sahiron does not want to be extradited to the United States if he surrenders. Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., the commander of Westmincom, said that Sahiron was motivated to give up because of his advanced age and because of the ongoing Philippine military offensive. 50 other members of the group have reportedly surrendered since last year, including 11 who gave up in Tawi-Tawi last week.
Military pursues ASG fighters in Bohol
Philippine police and military forces continue to pursue a group of five suspected Abu Sayyaf fighters in Inabanga, on the island of Bohol. Four security personnel and five terrorists were killed in a firefight on April 11, and the body of another militant was found on Thursday morning.
The dead include Muamar Askali (Abu Rami), a prominent Abu Sayyaf spokesman and subleader. General Eduardo Año, the head of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, said that Askali's death was a major victory in the battle against Abu Sayyaf. "Abu Rami is a young, aggressive, and upcoming leader of the Abu Sayyaf who has the potential of being the next leader of the group," he said.
In an interview with Rappler, Año said that he believes that Abu Sayyaf had sought to kidnap tourists on Bohol during Holy Week, the Catholic holiday that is widely observed in the Philippines. "They just want to get kidnap victims for money. Where can they get victims?," Año said. "[They saw that] Bohol and Cebu are tourist destinations during the summer." Given the number of boats that the fighters brought with them, Año estimated that they sought to capture 10-12 victims. The location of the attack, hundreds of miles to the north of Abu Sayyaf’s home base in the Sulu Archipelago, may be a sign that military pressure is making it more difficult for the group to engage in maritime piracy.
http://www.maritime-executive.com/article/senior-abu-sayyaf-leader-offers-to-surrender
Abu Sayyaf surrenderees want peaceful lives
From the Sun Star-Zamboanga (Apr 14): Abu Sayyaf surrenderees want peaceful lives
ZAMBOANGA. Seated front row from left are Abu Sayyaf sub-leader Berong Sariol and son, Ben Saudi, and their nine followers when presented to reporters. They surrendered Tuesday, April 11, in Tawi-Tawi. (Bong Garcia)
SOME members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) declared their desire to leave by surrendering to the government in order to live peacefully and to give a bright future for their children.
SOME members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) declared their desire to leave by surrendering to the government in order to live peacefully and to give a bright future for their children.
Ben Saudi Sariol, alias Boy Pangit, along with 10 others, surrendered to authorities on Tuesday in the province of Tawi-Tawi.
“We just want a peaceful life. We want to send our children to school and earn a decent living,”
Sariol said in vernacular on behalf of his companions.
Among those who surrendered is Sariol’s father, Berong, alias Boy Master.
They were presented to reporters on Holy Thursday at the Laong Laan Hall of the Western Mindanao Command (Wesmincom) headquarters.
Lieutenant General Carlito Galvez, Jr., Wesmincom chief, said they will provide financial assistance to the group so they can start a livelihood.
Galvez said they are also coordinating with other government agencies for possible additional assistance for the reintegration into the society of the Sariols.
The nine followers of the Sariol group were identified as Jasim Dambong alias Dams, Mujil Dambong, Magelan Langal, Kael Sariol, Nurhamin Sariol, Alhan Sariol, Amnisain Sariol, Akmad Sariol and Benasil Sariol.
They also turned over high-powered firearms that consist of one M-16 Armalite rifle with attached M-203 grenade launcher, one M-14 rifle, one M-79 grenade launcher and four caliber .30 M1 Garand rifles.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/zamboanga/local-news/2017/04/14/abu-sayyaf-surrenderees-want-peaceful-lives-536495
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/zamboanga/local-news/2017/04/14/abu-sayyaf-surrenderees-want-peaceful-lives-536495
Gov't forces pursuing at least 7 ASG members in Bohol
From CNN-Philippines (Apr 14): Gov't forces pursuing at least 7 ASG members in Bohol
The police and military in Bohol are pursuing at least seven men believed to be followers of slain Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) leader Muammar Askali, also known as Abu Rami.
Government forces clashed with Abu Sayyaf members in Inabanga town Tuesday, which led to six killed in the firefight.
Armed Forces Chief of Staff Eduardo Año earlier said they were after five members who had escaped.
However, an eyewitness — a construction worker whose identity won’t be disclosed for his safety — told authorities he was asked to help seven fleeing bandits on Wednesday.
The Bohol resident told CNN Philippines a certain Joselito Melloria, a local guide who supposedly facilitated the entry of Rami's group to Inabanga, asked for help.
The eyewitness claimed Melloria went to his house in the outskirts Wednesday morning and asked for food and shovel for the bandits.
A shallow grave was seen in the area where the bandit group buried one of its members, he said.
The military has questioned him as the probe on the deadly encounter continues.
At least 10 killed in firefight in Bohol vs. suspected Abu Sayyaf: Police, military
In addition to the six slain ASG members who were killed in the firefight, three military troops and one policeman also died.
