From Malaya Business Insight (Aug 25): Rights group raps new AFP intel chief
THE human rights group Karapatan yesterday criticized the designation of Brig. Gen. Macairog Alberto as chief of the Intelligence Service of the AFP (ISAFP), saying he is behind killings in Compostela Valley.
In a statement, Karapatan secretary general Cristina Palabay said the promotion of Alberto as chief of all the military intelligence unit “is another step towards this worsening climate of impunity in the country.
“Alberto’s one-year stint in Compostela Valley has resulted in at least 15 peasants and Lumad killed in one province alone, in pursuit of counter-insurgency objectives of the Duterte administration,” said Palabay.
Alberto, the outgoing commander of the Army’s 1001st Brigade based in Compostela Valley, is due to assume the new post today. He is a member of the Philippine Military Academy class of 1986.
Alberto is succeeding Maj. Gen. Ronald Villanueva, of the PMA Class 1985, who is the new commander of the Army’s 4th Infantry Division based in Cagayan de Oro City.
Palabay expressed disappointment that “murderers in uniform” are given higher assignments, instead of getting punished.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/rights-group-raps-new-afp-intel-chief
Thursday, August 24, 2017
DWDD: DEBRIEFED | Mental / Physical Health of Soldiers coming from Marawi assured
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Aug 25): DEBRIEFED | Mental / Physical Health of Soldiers coming from Marawi assured
CAMP GEN EMILIO AGUINALDO, Quezon City (DWDD) – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has assured the public that soldiers’ coming out of the main battle area in Marawi undergoes proper debriefing before they are allowed to go back to their family.
This was the statement made by the AFP after a soldier, on-leave after being assigned in Marawi, was killed two by two (2) policemen because he was allegedly looking and acting strangely in Zamboanga del Sur.
According to AFP spokesperson BGen Restituto Padilla, all soldiers involved in any operations in Marawi automatically undergoes debriefing to ensure that they are not suffering from battle stress.
Padilla added that more than three hundred soldiers have voluntarily returned to the main battle area after recuperating from wounds sustained in previous encounters.
Lastly, there are just a few noted cases of soldiers experiencing combat stress, although they have been given a clean bill of health and mind before they are allowed to go back to their families. AES / ALS / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/08/25/debriefed-mental-physical-health-of-soldiers-coming-from-marawi-assured/
CAMP GEN EMILIO AGUINALDO, Quezon City (DWDD) – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has assured the public that soldiers’ coming out of the main battle area in Marawi undergoes proper debriefing before they are allowed to go back to their family.
This was the statement made by the AFP after a soldier, on-leave after being assigned in Marawi, was killed two by two (2) policemen because he was allegedly looking and acting strangely in Zamboanga del Sur.
According to AFP spokesperson BGen Restituto Padilla, all soldiers involved in any operations in Marawi automatically undergoes debriefing to ensure that they are not suffering from battle stress.
Padilla added that more than three hundred soldiers have voluntarily returned to the main battle area after recuperating from wounds sustained in previous encounters.
Lastly, there are just a few noted cases of soldiers experiencing combat stress, although they have been given a clean bill of health and mind before they are allowed to go back to their families. AES / ALS / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/08/25/debriefed-mental-physical-health-of-soldiers-coming-from-marawi-assured/
DWDD: DONATION | DICT turned-over communication towers to EMC
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Aug 25): DONATION | DICT turned-over communication towers to EMC
NSFA, Panacan, Davao City (DWDD) – The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Region XI through its Cluster Director Mr. Alimbazar P. Asum, donated two (2) Trylon Tower Rhombic Antennae which were formerly used during the heyday of the Continuous Wave (CW) Morse Code and High Frequency Transceiver Radios to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EMC).
The towers were donated to EasMinCom during the turn-over ceremony at Headquarters EMC in the afternoon of August 23, 2017.
The Antennae towers will be utilized to expand and improve the communication coverage particularly in Davao Gulf and in the Northern Part of EMC’s Area of Responsibility, and the inter-operability with other maritime Law Enforcement Agencies. PIO EASTMINCOM / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/08/25/donation-dict-turned-over-communication-towers-to-emc/
NSFA, Panacan, Davao City (DWDD) – The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Region XI through its Cluster Director Mr. Alimbazar P. Asum, donated two (2) Trylon Tower Rhombic Antennae which were formerly used during the heyday of the Continuous Wave (CW) Morse Code and High Frequency Transceiver Radios to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EMC).
The towers were donated to EasMinCom during the turn-over ceremony at Headquarters EMC in the afternoon of August 23, 2017.
The Antennae towers will be utilized to expand and improve the communication coverage particularly in Davao Gulf and in the Northern Part of EMC’s Area of Responsibility, and the inter-operability with other maritime Law Enforcement Agencies. PIO EASTMINCOM / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/08/25/donation-dict-turned-over-communication-towers-to-emc/
DWDD: CHANGE OF COMMAND | New Leadership at 201st Infantry Brigade
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Aug 24): CHANGE OF COMMAND | New Leadership at 201st Infantry Brigade
CAMP GEN ALFREDO M SANTOS, Calauag, Quezon (DWDD) – Major General Rhoderick M Parayno, Commander of the 2nd Infantry (Jungle Fighter) Division presided over the change of command ceremony of 201st Infantry (Kabalikat) Brigade yesterday, August 23, 2017 at 201st Brigade Headquarters, Camp General Alfredo M Santos in Calauag, Quezon.
Brigadier General Lenard T Agustin relinquished the command of 201st Infantry Brigade (201Bde) of 2nd Infantry “Jungle Fighter” Division prior his assumption as Assistant Division Commander of the 10th Infantry “Agila” Division based in Camp General Manuel T Yan Sr., Brgy Tuboran, Mawab, Compostella Valley.
