From The Standard (Aug 4): MILF battles IS-linked BIFF
FORCES of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in Maguindanao clashed Wednesday with a breakaway faction of Bangsamoro Freedom Fighters which had allied itself with the extremist Islamic State of Iraq and Syria.
Initial reports by authorities said the MILF’s 118th Base Command under Ustadz Abdulwahid Tundok intercepted some 200 BIFF-ISIS men, all wearing black under Abu Torrette in Barangay Pusaw, Shariff Saidona Mustapha, Maguindanao.
Maj. Gen. Arnel dela Vega, Commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division in Maguindanao, said a defense cooperation mechanism had been in place involving state security forces and the local MILF base commands against extremists in Moro communities.
President Rodrigo Duterte met with senators on the same day, and said he had shared with the lawmakers matters of national security concerns.
One senator said the security concerns the Chief Executive raised during the meeting included information that the extremists had plotted anew to attack three more target places which were not identified.
Key population centers not far from the clash area are Tacurong City and Isulan town, both in Sultan Kudarat, Buluan town in Maguindanao, and Cotabato City.
“We wanted to prevent [this ISIS-inspired] BIFF [faction] from initiating terroristic actions against peaceful communities,” Dela Vega said in a press statement.
In his statement, Dela Vega acknowledged the encounter as one resulting from the “MILF leadership’s commitment” to help quell the “consolidation of Daesh-Inspired group(s).”
Meanwhile, an unidentified philanthropist from the business sector has donated P1 million to each of the families of fallen soldiers in Marawi, with the military in the final stretch of battle to defeat the Maute and Abu Sayyaf with some foreign ISIS fighters, Armed Forces chief Gen. Eduardo Año said Thursday.
‘‘The support from the entire nation is overwhelming. Donors are willing to give money and donations. In fact, a businessman gave a million each for the family of the fallen soldiers,” Año disclosed to the troops during his visit Wednesday at the battle ground.
MILF chairman Hadji Ibrahim Murad told a recent gathering of officials in Malacañang that the Daesh-inspired extremist groups wanted to sabotage the peace process and “change the narrative of the Moro struggle for self-determination.”
Military reports said the MILF troops belonged to the 118th Base Command under Abdul Karim Sinumagad, and 105th Base Command led by Hadjie Ali Omar, against the BIFF group of Ismael Abdul Malik alias Abu Toraype.
Civilians seeking safe refuge in nearby Datu Salibo town said Tundok’s MILF men blocked the local ISIS men, triggering the firefight that initially resulted in casualties on both sides.
Some local authorities have expressed fears the BIFF-ISIS Abu Toraype was growing in size, following its alleged receipt of huge funds for firearms and mobility, purportedly from their Maute allies in Lanao Sur.
Abu Toraype’s group reportedly broke away from the BIFF founded by the late Ustadz Ameril Umbra Kato, and pledged allegiance online to the foreign masked extremists’ ISIS.
Dela Vega said the wounding of the two MILF members in action showed their leadership’s “commitment of support to the ongoing peace process with the government.”
One of the things Ano promised to the soldiers was the issuance of the personal Glock automatic pistol and force protection equipment for “a job well done.”
He extolled the soldiers’ bravery and heroic deeds and soon as the battle against the terrorists and Marawi was liberated each of them would receive appropriate recognition.
Despite some criticisms of operational blunders that resulted in some unexpected casualties on the side of the government, Ano showed no regrets and told the soldiers their commander-in-chief, President Duterte, “has full confidence” in the military.
‘‘I am happy that we have the best officers and enlisted personnel who are fighting the terrorists. Stay safe, be bold, and daring, but be extra cautious. I want everyone to be alive when we finish this,” he said.
Western Mindanao Command commander Lt. Gen. General Carlito Galvez Jr. said all the soldiers needed was to see their commander-in-chief and chief of staff in “high spirits” to sustain the morale of the troops on the ground.
‘‘It is very rare that the head of our organization would risk his life and come to the battlefield in order to meet and motivate personally his officers and soldiers,” he said.
‘‘We are all in high spirits,” he added.
http://thestandard.com.ph/news/top-stories/243590/milf-battles-is-linked-biff.html
Saturday, August 5, 2017
Anakpawis blasts military’s ‘smear campaign’
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Aug 5): Anakpawis blasts military’s ‘smear campaign’
Anakpawis Party-list Rep. Ariel Casilao. PHOTO FROM ANAKPAWIS
A progressive lawmaker slammed on Saturday the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for linking its group to the rebel New People’s Army (NPA).
“Nothing’s new here. The [AFP] time and again has been on constant smear campaign not only against progressive organizations but also party-list groups like Anakpawis,” Anakpawis Party-list Representative Ariel Casilao said in a statement.
“Clearly, AFP’s hand is all over the latest smear campaign against our organization,” he added.
Casilao said it is “easy and convenient” for the AFP to tag persons being arrested as NPA members “to satisfy their malicious intention in dragging the progressive party-list groups” as part of the military’s “mind-conditioning strategy.”
AFP Spokesperson Brigadier General Restituto Padilla on Friday called for the investigation of on the alleged link of Ruel Cololot, a suspected NPA member arrested in Quezon, Bukidnon to Anakpawis Party-list.
Padilla said Cololot yielded an Anakpawis Party-list identification card upon his arrest.
READ: AFP wants probe on suspected NPA rebel with Anakpawis ID
Casilao said AFP’s “red-baiting” of his group is the same tactic of “implicating legitimate progressive organizations” as part of the “enemies of the state.”
He said these tactics will only result in “more worsening cases of human rights violations, particularly trump-up charges, illegal arrests, or worse, political killings, of peasants, indigenous and political activists nationwide.”
The lawmaker said Anakpawis Party-list’s regional chapter in northern Mindanao will check the validity of Cololot’s membership.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/920555/anakpawis-blasts-militarys-smear-campaign
Anakpawis Party-list Rep. Ariel Casilao. PHOTO FROM ANAKPAWIS
A progressive lawmaker slammed on Saturday the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for linking its group to the rebel New People’s Army (NPA).
“Nothing’s new here. The [AFP] time and again has been on constant smear campaign not only against progressive organizations but also party-list groups like Anakpawis,” Anakpawis Party-list Representative Ariel Casilao said in a statement.
“Clearly, AFP’s hand is all over the latest smear campaign against our organization,” he added.
Casilao said it is “easy and convenient” for the AFP to tag persons being arrested as NPA members “to satisfy their malicious intention in dragging the progressive party-list groups” as part of the military’s “mind-conditioning strategy.”
AFP Spokesperson Brigadier General Restituto Padilla on Friday called for the investigation of on the alleged link of Ruel Cololot, a suspected NPA member arrested in Quezon, Bukidnon to Anakpawis Party-list.
Padilla said Cololot yielded an Anakpawis Party-list identification card upon his arrest.
READ: AFP wants probe on suspected NPA rebel with Anakpawis ID
Casilao said AFP’s “red-baiting” of his group is the same tactic of “implicating legitimate progressive organizations” as part of the “enemies of the state.”
He said these tactics will only result in “more worsening cases of human rights violations, particularly trump-up charges, illegal arrests, or worse, political killings, of peasants, indigenous and political activists nationwide.”
The lawmaker said Anakpawis Party-list’s regional chapter in northern Mindanao will check the validity of Cololot’s membership.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/920555/anakpawis-blasts-militarys-smear-campaign
Government seeks arrest of 21 NDF peace consultants
From the Philippine Star (Aug 5): Government seeks arrest of 21 NDF peace consultants
Solicitor General Jose Calida filed before different regional trial courts (RTCs) a manifestation seeking the issuance of recommitment orders against 21 NDF members who were allowed to post bail last year to participate in the peace talks in Norway. Facebook screengrab/Presidential Communications, File
The government yesterday formally filed in various courts petitions to have leaders and members of the communist National Democratic Front (NDF) re-arrested and jailed following President Duterte’s decision to cancel the peace talks.
Solicitor General Jose Calida filed before different regional trial courts (RTCs) a manifestation seeking the issuance of recommitment orders against 21 NDF members who were allowed to post bail last year to participate in the peace talks in Norway.
“Due to the eventual termination of the peace negotiations in Oslo, Norway and the cancellation of the backchannel talks in the Netherlands, the NDF consultants who were granted conditional release should be recommitted and their respective bonds should likewise be cancelled,” Calida explained yesterday.
The solicitor general argued that President Duterte’s declaration of the NDF and the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) as “enemy of the State signified that any peace negotiations with them have been rendered inutile and therefore must officially end.”
Calida explained that when the Supreme Court (SC) granted bail to them in its resolution in August last year, which was adopted by the RTCs, the SC had set specific conditions.
“One of the conditions is that once their participation ceases or the peace negotiations are terminated, their respective bonds shall be deemed automatically canceled,” he stressed.
It was the Office of the Solicitor General that sought temporary liberty for the 21 NDF consultants, including Benito and Wilma Tiamzon, last year for their participation in the peace process between the communist rebels and the government.
Apart from the Tiamzon couple, covered by the immigration lookout bulletin order (LBO) are Tirso Alcantara, Ma. Concepcion Bocala, Pedro Codaste, Renante Gamara, Alan Jazmines, Ernesto Lorenzo, Ma. Loida Magpatoc, Alfredo Mapano, Ruben Saluta, Adelberto Silva, Ariel Arbitrario, Renato Baleros Sr., Kennedy Bangibang, Jaime Soledad, Rafael Baylosis, Alex Birondo, Winona Birondo and Porferio Tuna.
Last February, the Department of Justice (DOJ) issued the LBO against the other NDF leaders.
The government called off the peace talks after recent attacks by the CPP’s armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA), on government troops.
It has also cancelled backchannel talks set later this month in Europe following the attack of suspected NPA rebels in North Cotabato last Wednesday that wounded five members of the Presidential Security Group.
Last May, President Duterte suspended formal peace talks after both sides failed to resolve a dispute over the CPP’s order for the NPA to step up attacks against the government.
Calida explained earlier that the communist leaders could not invoke the 1995 Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantee (JASIG) in invoking their right to remain outside of detention as it provided for their immunity from arrest.
“SC decisions form part of the law of the land. Hence, the resolution dated Aug. 2, 2016 supersedes the defunct 1995 JASIG agreement between the parties, which has become moot and academic,” he explained.
Meanwhile, the CPP tagged President Duterte as a lackey of the US yesterday for denouncing North Korea’s development of nuclear weapons.
Solicitor General Jose Calida filed before different regional trial courts (RTCs) a manifestation seeking the issuance of recommitment orders against 21 NDF members who were allowed to post bail last year to participate in the peace talks in Norway. Facebook screengrab/Presidential Communications, File
The government yesterday formally filed in various courts petitions to have leaders and members of the communist National Democratic Front (NDF) re-arrested and jailed following President Duterte’s decision to cancel the peace talks.
Solicitor General Jose Calida filed before different regional trial courts (RTCs) a manifestation seeking the issuance of recommitment orders against 21 NDF members who were allowed to post bail last year to participate in the peace talks in Norway.
“Due to the eventual termination of the peace negotiations in Oslo, Norway and the cancellation of the backchannel talks in the Netherlands, the NDF consultants who were granted conditional release should be recommitted and their respective bonds should likewise be cancelled,” Calida explained yesterday.
The solicitor general argued that President Duterte’s declaration of the NDF and the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) as “enemy of the State signified that any peace negotiations with them have been rendered inutile and therefore must officially end.”
Calida explained that when the Supreme Court (SC) granted bail to them in its resolution in August last year, which was adopted by the RTCs, the SC had set specific conditions.
“One of the conditions is that once their participation ceases or the peace negotiations are terminated, their respective bonds shall be deemed automatically canceled,” he stressed.