However, the eyewitness insisted that two of the fatalities on the bandits' side were an elderly couple residing in the barangay. The cause of their deaths remains unclear.
Authorities had scoured the area looking for clues on where the bandits could have fled. The ASG members are considered armed and dangerous for carrying high-caliber firearms and explosives.
Meanwhile, the Bohol government gave posthumous awards to three army soldiers, including a junior officer, who were killed in Tuesday's clash.
The body of Lieutenant Espelito Saldua Jr. was flown to his hometown in Batangas on Thursday.
http://cnnphilippines.com/news/2017/04/14/govt-forces-pursue-at-least-seven-asg-members-bohol.html
The police and military in Bohol are pursuing at least seven men believed to be followers of slain Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) leader Muammar Askali, also known as Abu Rami.
Government forces clashed with Abu Sayyaf members in Inabanga town Tuesday, which led to six killed in the firefight.
Armed Forces Chief of Staff Eduardo Año earlier said they were after five members who had escaped.
However, an eyewitness — a construction worker whose identity won’t be disclosed for his safety — told authorities he was asked to help seven fleeing bandits on Wednesday.
The Bohol resident told CNN Philippines a certain Joselito Melloria, a local guide who supposedly facilitated the entry of Rami's group to Inabanga, asked for help.
The eyewitness claimed Melloria went to his house in the outskirts Wednesday morning and asked for food and shovel for the bandits.
A shallow grave was seen in the area where the bandit group buried one of its members, he said.
The military has questioned him as the probe on the deadly encounter continues.
At least 10 killed in firefight in Bohol vs. suspected Abu Sayyaf: Police, military
In addition to the six slain ASG members who were killed in the firefight, three military troops and one policeman also died.
However, the eyewitness insisted that two of the fatalities on the bandits' side were an elderly couple residing in the barangay. The cause of their deaths remains unclear.
Authorities had scoured the area looking for clues on where the bandits could have fled. The ASG members are considered armed and dangerous for carrying high-caliber firearms and explosives.
Meanwhile, the Bohol government gave posthumous awards to three army soldiers, including a junior officer, who were killed in Tuesday's clash.
The body of Lieutenant Espelito Saldua Jr. was flown to his hometown in Batangas on Thursday.
http://cnnphilippines.com/news/2017/04/14/govt-forces-pursue-at-least-seven-asg-members-bohol.html
CPP says US involved in Abu Sayyaf attack in Bohol
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Apr 14): CPP says US involved in Abu Sayyaf attack in Bohol
The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) on Friday accused the United States of being behind the Abu Sayyaf attack in Bohol.
“The news stories regarding the supposed arrival and presence of members of the Abu Sayaff criminal bandit group in Bohol island smacks of a US yarn,” the CPP said in a statement.
It questioned statements from the Philippine government and called the military operations “overkill.”
“The Philippine Air Force dropped nine bombs in Barangays Napo, Calenti and Banahao in Inabangan forcing at least 1,200 local residents people to evacuate,” it said.
“The AFP media office, known for spinning fake news stories, has produced a highly dubious story of no less than 60 fully armed men who traveled three hundred kilometers by boat from Sulu to Bohol, unhampered by the whole AFP establishment, then upstream to a place unknown to them with only a general plan to ‘target tourists,’” the CPP said.
Earlier this week, members of the Abu Sayyaf arrived in Inabanga, Bohol.
Units of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) were later deployed in a bid to neutralize the bandit group. Residents evacuated amid the firefight.
READ: Bohol villagers flee as gov’t troops, Abu suspects clash
Reports said airstrikes continued until midnight of April 11.
READ: Airstrikes pummel Abu Sayyaf in Bohol up to midnight
Abu Sayyaf leader Abu Rami was identified as one of those killed.
READ: Abu Sayyaf leader Abu Rami killed in Bohol clash—AFP
An Inquirer report said some of the people killed who were identified as bandits were later revealed to be residents.
READ: 2 bodies recovered after Bohol clash not Abu Sayyaf members—villagers
The CPP said it was suspicious that the US issued a travel advisory days before the incident, warning its citizens against traveling to Cebu and Bohol because of a “terror threat.”
“This story is a typical of the tall tales spun by the US Central Intelligence Agency and their conspirators within the Philippine defense and security establishment,” it said.
The CPP, which has been waging the longest communist insurgency in Asia, alleged that the Abu Sayyaf has “long been collaborating with the AFP and the US military.”
It claimed that the Abu Sayaff was actually formed by “a group of armed men recruited by the US military to join the Taliban group which waged a CIA-hatched ‘jihad’ against the then Soviet-supported Afghanistan government.”
It said the Abu Sayaff has been used by the US and the AFP to discredit groups in Mindanao that are calling for self-determination or autonomy.