MGen Parayno expressed his deepest appreciation to the accomplishments contributed by BGen Agustin to the 2ID, AFP and the country as a whole. MGen Parayno also conveyed his profound and heartfelt thanks to the officers and men of 201st Brigade for supporting BGen Agustin during his stint as commander. “Under your great leadership, the Kabalikat Troopers spared no time in winning the peace in the Provinces of Quezon and Marinduque” remarked MGen Parayno in his speech.
Colonel Elias H Escarcha was designated as Acting Commander of 201st Brigade. “I am sure that you will continue the legacy of your predecessor and classmate” MGen Parayno added.
Both BGen Agustin and Col Escarcha are members of the Philippine Military Academy “Sinagtala” Class of 1986 and are recipients of various awards both from military and civilian sectors. 2ID / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/08/24/change-of-command-new-leadership-at-201st-infantry-brigade/
CAMP GEN ALFREDO M SANTOS, Calauag, Quezon (DWDD) – Major General Rhoderick M Parayno, Commander of the 2nd Infantry (Jungle Fighter) Division presided over the change of command ceremony of 201st Infantry (Kabalikat) Brigade yesterday, August 23, 2017 at 201st Brigade Headquarters, Camp General Alfredo M Santos in Calauag, Quezon.
Brigadier General Lenard T Agustin relinquished the command of 201st Infantry Brigade (201Bde) of 2nd Infantry “Jungle Fighter” Division prior his assumption as Assistant Division Commander of the 10th Infantry “Agila” Division based in Camp General Manuel T Yan Sr., Brgy Tuboran, Mawab, Compostella Valley.
MGen Parayno expressed his deepest appreciation to the accomplishments contributed by BGen Agustin to the 2ID, AFP and the country as a whole. MGen Parayno also conveyed his profound and heartfelt thanks to the officers and men of 201st Brigade for supporting BGen Agustin during his stint as commander. “Under your great leadership, the Kabalikat Troopers spared no time in winning the peace in the Provinces of Quezon and Marinduque” remarked MGen Parayno in his speech.
Colonel Elias H Escarcha was designated as Acting Commander of 201st Brigade. “I am sure that you will continue the legacy of your predecessor and classmate” MGen Parayno added.
Both BGen Agustin and Col Escarcha are members of the Philippine Military Academy “Sinagtala” Class of 1986 and are recipients of various awards both from military and civilian sectors. 2ID / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/08/24/change-of-command-new-leadership-at-201st-infantry-brigade/
DWDD: BRIEFING | NOLCOM Management Audit
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Aug 22): BRIEFING | NOLCOM Management Audit
CAMP GEN SERVILLANO, AQUINO, San Miguel, Tarlac (DWDD) – The leadership and peronnel of the Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM) welcomed the arrival of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Internal Auditor, MGen Leandro A Loyao III last August 16, 2017 followed by an entrance briefing regarding Management Audit of NOLCOM. NOLCOM PAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/08/23/briefing-nolcom-management-audit/
CAMP GEN SERVILLANO, AQUINO, San Miguel, Tarlac (DWDD) – The leadership and peronnel of the Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM) welcomed the arrival of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Internal Auditor, MGen Leandro A Loyao III last August 16, 2017 followed by an entrance briefing regarding Management Audit of NOLCOM. NOLCOM PAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/08/23/briefing-nolcom-management-audit/
DWDD: OFFICIAL STATEMENT | AFP denies link with the dubious group “PADEM”
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Aug 22): OFFICIAL STATEMENT | AFP denies link with the dubious group “PADEM”
CAMP GEN EMILIO AGUINALDO, Quezon City (DWDD) – The Armed Fforces of the Philippines categorically denies the recent statement issued by a group that pretends to be representative of the men and women of the AFP and the Philippine National Police and called themselves the Patriotic and Democratic Movement (PADEM).
According to BGen Restituto Padilla, AFP spokesperson, the entire AFP along with all the men and women of the uniformed services and all our civilian personnel stand by the Constitutionally mandated government and unequivocally supports the Commander-in-Chief. The accusations and issues cited by the group are unfounded and uncalled for. Such issues are clearly politically motivated and a matter that the AFP does not and will not subscribe to. Current developments and issues that this group wishes to take advantage of is now being addressed by the DOJ and parties to a possible crime are now under detention.
Padilla added that we should respect these processes and not allow ourselves to be used by individuals or groups with vested interests. We appeal for sobriety, reason and patience as we await the results of these processes. We are the constitutionally mandated protectors of the people and will stand by our law abiding citizens whenever and wherever we are needed.
Having affirmed this, the AFP however, will not hesitate in acting against forces who shall undermine the stability and security of our country and those who wish to destabilize our nation thru unconstitutional means.
The AFP appeals to the public and the various political groups to respect the apolitical stance of the AFP and help bring unity and healing instead of fomenting divisiveness and collapse. ALS / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/08/22/official-statement-afp-denies-link-with-the-dubious-group-padem/
CAMP GEN EMILIO AGUINALDO, Quezon City (DWDD) – The Armed Fforces of the Philippines categorically denies the recent statement issued by a group that pretends to be representative of the men and women of the AFP and the Philippine National Police and called themselves the Patriotic and Democratic Movement (PADEM).
According to BGen Restituto Padilla, AFP spokesperson, the entire AFP along with all the men and women of the uniformed services and all our civilian personnel stand by the Constitutionally mandated government and unequivocally supports the Commander-in-Chief. The accusations and issues cited by the group are unfounded and uncalled for. Such issues are clearly politically motivated and a matter that the AFP does not and will not subscribe to. Current developments and issues that this group wishes to take advantage of is now being addressed by the DOJ and parties to a possible crime are now under detention.