It was the Office of the Solicitor General that sought temporary liberty for the 21 NDF consultants, including Benito and Wilma Tiamzon, last year for their participation in the peace process between the communist rebels and the government.
Apart from the Tiamzon couple, covered by the immigration lookout bulletin order (LBO) are Tirso Alcantara, Ma. Concepcion Bocala, Pedro Codaste, Renante Gamara, Alan Jazmines, Ernesto Lorenzo, Ma. Loida Magpatoc, Alfredo Mapano, Ruben Saluta, Adelberto Silva, Ariel Arbitrario, Renato Baleros Sr., Kennedy Bangibang, Jaime Soledad, Rafael Baylosis, Alex Birondo, Winona Birondo and Porferio Tuna.
Last February, the Department of Justice (DOJ) issued the LBO against the other NDF leaders.
The government called off the peace talks after recent attacks by the CPP’s armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA), on government troops.
It has also cancelled backchannel talks set later this month in Europe following the attack of suspected NPA rebels in North Cotabato last Wednesday that wounded five members of the Presidential Security Group.
Last May, President Duterte suspended formal peace talks after both sides failed to resolve a dispute over the CPP’s order for the NPA to step up attacks against the government.
Calida explained earlier that the communist leaders could not invoke the 1995 Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantee (JASIG) in invoking their right to remain outside of detention as it provided for their immunity from arrest.
“SC decisions form part of the law of the land. Hence, the resolution dated Aug. 2, 2016 supersedes the defunct 1995 JASIG agreement between the parties, which has become moot and academic,” he explained.
Meanwhile, the CPP tagged President Duterte as a lackey of the US yesterday for denouncing North Korea’s development of nuclear weapons.
CPP splinter group denies terrorist plot
From the Manila Times (Aug 5): CPP splinter group denies terrorist plot
A splinter group of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) on Friday issued a statement denying allegations of the National Capital Region (NCR) police directorate that they are preparing to conduct terrorist operations in the metro.
Luis Carlos of the Revolutionary People’s Army-Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPA-ABB) National Military Secretariat said, “We categorically deny the latest statement made of NCRPO Director Oscar Albayalde, alleging that RPA-ABB members were recruited by Muslim extremists and converted into Islam, and are poised to conduct terrorist operations in NCR. The RPA-ABB remains to be a revolutionary army dedicated to defending the interests and rights of the working class and the masses, and will never resort to extremist terrorism as the latest NCRPO intelligence report suggests.”
The statement added, “The RPA-ABB denounces, in the highest possible terms, the proliferation of extremist terrorism, whose main purpose is to sow fear and terror in the hearts and minds of the masses. We call the attention of the NCRPO to refrain from issuing baseless and malicious statements against the revolutionary army. We also renew our commitment to serve the people, and shall continue to be bulwark of justice against oppression and exploitation of any form.”
http://www.manilatimes.net/cpp-splinter-group-denies-terrorist-plot/342479/
A splinter group of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) on Friday issued a statement denying allegations of the National Capital Region (NCR) police directorate that they are preparing to conduct terrorist operations in the metro.
Luis Carlos of the Revolutionary People’s Army-Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPA-ABB) National Military Secretariat said, “We categorically deny the latest statement made of NCRPO Director Oscar Albayalde, alleging that RPA-ABB members were recruited by Muslim extremists and converted into Islam, and are poised to conduct terrorist operations in NCR. The RPA-ABB remains to be a revolutionary army dedicated to defending the interests and rights of the working class and the masses, and will never resort to extremist terrorism as the latest NCRPO intelligence report suggests.”
The statement added, “The RPA-ABB denounces, in the highest possible terms, the proliferation of extremist terrorism, whose main purpose is to sow fear and terror in the hearts and minds of the masses. We call the attention of the NCRPO to refrain from issuing baseless and malicious statements against the revolutionary army. We also renew our commitment to serve the people, and shall continue to be bulwark of justice against oppression and exploitation of any form.”
http://www.manilatimes.net/cpp-splinter-group-denies-terrorist-plot/342479/
AFP: Fighting Maute group in Marawi becoming more challenging
From the Sun Star-Manila (Aug 4): AFP: Fighting Maute group in Marawi becoming more challenging
AS CRISIS in Marawi City entered the tenth week, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) admitted Friday that fighting Islamic State (IS)-inspired extremists in the war-torn city has become more challenging.
"As we go through the military operations, it becomes a very close fight and the complexities on the ground are really becoming much more challenging," AFP spokesperson Brigadier General Restituto Padilla Jr. said in a press conference.
Padilla said the government forces continued to beef up operations against Maute militant group in two villages of Marawi City, which remained "problematic" areas.
On May 23, Maute bandits stormed Marawi City to fulfill their intent to create an Islamic territory for IS fighters in Southeast Asia. The attack coincides with the military's manhunt operation against Isnilon Hapilon, and Abu Sayyaf leader and alleged IS emir.
The armed conflict in Marawi City prompted President Rodrigo Duterte to declare martial rule in beleaguered Mindanao to end insurgency of terrorist groups.
The proclamation is extended until end of December this year. Padilla reiterated that the military was determined to regain full control of Marawi City sans target deadline to ensure the safety of the civilians.
"Our troops are in high spirits following that visit and are all raring to execute the succeeding operations on the ground to complete the liberation of Marawi," he said.
"We have not set any deadline. We're giving the troops and the ground commanders all the leeway to execute their plans," he added.
Senior Deputy Executive Secretary Menardo Guevarra said casualties in the protracted battle between the security forces and Islamist gunmen stood at 686, as of August 3.
They include 522 terrorists, 119 government troops, and 45 civilians.
Padilla said the government could not still heed to the "constant request" of Marawi residents to return home "because of these challenges."
"Our local executives are very much aware of the conditions on the ground, as well as the dangers posed by so many of the risks that they will face in case they are permitted to go without the necessary clearing operations that are conducted by the military," he said.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/manila/local-news/2017/08/04/afp-fighting-maute-group-marawi-becoming-more-challenging-556661
AS CRISIS in Marawi City entered the tenth week, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) admitted Friday that fighting Islamic State (IS)-inspired extremists in the war-torn city has become more challenging.
"As we go through the military operations, it becomes a very close fight and the complexities on the ground are really becoming much more challenging," AFP spokesperson Brigadier General Restituto Padilla Jr. said in a press conference.
Padilla said the government forces continued to beef up operations against Maute militant group in two villages of Marawi City, which remained "problematic" areas.
On May 23, Maute bandits stormed Marawi City to fulfill their intent to create an Islamic territory for IS fighters in Southeast Asia. The attack coincides with the military's manhunt operation against Isnilon Hapilon, and Abu Sayyaf leader and alleged IS emir.
The armed conflict in Marawi City prompted President Rodrigo Duterte to declare martial rule in beleaguered Mindanao to end insurgency of terrorist groups.
The proclamation is extended until end of December this year. Padilla reiterated that the military was determined to regain full control of Marawi City sans target deadline to ensure the safety of the civilians.
"Our troops are in high spirits following that visit and are all raring to execute the succeeding operations on the ground to complete the liberation of Marawi," he said.
"We have not set any deadline. We're giving the troops and the ground commanders all the leeway to execute their plans," he added.
Senior Deputy Executive Secretary Menardo Guevarra said casualties in the protracted battle between the security forces and Islamist gunmen stood at 686, as of August 3.
They include 522 terrorists, 119 government troops, and 45 civilians.
Padilla said the government could not still heed to the "constant request" of Marawi residents to return home "because of these challenges."
"Our local executives are very much aware of the conditions on the ground, as well as the dangers posed by so many of the risks that they will face in case they are permitted to go without the necessary clearing operations that are conducted by the military," he said.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/manila/local-news/2017/08/04/afp-fighting-maute-group-marawi-becoming-more-challenging-556661
Isabela military camp needs 500 soldiers
From the Manila Times (Aug 4): Isabela military camp needs 500 soldiers
GAMU, Isabela: The Philippine Army’s 5th Infantry Division (5ID) is in need of at least 500 new soldiers for deployment at the artillery unit of Camp Melchor Dela Cruz here.
Lt. Col. Calixto Cadamo, 5ID artillery unit commander, however, stressed the need for military personnel is not because of death among their men in the Marawi crisis and ambuscades by communist rebels but is a part of President Rodrigo Duterte’s directive to strengthen the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
The pre-qualifying examination for applicants is ongoing, comprising of 50 percent mathematics, 25 percent inductive reasoning and 25 percent basic English.
Applicants must be natural born Filipino citizens, at least 18-23 years old, at least 5 feet in height, single and without children and of good moral character.
They must pass the Philippine Army Aptitude Test Battery/Armed Forces of the Philippines Service Aptitude Test as well as pre-qualifying fitness test and medical exam and must be physically and mentally fit for military training.
http://www.manilatimes.net/isabela-military-camp-needs-500-soldiers/342422/
GAMU, Isabela: The Philippine Army’s 5th Infantry Division (5ID) is in need of at least 500 new soldiers for deployment at the artillery unit of Camp Melchor Dela Cruz here.
Lt. Col. Calixto Cadamo, 5ID artillery unit commander, however, stressed the need for military personnel is not because of death among their men in the Marawi crisis and ambuscades by communist rebels but is a part of President Rodrigo Duterte’s directive to strengthen the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
The pre-qualifying examination for applicants is ongoing, comprising of 50 percent mathematics, 25 percent inductive reasoning and 25 percent basic English.
Applicants must be natural born Filipino citizens, at least 18-23 years old, at least 5 feet in height, single and without children and of good moral character.
They must pass the Philippine Army Aptitude Test Battery/Armed Forces of the Philippines Service Aptitude Test as well as pre-qualifying fitness test and medical exam and must be physically and mentally fit for military training.
http://www.manilatimes.net/isabela-military-camp-needs-500-soldiers/342422/
Cop hurt in Maguindanao rebel attack
From the Philippine Star (Aug 5): Cop hurt in Maguindanao rebel attack
Members of the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters crawled near the police station of Datu Unsay and opened fire and provoked a gunfight. Philstar.com/File photo
A policeman was hurt when militants simultaneously attacked on Friday night a police station and two Army outposts in Maguindanao province.
The wounded PO1 Usman Datuan of the Datu Unsay municipal police is now recuperating in a hospital.
Senior Superintendent Agustin Tello, director of the Maguindanao provincial police, said members of the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters crawled near the police station of Datu Unsay and opened fire, provoking a gunfight.
Although outnumbered, the personnel of the Datu Unsay municipal police returned fire and outflanked their attackers, preventing them from closing in.
BIFF gunmen also fired assault rifles at two nearby Army detachments immediately after gunshots reverberated through the surroundings of the Datu Unsay town hall where its local police station is located.
No one was hurt from among soldiers inside the detachments in Barangay Meta in Datu Unsay and in nearby Datu Saudi town, also in Maguindanao, that bandits also attacked at the same time.
Local officials said the BIFF incursions Friday night were meant to avenge the deaths of six bandits in a military-supported anti-terror operation by the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in Sharif Saidona town in Maguindanao early this week.
Guerillas of the MILF attacked gunmen from a third faction in the BIFF in Barangay Pusaw, Sharif Saidona while converging there suspiciously, displaying the flag of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria.
The militants, led by Esmael Abdulmalik, escaped after a three-hour firefight with MILF guerillas carrying six dead companions.
The MILF and the government are bound by a 1997 security pact, the Agreement on General Cessation of Hostilities, to cooperate in neutralizing terrorists and criminals in potential flashpoint areas in the south.