“It has been used to carry out terrorist bombings and other dirty jobs for the CIA to justify its ‘war on terror’ and the presence of US foreign troops in the country,” the CPP said. “Its bandit activities, mainly kidnapping-for-ransom, has been lucrative for the Abu Sayaff ringleaders and their AFP handlers.”
The CPP claimed that the recent incursion of the Abu Sayyaf will be used by the US military to increase its presence in the Visayas.
Map of the Philippines locating Bohol island where at least 10 people were killed in clashes between security forces and suspected members of Abu Sayyaf Tuesday. Includes factfile on Abu Sayyaf group. AFP
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/889162/cpp-says-us-involved-in-abu-sayyaf-attack-in-bohol
The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) on Friday accused the United States of being behind the Abu Sayyaf attack in Bohol.
“The news stories regarding the supposed arrival and presence of members of the Abu Sayaff criminal bandit group in Bohol island smacks of a US yarn,” the CPP said in a statement.
It questioned statements from the Philippine government and called the military operations “overkill.”
“The Philippine Air Force dropped nine bombs in Barangays Napo, Calenti and Banahao in Inabangan forcing at least 1,200 local residents people to evacuate,” it said.
“The AFP media office, known for spinning fake news stories, has produced a highly dubious story of no less than 60 fully armed men who traveled three hundred kilometers by boat from Sulu to Bohol, unhampered by the whole AFP establishment, then upstream to a place unknown to them with only a general plan to ‘target tourists,’” the CPP said.
Earlier this week, members of the Abu Sayyaf arrived in Inabanga, Bohol.
Units of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) were later deployed in a bid to neutralize the bandit group. Residents evacuated amid the firefight.
READ: Bohol villagers flee as gov’t troops, Abu suspects clash
Reports said airstrikes continued until midnight of April 11.
READ: Airstrikes pummel Abu Sayyaf in Bohol up to midnight
Abu Sayyaf leader Abu Rami was identified as one of those killed.
READ: Abu Sayyaf leader Abu Rami killed in Bohol clash—AFP
An Inquirer report said some of the people killed who were identified as bandits were later revealed to be residents.
READ: 2 bodies recovered after Bohol clash not Abu Sayyaf members—villagers
The CPP said it was suspicious that the US issued a travel advisory days before the incident, warning its citizens against traveling to Cebu and Bohol because of a “terror threat.”
“This story is a typical of the tall tales spun by the US Central Intelligence Agency and their conspirators within the Philippine defense and security establishment,” it said.
The CPP, which has been waging the longest communist insurgency in Asia, alleged that the Abu Sayyaf has “long been collaborating with the AFP and the US military.”
It claimed that the Abu Sayaff was actually formed by “a group of armed men recruited by the US military to join the Taliban group which waged a CIA-hatched ‘jihad’ against the then Soviet-supported Afghanistan government.”
It said the Abu Sayaff has been used by the US and the AFP to discredit groups in Mindanao that are calling for self-determination or autonomy.
“It has been used to carry out terrorist bombings and other dirty jobs for the CIA to justify its ‘war on terror’ and the presence of US foreign troops in the country,” the CPP said. “Its bandit activities, mainly kidnapping-for-ransom, has been lucrative for the Abu Sayaff ringleaders and their AFP handlers.”
The CPP claimed that the recent incursion of the Abu Sayyaf will be used by the US military to increase its presence in the Visayas.
Map of the Philippines locating Bohol island where at least 10 people were killed in clashes between security forces and suspected members of Abu Sayyaf Tuesday. Includes factfile on Abu Sayyaf group. AFP
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/889162/cpp-says-us-involved-in-abu-sayyaf-attack-in-bohol
Easter terror plans come to a halt after death of militant
From The Star (Apr 13): Easter terror plans come to a halt after death of militant
[Video report:
http://brightcove.vo.llnwd.net/v1/uds/pd/4405352761001/201704/615/4405352761001_5395340129001_5395335416001.mp4?pubId=4405352761001&videoId=5395335416001]
Muamar Askali, the murderous militant who was the face of the Abu Sayyaf group (ASG) in videos making ransom demands and beheadings of kidnap victims, has been shot dead.
Askali, more famously known as Abu Rami, was high on the Malaysian and Philippine security forces’ wanted list and was one of the few English-speaking Abu Sayyaf leaders.
A photograph of a dead Abu Rami, with his face covered in blood and a flag of the Islamic State (IS) pinned on his military fatigue shirt, was provided to The Star as confirmation of his death.
It is learnt that he and his gang were planning attacks or raids on Easter Sunday on tourist spots in Cebu when five of them were shot dead.
Abu Rami was seen in the Nov 17, 2015, beheading video of Sarawakian Bernard Then, who was kidnapped from the Ocean King Seafood Restaurant in Sandakan in May 2015.
He was also among the last of the remaining Abu Sayyaf sub-commanders involved in kidnap-for-ransom activities of foreigners.