Padilla added that we should respect these processes and not allow ourselves to be used by individuals or groups with vested interests. We appeal for sobriety, reason and patience as we await the results of these processes. We are the constitutionally mandated protectors of the people and will stand by our law abiding citizens whenever and wherever we are needed.
Having affirmed this, the AFP however, will not hesitate in acting against forces who shall undermine the stability and security of our country and those who wish to destabilize our nation thru unconstitutional means.
The AFP appeals to the public and the various political groups to respect the apolitical stance of the AFP and help bring unity and healing instead of fomenting divisiveness and collapse. ALS / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/08/22/official-statement-afp-denies-link-with-the-dubious-group-padem/
DWDD: TURN-OVER CEREMONY | Tethered Aerostat Radar System (TARS)
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Aug 22): TURN-OVER CEREMONY | Tethered Aerostat Radar System (TARS)
NAVAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING COMMAND (NETC), San Antonio, Zambales (DWDD) – The Philippine Navy (PN) will receive the Tethered Aerostat Radar System (TARS), a self-sustained, unmanned Lighter-Than-Air (LTA) systems donated by the United States government, today, August 22, 2017, Tuesday at 1 o’clock in the afternoon at the Naval Education and Training Command (NETC) in San Antonio, Zambales
The formal turn-over ceremony will be led by US Deputy Embassy Chief of Mission to the Philippines Michael Klescheski and Philippine Navy Flag Officer In Command, Vice Adm. Joseph Ronald S Mercado.
It is expected to enhance the PN’s capability in Maritime Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance by effectively detecting maritime and air traffic within the country’s coastal waters using sensors. Moreover, it will also be utilized in the conduct of Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR) operations.
The TARS also includes a weather station that provides telemetry data to the ground station for the monitoring of ambient temperature, pressure, wind speed and other pertinent parameters in the operation of the system. NPAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/08/22/turn-over-ceremony-tethered-aerostat-radar-system-tars/
NAVAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING COMMAND (NETC), San Antonio, Zambales (DWDD) – The Philippine Navy (PN) will receive the Tethered Aerostat Radar System (TARS), a self-sustained, unmanned Lighter-Than-Air (LTA) systems donated by the United States government, today, August 22, 2017, Tuesday at 1 o’clock in the afternoon at the Naval Education and Training Command (NETC) in San Antonio, Zambales
The formal turn-over ceremony will be led by US Deputy Embassy Chief of Mission to the Philippines Michael Klescheski and Philippine Navy Flag Officer In Command, Vice Adm. Joseph Ronald S Mercado.
It is expected to enhance the PN’s capability in Maritime Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance by effectively detecting maritime and air traffic within the country’s coastal waters using sensors. Moreover, it will also be utilized in the conduct of Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR) operations.
The TARS also includes a weather station that provides telemetry data to the ground station for the monitoring of ambient temperature, pressure, wind speed and other pertinent parameters in the operation of the system. NPAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/08/22/turn-over-ceremony-tethered-aerostat-radar-system-tars/
MILF: EKCI conducts Islamic Leadership Symposium
Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Aug 24): EKCI conducts Islamic Leadership Symposium
BULUAN, MAGUINDANAO --- Eastern Kutawato College Incorporated (EKCI) conducted a whole day Islamic Leadership Symposium with the theme “Elevating Bangsamoro Governance through In-depth Understanding of Leadership in Islamic Perspective” last August 22, 2017 at EKCI Campus.
Sheik Hisham S. Nando, EKII President, and BLMI Steering Committee Member emphasized that any good organization is a source of good leadership. “An organization run by competent, efficient and highly skilled managers is a good training ground for ordinary members to develop their leadership capability and competence”, Nando added.
“If you are a manager or a leader, that means you are being trusted, but along the way you face all forms of challenges in your daily work. It is a challenge on how one can perform and sustain his/her official responsibility and enhance his/her leadership skills’’, he further said.
Professor Esmael A. Abdula, Bangsamoro Leadership and Management Institute (BLMI) Steering Committee Member, Concurrently President of Kalilintad Peacebuilding Institute (KPI), stressed that Bangsamoro Governance is anchored on the ‘Principle of Islamic Leadership’ which is the foundation of the Bangsamoro Muslims in their quest for peace, socio-economic and political development. In other words, they solely anchor on ‘Islamic Leadership’ in achieving their goal towards right to self-determination (RSD).
”Training on Islamic Leadership for the Bangsamoro youth is a must and equally important to prepare them as future leaders of the upcoming Bangsamoro New Political Entity.
The Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has signed two major political documents, the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB) and the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) that embodies self-governance for the Bangsamoro people”, Abdula pointed out.
“A comprehensive, long lasting political solution to the Moro problem in Mindanao through the passage of a CAB-Compliant Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) is the only way to the correct historical injustices done to the Moro people’, Abdula emphasized.
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/974/ekci-conducts-islamic-leadership-symposium
BULUAN, MAGUINDANAO --- Eastern Kutawato College Incorporated (EKCI) conducted a whole day Islamic Leadership Symposium with the theme “Elevating Bangsamoro Governance through In-depth Understanding of Leadership in Islamic Perspective” last August 22, 2017 at EKCI Campus.
Sheik Hisham S. Nando, EKII President, and BLMI Steering Committee Member emphasized that any good organization is a source of good leadership. “An organization run by competent, efficient and highly skilled managers is a good training ground for ordinary members to develop their leadership capability and competence”, Nando added.
“If you are a manager or a leader, that means you are being trusted, but along the way you face all forms of challenges in your daily work. It is a challenge on how one can perform and sustain his/her official responsibility and enhance his/her leadership skills’’, he further said.