Tello said police personnel in towns vulnerable to BIFF attacks are on full alert following Friday’s attack on the Datu Unsay municipal police station.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2017/08/05/1725474/cop-hurt-maguindanao-rebel-attack
Members of the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters crawled near the police station of Datu Unsay and opened fire and provoked a gunfight. Philstar.com/File photo
A policeman was hurt when militants simultaneously attacked on Friday night a police station and two Army outposts in Maguindanao province.
The wounded PO1 Usman Datuan of the Datu Unsay municipal police is now recuperating in a hospital.
Senior Superintendent Agustin Tello, director of the Maguindanao provincial police, said members of the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters crawled near the police station of Datu Unsay and opened fire, provoking a gunfight.
Although outnumbered, the personnel of the Datu Unsay municipal police returned fire and outflanked their attackers, preventing them from closing in.
BIFF gunmen also fired assault rifles at two nearby Army detachments immediately after gunshots reverberated through the surroundings of the Datu Unsay town hall where its local police station is located.
No one was hurt from among soldiers inside the detachments in Barangay Meta in Datu Unsay and in nearby Datu Saudi town, also in Maguindanao, that bandits also attacked at the same time.
Local officials said the BIFF incursions Friday night were meant to avenge the deaths of six bandits in a military-supported anti-terror operation by the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in Sharif Saidona town in Maguindanao early this week.
Guerillas of the MILF attacked gunmen from a third faction in the BIFF in Barangay Pusaw, Sharif Saidona while converging there suspiciously, displaying the flag of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria.
The militants, led by Esmael Abdulmalik, escaped after a three-hour firefight with MILF guerillas carrying six dead companions.
The MILF and the government are bound by a 1997 security pact, the Agreement on General Cessation of Hostilities, to cooperate in neutralizing terrorists and criminals in potential flashpoint areas in the south.
Tello said police personnel in towns vulnerable to BIFF attacks are on full alert following Friday’s attack on the Datu Unsay municipal police station.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2017/08/05/1725474/cop-hurt-maguindanao-rebel-attack
President Duterte distributes G-shock military watches to Marawi troops
From Update Philippines (Aug 5): President Duterte distributes G-shock military watches to Marawi troops
President Rodrigo Duterte has distributed G-shock military watches and other goods as well as inspired the troops in the front line in Marawi City, the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) announced Saturday.
Duterte arrived 30 minutes past 4:00 p.m. Friday and “entered the main battle area and visited the soldiers and policemen fighting in Marawi City” amid a heavy downpour.
“Even the heavy rain could not stop the Commander-in-Chief in visiting his troops in the front line yesterday (Friday, August 4),” the Westmincom said.
His visit came days after the troops successfully gained control of strategic structures previously occupied by the ISIS-inspired Maute group.
He was welcomed by Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., Westmincom chief; Brig. Gen. Rolando Joselito Bautista, Joint Task Force Marawi commander; Maj. Gen. Danilo Pamonag, Special Operations Command chief; Brig. Gen. Ramiro Rey, Joint Task Force Ranao commander; and other ground commanders.
In his message to the troops, President Duterte said he wanted them to stay alive and “practice caution until the end of the war.”
“Malapit na itong matapos, konting tiis nalang. Just make sure na buhay kayo pag natapos itong gyera na ito,” the President told around 300 soldiers and policemen who excitedly listened to him.
President met with ground commanders who are in the main battle area, “to show them that he is, all the way, with them in this fight.”
The President also pledged to put up a PhP50-billion trust fund for the soldier’s and policemen’s dependents.
He added that scholarship grants will also be accorded to the children of uniformed men.
The soldiers were all in smiles after meeting and personally seeing their Commander-in-Chief, who left the front line an hour later.
Drenched in the rain, President Duterte spent about 20 minutes taking “selfies and groupies with the troops before he left the vicinity.”
He was accompanied by National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr; Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana; AFP Chief of Staff, Gen. Eduardo Año; Army Chief, Lt. Gen. Glorioso Miranda; Navy Flag Officer in Command, Vice Admiral Ronald Joseph Mercado; and Air Force Chief, Lt. Gen. Edgar Fallorina.
https://www.update.ph/2017/08/president-duterte-distributes-g-shock-military-watches-to-marawi-troops/19718
President Rodrigo Duterte has distributed G-shock military watches and other goods as well as inspired the troops in the front line in Marawi City, the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) announced Saturday.
Duterte arrived 30 minutes past 4:00 p.m. Friday and “entered the main battle area and visited the soldiers and policemen fighting in Marawi City” amid a heavy downpour.
“Even the heavy rain could not stop the Commander-in-Chief in visiting his troops in the front line yesterday (Friday, August 4),” the Westmincom said.
His visit came days after the troops successfully gained control of strategic structures previously occupied by the ISIS-inspired Maute group.
He was welcomed by Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., Westmincom chief; Brig. Gen. Rolando Joselito Bautista, Joint Task Force Marawi commander; Maj. Gen. Danilo Pamonag, Special Operations Command chief; Brig. Gen. Ramiro Rey, Joint Task Force Ranao commander; and other ground commanders.
In his message to the troops, President Duterte said he wanted them to stay alive and “practice caution until the end of the war.”
“Malapit na itong matapos, konting tiis nalang. Just make sure na buhay kayo pag natapos itong gyera na ito,” the President told around 300 soldiers and policemen who excitedly listened to him.
President met with ground commanders who are in the main battle area, “to show them that he is, all the way, with them in this fight.”
The President also pledged to put up a PhP50-billion trust fund for the soldier’s and policemen’s dependents.
He added that scholarship grants will also be accorded to the children of uniformed men.
The soldiers were all in smiles after meeting and personally seeing their Commander-in-Chief, who left the front line an hour later.
Drenched in the rain, President Duterte spent about 20 minutes taking “selfies and groupies with the troops before he left the vicinity.”
He was accompanied by National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr; Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana; AFP Chief of Staff, Gen. Eduardo Año; Army Chief, Lt. Gen. Glorioso Miranda; Navy Flag Officer in Command, Vice Admiral Ronald Joseph Mercado; and Air Force Chief, Lt. Gen. Edgar Fallorina.
https://www.update.ph/2017/08/president-duterte-distributes-g-shock-military-watches-to-marawi-troops/19718
LOOK: Military adds more firepower in Marawi
From Update Philippines (Aug 5): LOOK: Military adds more firepower in Marawi
IN PHOTO: A trailer truck carries an armored car at the Iligan port after it was unloaded from the Philippine Navy’s BRP Davao del Sur. BRP Davao del Sur docked at the Iligan City Port on Wednesday night.
The military says more hardware is coming as operations against the Daesh-inspired terrorist group in Marawi City enters its third month.
PNA photo
https://www.update.ph/2017/08/look-military-adds-more-firepower-in-marawi/19721
IN PHOTO: A trailer truck carries an armored car at the Iligan port after it was unloaded from the Philippine Navy’s BRP Davao del Sur. BRP Davao del Sur docked at the Iligan City Port on Wednesday night.
The military says more hardware is coming as operations against the Daesh-inspired terrorist group in Marawi City enters its third month.
PNA photo
https://www.update.ph/2017/08/look-military-adds-more-firepower-in-marawi/19721
Photo: Maj. Gen. Jon Aying, commander of the Army's 3rd Infantry Division briefs leaders of three major sugar federations
From the Visayan Daily Star (Aug 5): Photo: Maj. Gen. Jon Aying, commander of the Army's 3rd Infantry Division briefs leaders of three major sugar federations
Maj. Gen. Jon Aying, commander of the Army's 3rd Infantry Division briefs leaders of three major sugar federations on the peace and order security situation of Negros Island Region.* ( GPB photo )
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2017/August/05/index.htm
Maj. Gen. Jon Aying, commander of the Army's 3rd Infantry Division briefs leaders of three major sugar federations on the peace and order security situation of Negros Island Region.* ( GPB photo )
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2017/August/05/index.htm
1,000 Army 3 rd ID soldiers helping to liberate Marawi
From the Visayan Daily Star (Aug 5): 1,000 Army 3 rd ID soldiers helping to liberate Marawi
About 1,000 soldiers of the Army's 3rd Infantry Division intended to battle communist insurgents in Negros and Panay, will form the second line of defense of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in liberating Marawi from the occupation of the ISIS-inspired Maute terrorist group.
Maj. Gen. Jon Aying, 3ID commanding general, yesterday said the 15th and 82nd Infantry Battalions that used to be assigned in Negros and Iloilo, respectively, are supporting the main effort of the AFP to destroy the Maute terrorist group.
The 11th Infantry Battalion that used to be assigned in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental, is being deployed in Zamboanga.
The 15IB has suffered three casualties, who include SSgt. Joseph Villanueva of La Castellana, Negros Occidental, military records showed.
But four other Negrenses assigned to other Army infantry units, including 2Lt. McGlen Abuyabor, Corporals Ariel Arquio, Ramonito Occena III and Arjay Baroa, also died in the assault on Maute group strongholds in Marawi City.
All of them were accorded military honors upon the return of their remains to their respective homes in the Negros Island Region.
Aying, who recently visited his troops in Marawi City to check on their morale, said he expects the return of 3ID troops to Negros and Panay, although there is no definite time yet.
He said the area occupied by the Maute terrorists has been reduced to about two barangays. But since these are highly-urbanized barangays, with the size of about four football fields, filled with concrete multi-story buildings, Aying said “It is very difficult to clear or assault”, as the terrain situation hampers the movement and clearing operations of the military”.
Miltary records show that 124 government troops have already died while fighting with the Maute terrorist group, who have suffered more than 400 casualties
Aying noted that majority of soldiers were injured by improvised explosives devices, RPG (rocket propelled grenade) explosions. At the same time, he also observed that many of the soldiers killed were hit by the sniper fires.
The main battle area of Marawi is being occupied by four task groups, the Scout Ranger and Light Reaction Regiments, Marines and the Army's 103 Infantry Brigade.
Aying said they are simultaneously attacking the main line defense of the Maute Group, with the 15IB and 82IB supporting them.
While they are in the second line of defense, Aying said his troops are also being hit by stray bullets.
Aside from the usual benefits accorded to slain soldiers by the AFP, Aying said President Rodrigo Duterte also gave financial assistance to their widows and children.
As stipulated in the Comprehensive Social Benefits Program of the government, families of the slain soldiers and policemen will receive P500,000 as well as shelter, educational and health assistance.
A policeman or soldier injured in battle may also receive P250,000 assistance from the government.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2017/August/05/topstory4.htm
About 1,000 soldiers of the Army's 3rd Infantry Division intended to battle communist insurgents in Negros and Panay, will form the second line of defense of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in liberating Marawi from the occupation of the ISIS-inspired Maute terrorist group.
Maj. Gen. Jon Aying, 3ID commanding general, yesterday said the 15th and 82nd Infantry Battalions that used to be assigned in Negros and Iloilo, respectively, are supporting the main effort of the AFP to destroy the Maute terrorist group.
The 11th Infantry Battalion that used to be assigned in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental, is being deployed in Zamboanga.
The 15IB has suffered three casualties, who include SSgt. Joseph Villanueva of La Castellana, Negros Occidental, military records showed.
But four other Negrenses assigned to other Army infantry units, including 2Lt. McGlen Abuyabor, Corporals Ariel Arquio, Ramonito Occena III and Arjay Baroa, also died in the assault on Maute group strongholds in Marawi City.
All of them were accorded military honors upon the return of their remains to their respective homes in the Negros Island Region.
Aying, who recently visited his troops in Marawi City to check on their morale, said he expects the return of 3ID troops to Negros and Panay, although there is no definite time yet.