“The death of the ASG leader does not end our grief. We pray, especially during this season of Lent in our Christian calendar, that God will show him mercy. And we hope our Government will continue to step up efforts to secure our shores,” said Christopher Then, Bernard’s brother.
Abu Rami was also linked to the IS group led by Isnilon Hapilon who was pushing for the setting up of a South-East Asian caliphate based in southern Philippines.
He was behind several kidnappings including a 2015 raid on the southern Philippine island resort of Samal in which four tourists – two Canadians, a Norwegian and a Filipina – were snatched. The two Canadian men were beheaded last year after their families and government failed to pay ransom.
End of the road: Wanted militant Askali (right) was killed near this farm house in Inabanga town, Bohol province, central Philippines, after it was hit by helicopter gunships. He had gone there from his headquarters in Jolo. — AFP
A former hostage has described Abu Rami, who was in his late 20s, as a “confused individual”.
“I saw him as a person with a confused personality,” said Jordanian journalist Baker Atyani, who was held hostage by the Abu Sayyaf faction led by the Sawadjan family of which Abu Rami was a member.
Baker, kidnapped while on assignment in Jolo on June 12, 2012 and held hostage for 18 months, said Abu Rami shuffled between the Moro National Islamic Front (MNLF) faction led by his uncle Qaed in Indanaan, Jolo island, and the Abu Sayyaf supreme leader (Emir) Radulan Sahiron, who is also known as the one-armed commander.
Baker, now based in Dubai, said that Abu Rami then moved to another sub group headed by Kahal, also known as Ama’a Ma’aas, when he married Kahal’s daughter.
Abu Rami took over as commander from his father-in-law who was killed last year and teamed up with the Sawadjan family who were involved in several resort kidnappings in Sabah waters.
He was among five gunmen killed in a bloody gunbattle in Bohol in central Philippines on Tuesday and his death is seen as a big blow to Abu Sayyaf based in Jolo island.
Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) Lt-Gen Carlito Galvez said: “The death of Askali has a big impact. The damage will be felt when it comes to the group’s projection of power outside Sulu. He was involved in attacks against foreigners. His capability to reach Bohol showed his aggressiveness.”
Abu Rami and a group of about 60 gunmen were believed to have slipped out of Jolo following intensive military operations and headed up to central Philippines’ Visaya Islands, and had been hiding out there since Monday while preparing to strike at tourist destinations during this weekend’s Easter holiday break.
However, they were spotted by villagers and the Philippines security forces using helicopter gunships bombarded the village, killing five Abu Sayyaf gunmen including Abu Rami. The security forces lost three soldiers and a policemen in the early Tuesday gunbattle.
The Philippines security forces are now on the hunt for the remnants of the militants who are now said to be “running for their lives”.
Just days before the raid, the US and Australian governments had warned their citizens about potential “terrorist” kidnappings on Bohol and neighbouring Cebu, also a major tourist destination.
Authorities said some 100 residents fled the fighting on Bohol.
However, hoteliers and visitors there told AFP that the incident has not affected tourist traffic although there was increased police security.
Bohol bills itself as a tropical paradise sought after by foreign tourists who go there to swim with docile whale sharks, travel its rivers on boat cruises, and lounge on unspoiled beaches.
[Video report:
http://brightcove.vo.llnwd.net/v1/uds/pd/4405352761001/201704/615/4405352761001_5395340129001_5395335416001.mp4?pubId=4405352761001&videoId=5395335416001]
Muamar Askali, the murderous militant who was the face of the Abu Sayyaf group (ASG) in videos making ransom demands and beheadings of kidnap victims, has been shot dead.
Askali, more famously known as Abu Rami, was high on the Malaysian and Philippine security forces’ wanted list and was one of the few English-speaking Abu Sayyaf leaders.
A photograph of a dead Abu Rami, with his face covered in blood and a flag of the Islamic State (IS) pinned on his military fatigue shirt, was provided to The Star as confirmation of his death.
It is learnt that he and his gang were planning attacks or raids on Easter Sunday on tourist spots in Cebu when five of them were shot dead.
Abu Rami was seen in the Nov 17, 2015, beheading video of Sarawakian Bernard Then, who was kidnapped from the Ocean King Seafood Restaurant in Sandakan in May 2015.
He was also among the last of the remaining Abu Sayyaf sub-commanders involved in kidnap-for-ransom activities of foreigners.
“The death of the ASG leader does not end our grief. We pray, especially during this season of Lent in our Christian calendar, that God will show him mercy. And we hope our Government will continue to step up efforts to secure our shores,” said Christopher Then, Bernard’s brother.
Abu Rami was also linked to the IS group led by Isnilon Hapilon who was pushing for the setting up of a South-East Asian caliphate based in southern Philippines.