Professor Esmael A. Abdula, Bangsamoro Leadership and Management Institute (BLMI) Steering Committee Member, Concurrently President of Kalilintad Peacebuilding Institute (KPI), stressed that Bangsamoro Governance is anchored on the ‘Principle of Islamic Leadership’ which is the foundation of the Bangsamoro Muslims in their quest for peace, socio-economic and political development. In other words, they solely anchor on ‘Islamic Leadership’ in achieving their goal towards right to self-determination (RSD).
”Training on Islamic Leadership for the Bangsamoro youth is a must and equally important to prepare them as future leaders of the upcoming Bangsamoro New Political Entity.
The Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has signed two major political documents, the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB) and the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) that embodies self-governance for the Bangsamoro people”, Abdula pointed out.
“A comprehensive, long lasting political solution to the Moro problem in Mindanao through the passage of a CAB-Compliant Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) is the only way to the correct historical injustices done to the Moro people’, Abdula emphasized.
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/974/ekci-conducts-islamic-leadership-symposium
Duterte meets US military Pacific commander
From Update Philippines (Aug 24): Duterte meets US military Pacific commander
President Rodrigo Duterte met the commander of United States Pacific Command, Admiral Harry Harris Jr. on August 23.
The two discussed matters regarding United States-Philippines alliance. According to US Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim the discussion was “very good.”
Presidential photo
President Duterte was joined by Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. and Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Eduardo Año.
Accompanying Harris were Kim, US Embassy Defense Attaché Col. Ernest Lee and MGen. Jeffrey Kruse.
https://www.update.ph/2017/08/duterte-meets-us-pacific-commander/20243
President Rodrigo Duterte met the commander of United States Pacific Command, Admiral Harry Harris Jr. on August 23.
The two discussed matters regarding United States-Philippines alliance. According to US Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim the discussion was “very good.”
Presidential photo
President Duterte was joined by Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. and Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Eduardo Año.
Accompanying Harris were Kim, US Embassy Defense Attaché Col. Ernest Lee and MGen. Jeffrey Kruse.
https://www.update.ph/2017/08/duterte-meets-us-pacific-commander/20243
LOOK: Philippine Navy’s brand-new aerostat radar system
From Update Philippines (Aug 24): LOOK: Philippine Navy’s brand-new aerostat radar system
The Philippine Navy received its brand-new 28M Class Tethered Aerostat Radar System (TARS) on August 22. The radar system with maximum detection range of 200 nautical miles was pledged by US during the Obama administration.
The said radar system was donated by United States as part of its Maritime Security Initiative (MSI), a capacity-building assistance program for Southeast Asian countries including the Philippines that aims to improve their ability to address a range of maritime challenges.
US Embassy photo
Chief of the Joint US Military Assistance Group (JUSMAG) Colonel Ernest C. Lee and Flag Officer in Charge of the Philippine Navy Vice Admiral Ronald Joseph S. Mercado signed the formal turnover documents.
The US Embassy said radar system is a self-sustained, rapidly deployable, unmanned lighter-than-air platform which can rise to an altitude of 5,000 feet while tethered by a single cable.
“Through this donation, the PN is poised to enhance its capability in Maritime Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance by effectively detecting maritime and air traffic within the country’s coastal waters using sensors,” the US Embassy said.
The Naval Education and Training Command (NETC) in Zambales was chosen as the staging point for the TARS as it is the largest Navy base with flat terrain, and fits the minimum requirement of 300 square feet for the launching of the system.
https://www.update.ph/2017/08/look-philippine-navys-brand-new-aerostat-radar-system/20250
The Philippine Navy received its brand-new 28M Class Tethered Aerostat Radar System (TARS) on August 22. The radar system with maximum detection range of 200 nautical miles was pledged by US during the Obama administration.
The said radar system was donated by United States as part of its Maritime Security Initiative (MSI), a capacity-building assistance program for Southeast Asian countries including the Philippines that aims to improve their ability to address a range of maritime challenges.
US Embassy photo
Chief of the Joint US Military Assistance Group (JUSMAG) Colonel Ernest C. Lee and Flag Officer in Charge of the Philippine Navy Vice Admiral Ronald Joseph S. Mercado signed the formal turnover documents.
The US Embassy said radar system is a self-sustained, rapidly deployable, unmanned lighter-than-air platform which can rise to an altitude of 5,000 feet while tethered by a single cable.
“Through this donation, the PN is poised to enhance its capability in Maritime Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance by effectively detecting maritime and air traffic within the country’s coastal waters using sensors,” the US Embassy said.
The Naval Education and Training Command (NETC) in Zambales was chosen as the staging point for the TARS as it is the largest Navy base with flat terrain, and fits the minimum requirement of 300 square feet for the launching of the system.
https://www.update.ph/2017/08/look-philippine-navys-brand-new-aerostat-radar-system/20250
LOOK: 2 Japanese aircraft for Philippine Navy
From Update Philippines (Aug 24): LOOK: 2 Japanese aircraft for Philippine Navy
On Wednesday, August 23, Pinoy Aviators posted in its social networking page a photo of two of three remaining Beechcraft TC-90 King Air to be leased by Philippine Navy from Japan at a formality price, USD28,200.
Japan will be leasing a total of 5 TC-90s. The first two aircraft were delivered March 27, 2017.
Philippine Navy Lieutenant Commander Mark Simeon photo
These TC-90s will be utilized by the Philippine Navy for its Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), maritime reconnaissance and support missions.
“These newly-acquired planes are expected to enhance our country’s capacity in maritime security as well as provide the Philippine Navy the needed air assets for their missions concerning humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, transportation and maritime domain awareness,” National Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said in March.
https://www.update.ph/2017/08/look-2-japanese-aircraft-for-philippine-navy/20257
On Wednesday, August 23, Pinoy Aviators posted in its social networking page a photo of two of three remaining Beechcraft TC-90 King Air to be leased by Philippine Navy from Japan at a formality price, USD28,200.