He said the area occupied by the Maute terrorists has been reduced to about two barangays. But since these are highly-urbanized barangays, with the size of about four football fields, filled with concrete multi-story buildings, Aying said “It is very difficult to clear or assault”, as the terrain situation hampers the movement and clearing operations of the military”.
Miltary records show that 124 government troops have already died while fighting with the Maute terrorist group, who have suffered more than 400 casualties
Aying noted that majority of soldiers were injured by improvised explosives devices, RPG (rocket propelled grenade) explosions. At the same time, he also observed that many of the soldiers killed were hit by the sniper fires.
The main battle area of Marawi is being occupied by four task groups, the Scout Ranger and Light Reaction Regiments, Marines and the Army's 103 Infantry Brigade.
Aying said they are simultaneously attacking the main line defense of the Maute Group, with the 15IB and 82IB supporting them.
While they are in the second line of defense, Aying said his troops are also being hit by stray bullets.
Aside from the usual benefits accorded to slain soldiers by the AFP, Aying said President Rodrigo Duterte also gave financial assistance to their widows and children.
As stipulated in the Comprehensive Social Benefits Program of the government, families of the slain soldiers and policemen will receive P500,000 as well as shelter, educational and health assistance.
A policeman or soldier injured in battle may also receive P250,000 assistance from the government.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2017/August/05/topstory4.htm
‘NPA remains a threat'
From the Visayan Daily Star (Aug 5): ‘NPA remains a threat'
The New People's Army remains the imminent threat to peace and order in the Visayas, for now, despite terror threats, Maj. Gen. Jon Aying, Army's 3rd Infantry Division commander, said.
“That is why we do current operations against the NPA”, Aying, who briefed yesterday members of the different sugar planters organizations of Negros Island Region security, said. But, at the same time, we are working on, creating, establishing, sustaining and improving the peace and security resiliency infrastructures against possible spillover or attacks by the ISIS-inspired terrorist group, he added.
The NPA recently claimed responsibility for the killing of six policemen and injuring of three others in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental, and the raid of the Maasin Police Station in Iloilo, where communist rebels took more than 30 high-powered firearms.
Aying said the operations against the NPA is a continuing process. While they have yet to pinpoint their exact location, Aying said he is optimistic that they will get them soon.
He admitted that the NPA managed to consolidate their forces during the peace talks.
Aying also disclosed that they recently monitored movements of NPA transferring from one island to another in the Visayas. That is why, we are also doing counter measures to isolate each island, and deny them the chance to support each other, he said.
CEBU, BOHOL SITUATION
There is need for Negros and Panay to help each other, Aying said, as he noted that Cebu and Bohol are insurgency-free. But he admitted that Panay and Negros are potentials for their organizations that can help resurrect Cebu and Bohol.
They (NPA) are struggling, but they are doing it, Aying said. That is what are trying to do also because we want Cebu and Bohol to be vigilant, to prevent the resurgence of the communist movement there.
The province of Negros Occidental recently allocated a P21.2 million budget for the projects and activities of Task Force Buglas, that was organized through an executive order issued by Governor Alfredo Marañon Jr. to address the threat of terrorism, among other peace and security-related concerns.
Aying yesterday enlisted the help of sugar farmers in Negros island against violent extremism, adding that they could be also part of the community information networks by providing early warning, and also responders in cases of disaster, calamities and emergencies.
COMMUNITY ROLE
. He underscored the vital role of communities in preventing lawlessness.
“If we are active and prompt in the delivery of information, we can have a good prevention and deterrence against lawlessness, rather than wait to become victims, followed by disasters,” Aying said.
. He explained that the task force, working under the Provincial Peace and Order Council and Pro-PIDU ( Peace,Integration and Development Unit), is designed for the four major threats or challenges to peace and national security, apparently referring to the CPP-NPA, terrorism and illegal drugs.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2017/August/05/topstory2.htm
The New People's Army remains the imminent threat to peace and order in the Visayas, for now, despite terror threats, Maj. Gen. Jon Aying, Army's 3rd Infantry Division commander, said.
“That is why we do current operations against the NPA”, Aying, who briefed yesterday members of the different sugar planters organizations of Negros Island Region security, said. But, at the same time, we are working on, creating, establishing, sustaining and improving the peace and security resiliency infrastructures against possible spillover or attacks by the ISIS-inspired terrorist group, he added.
The NPA recently claimed responsibility for the killing of six policemen and injuring of three others in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental, and the raid of the Maasin Police Station in Iloilo, where communist rebels took more than 30 high-powered firearms.
Aying said the operations against the NPA is a continuing process. While they have yet to pinpoint their exact location, Aying said he is optimistic that they will get them soon.
He admitted that the NPA managed to consolidate their forces during the peace talks.
Aying also disclosed that they recently monitored movements of NPA transferring from one island to another in the Visayas. That is why, we are also doing counter measures to isolate each island, and deny them the chance to support each other, he said.
CEBU, BOHOL SITUATION
There is need for Negros and Panay to help each other, Aying said, as he noted that Cebu and Bohol are insurgency-free. But he admitted that Panay and Negros are potentials for their organizations that can help resurrect Cebu and Bohol.
They (NPA) are struggling, but they are doing it, Aying said. That is what are trying to do also because we want Cebu and Bohol to be vigilant, to prevent the resurgence of the communist movement there.
The province of Negros Occidental recently allocated a P21.2 million budget for the projects and activities of Task Force Buglas, that was organized through an executive order issued by Governor Alfredo Marañon Jr. to address the threat of terrorism, among other peace and security-related concerns.
Aying yesterday enlisted the help of sugar farmers in Negros island against violent extremism, adding that they could be also part of the community information networks by providing early warning, and also responders in cases of disaster, calamities and emergencies.
COMMUNITY ROLE
. He underscored the vital role of communities in preventing lawlessness.
“If we are active and prompt in the delivery of information, we can have a good prevention and deterrence against lawlessness, rather than wait to become victims, followed by disasters,” Aying said.
. He explained that the task force, working under the Provincial Peace and Order Council and Pro-PIDU ( Peace,Integration and Development Unit), is designed for the four major threats or challenges to peace and national security, apparently referring to the CPP-NPA, terrorism and illegal drugs.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2017/August/05/topstory2.htm
WATCH | MNLF underscores commitment to BBL in Duterte-Misuari eyeball at Malacañang
From News 5/InterAksyon (Aug 5): WATCH | MNLF underscores commitment to BBL in Duterte-Misuari eyeball at Malacañang
Brotherly hug between President Rodrigo Duterte and MNLF founder Nur Misuari.
President Duterte and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) founder Nur Misuari had a brief meeting at Malacañang on Thursday, where they warmly embraced and also posed for souvenir pictures with Misuari’s entourage, which included Misuari’s wife and a son.
The MNLF party went to Malacañang for a meeting, the details of which were not disclosed.
The office of the President had recently submitted its draft of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL), which aims to institutionalize autonomous governance of places that would be included in Muslim Mindanao.
According to Deputy Executive Secretary Menardo Guevarra, the MNLF delegation underscored its commitment toward the implementation of BBL and also to the roadmap toward lasting peace.
Click and watch this video report:
Brotherly hug between President Rodrigo Duterte and MNLF founder Nur Misuari.
President Duterte and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) founder Nur Misuari had a brief meeting at Malacañang on Thursday, where they warmly embraced and also posed for souvenir pictures with Misuari’s entourage, which included Misuari’s wife and a son.
The MNLF party went to Malacañang for a meeting, the details of which were not disclosed.
The office of the President had recently submitted its draft of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL), which aims to institutionalize autonomous governance of places that would be included in Muslim Mindanao.
According to Deputy Executive Secretary Menardo Guevarra, the MNLF delegation underscored its commitment toward the implementation of BBL and also to the roadmap toward lasting peace.
Click and watch this video report:
WATCH | Govt forces wrest Mapandi stronghold from Maute Group in Marawi
From InterAksyon (Aug 1): WATCH | Govt forces wrest Mapandi stronghold from Maute Group in Marawi
The national colors fly over Mapandi in Marawi after troops of the Philippine Marines retake the redoubt from the hands of the Maute Group.
Government forces on Monday announced that they have taken the Barangay Mapandi neighborhood in the Islamic City of Marawi, which has served as one of the bastions of holdout elements of the terrorist Maute Group, even as the whereabouts of captive Catholic priest Chito Suganob remains unclear.
The fall of Mapandi from enemy hands came about after more than two months of intense fighting.
Mapandi is one of four remaining redoubts still held by the terrorists, who have strategically emplaced sniper nests and booby traps to resist the government security forces.
Capt, Jo-Ann Petinglay, Spokesperson of Joint Task Force Marawi, said, “Mapandi is one of their significant areas and staging points, one of the most difficult objectives in this theater. Last week, our Marines were successful in wresting the place from the enemy.”
Troops of the First Marine Brigade could be seen in a photograph with the Philippine flag flying in the background in Mapandi.
The count so far is 493 of the enemy killed in this standoff.
They are believed to hold between 50 and 80 civilian hostages. The military was also careful to note that there is, as yet, “no proof of life” regarding Fr. Suganob.
On the government side, the toll has been 114 lives, so far.
Many of the deaths have been due to improvised explosive devices and booby traps planted by the Maute Group’s jihadist fighters.
Click and watch this video report below:
The national colors fly over Mapandi in Marawi after troops of the Philippine Marines retake the redoubt from the hands of the Maute Group.
Government forces on Monday announced that they have taken the Barangay Mapandi neighborhood in the Islamic City of Marawi, which has served as one of the bastions of holdout elements of the terrorist Maute Group, even as the whereabouts of captive Catholic priest Chito Suganob remains unclear.
The fall of Mapandi from enemy hands came about after more than two months of intense fighting.
Mapandi is one of four remaining redoubts still held by the terrorists, who have strategically emplaced sniper nests and booby traps to resist the government security forces.
Capt, Jo-Ann Petinglay, Spokesperson of Joint Task Force Marawi, said, “Mapandi is one of their significant areas and staging points, one of the most difficult objectives in this theater. Last week, our Marines were successful in wresting the place from the enemy.”
Troops of the First Marine Brigade could be seen in a photograph with the Philippine flag flying in the background in Mapandi.
The count so far is 493 of the enemy killed in this standoff.
They are believed to hold between 50 and 80 civilian hostages. The military was also careful to note that there is, as yet, “no proof of life” regarding Fr. Suganob.
On the government side, the toll has been 114 lives, so far.
Many of the deaths have been due to improvised explosive devices and booby traps planted by the Maute Group’s jihadist fighters.
Click and watch this video report below:
WATCH | Military checks reports of fresh Maute infiltration to retake MSU
From InterAksyon (Aug 5): WATCH | Military checks reports of fresh Maute infiltration to retake MSU
Scene of heavy fighting in Marawi City.
News5 has obtained a copy of a video clip showing a passageway opened up between buildings in Barangay Marinuot that could have been used by alleged reinforcements of the terrorist Maute Group to infiltrate into the battle zone at the Islamic City of Marawi.
These improvised openings are useful also for the terrorists battling government security forces to scoot from one enclave to the next in the running battles that have been going on for more than two months now.
A source has indicated that, just on Tuesday this week, as many as 50 jihadist fighters were able to infiltrate through the city’s perimeter cordon to reinforce their fellow extremist fighters.
The supposed objective, they elaborated, could be to retake the campus of the Mindanao State University (MSU).
The information is now the subject of military intelligence verification.
While the identity of these alleged reinforcements remains vague, News5 has been told time and again that some relatives of the holdout Maute fighters are itching to join the fray.
Zia Alonto Adiong, Spokesman of the Provincial Crisis Management Committee of Lanao del Sur, appealed to the community not to allow MSU to be retaken, as the university is the symbol of the youth and future of Marawi: “It will be like consigning the future of our children to oblivion. If that future is obliterated, it’s like obliterating our home.”