He was behind several kidnappings including a 2015 raid on the southern Philippine island resort of Samal in which four tourists – two Canadians, a Norwegian and a Filipina – were snatched. The two Canadian men were beheaded last year after their families and government failed to pay ransom.
End of the road: Wanted militant Askali (right) was killed near this farm house in Inabanga town, Bohol province, central Philippines, after it was hit by helicopter gunships. He had gone there from his headquarters in Jolo. — AFP
A former hostage has described Abu Rami, who was in his late 20s, as a “confused individual”.
“I saw him as a person with a confused personality,” said Jordanian journalist Baker Atyani, who was held hostage by the Abu Sayyaf faction led by the Sawadjan family of which Abu Rami was a member.
Baker, kidnapped while on assignment in Jolo on June 12, 2012 and held hostage for 18 months, said Abu Rami shuffled between the Moro National Islamic Front (MNLF) faction led by his uncle Qaed in Indanaan, Jolo island, and the Abu Sayyaf supreme leader (Emir) Radulan Sahiron, who is also known as the one-armed commander.
Baker, now based in Dubai, said that Abu Rami then moved to another sub group headed by Kahal, also known as Ama’a Ma’aas, when he married Kahal’s daughter.
Abu Rami took over as commander from his father-in-law who was killed last year and teamed up with the Sawadjan family who were involved in several resort kidnappings in Sabah waters.
He was among five gunmen killed in a bloody gunbattle in Bohol in central Philippines on Tuesday and his death is seen as a big blow to Abu Sayyaf based in Jolo island.
Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) Lt-Gen Carlito Galvez said: “The death of Askali has a big impact. The damage will be felt when it comes to the group’s projection of power outside Sulu. He was involved in attacks against foreigners. His capability to reach Bohol showed his aggressiveness.”
Abu Rami and a group of about 60 gunmen were believed to have slipped out of Jolo following intensive military operations and headed up to central Philippines’ Visaya Islands, and had been hiding out there since Monday while preparing to strike at tourist destinations during this weekend’s Easter holiday break.
However, they were spotted by villagers and the Philippines security forces using helicopter gunships bombarded the village, killing five Abu Sayyaf gunmen including Abu Rami. The security forces lost three soldiers and a policemen in the early Tuesday gunbattle.
The Philippines security forces are now on the hunt for the remnants of the militants who are now said to be “running for their lives”.
Just days before the raid, the US and Australian governments had warned their citizens about potential “terrorist” kidnappings on Bohol and neighbouring Cebu, also a major tourist destination.
Authorities said some 100 residents fled the fighting on Bohol.
However, hoteliers and visitors there told AFP that the incident has not affected tourist traffic although there was increased police security.
Bohol bills itself as a tropical paradise sought after by foreign tourists who go there to swim with docile whale sharks, travel its rivers on boat cruises, and lounge on unspoiled beaches.
Abu Rami’s death likely to stifle Abu Sayyaf group
From The Star (Apr 13): Abu Rami’s death likely to stifle Abu Sayyaf group
The killing of the notorious Abu Rami Muamar Askali @Abu Rami will likely hinder whatever plans the Abu Sayyaf group might have been hatching in Sabah waters, according to Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom).
Their kidnap-for-ransom operations could be temporarily halted, Esscom Commander Datuk Wan Abdul Bari Wan Abdul Khalid said.
“We cannot be too happy because when one (Abu Sayyaf leader) is gone, another person will be ready to take over. We have to be careful on our side,” Abdul Bari said.
He added that a proper verification of the killing of Abu Rami was required and Esscom had yet to receive confirmation from the Philippines side.
“If Abu Rami has been killed, it will be definitely be good for our side,” he added.
Abu Rami was among 21 most wanted Abu Sayyaf gunmen involved in more than a dozen cross-border kidnappings since the Pom Pom resort attack in 2013.
So far, the five Muktadil brothers, as well as senior Abu Sayyaf leaders such as Idang Susukan Apo Mike @Majan Sahidjuan, Marajan Asiri, Alden Bagadi are among those killed or arrested.
Abu Rami and another notorious Abu Sayyaf leader Alhabsy Misaya, among the last few known gunmen involved in Sabah kidnappings, had been on the run since President Rodrigo Duterte ordered an all-out military offensive to wipe out the Abu Sayyaf in Jolo and Basilan in southern Philippines.
Alhabsy is believed to be in hiding in one of the many islands in the Sulu Sea.
Malaysian intelligence officers are monitoring the latest military offensive and keeping Sabah’s borders under tight scrutiny.
http://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2017/04/13/abu-ramis-death-likely-to-stifle-abu-sayyaf-group/
Their kidnap-for-ransom operations could be temporarily halted, Esscom Commander Datuk Wan Abdul Bari Wan Abdul Khalid said.
“We cannot be too happy because when one (Abu Sayyaf leader) is gone, another person will be ready to take over. We have to be careful on our side,” Abdul Bari said.