Japan will be leasing a total of 5 TC-90s. The first two aircraft were delivered March 27, 2017.
These TC-90s will be utilized by the Philippine Navy for its Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), maritime reconnaissance and support missions.
“These newly-acquired planes are expected to enhance our country’s capacity in maritime security as well as provide the Philippine Navy the needed air assets for their missions concerning humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, transportation and maritime domain awareness,” National Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said in March.
https://www.update.ph/2017/08/look-2-japanese-aircraft-for-philippine-navy/20257
Duterte meets Australia’s top foreign spy chief
From Update Philippines (Aug 24): Duterte meets Australia’s top foreign spy chief
President Rodrigo Duterte met with Australian Secret Intelligence Service (ASIS) Director-General Nicolas Peter Warner who paid a courtesy call in Malacañang Palace on August 22.
ASIS is Australia’s overseas secret human intelligence collection agency.
Presidential photo
The service’s main mission is to protect and promote Australia’s vital interests through the provision of unique foreign intelligence services as directed by the Australian Government.
https://www.update.ph/2017/08/duterte-meets-australias-top-foreign-spy-chief/20267
President Rodrigo Duterte met with Australian Secret Intelligence Service (ASIS) Director-General Nicolas Peter Warner who paid a courtesy call in Malacañang Palace on August 22.
ASIS is Australia’s overseas secret human intelligence collection agency.
The service’s main mission is to protect and promote Australia’s vital interests through the provision of unique foreign intelligence services as directed by the Australian Government.
https://www.update.ph/2017/08/duterte-meets-australias-top-foreign-spy-chief/20267
Vietnam thankful to Philippine Navy for rescue of Vietnamese kidnapped by terrorists
From Update Philippines (Aug 24): Vietnam thankful to Philippine Navy for rescue of Vietnamese kidnapped by terrorists
Peoples Republic of Vietnam Ambassador to the Philippines Ly Quoc Tuan met with Philippine Navy Flag-Office-In-Command Vice Admiral Ronald Joseph S Mercado on August 23 at Navy headquarters toe extend his country’s gratitude for the successful rescue operation for Vietnamese kidnap victim on August 20 in Basilan.
“You have the commitment of the Philippine Navy and the armed forces. In spite of our efforts right now in Marawi, we are not abandoning all our efforts in Jolo, Basilan, and Tawi-tawi in rescuing the kidnap victims,” Vice Admiral Mercado said during the event.
Do Trung Huiqe was rescued by the combined forces of Joint Task Force Basilan through Naval Task Group Basilan and Naval Task Force 61 from the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) last Aug. 20 in Mataja Island, Basilan.
He is a crew member of MV Royal 16.
“The Vietnamese sailor, along with other five crew members of said bulk carrier, was abducted by Abu Sayyaf bandits on Nov. 11, 2016 off the waters of Coco Island, Basilan, ” the Philippine Navy said.
https://www.update.ph/2017/08/vietnam-thankful-to-philippine-navy-for-rescue-of-vietnamese-kidnapped-by-terrorists/20270
Peoples Republic of Vietnam Ambassador to the Philippines Ly Quoc Tuan met with Philippine Navy Flag-Office-In-Command Vice Admiral Ronald Joseph S Mercado on August 23 at Navy headquarters toe extend his country’s gratitude for the successful rescue operation for Vietnamese kidnap victim on August 20 in Basilan.
“You have the commitment of the Philippine Navy and the armed forces. In spite of our efforts right now in Marawi, we are not abandoning all our efforts in Jolo, Basilan, and Tawi-tawi in rescuing the kidnap victims,” Vice Admiral Mercado said during the event.
Do Trung Huiqe was rescued by the combined forces of Joint Task Force Basilan through Naval Task Group Basilan and Naval Task Force 61 from the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) last Aug. 20 in Mataja Island, Basilan.
He is a crew member of MV Royal 16.
“The Vietnamese sailor, along with other five crew members of said bulk carrier, was abducted by Abu Sayyaf bandits on Nov. 11, 2016 off the waters of Coco Island, Basilan, ” the Philippine Navy said.
https://www.update.ph/2017/08/vietnam-thankful-to-philippine-navy-for-rescue-of-vietnamese-kidnapped-by-terrorists/20270
Aying: Neg. Occ. bounty offer may be replicated nationwide
From the Visayan Daily Star (Aug 24): Aying: Neg. Occ. bounty offer may be replicated nationwide
Bounties funded by Negrenses for the neutralization of New People's Army rebels and ISIS-linked local terrorists or extremists, may be replicated at the national level, Maj. Gen. Jon Aying, commanding general of the Army's 3rd Infantry Division, said yesterday.
Negrenses recently pooled resources to fund bounties for the neutralization of New People's Army rebels and ISIS-linked local terrorists or extremists, who may attempt to penetrate Negros island, he said.
Concerned Negrenses are giving P100,000 each for every NPA “combatant” neutralized, dead or alive, Aying added.
The giving of bounties to neutralize communist rebels in Negros was denounced by progressive lawmakers and organizations, saying it will worsen cases of human rights violations.
Aying said he already anticipated such reaction from CPP-NPA supporters.
He justified the offering of rewards to NPA combatants, adding that even Frank Fernandez, reported to be the head of CPP-NPA in Negros, has a P7 million reward for his arrest.
His followers should also have rewards, Aying,who conducted an orientation yesterday for Negros Occidental mayors and barangay officials on the war against terrorism and how to prevent it in their areas, said.
It will also discourage those who may attempt to join them, he added.
The military estimates that there are now about 200 NPA members operating in Negros.