Click and watch this clip from Kaye Imson’s video report:
Scene of heavy fighting in Marawi City.
News5 has obtained a copy of a video clip showing a passageway opened up between buildings in Barangay Marinuot that could have been used by alleged reinforcements of the terrorist Maute Group to infiltrate into the battle zone at the Islamic City of Marawi.
These improvised openings are useful also for the terrorists battling government security forces to scoot from one enclave to the next in the running battles that have been going on for more than two months now.
A source has indicated that, just on Tuesday this week, as many as 50 jihadist fighters were able to infiltrate through the city’s perimeter cordon to reinforce their fellow extremist fighters.
The supposed objective, they elaborated, could be to retake the campus of the Mindanao State University (MSU).
The information is now the subject of military intelligence verification.
While the identity of these alleged reinforcements remains vague, News5 has been told time and again that some relatives of the holdout Maute fighters are itching to join the fray.
Zia Alonto Adiong, Spokesman of the Provincial Crisis Management Committee of Lanao del Sur, appealed to the community not to allow MSU to be retaken, as the university is the symbol of the youth and future of Marawi: “It will be like consigning the future of our children to oblivion. If that future is obliterated, it’s like obliterating our home.”
Click and watch this clip from Kaye Imson’s video report:
16 guns, explosive seized Soldier wounded in encounter
From the Mindanao Times (Aug 5): 16 guns, explosive seized Soldier wounded in encounter
A SOLDIER was wounded in a series of gunfights against the New People’s Army (NPA) in Purok 6, Barangay Mayaon, Montevista, Compostela Valley where authorities recovered 16 firearms and an explosive device on Thursday.
The identity of the wounded soldier was not released.
Col. Gilbert Saret, deputy commander of 1001st Infantry Brigade, told TIMES that three encounters happened between troopers of the Philippine Army’s 25th Infantry Battalion and combined forces of Guerilla Front 33 and Pulang Bagani Command (PBC) 4 of Sub Regional Command (SRC) of the NPA’s Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC).
The identity of the wounded soldier was not released.
Col. Gilbert Saret, deputy commander of 1001st Infantry Brigade, told TIMES that three encounters happened between troopers of the Philippine Army’s 25th Infantry Battalion and combined forces of Guerilla Front 33 and Pulang Bagani Command (PBC) 4 of Sub Regional Command (SRC) of the NPA’s Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC).
The first gunfight was reported at 6:55 a.m.
Two hours later, another gunfight ensued while government soldiers are chasing the rebels.
The last gunfight was reported at 3:23 p.m.
Upon conducting clearing operation in the first encounter, soldiers were able to recover four M16 rifles, two M1 Garand with 22 clips ammunitions, one M14, one M2 Carbine, one .38 revolver, personal belongings and subversive documents.
Two hours later, another gunfight ensued while government soldiers are chasing the rebels.
The last gunfight was reported at 3:23 p.m.
Upon conducting clearing operation in the first encounter, soldiers were able to recover four M16 rifles, two M1 Garand with 22 clips ammunitions, one M14, one M2 Carbine, one .38 revolver, personal belongings and subversive documents.
In the second gunfight, soldiers recovered two M16 rifle, two M14 rifle, two M1 Garand Rifle, one AK47 Rifle, one improvise explosive device (IED), and two backpacks with personal belongings.
The troopers are still conducting operation to go after the fleeing rebels.
The troopers are still conducting operation to go after the fleeing rebels.
Photo: Return to Marawi
Posted to MindaNews (Aug 4): Photo: Return to Marawi
President Rodrigo Duterte returned to Marawi City on Friday, 04 August 2017, exactly 15 days since his first visit. Friday’s visit was at the Tactical Command Post of the Joint Special Operations Task Force Trident in Barangay Kilala, Marawi City. The President brought along groceries and watches for the troops and urged them to remain steadfast as government is “winning the war” against the Maute Group and its allies. Albert Alcain / PRESIDENTIAL PHOTOS
http://www.mindanews.com/photo-of-the-day/2017/08/return-to-marawi/
President Rodrigo Duterte returned to Marawi City on Friday, 04 August 2017, exactly 15 days since his first visit. Friday’s visit was at the Tactical Command Post of the Joint Special Operations Task Force Trident in Barangay Kilala, Marawi City. The President brought along groceries and watches for the troops and urged them to remain steadfast as government is “winning the war” against the Maute Group and its allies. Albert Alcain / PRESIDENTIAL PHOTOS
http://www.mindanews.com/photo-of-the-day/2017/08/return-to-marawi/
Caraga cops wounded in clash honored
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 4): Caraga cops wounded in clash honored
Three police personnel who were wounded in action in an anti-insurgency operations against communist rebels received distinguished medal awards and cash assistance.
Chief Supt. Rolando B. Felix, Caraga Regional Police Office chief, personally handed over Thursday (August 3) the “Medalya Ng Sugatang Magiting” award to re Police Officer 1 Ricky Arcite, Police Officers 1 Danilo Valenzuela and Diomar Guiral at a local hospital where both are recuperating.
Valenzuela and Guiral, who are assigned to 13th Regional Public Safety Battalion (RPSB), also received cash assistance amounting to P50,000 each. They will also receive a separate cash assistance from the Public Safety Mutual Benefit Fund, said Supt. Martin M. Gamba, PRO-Caraga spokesperson.
Valenzuela and Guiral sustained gunshot wounds during an encounter with an undetermined number of New People's Army (NPA) rebels in an upland village in Nasipit town, Agusan del Norte, Tuesday morning (August 1).
Supt. Gamba said the rebels were believed to be conducting "extortion" activities in the area when the encounter occurred.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1004811
Three police personnel who were wounded in action in an anti-insurgency operations against communist rebels received distinguished medal awards and cash assistance.
Chief Supt. Rolando B. Felix, Caraga Regional Police Office chief, personally handed over Thursday (August 3) the “Medalya Ng Sugatang Magiting” award to re Police Officer 1 Ricky Arcite, Police Officers 1 Danilo Valenzuela and Diomar Guiral at a local hospital where both are recuperating.
Valenzuela and Guiral, who are assigned to 13th Regional Public Safety Battalion (RPSB), also received cash assistance amounting to P50,000 each. They will also receive a separate cash assistance from the Public Safety Mutual Benefit Fund, said Supt. Martin M. Gamba, PRO-Caraga spokesperson.
Valenzuela and Guiral sustained gunshot wounds during an encounter with an undetermined number of New People's Army (NPA) rebels in an upland village in Nasipit town, Agusan del Norte, Tuesday morning (August 1).
Supt. Gamba said the rebels were believed to be conducting "extortion" activities in the area when the encounter occurred.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1004811
Army slams 'fake news' on Pangasinan encounter
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 4): Army slams 'fake news' on Pangasinan encounter
The Philippine Army’s 7th Infantry Division (7ID) deplored on Friday the proliferation of "fake news" in connection with the recent encounter between its troops and suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in San Nicolas, Pangasinan.
1Lt. Catherine Hapin, chief of the 7ID Kaugnay public information office (PIO), said that "malicious information and fake news circulated though text messages and social media” have caused alarm to some residents.
Hapin was referring to reports that the rebels have managed to abduct some local chief executives after an encounter between the elements of the Army’s 3rd Maneuver Company of the Regional Public Safety Battalion 1 (RPSB1) and undetermined number of NPA rebels in the area of San Nicolas Pangasinan, in Camps 3 and 4, and along the boundaries of Sta. Maria and Barangay Malico, all of San Nicolas.
A soldier was killed in action while scores of rebels were believed to have died in the firefight as the 84th Infantry Battalion immediately extended reinforcement and conducted pursuit operations. All six district police stations of Pangasinan were placed under full alert status due to the ongoing operations.
Hapin said reports on the abduction of mayors of certain municipalities in Pangasinan “are false and purely hearsay”.
"The situation has been contained and no enemy harassment has taken place in any of the barangays and towns of the province,” Hapin said.
She noted that the Office of the Municipal Mayor of San Nicolas has issued an official statement regarding this matter, with a call to counter violent extremism and strongly condemning the spreading of fake news that causes horrendous trauma not only to the people in the municipality, but also to their loved ones in far places.
Major General Angelito M. De Leon, Commander of the 7th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division, was “determined to see an end to the deplorable acts of the enemy and has ordered an intensified operations of troops to ensure that the enemy will never threaten the peace in Pangasinan,” she said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1004733
The Philippine Army’s 7th Infantry Division (7ID) deplored on Friday the proliferation of "fake news" in connection with the recent encounter between its troops and suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in San Nicolas, Pangasinan.
1Lt. Catherine Hapin, chief of the 7ID Kaugnay public information office (PIO), said that "malicious information and fake news circulated though text messages and social media” have caused alarm to some residents.
Hapin was referring to reports that the rebels have managed to abduct some local chief executives after an encounter between the elements of the Army’s 3rd Maneuver Company of the Regional Public Safety Battalion 1 (RPSB1) and undetermined number of NPA rebels in the area of San Nicolas Pangasinan, in Camps 3 and 4, and along the boundaries of Sta. Maria and Barangay Malico, all of San Nicolas.
A soldier was killed in action while scores of rebels were believed to have died in the firefight as the 84th Infantry Battalion immediately extended reinforcement and conducted pursuit operations. All six district police stations of Pangasinan were placed under full alert status due to the ongoing operations.
Hapin said reports on the abduction of mayors of certain municipalities in Pangasinan “are false and purely hearsay”.
"The situation has been contained and no enemy harassment has taken place in any of the barangays and towns of the province,” Hapin said.
She noted that the Office of the Municipal Mayor of San Nicolas has issued an official statement regarding this matter, with a call to counter violent extremism and strongly condemning the spreading of fake news that causes horrendous trauma not only to the people in the municipality, but also to their loved ones in far places.
Major General Angelito M. De Leon, Commander of the 7th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division, was “determined to see an end to the deplorable acts of the enemy and has ordered an intensified operations of troops to ensure that the enemy will never threaten the peace in Pangasinan,” she said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1004733
Media role in war vs insurgency lauded
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 4): Media role in war vs insurgency lauded
Army Lt. Gen. Ferdinand Quidilla, South Luzon Command (Solcom) chief, has lauded the role of media in disseminating the various achievements of the Armed Forces of the Philippines especially in the fight to end the four-decade long insurgency in the country.
The Solcom commander, in his keynote address at the two-day South Luzon Media Summit held here on Thursday evening, said he recognized the importance of media in accomplishing the goals and mission of the AFP in bringing peace and preventing lawless elements from sowing terror in the countryside.
The two-day summit sponsored by the 2nd Infantry Division Press Corps and the Kapisanan ng mga Broadcaster sa Pilipinas (KBP) was attended by hundreds of media practitioners from South Luzon at the Villa Ceceres Hotel in this city.
Quidilla, his speech said, “we were able to meet our goals and can stand tall among our peers and present with pride what we have accomplish thru the help of media”.
"My negative orientation about media has indeed changed from adversarial stance to a friendly and harmonious relationship with the media," he said.
“The media, in its very significant role in conveying the gains that the armed forces has done, is a prerequisite of a strong democracy,” Quidilla added.
The Solcom chief said the AFP needs to connect to people and that they need the media in disseminating correct, honest and fair news.
Also, he said, “We need the media to convince our policy-makers that, if we are really serious in helping end the communist insurgency in the Philippines countryside, the longest insurgency in the world, they must consider the existing conflict-prone places in formulating their development plans and activities”.