He added that a proper verification of the killing of Abu Rami was required and Esscom had yet to receive confirmation from the Philippines side.
Abu Rami was among 21 most wanted Abu Sayyaf gunmen involved in more than a dozen cross-border kidnappings since the Pom Pom resort attack in 2013.
So far, the five Muktadil brothers, as well as senior Abu Sayyaf leaders such as Idang Susukan Apo Mike @Majan Sahidjuan, Marajan Asiri, Alden Bagadi are among those killed or arrested.
Abu Rami and another notorious Abu Sayyaf leader Alhabsy Misaya, among the last few known gunmen involved in Sabah kidnappings, had been on the run since President Rodrigo Duterte ordered an all-out military offensive to wipe out the Abu Sayyaf in Jolo and Basilan in southern Philippines.
Alhabsy is believed to be in hiding in one of the many islands in the Sulu Sea.
Malaysian intelligence officers are monitoring the latest military offensive and keeping Sabah’s borders under tight scrutiny.
http://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2017/04/13/abu-ramis-death-likely-to-stifle-abu-sayyaf-group/
Abu Sayyaf leader Abu Rami confirmed killed (Photo)
From Update Philippines (Apr 12): Abu Sayyaf leader Abu Rami confirmed killed
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen. Eduardo Año on Wednesday confirmed that Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) leader Abu Rami was one of the six bandits killed in the encounter with government troops in Inabanga town, Bohol.
“Yes, Abu Rahmi is among those Abu Sayyaf killed in Bohol operation, six killed among the enemies, our troops recovered another body on the site of encounter,” he added.
In the same encounter, three soldiers and a police officer were also killed.
With this development, the AFP chief said the ASG must think twice of challenging government security forces and trying to sow terror, the AFP chief stressed.
“I recognized the heroism of our soldiers, for doing the ultimate sacrifice as fastest as possible, I also acknowledge the help of the citizens who reported to authorities the presence of the armed men,” Año added.
The AFP chief also called the ASG leader’s death a major blow to the bandit organization.
“It’s a major blow, Abu Rami participated in Samal kidnapping and also on the Canadians (John Ridsdel and Robert Hall). I can declare that the threat is over, successfully after the siege in Barangay Napo, Inabanga, Bohol, although we are still pursuing some of the remnants of the groups, our assault… continues to scour the area,” Año said.
The Bohol encounter erupted after civilians reported sighting three suspicious looking pumpboats, carrying heavily-armed men, entering the Sitio Ilaya riverside Monday night.
http://www.update.ph/2017/04/abu-syaaf-leader-abu-rahmi-confirmed-killed/16737
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen. Eduardo Año on Wednesday confirmed that Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) leader Abu Rami was one of the six bandits killed in the encounter with government troops in Inabanga town, Bohol.
“Yes, Abu Rahmi is among those Abu Sayyaf killed in Bohol operation, six killed among the enemies, our troops recovered another body on the site of encounter,” he added.
In the same encounter, three soldiers and a police officer were also killed.
With this development, the AFP chief said the ASG must think twice of challenging government security forces and trying to sow terror, the AFP chief stressed.
“I recognized the heroism of our soldiers, for doing the ultimate sacrifice as fastest as possible, I also acknowledge the help of the citizens who reported to authorities the presence of the armed men,” Año added.
The AFP chief also called the ASG leader’s death a major blow to the bandit organization.
“It’s a major blow, Abu Rami participated in Samal kidnapping and also on the Canadians (John Ridsdel and Robert Hall). I can declare that the threat is over, successfully after the siege in Barangay Napo, Inabanga, Bohol, although we are still pursuing some of the remnants of the groups, our assault… continues to scour the area,” Año said.
The Bohol encounter erupted after civilians reported sighting three suspicious looking pumpboats, carrying heavily-armed men, entering the Sitio Ilaya riverside Monday night.
http://www.update.ph/2017/04/abu-syaaf-leader-abu-rahmi-confirmed-killed/16737
Duterte cancels plan to raise flag in Spratlys
From Rappler (Apr 13): Duterte cancels plan to raise flag in Spratlys
(UPDATED) President Rodrigo Duterte says he is complying with China's request for him not to push through with this Independence Day plan
Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte canceled his plan to raise the Philippine flag on a disputed island in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea) on Independence Day, June 12.
"It is not in my country, but I would like to correct myself along the way here. I said I will go to the island of Kalayaan, Pag-asa, on June 12, to raise the Filipino flag there," Duterte said, referring to the town of Kalayaan in the disputed Spratly Group of Islands.
Duterte was addressing around 2,000 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) at the Riyadh Marriott Hotel on Wednesday, April 12 (Thursday, April 13 in Manila), the second and last day of his state visit to Saudi Arabia.
When Duterte mentioned his plan to raise the Philippine flag on Kalayaan, the crowd applauded but he stopped them, saying he was not finished talking.