Aying said that they have received information on the movements of the NPA, which they are now validating.
Once the operation is successful and there are no more NPA members to neutralize, that is when we will give the reward to the informants, he added.
Aying also said that they are now ironing out the mechanism for giving the rewards to informants, while ensuring transparency.
The money is there and available anytime, he added.
Aying also encouraged the creation of task forces in the towns or cities, down to the barangay level, to prevent violent activities in their areas.
Task Force Buglas is now operational in Negros Occidental, after its creation through an executive order issued by Governor Alfredo Marañon Jr.
Aying said the Masa Masid program of the Department of Interior and Local Government can be part of the anti-terrorism program.
What is important on the part of local governments and chief executives is the political will to implement the programs, in order to secure their communities from all threats, he added.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2017/August/24/topstory1.htm
Bounties funded by Negrenses for the neutralization of New People's Army rebels and ISIS-linked local terrorists or extremists, may be replicated at the national level, Maj. Gen. Jon Aying, commanding general of the Army's 3rd Infantry Division, said yesterday.
Negrenses recently pooled resources to fund bounties for the neutralization of New People's Army rebels and ISIS-linked local terrorists or extremists, who may attempt to penetrate Negros island, he said.
Concerned Negrenses are giving P100,000 each for every NPA “combatant” neutralized, dead or alive, Aying added.
The giving of bounties to neutralize communist rebels in Negros was denounced by progressive lawmakers and organizations, saying it will worsen cases of human rights violations.
Aying said he already anticipated such reaction from CPP-NPA supporters.
He justified the offering of rewards to NPA combatants, adding that even Frank Fernandez, reported to be the head of CPP-NPA in Negros, has a P7 million reward for his arrest.
His followers should also have rewards, Aying,who conducted an orientation yesterday for Negros Occidental mayors and barangay officials on the war against terrorism and how to prevent it in their areas, said.
It will also discourage those who may attempt to join them, he added.
The military estimates that there are now about 200 NPA members operating in Negros.
Aying said that they have received information on the movements of the NPA, which they are now validating.
Once the operation is successful and there are no more NPA members to neutralize, that is when we will give the reward to the informants, he added.
Aying also said that they are now ironing out the mechanism for giving the rewards to informants, while ensuring transparency.
The money is there and available anytime, he added.
Aying also encouraged the creation of task forces in the towns or cities, down to the barangay level, to prevent violent activities in their areas.
Task Force Buglas is now operational in Negros Occidental, after its creation through an executive order issued by Governor Alfredo Marañon Jr.
Aying said the Masa Masid program of the Department of Interior and Local Government can be part of the anti-terrorism program.
What is important on the part of local governments and chief executives is the political will to implement the programs, in order to secure their communities from all threats, he added.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2017/August/24/topstory1.htm
Solon to police, military: No holds barred in fight vs ‘keyboard terrorists’
From the Business Mirror (Aug 23): Solon to police, military: No holds barred in fight vs ‘keyboard terrorists’
The chairman of the House Committee on Public Information is urging the military and the police to strengthen their partnership with the digital industry to curb “keyboard propagandists” advocating terrorism.
Party-list Rep. Bernadette Herrera-Dy of Bagong Henerayson said the government has so far taken down 60 social-media accounts, with the help of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Anti-Cybercrime Unit and social-media companies, it deemed facilitating or supporting terrorism.
“In this age of technology where anybody can access the Internet anytime and anywhere, it is also our responsibility, particularly to the young generation, to deny terrorists any social-media platform to spread their cause,” she added in a news statement issued on Wednesday.
Dy has already filed House Bill 1378 seeking to establish Magna Carta for Philippine Internet Freedom, cybercrime prevention and law enforcement, cyber defense and national cybersecurity.
As the country moves to provide wider access to Internet through its free Wi-fi to public places, Dy said it was important to tighten the monitoring of social-media accounts promoting extremist propaganda, but without impeding the rights of the people.
According to the lawmaker, the Armed Forces (AFP) has reported that it was closely monitoring about 300 accounts on various social-media platforms spreading terrorist propaganda.
“We laud the Armed Forces of the Philippines and other law-enforcement agencies for their vigilance in monitoring social-media accounts that espouse terrorism and terrorist activities,” Dy said.
“However, I feel we should do more in order to protect this public space that’s accessible to many, including children. We should not only guard the citizenry against the misuse of social-media platforms to forward terrorism, but also to the kind of information that is available out there,” she said.
Earlier, the Department of Information and Communications Technology has warned in June that those who take part in spreading terrorist propaganda online could face arrest for “cyber rebellion” or “cyber sedition”.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/solon-to-police-military-no-holds-barred-in-fight-vs-keyboard-terrorists/
The chairman of the House Committee on Public Information is urging the military and the police to strengthen their partnership with the digital industry to curb “keyboard propagandists” advocating terrorism.
Party-list Rep. Bernadette Herrera-Dy of Bagong Henerayson said the government has so far taken down 60 social-media accounts, with the help of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Anti-Cybercrime Unit and social-media companies, it deemed facilitating or supporting terrorism.
“In this age of technology where anybody can access the Internet anytime and anywhere, it is also our responsibility, particularly to the young generation, to deny terrorists any social-media platform to spread their cause,” she added in a news statement issued on Wednesday.
Dy has already filed House Bill 1378 seeking to establish Magna Carta for Philippine Internet Freedom, cybercrime prevention and law enforcement, cyber defense and national cybersecurity.
As the country moves to provide wider access to Internet through its free Wi-fi to public places, Dy said it was important to tighten the monitoring of social-media accounts promoting extremist propaganda, but without impeding the rights of the people.
According to the lawmaker, the Armed Forces (AFP) has reported that it was closely monitoring about 300 accounts on various social-media platforms spreading terrorist propaganda.