The media summit aims to discuss issues such as "fake news" and to reorient 150 participants on the responsibilities of media news objectivity and integrity in gathering and developing the news.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1004675
Army Lt. Gen. Ferdinand Quidilla, South Luzon Command (Solcom) chief, has lauded the role of media in disseminating the various achievements of the Armed Forces of the Philippines especially in the fight to end the four-decade long insurgency in the country.
The Solcom commander, in his keynote address at the two-day South Luzon Media Summit held here on Thursday evening, said he recognized the importance of media in accomplishing the goals and mission of the AFP in bringing peace and preventing lawless elements from sowing terror in the countryside.
The two-day summit sponsored by the 2nd Infantry Division Press Corps and the Kapisanan ng mga Broadcaster sa Pilipinas (KBP) was attended by hundreds of media practitioners from South Luzon at the Villa Ceceres Hotel in this city.
Quidilla, his speech said, “we were able to meet our goals and can stand tall among our peers and present with pride what we have accomplish thru the help of media”.
"My negative orientation about media has indeed changed from adversarial stance to a friendly and harmonious relationship with the media," he said.
“The media, in its very significant role in conveying the gains that the armed forces has done, is a prerequisite of a strong democracy,” Quidilla added.
The Solcom chief said the AFP needs to connect to people and that they need the media in disseminating correct, honest and fair news.
Also, he said, “We need the media to convince our policy-makers that, if we are really serious in helping end the communist insurgency in the Philippines countryside, the longest insurgency in the world, they must consider the existing conflict-prone places in formulating their development plans and activities”.
The media summit aims to discuss issues such as "fake news" and to reorient 150 participants on the responsibilities of media news objectivity and integrity in gathering and developing the news.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1004675
President Duterte visits troops in Marawi main battle area
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 5): President Duterte visits troops in Marawi main battle area
President Rodrigo Duterte has distributed G-shock military watches and other goods as well as inspired the troops in the front line in Marawi City, the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) announced Saturday.
Duterte arrived 30 minutes past 4:00 p.m. Friday and “entered the main battle area and visited the soldiers and policemen fighting in Marawi City” amid a heavy downpour.
“Even the heavy rain could not stop the Commander-in-Chief in visiting his troops in the front line yesterday (Friday, August 4),” the Westmincom said.
His visit came days after the troops successfully gained control of strategic structures previously occupied by the ISIS-inspired Maute group.
He was welcomed by Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., Westmincom chief; Brig. Gen. Rolando Joselito Bautista, Joint Task Force Marawi commander; Maj. Gen. Danilo Pamonag, Special Operations Command chief; Brig. Gen. Ramiro Rey, Joint Task Force Ranao commander; and other ground commanders.
In his message to the troops, President Duterte said he wanted them to stay alive and “practice caution until the end of the war.”
“Malapit na itong matapos, konting tiis nalang. Just make sure na buhay kayo pag natapos itong gyera na ito,” the President told around 300 soldiers and policemen who excitedly listened to him.
President met with ground commanders who are in the main battle area, “to show them that he is, all the way, with them in this fight.”
The President also pledged to put up a PhP50-billion trust fund for the soldier's and policemen's dependents.
He added that scholarship grants will also be accorded to the children of uniformed men.
The soldiers were all in smiles after meeting and personally seeing their Commander-in-Chief, who left the front line an hour later.
Drenched in the rain, President Duterte spent about 20 minutes taking “selfies and groupies with the troops before he left the vicinity.”
He was accompanied by National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr; Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana; AFP Chief of Staff, Gen. Eduardo Año; Army Chief, Lt. Gen. Glorioso Miranda; Navy Flag Officer in Command, Vice Admiral Ronald Joseph Mercado; and Air Force Chief, Lt. Gen. Edgar Fallorina.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1004828
President Rodrigo Duterte has distributed G-shock military watches and other goods as well as inspired the troops in the front line in Marawi City, the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) announced Saturday.
Duterte arrived 30 minutes past 4:00 p.m. Friday and “entered the main battle area and visited the soldiers and policemen fighting in Marawi City” amid a heavy downpour.
“Even the heavy rain could not stop the Commander-in-Chief in visiting his troops in the front line yesterday (Friday, August 4),” the Westmincom said.
His visit came days after the troops successfully gained control of strategic structures previously occupied by the ISIS-inspired Maute group.
He was welcomed by Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., Westmincom chief; Brig. Gen. Rolando Joselito Bautista, Joint Task Force Marawi commander; Maj. Gen. Danilo Pamonag, Special Operations Command chief; Brig. Gen. Ramiro Rey, Joint Task Force Ranao commander; and other ground commanders.
In his message to the troops, President Duterte said he wanted them to stay alive and “practice caution until the end of the war.”
“Malapit na itong matapos, konting tiis nalang. Just make sure na buhay kayo pag natapos itong gyera na ito,” the President told around 300 soldiers and policemen who excitedly listened to him.
President met with ground commanders who are in the main battle area, “to show them that he is, all the way, with them in this fight.”
The President also pledged to put up a PhP50-billion trust fund for the soldier's and policemen's dependents.
He added that scholarship grants will also be accorded to the children of uniformed men.
The soldiers were all in smiles after meeting and personally seeing their Commander-in-Chief, who left the front line an hour later.
Drenched in the rain, President Duterte spent about 20 minutes taking “selfies and groupies with the troops before he left the vicinity.”
He was accompanied by National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr; Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana; AFP Chief of Staff, Gen. Eduardo Año; Army Chief, Lt. Gen. Glorioso Miranda; Navy Flag Officer in Command, Vice Admiral Ronald Joseph Mercado; and Air Force Chief, Lt. Gen. Edgar Fallorina.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1004828
Troops arrest Abu Sayyaf bandit in Zamboanga
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 5): Troops arrest Abu Sayyaf bandit in Zamboanga
Combined police and military operatives have arrested a suspected Abu Sayyaf bandit in a law enforcement operation in this city, a police official announced Saturday.
Chief Insp. Elmer Solon, Police Station 4 chief, identified the arrested suspect as Hamad Ajijul Susulan alias "Hajer Sailani" and "Ahmad."
Solon said Susulan was arrested around 3:10 p.m. Friday in a law enforcement operation along the highway in Barangay Mercedes, this city.
He said the suspect has standing warrant of arrest for the crime of eight counts of kidnapping and serious illegal detention with ransom issued by the court in Basilan province.
He said the suspect was involved in the kidnapping of workers on June 11, 2001 at the Golden Harvest Plantation in Barangay Tairan, Lantawan, Basilan.
The Abu Sayyaf bandits seized eight plantation workers when they raided the plantation.
The bandits beheaded some of the workers while others were either rescued by government forces or managed to escape during the firefight.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1004872
Combined police and military operatives have arrested a suspected Abu Sayyaf bandit in a law enforcement operation in this city, a police official announced Saturday.
Chief Insp. Elmer Solon, Police Station 4 chief, identified the arrested suspect as Hamad Ajijul Susulan alias "Hajer Sailani" and "Ahmad."
Solon said Susulan was arrested around 3:10 p.m. Friday in a law enforcement operation along the highway in Barangay Mercedes, this city.
He said the suspect has standing warrant of arrest for the crime of eight counts of kidnapping and serious illegal detention with ransom issued by the court in Basilan province.
He said the suspect was involved in the kidnapping of workers on June 11, 2001 at the Golden Harvest Plantation in Barangay Tairan, Lantawan, Basilan.
The Abu Sayyaf bandits seized eight plantation workers when they raided the plantation.
The bandits beheaded some of the workers while others were either rescued by government forces or managed to escape during the firefight.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1004872
Gov't socio-economic intervention needed to win war vs insurgency — Solcom chief
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 5): Gov't socio-economic intervention needed to win war vs insurgency — Solcom chief
Army Lt. Gen. Ferdinand Quidilla, Southern Luzon commanding general, on Friday urged national as well as local government officials and policy makers to look into the needs of impoverished people living in insurgency-prone areas across the country.
Quidilla said “Communism is alive” and furthered that the communist insurgency would continue if national and local government authorities would fail to formulate policies and deliver the needed services to various "conflict-prone areas."
He said, "I call on national and local government policy makers that if we are really serious in helping end the communist insurgency in the countryside, they must consider the existing conflict prone place in formulating their plans and delivering their services and activities."
At the start of the two-day summit on Thursday, Quidilla said conflict-prone areas called Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs) by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), are places where insurgency thrives because of poverty, ignorance and lack of government services and other socioeconomic issues are being exploited by the communist insurgents to agitate the villagers especially those living in far-flung areas.
The military official, who announced his retirement this month, said, “I shall soon leave the service, what I would like to point out is that these conflict prone areas in the Southern Luzon areas were the same places that we know when I was still a lieutenant.”
GIDAs or conflict-prone areas under SolCom that still need government attention are: Quezon province -- Gumaca, Lopez, Gen. Luna and Catanauan and Tagkawayan; Batangas -- Nasugbo, Lian, Calaca, Lemery, Taysan, San Juan, Gen. Nakar and Majayjay; Rizal -- Paluan, Abra de Ilog, Bongabong, Rizal, San Jose and Mansalay; Bicol -- Lagonoy, Garchitorina, Pasacao, Libmanan, Lupi in Camarines Sur; Gigmoto, Baras, San Andres in Catanduanes; Guinobatan, Jovellar, Pioduran, Libon, Oas, Daraga; Camarines Norte: Labo; Sorsogon: Barcelona, Gubat, Irosin, Juban and Magallanes; Masbate San Jacinto, Monreal, Mobo, Placer, Esperanza.
Quidilla, while presenting the grim situation on the war against insurgency, also laid down the Solcom achievement during his one-year term of office including: reducing the NPA strength by 106 rebels, of whom 30 were killed during encounters with military troops; 22 suspected NPA rebels captured and 54 alleged NPA rebels surrendered; Dismantling of NPA camps in 58 villages in Southern Luzon area; and recovery of 54 high powered firearms.
He noted that following intense combat operation, the AFP declared the provinces of Quezon and Oriental Mindoro as conflict manageable areas and are ready for further socio-economic development.
Quidilla, however, said that during various engagement with the communist rebels, the command lost 10 soldiers, 37 personnel were wounded in action and three high powered firearms were lost.
The Solcom chief said “in spite of our operational success, the enemy (NPAs) are still there, communism is still alive”.
“We can say that the actual damage of this enemy action is minimal but the impact of this seen in a bigger perspective, is profound,” he said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1004881
Army Lt. Gen. Ferdinand Quidilla, Southern Luzon commanding general, on Friday urged national as well as local government officials and policy makers to look into the needs of impoverished people living in insurgency-prone areas across the country.
Quidilla said “Communism is alive” and furthered that the communist insurgency would continue if national and local government authorities would fail to formulate policies and deliver the needed services to various "conflict-prone areas."
He said, "I call on national and local government policy makers that if we are really serious in helping end the communist insurgency in the countryside, they must consider the existing conflict prone place in formulating their plans and delivering their services and activities."
At the start of the two-day summit on Thursday, Quidilla said conflict-prone areas called Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs) by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), are places where insurgency thrives because of poverty, ignorance and lack of government services and other socioeconomic issues are being exploited by the communist insurgents to agitate the villagers especially those living in far-flung areas.
The military official, who announced his retirement this month, said, “I shall soon leave the service, what I would like to point out is that these conflict prone areas in the Southern Luzon areas were the same places that we know when I was still a lieutenant.”