"China sent word, 'Please do not do that,'" Duterte continued.
He said China fears that other claimant countries in the South China Sea might do the same thing.
The President said China told him, "If every head of state of the contending parties there in the West Philippine Sea – they call it the South China Sea – will go there to plant their flags, there will be likely trouble."
Duterte cites 'friendship with China'
"So because of our friendship with China, and because we value your friendship, I will not go there to raise the Philippine flag. Maybe I'll send my son," Duterte said.
"Ibig sabihin, kadugo ko na ang nand'yan, amin 'yan," he explained. (That means my relative is already there, so that is ours.)
"China said, 'Well, in the meantime, just do not go there. Please?' I said, 'Yes, I will correct myself because we value the friendship of China,'" Duterte recounted.
Duterte earlier said that in the upcoming Independence Day, "I might, I may go to Pag-asa Island to raise the flag there." He also told the military to occupy disputed islands in the West Philippine Sea.
Duterte wants the Philippines to boost ties with China to improve the economy despite the sea dispute. (READ: What Duterte accomplished in China)
Former foreign secretary Albert del Rosario had criticized the President last Tuesday, April 11, for saying he "can sell" disputed islands to China if the Philippines gets "very rich."
But Presidential Spokesman Ernesto Abella downplayed Duterte's remarks as "a lighthearted way of saying that we're friends" with China.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/166812-philippines-duterte-cancels-plan-raise-flag-spratlys
(UPDATED) President Rodrigo Duterte says he is complying with China's request for him not to push through with this Independence Day plan
Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte canceled his plan to raise the Philippine flag on a disputed island in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea) on Independence Day, June 12.
"It is not in my country, but I would like to correct myself along the way here. I said I will go to the island of Kalayaan, Pag-asa, on June 12, to raise the Filipino flag there," Duterte said, referring to the town of Kalayaan in the disputed Spratly Group of Islands.
Duterte was addressing around 2,000 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) at the Riyadh Marriott Hotel on Wednesday, April 12 (Thursday, April 13 in Manila), the second and last day of his state visit to Saudi Arabia.
When Duterte mentioned his plan to raise the Philippine flag on Kalayaan, the crowd applauded but he stopped them, saying he was not finished talking.
"China sent word, 'Please do not do that,'" Duterte continued.
He said China fears that other claimant countries in the South China Sea might do the same thing.
The President said China told him, "If every head of state of the contending parties there in the West Philippine Sea – they call it the South China Sea – will go there to plant their flags, there will be likely trouble."
Duterte cites 'friendship with China'
"So because of our friendship with China, and because we value your friendship, I will not go there to raise the Philippine flag. Maybe I'll send my son," Duterte said.
"Ibig sabihin, kadugo ko na ang nand'yan, amin 'yan," he explained. (That means my relative is already there, so that is ours.)
"China said, 'Well, in the meantime, just do not go there. Please?' I said, 'Yes, I will correct myself because we value the friendship of China,'" Duterte recounted.
Duterte earlier said that in the upcoming Independence Day, "I might, I may go to Pag-asa Island to raise the flag there." He also told the military to occupy disputed islands in the West Philippine Sea.
Duterte wants the Philippines to boost ties with China to improve the economy despite the sea dispute. (READ: What Duterte accomplished in China)
Former foreign secretary Albert del Rosario had criticized the President last Tuesday, April 11, for saying he "can sell" disputed islands to China if the Philippines gets "very rich."
But Presidential Spokesman Ernesto Abella downplayed Duterte's remarks as "a lighthearted way of saying that we're friends" with China.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/166812-philippines-duterte-cancels-plan-raise-flag-spratlys
ISIS member Kuwaiti national deports
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 14): ISIS member Kuwaiti national deports
A suspected member of terrorist group Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) who was arrested by authorities last month was deported Friday in Kuwaiti, a Department of Justice (DOJ) official said on Friday.
DOJ Undersecretary Erickson Balmes, in letter from Bureua of Immigration Fugitive Search Unit (FSU), said that Hussein Aldhafiri, Kuwaiti national detained in Fort Bonifacio is set to bring in Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal (NAIA) Terminal 1 to deport in Kuwaiti.
"FSU agents together with BI Warden Facility (BIWF) personnel and Manila International Airport Authority - Airport Police Department (MIAA-APD) are enroute to ISG PA Fort Bonifacio to secure for transport to NAIA T1 and for eventual deportation to Kuwait at 12NN today (April 14) Hussein AZO Aldhafiri," read the letter.
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) arrested Al-Dhafiri along with his wife Rahaf Zina, a Syrian national, on March 25.
Based on intelligence reports provided by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the information given by the Kuwaiti government, Al-Dhafiri is an ISIS member.