“We laud the Armed Forces of the Philippines and other law-enforcement agencies for their vigilance in monitoring social-media accounts that espouse terrorism and terrorist activities,” Dy said.
“However, I feel we should do more in order to protect this public space that’s accessible to many, including children. We should not only guard the citizenry against the misuse of social-media platforms to forward terrorism, but also to the kind of information that is available out there,” she said.
Earlier, the Department of Information and Communications Technology has warned in June that those who take part in spreading terrorist propaganda online could face arrest for “cyber rebellion” or “cyber sedition”.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/solon-to-police-military-no-holds-barred-in-fight-vs-keyboard-terrorists/
Duterte meets with chief of U.S. Pacific Command
From Rappler (Aug 23): Duterte meets with chief of U.S. Pacific Command
On the same day, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte receives officers of the China Communications Construction Company
On the same day, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte receives officers of the China Communications Construction Company
PACOM CHIEF. President Rodrigo Duterte meets with Admiral Harry Harris Jr, commander of the US Pacific Command, who paid a courtesy call on the President in Malacañang on August 23, 2017. Malacañang photo
President Rodrigo Duterte met with the chief of the US Pacific Command (PACOM) on Wednesday, August 23, as Washington seeks better ties with the Duterte administration.
Admiral Harry Harris Jr, commander of the US Pacific Command, held the meeting with Duterte in Malacañang on Wednesday.
Joining the meeting from the Philippine side were Foreign Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr, and Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Eduardo Año.
From the American side, US Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim led other representatives in Wednesday’s meeting.
The meeting comes as Duterte slams the US for supposedly interfering in his war on drugs, while the Philippine leader strengthens ties with China. (READ: Duterte admin 'independent' from U.S., 'bullied' by China?)
Also on Wednesday, Duterte received officers of the China Communications Construction Company.
This meeting was also attended by Cayetano, Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III, Public Works Secretary Mark Villar, Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade, and National Economic and Development Authority Director General Ernesto Pernia.
In his meeting with the Chinese company, Duterte said that the Philippines really needs China's help, as his country faces problems with traffic and lack of viable infrastructure.
Admiral Harry Harris Jr, commander of the US Pacific Command, held the meeting with Duterte in Malacañang on Wednesday.
Joining the meeting from the Philippine side were Foreign Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr, and Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Eduardo Año.
From the American side, US Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim led other representatives in Wednesday’s meeting.
The meeting comes as Duterte slams the US for supposedly interfering in his war on drugs, while the Philippine leader strengthens ties with China. (READ: Duterte admin 'independent' from U.S., 'bullied' by China?)
Also on Wednesday, Duterte received officers of the China Communications Construction Company.
This meeting was also attended by Cayetano, Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III, Public Works Secretary Mark Villar, Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade, and National Economic and Development Authority Director General Ernesto Pernia.
In his meeting with the Chinese company, Duterte said that the Philippines really needs China's help, as his country faces problems with traffic and lack of viable infrastructure.
'Ouster move vs Rody traced to Reds’
From the Philippine Star (Aug 24): 'Ouster move vs Rody traced to Reds’
“We were also able to establish that this Jon Bustamante who is based in Amsterdam has close links with Sison. This PADEM is just a one-man army,” the cyber expert said. OPAPP, File
A supposed ouster move against President Duterte has been traced to an individual in the Netherlands with close links to Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founding chairman Jose Ma. Sison, a military cyber security expert said yesterday.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, as he is not authorized to speak to the media, a cyber expert from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said one Jon Bustamante uploaded a statement from the so-called Patriotic and Democratic Movement (PADEM) against Duterte on wedcadre@yahoo.com, a social domain in Utrecht.
Three other accounts registered in the Netherlands have also been traced to Bustamante.
Sison himself shared the statement of PADEM, which claimed to have as members ranking military and police officials.
“We were also able to establish that this Jon Bustamante who is based in Amsterdam has close links with Sison. This PADEM is just a one-man army,” the cyber expert said.
Authorities said the supposed PADEM statement was meant to create division within the AFP and the Philippine National Police (PNP). The source said they had suspected at the onset that civilians were behind PADEM, based on the wording of its supposed statement.
“Further investigation subsequently bolstered our suspicion that this supposed PADEM statement was a CPP-initiated propaganda apparently launched to ride on mounting peace and order concerns and other security issues in the country,” he said.
In a statement on Monday, PADEM denounced President Duterte for betrayal of public trust and for violation of national sovereignty and the democratic rights of Filipinos.
The group also accused the President of treating the AFP and the PNP as his private armies and criticized him for mishandling the Marawi crisis. It blamed him for killing thousands in the conduct of his anti-drug war.
The group’s spokesman who signed its statement called himself Andres Bonifacio.
Reacting to PADEM’s statement, AFP spokesman, Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said on Tuesday the military stands by its constitutional mandate as protector of the people.
“AFP categorically denies the recent statement issued by a group that pretends to be representatives of the men and women of the AFP and the PNP and called themselves PADEM,” Padilla said.
Padilla said issues raised by PADEM were clearly politically motivated and abhorred by the AFP.
Meanwhile, the PNP issued a statement yesterday denouncing PADEM and vowing to fight any attempt to destabilize the Duterte administration.
http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2017/08/24/1732131/ouster-move-vs-rody-traced-reds
“We were also able to establish that this Jon Bustamante who is based in Amsterdam has close links with Sison. This PADEM is just a one-man army,” the cyber expert said. OPAPP, File
A supposed ouster move against President Duterte has been traced to an individual in the Netherlands with close links to Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founding chairman Jose Ma. Sison, a military cyber security expert said yesterday.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, as he is not authorized to speak to the media, a cyber expert from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said one Jon Bustamante uploaded a statement from the so-called Patriotic and Democratic Movement (PADEM) against Duterte on wedcadre@yahoo.com, a social domain in Utrecht.