GIDAs or conflict-prone areas under SolCom that still need government attention are: Quezon province -- Gumaca, Lopez, Gen. Luna and Catanauan and Tagkawayan; Batangas -- Nasugbo, Lian, Calaca, Lemery, Taysan, San Juan, Gen. Nakar and Majayjay; Rizal -- Paluan, Abra de Ilog, Bongabong, Rizal, San Jose and Mansalay; Bicol -- Lagonoy, Garchitorina, Pasacao, Libmanan, Lupi in Camarines Sur; Gigmoto, Baras, San Andres in Catanduanes; Guinobatan, Jovellar, Pioduran, Libon, Oas, Daraga; Camarines Norte: Labo; Sorsogon: Barcelona, Gubat, Irosin, Juban and Magallanes; Masbate San Jacinto, Monreal, Mobo, Placer, Esperanza.
Quidilla, while presenting the grim situation on the war against insurgency, also laid down the Solcom achievement during his one-year term of office including: reducing the NPA strength by 106 rebels, of whom 30 were killed during encounters with military troops; 22 suspected NPA rebels captured and 54 alleged NPA rebels surrendered; Dismantling of NPA camps in 58 villages in Southern Luzon area; and recovery of 54 high powered firearms.
He noted that following intense combat operation, the AFP declared the provinces of Quezon and Oriental Mindoro as conflict manageable areas and are ready for further socio-economic development.
Quidilla, however, said that during various engagement with the communist rebels, the command lost 10 soldiers, 37 personnel were wounded in action and three high powered firearms were lost.
The Solcom chief said “in spite of our operational success, the enemy (NPAs) are still there, communism is still alive”.
“We can say that the actual damage of this enemy action is minimal but the impact of this seen in a bigger perspective, is profound,” he said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1004881
Defense dept welcomes private, civil sector aid for Marawi rehab
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 5): Defense dept welcomes private, civil sector aid for Marawi rehab
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said that while the government will do everything to expedite the rehabilitation of war-torn Marawi City, they are grateful for whatever assistance the private sector and civil society organizations could extend in this endeavor.
In his message read to various stakeholders who gathered during Friday's "Bangon Marawi" forum at the Conrad Grand Hotel in Pasay City, Lorenzana urged "our partners to reach out to government through Task Force 'Bangon Marawi’ so that our efforts can be properly coordinated and managed and our assistance to communities will be properly delivered".
"I would like to assure our countrymen from Marawi City and other affected communities that their needs are being addressed with utmost consideration of their faith and culture. We will do our best to speed things up," he said in the message that was read by Office of Civil Defense deputy administrator for administration, Assistant Secretary Kristoffer James Purisima.
"We are one nation and we stand together during the bad time(s), and more so, during the trying times that test our resolve as a nation. No one will be left behind as we embark on this great endeavor to revive and rekindle affected communities and enable them to rejoin in the progressive advance of our beloved country, the Philippines."
Consultations with the local government and Muslim community leaders are ongoing to ensure that rehabilitation efforts are aimed at inclusivity, ensure the adequacy, suitability and acceptability of the rehabilitation plans and the support systems, he said.
"Various committees under Task Force 'Bangon Marawi’ are already working hard to attend to the complex requirements of post-conflict rehab and recovery. Transition shelters are being considered now along with the support infrastructure, like schools and markets, to facilitate the eventual return to normalcy of the way of life of our beloved Maranaws," the defense chief said.
Earlier, Lorenzana said the rehabilitation of Marawi City is aimed at repairing and ensuring that all infrastructure, bridges, streets, and other facilities are cleared and put in running order as quickly as possible.
Evacuees whose houses were not damaged in the fighting will be quickly returned to their homes as soon as possible, he added.
"Then, we will (open) stores and deploy Department of Trade and Industry’s rolling stores to ensure that returning evacuees will have sources of supplies and their other daily needs," Lorenzana said.
There are also plans to build temporary homes for residents whose homes were damaged by the fighting which began last May 23 when government forces attempted to arrest Abu Sayyaf leader and ISIS "emir" Isnilon Hapilon.
"As soon as the last shot is fired, the rehabilitation phase will start immediately. All available engineering equipment are there, including (those of) the Department of Public Works and Highways," the defense chief noted.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1004830
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said that while the government will do everything to expedite the rehabilitation of war-torn Marawi City, they are grateful for whatever assistance the private sector and civil society organizations could extend in this endeavor.
In his message read to various stakeholders who gathered during Friday's "Bangon Marawi" forum at the Conrad Grand Hotel in Pasay City, Lorenzana urged "our partners to reach out to government through Task Force 'Bangon Marawi’ so that our efforts can be properly coordinated and managed and our assistance to communities will be properly delivered".
"I would like to assure our countrymen from Marawi City and other affected communities that their needs are being addressed with utmost consideration of their faith and culture. We will do our best to speed things up," he said in the message that was read by Office of Civil Defense deputy administrator for administration, Assistant Secretary Kristoffer James Purisima.
"We are one nation and we stand together during the bad time(s), and more so, during the trying times that test our resolve as a nation. No one will be left behind as we embark on this great endeavor to revive and rekindle affected communities and enable them to rejoin in the progressive advance of our beloved country, the Philippines."
Consultations with the local government and Muslim community leaders are ongoing to ensure that rehabilitation efforts are aimed at inclusivity, ensure the adequacy, suitability and acceptability of the rehabilitation plans and the support systems, he said.
"Various committees under Task Force 'Bangon Marawi’ are already working hard to attend to the complex requirements of post-conflict rehab and recovery. Transition shelters are being considered now along with the support infrastructure, like schools and markets, to facilitate the eventual return to normalcy of the way of life of our beloved Maranaws," the defense chief said.
Earlier, Lorenzana said the rehabilitation of Marawi City is aimed at repairing and ensuring that all infrastructure, bridges, streets, and other facilities are cleared and put in running order as quickly as possible.
Evacuees whose houses were not damaged in the fighting will be quickly returned to their homes as soon as possible, he added.
"Then, we will (open) stores and deploy Department of Trade and Industry’s rolling stores to ensure that returning evacuees will have sources of supplies and their other daily needs," Lorenzana said.
There are also plans to build temporary homes for residents whose homes were damaged by the fighting which began last May 23 when government forces attempted to arrest Abu Sayyaf leader and ISIS "emir" Isnilon Hapilon.
"As soon as the last shot is fired, the rehabilitation phase will start immediately. All available engineering equipment are there, including (those of) the Department of Public Works and Highways," the defense chief noted.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1004830
Maute fighters slacken resistance
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 5): Maute fighters slacken resistance
Remnants of the Maute terrorist group, now pocketed in two villages in Marawi City, have slackened resistance, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said Saturday.
Padilla based the assessment on reports from ground commanders who claimed that volume of return fire from the terrorists have considerably slackened compared to the first days of the campaign.
"They are still fighting back but their return fire is much lower compared to the early days of the campaign," Padilla said in Filipino.
This is indicative that the lawless elements are running low on ammunition and other supplies.
In the same vein, ground commanders placed the number of remaining Maute Group terrorists to around "40 to 60".
Death toll in the Marawi armed conflict reached 522 terrorists, 119 government troops and 45 civilians.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1004893
Remnants of the Maute terrorist group, now pocketed in two villages in Marawi City, have slackened resistance, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said Saturday.
Padilla based the assessment on reports from ground commanders who claimed that volume of return fire from the terrorists have considerably slackened compared to the first days of the campaign.
"They are still fighting back but their return fire is much lower compared to the early days of the campaign," Padilla said in Filipino.
This is indicative that the lawless elements are running low on ammunition and other supplies.
In the same vein, ground commanders placed the number of remaining Maute Group terrorists to around "40 to 60".
Death toll in the Marawi armed conflict reached 522 terrorists, 119 government troops and 45 civilians.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1004893
ASEAN foreign ministers endorse COC framework on South China Sea
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 5): ASEAN foreign ministers endorse COC framework on South China Sea
Foreign ministers of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on Saturday formally endorsed the framework of the code of conduct (COC) to address disputes in the South China Sea/West Philippine Sea for eventual adoption by the regional grouping and China.
Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) acting Spokesperson Robespierre Bolivar said the framework COC is expected to be adopted at the ASEAN China Ministerial Meeting slated here on Aug. 6.
“So far as far as I know the consensus in Asean is at the very least the code of conduct that is to be negotiated still, that the negotiations that will happen in the next few months or years should produce a substantive and effective code of conduct,” he said in a press briefing.
Bolivar stressed the Philippines preferred a “legally binding” and effective code of conduct which all parties would observe and adhere to.
He said the COC framework was a major step towards the realization of an effective code.
“That is more strategic goal of the ASEAN,” he added.
Foreign ministers from 27 countries gather here for the 50th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (AMM) and Related Meetings from Aug. 2 to 8.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1004908
Foreign ministers of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on Saturday formally endorsed the framework of the code of conduct (COC) to address disputes in the South China Sea/West Philippine Sea for eventual adoption by the regional grouping and China.
Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) acting Spokesperson Robespierre Bolivar said the framework COC is expected to be adopted at the ASEAN China Ministerial Meeting slated here on Aug. 6.
“So far as far as I know the consensus in Asean is at the very least the code of conduct that is to be negotiated still, that the negotiations that will happen in the next few months or years should produce a substantive and effective code of conduct,” he said in a press briefing.
Bolivar stressed the Philippines preferred a “legally binding” and effective code of conduct which all parties would observe and adhere to.
He said the COC framework was a major step towards the realization of an effective code.
“That is more strategic goal of the ASEAN,” he added.
Foreign ministers from 27 countries gather here for the 50th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (AMM) and Related Meetings from Aug. 2 to 8.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1004908
PH plan to hunt oil in WPS dependent on compliance with Constitution
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 5): PH plan to hunt oil in WPS dependent on compliance with Constitution
The Philippine government said the plan to conduct joint exploration in the West Philippine Sea would really depend if the endeavor is worth pursuing, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said on Saturday.
With this, DFA Spokesperson Robespierre Bolivar reiterated the statement of DFA Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano that whatever endeavor the country would enter into with ASEAN member nations would be amenable to the laws of the land.
"I believe the secretary also mentioned in his press conference on Saturday... what we are trying to do is exploring if there’s anything to explore and that was the secretary’s way of saying we’ll see if there is something worth pursuing," he said in a press briefing for the 50th ASEAN Foreign Ministers Meeting, at the Conrad Hotel in Pasay City.
The DFA official added, "He mentioned something about first commercial viability fund. More importantly, he mentioned that any endeavor that the Philippines whether in a corporate setting, entered into should be compliant with the Philippine Constitution and its local laws."
Bolivar was asked if Cayetano was able to discuss with the ASEAN officials about joint development with all countries in the region. He said that many things had been discussed during the retreat but the time was very limited.
"That is the most important thing that Secretary Cayetano mentioned and also we have to understand that the ASEAN meeting, we have very limited time for working that discussion usually there are a lot of issues to cover...we discussed China Sea, terrorism, climate change and all in a span of only two and a half hours," he said.
"So we’ll have to wait and see…we really don’t know what went on inside the retreat until we see the joint agreement…"Bolivar added.
Earlier, President Rodrigo Duterte said that a partner had been found that will help develop oil fields and exploration and exploitation which is set to restart this year. But, he did not name the possible partner.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1004903
The Philippine government said the plan to conduct joint exploration in the West Philippine Sea would really depend if the endeavor is worth pursuing, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said on Saturday.
With this, DFA Spokesperson Robespierre Bolivar reiterated the statement of DFA Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano that whatever endeavor the country would enter into with ASEAN member nations would be amenable to the laws of the land.
"I believe the secretary also mentioned in his press conference on Saturday... what we are trying to do is exploring if there’s anything to explore and that was the secretary’s way of saying we’ll see if there is something worth pursuing," he said in a press briefing for the 50th ASEAN Foreign Ministers Meeting, at the Conrad Hotel in Pasay City.