Al-Dhafiri was allegedly involved in explosives manufacturing and possibly on operational planning against Kuwait, while Rahaf is the widow of the slain Abu Jandal Al-Kuwaiti, who is the number two military commander of the ISIS operating in Syria.
Justice Secretary Vitalino Aguirre II presented the two suspects to the media and has been transferred from the National Bureau of Investigation to the Armed Forces of the Philippines headquarters last Saturday.
Earlier, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) has ordered the deportation of Zina.
"Wherefore, finding the charge to be sufficient and well substantiated, we hereby order the deportation of Rahaf Zina (Rahaf) to Syria, subject to the submission of her National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) clearance," said the order which was also signed by Deputy Commissioners Estanislao Canta and Jose Carlito Licas, who are also members of the board.
The order has also included the Syrian's name in the bureau's blacklist as undocumented/undesirable.
"Respondent's presence in the country poses risk to public interest," the summary deportation order added.
No schedule has been set yet for her deportation.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=979976
A suspected member of terrorist group Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) who was arrested by authorities last month was deported Friday in Kuwaiti, a Department of Justice (DOJ) official said on Friday.
DOJ Undersecretary Erickson Balmes, in letter from Bureua of Immigration Fugitive Search Unit (FSU), said that Hussein Aldhafiri, Kuwaiti national detained in Fort Bonifacio is set to bring in Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal (NAIA) Terminal 1 to deport in Kuwaiti.
"FSU agents together with BI Warden Facility (BIWF) personnel and Manila International Airport Authority - Airport Police Department (MIAA-APD) are enroute to ISG PA Fort Bonifacio to secure for transport to NAIA T1 and for eventual deportation to Kuwait at 12NN today (April 14) Hussein AZO Aldhafiri," read the letter.
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) arrested Al-Dhafiri along with his wife Rahaf Zina, a Syrian national, on March 25.
Based on intelligence reports provided by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the information given by the Kuwaiti government, Al-Dhafiri is an ISIS member.
Al-Dhafiri was allegedly involved in explosives manufacturing and possibly on operational planning against Kuwait, while Rahaf is the widow of the slain Abu Jandal Al-Kuwaiti, who is the number two military commander of the ISIS operating in Syria.
Justice Secretary Vitalino Aguirre II presented the two suspects to the media and has been transferred from the National Bureau of Investigation to the Armed Forces of the Philippines headquarters last Saturday.
Earlier, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) has ordered the deportation of Zina.
"Wherefore, finding the charge to be sufficient and well substantiated, we hereby order the deportation of Rahaf Zina (Rahaf) to Syria, subject to the submission of her National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) clearance," said the order which was also signed by Deputy Commissioners Estanislao Canta and Jose Carlito Licas, who are also members of the board.
The order has also included the Syrian's name in the bureau's blacklist as undocumented/undesirable.
"Respondent's presence in the country poses risk to public interest," the summary deportation order added.
No schedule has been set yet for her deportation.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=979976
2 rebels killed, assorted war materials seized in Agusan Del Sur clash
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 14): 2 rebels killed, assorted war materials seized in Agusan Del Sur clash
Patrolling troopers from the 26th Infantry Battalion have shot and killed two New People's Army (NPA) fighters and recovered assorted weapons and war materials during operations in San Luis town, Agusan Del Sur Thursday afternoon.
In the said operation, the bodies of the two slain rebels along with a CCZ-550 "Barrett" long-range sniper rifle, 50 rounds of M-60 ammunition, assorted war materials, 34 sacks of rice, 10 backpacks containing personal items and subversive documents were recovered.
The clash took place around 3:30 p.m. at the outskirts of Barangay Mahagsay, of the above-mentioned area.
Armed Forces spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said the 26th Infantry Battalion was deployed in the vicinity after residents there reported the presence of the rebels who were on another extortion mission.
After a 30-minute fierce firefight, the NPAs scampered out of the encounter area leaving their dead comrades and assorted war materiel and supplies.
Padilla said pursuit operations are still ongoing as of this posting.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=979975
Patrolling troopers from the 26th Infantry Battalion have shot and killed two New People's Army (NPA) fighters and recovered assorted weapons and war materials during operations in San Luis town, Agusan Del Sur Thursday afternoon.
In the said operation, the bodies of the two slain rebels along with a CCZ-550 "Barrett" long-range sniper rifle, 50 rounds of M-60 ammunition, assorted war materials, 34 sacks of rice, 10 backpacks containing personal items and subversive documents were recovered.
The clash took place around 3:30 p.m. at the outskirts of Barangay Mahagsay, of the above-mentioned area.
Armed Forces spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said the 26th Infantry Battalion was deployed in the vicinity after residents there reported the presence of the rebels who were on another extortion mission.
After a 30-minute fierce firefight, the NPAs scampered out of the encounter area leaving their dead comrades and assorted war materiel and supplies.
Padilla said pursuit operations are still ongoing as of this posting.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=979975
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