The DFA official added, "He mentioned something about first commercial viability fund. More importantly, he mentioned that any endeavor that the Philippines whether in a corporate setting, entered into should be compliant with the Philippine Constitution and its local laws."
Bolivar was asked if Cayetano was able to discuss with the ASEAN officials about joint development with all countries in the region. He said that many things had been discussed during the retreat but the time was very limited.
"That is the most important thing that Secretary Cayetano mentioned and also we have to understand that the ASEAN meeting, we have very limited time for working that discussion usually there are a lot of issues to cover...we discussed China Sea, terrorism, climate change and all in a span of only two and a half hours," he said.
"So we’ll have to wait and see…we really don’t know what went on inside the retreat until we see the joint agreement…"Bolivar added.
Earlier, President Rodrigo Duterte said that a partner had been found that will help develop oil fields and exploration and exploitation which is set to restart this year. But, he did not name the possible partner.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1004903
Photo: PROP WAR
From the often pro-CPP online publication the Davao Today (Aug 4): Photo: PROP WAR
PROP WAR. Jay Apiag, Karapatan Southern Mindanao Region, holds a photo of propaganda posters declaring Karapatan, Gabriela, Bayan Muna, and Anakpawis as supporters of the New People’s Army. Apiag called this acts of red-baiting, which results to real harm for activists in a press conference on Friday, July 4 in Davao City. (Paulo C. Rizal/davaotoday.com)
Militants hit Army’s ‘red-baiting’ activities
From the often pro-CPP online publication the Davao Today (Aug 4): Militants hit Army’s ‘red-baiting’ activities
http://davaotoday.com/main/human-rights/militants-hit-armys-red-baiting-activities/
ACTIVISTS. (Left to Right) Kilusang Mayo Uno Southern Mindanao Region Secretary General Carlo Olalo, Tony Salube, spokesperson of Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas Southern Mindanao Region, and May Ann Sapar of Gabriela, Southern Mindanao Region call for the lifting of Martial Law, and the resumption of peace talks between the government and the National Democratic Front in a press conference on Friday, July 4 in Davao City. (Paulo C. Rizal/davaotoday.com)
Progressive groups here condemned the surge of different forms of red-baiting, which have become more conspicuous after President Rodrigo Duterte recently terminated the peace talks, and declared an all-out war against the New People’s Army.
Jay Apiag, secretary general of Karapatan Southern Mindanao Region
pointed at the proliferation of posters that linked their group, as well as those of partylists Bayan Muna, Anakpawis, and Gabriela of being supporters of the communists.
Apiag said these accusations were not new, but warned that they endanger the lives of activists ”who become targets of extrajudicial killings, abductions, and trumped up charges”.
He said the accusations also “desensitize” the public, because such propaganda, in the eyes of the public, would justify the deaths and arrests of activists.
Apiag said no one else, but the military is responsible for the vilification of activists.
Gabriela Southern Mindanao Region Secretary General May Ann Sapar said the Army is targeting civilians ”because it cannot crush their real enemies.”
pointed at the proliferation of posters that linked their group, as well as those of partylists Bayan Muna, Anakpawis, and Gabriela of being supporters of the communists.
Apiag said these accusations were not new, but warned that they endanger the lives of activists ”who become targets of extrajudicial killings, abductions, and trumped up charges”.
He said the accusations also “desensitize” the public, because such propaganda, in the eyes of the public, would justify the deaths and arrests of activists.
Apiag said no one else, but the military is responsible for the vilification of activists.
Gabriela Southern Mindanao Region Secretary General May Ann Sapar said the Army is targeting civilians ”because it cannot crush their real enemies.”
“Ginasayang nila ang pondo nga gibutang sa gobyerno para sa ilang pagpaniktik, sa ilang intelligence, kay wala silay klarong data nga nakuha para maundang ang terorismo diri sa atong nasud Pilipinas (They are wasting their intelligence fund for their surveillance activities because they have not gathered data that would put a stop to terrorism in the Philippines),” she added.
Farmers group Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas also condemned the recently extended Martial Law in Mindanao.
KMP Southern Mindanao Region Secretary General Tony Salubre said farmers have been victims of human rights violations even before Martial Law came into effect.
The declaration, Salubre said, only worsened the situation because it was now legal to detain suspected NPA members even without arrest warrants.
Instead of funding an all-out war campaign against the NPA, Salubre said President Rodrigo Duterte should resume the peace talks to ensure the passage of reforms, such as agrarian reform and national industrialization.
“Hangtod dili mapatuman ang tinuod nga repormang agraryo, bisan pag unang klaseng all out war ang buhaton, pila na ka admin ang nanglabay, kada admin nanglabay, naay all out war, pero ang mga nagbarog alang sa tinuod nga repormang agraryo, hangtod karon nagabarog (It doesn’t matter what kind of war this administration will wage. So many past administrations have waged all out wars. Those who fight for agrarian reform will remain standing no matter what),” he added.
Meanwhile, army spokesperson Capt. Ryan Batchar denied accusations that they were behind the posters, but maintained that the connection of the Communist Party of the Philippines and the accused groups were “common knowledge.”
Farmers group Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas also condemned the recently extended Martial Law in Mindanao.
KMP Southern Mindanao Region Secretary General Tony Salubre said farmers have been victims of human rights violations even before Martial Law came into effect.
The declaration, Salubre said, only worsened the situation because it was now legal to detain suspected NPA members even without arrest warrants.
Instead of funding an all-out war campaign against the NPA, Salubre said President Rodrigo Duterte should resume the peace talks to ensure the passage of reforms, such as agrarian reform and national industrialization.
“Hangtod dili mapatuman ang tinuod nga repormang agraryo, bisan pag unang klaseng all out war ang buhaton, pila na ka admin ang nanglabay, kada admin nanglabay, naay all out war, pero ang mga nagbarog alang sa tinuod nga repormang agraryo, hangtod karon nagabarog (It doesn’t matter what kind of war this administration will wage. So many past administrations have waged all out wars. Those who fight for agrarian reform will remain standing no matter what),” he added.
Meanwhile, army spokesperson Capt. Ryan Batchar denied accusations that they were behind the posters, but maintained that the connection of the Communist Party of the Philippines and the accused groups were “common knowledge.”
“It is a fact and known to people that they are [National Democratic Front Southern Mindanao Region] organization/s. They are legal fronts of the communist party,” Batchar told Davao Today in a text message.
“We do not or did not red tag them. Those posters are not from the military. It might have been placed by concerned citizens,” he said.
“We do not or did not red tag them. Those posters are not from the military. It might have been placed by concerned citizens,” he said.
http://davaotoday.com/main/human-rights/militants-hit-armys-red-baiting-activities/
NPA killed, soldier wounded in series of clashes in Davao region
From the often pro-CPP online publication the Davao Today (Aug 4): NPA killed, soldier wounded in series of clashes in Davao region
The Armed Forces of the Philippines said a member of the New People’s Army was killed and one soldier was wounded in series of armed confrontations that took place on Thursday morning, August 3, in the provinces of Davao Occidental and Compostela Valley.
In a statement on Friday, Captain Rhyan Batchar, chief of the information office of 10th Infantry (Agila) Division said several high-powered firearms were also recovered by government troopers at the encounter sites.
He said that elements of 73rd Infantry Battalion encountered an undetermined number of NPA rebels in Sitio Malbag, BarangayLittle Baguio, Malita, Davao Occidental at 10:40 a.m. on Thursday.
A dead NPA member who is still unidentified as of press time and an M-16 Armalite rifle were recovered by the government troopers in the encounter site, Batchar said.
“The troopers responded to reports of civilians on the presence of NPA rebels in the area that resulted in said encounter,” he added.
On the same date, series of armed confrontations also took place in the town of Montevista in Compostela Valley province, Batchar reported.
Elements of 25th Infantry Battalion, while conducting security patrol, chanced upon around 20 NPA rebels belonging to Guerilla Front 33 and Pulang Bagani 4 in Purok 4, Barangay Mayaon, Montevista.
A 15-minute encounter immediately ensued that resulted in the wounding of one government trooper, Batchar said.
The name of the wounded soldier was temporarily withheld pending notification of his family.
Government troopers recovered four M16 Armalite rifles, one M14 rifle, two M1 Garand rifles, one M2 carbine rifle, one .38 revolver, backpacks containing personal belongings and several subversive documents at the encounter site, he said.
By the afternoon of the same date, another encounter broke out during the pursuit operations conducted by 25th IB troopers.
Batchar said the 10-minute firefight resulted in the recovery of two M16 Armalite rifle, two M14 rifles, two M1 Garand rifle, one AK-47 rifle, an improvised explosive device and personal belongings.
Meanwhile, in the same statement sent to the media on Friday, Brig. Gen. Macairog Alberto, commander of 1001stInfantry Brigade lauded the government troopers.
“As long as NPA rebels continue to terrorize the people of Compostela Valley, the military will not hesitate to use legitimate force to drive them away from the community and its people,” Alberto said.
Major General Noel Clement, commander of 10th ID appreciated the support of the people to the government soldiers.
“While we address the armed threats, we shall also intensify our support to the local government units by establishing communities that are conflict-resilient through our Community Support Program,” Clement said.
http://davaotoday.com/main/politics/npa-killed-soldier-wounded-in-series-of-clashes-in-davao-region/
The Armed Forces of the Philippines said a member of the New People’s Army was killed and one soldier was wounded in series of armed confrontations that took place on Thursday morning, August 3, in the provinces of Davao Occidental and Compostela Valley.
In a statement on Friday, Captain Rhyan Batchar, chief of the information office of 10th Infantry (Agila) Division said several high-powered firearms were also recovered by government troopers at the encounter sites.
He said that elements of 73rd Infantry Battalion encountered an undetermined number of NPA rebels in Sitio Malbag, BarangayLittle Baguio, Malita, Davao Occidental at 10:40 a.m. on Thursday.
A dead NPA member who is still unidentified as of press time and an M-16 Armalite rifle were recovered by the government troopers in the encounter site, Batchar said.
“The troopers responded to reports of civilians on the presence of NPA rebels in the area that resulted in said encounter,” he added.
On the same date, series of armed confrontations also took place in the town of Montevista in Compostela Valley province, Batchar reported.
Elements of 25th Infantry Battalion, while conducting security patrol, chanced upon around 20 NPA rebels belonging to Guerilla Front 33 and Pulang Bagani 4 in Purok 4, Barangay Mayaon, Montevista.
A 15-minute encounter immediately ensued that resulted in the wounding of one government trooper, Batchar said.
The name of the wounded soldier was temporarily withheld pending notification of his family.
Government troopers recovered four M16 Armalite rifles, one M14 rifle, two M1 Garand rifles, one M2 carbine rifle, one .38 revolver, backpacks containing personal belongings and several subversive documents at the encounter site, he said.
By the afternoon of the same date, another encounter broke out during the pursuit operations conducted by 25th IB troopers.
Batchar said the 10-minute firefight resulted in the recovery of two M16 Armalite rifle, two M14 rifles, two M1 Garand rifle, one AK-47 rifle, an improvised explosive device and personal belongings.
Meanwhile, in the same statement sent to the media on Friday, Brig. Gen. Macairog Alberto, commander of 1001stInfantry Brigade lauded the government troopers.
“As long as NPA rebels continue to terrorize the people of Compostela Valley, the military will not hesitate to use legitimate force to drive them away from the community and its people,” Alberto said.
Major General Noel Clement, commander of 10th ID appreciated the support of the people to the government soldiers.
“While we address the armed threats, we shall also intensify our support to the local government units by establishing communities that are conflict-resilient through our Community Support Program,” Clement said.
http://davaotoday.com/main/politics/npa-killed-soldier-wounded-in-series-of-clashes-in-davao-region/
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