Three other accounts registered in the Netherlands have also been traced to Bustamante.
Sison himself shared the statement of PADEM, which claimed to have as members ranking military and police officials.
“We were also able to establish that this Jon Bustamante who is based in Amsterdam has close links with Sison. This PADEM is just a one-man army,” the cyber expert said.
Authorities said the supposed PADEM statement was meant to create division within the AFP and the Philippine National Police (PNP). The source said they had suspected at the onset that civilians were behind PADEM, based on the wording of its supposed statement.
“Further investigation subsequently bolstered our suspicion that this supposed PADEM statement was a CPP-initiated propaganda apparently launched to ride on mounting peace and order concerns and other security issues in the country,” he said.
In a statement on Monday, PADEM denounced President Duterte for betrayal of public trust and for violation of national sovereignty and the democratic rights of Filipinos.
The group also accused the President of treating the AFP and the PNP as his private armies and criticized him for mishandling the Marawi crisis. It blamed him for killing thousands in the conduct of his anti-drug war.
The group’s spokesman who signed its statement called himself Andres Bonifacio.
Reacting to PADEM’s statement, AFP spokesman, Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said on Tuesday the military stands by its constitutional mandate as protector of the people.
“AFP categorically denies the recent statement issued by a group that pretends to be representatives of the men and women of the AFP and the PNP and called themselves PADEM,” Padilla said.
Padilla said issues raised by PADEM were clearly politically motivated and abhorred by the AFP.
Meanwhile, the PNP issued a statement yesterday denouncing PADEM and vowing to fight any attempt to destabilize the Duterte administration.
http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2017/08/24/1732131/ouster-move-vs-rody-traced-reds
In battle gear, DU30 visits troops in Marawi, tries hand at sniper rifle
From News 5/InterAksyon (Aug 25): In battle gear, DU30 visits troops in Marawi, tries hand at sniper rifle
President Duterte tries his hand at a soldier's rifle in Marawi. PHOTO BY SIMEON CELI JR/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO
Clad in full battle gear, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte visited war-torn Marawi City for the third time on Thursday (August 24), to boost the morale of government troops from the Joint Special Operations Task Force Trident who have been fighting the Maute-led local terrorists for three months.
During his visit, the President shared words of encouragement with the troops and vowed anew to cover their children’s educational expenses.
He also handed out financial assistance, food packs, and watches.
Ignoring the dangers of the ongoing battle to reclaim Marawi City from the terrorists, the President ordered his convoy to stop at an area outside the safe zone so he could inspect the damage near ground zero and talk to the troops guarding the buildings previously occupied by terrorists from the Maute Group.
President Duterte also made a stopover at a temporary patrol base where he tried out a sniper rifle and fired it towards the direction of the enemies.
Accompanying the President were National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr., Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Eduardo Año, and Special Assistant to the President Christopher Lawrence Go.
President Duterte, clad in battle gear, stands with key aides led by Secretary Bong Go. PHOTO BY SIMEON CELI/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO.
http://www.interaksyon.com/in-battle-gear-du30-visits-troops-in-marawi-tries-hand-at-sniper-rifle/
President Duterte tries his hand at a soldier's rifle in Marawi. PHOTO BY SIMEON CELI JR/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO
Clad in full battle gear, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte visited war-torn Marawi City for the third time on Thursday (August 24), to boost the morale of government troops from the Joint Special Operations Task Force Trident who have been fighting the Maute-led local terrorists for three months.
During his visit, the President shared words of encouragement with the troops and vowed anew to cover their children’s educational expenses.
He also handed out financial assistance, food packs, and watches.
Ignoring the dangers of the ongoing battle to reclaim Marawi City from the terrorists, the President ordered his convoy to stop at an area outside the safe zone so he could inspect the damage near ground zero and talk to the troops guarding the buildings previously occupied by terrorists from the Maute Group.
President Duterte also made a stopover at a temporary patrol base where he tried out a sniper rifle and fired it towards the direction of the enemies.
Accompanying the President were National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr., Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Eduardo Año, and Special Assistant to the President Christopher Lawrence Go.
http://www.interaksyon.com/in-battle-gear-du30-visits-troops-in-marawi-tries-hand-at-sniper-rifle/
Photo: MILF vs ISIS
From MindaNews (Aug 24): Photo: MILF vs ISIS
Joint troops from the MILF’s 105th Base Command and policemen navigate a marshland area going to the conquered camp of ISIS-linked militants in Barangay Andabit, Datu Salibo, Maguindanao on Tuesday (22 Aug 2017). A total of 22 members of the Jama’atul al-Muhajireen wal Ansar group led a by certain Abu Torayfie have reportedly died since the MILF launched an offensive against the militants, while the MILF also suffered 12 fatalities. The MILF claimed the militants had encroached on their territory and spread false interpretation of Islam. MindaNews photo by FERDINANDH CABRERA
http://www.mindanews.com/photo-of-the-day/2017/08/milf-vs-isis1/
http://www.mindanews.com/photo-of-the-day/2017/08/milf-vs-isis1/
Photo: Duterte in Marawi
From MindaNews (Aug 24): Photo: Duterte in Marawi
President Rodrigo Duterte visits his troops in Marawi City on Thursday, 24 August 2017, Day 94 of the Marawi Crisis, in an area previously controlled by the Maute Group. This is his third visit, after July 20 and August 4. Simeon Celi Jr /PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO
http://www.mindanews.com/photo-of-the-day/2017/08/duterte-in-marawi/
President Rodrigo Duterte visits his troops in Marawi City on Thursday, 24 August 2017, Day 94 of the Marawi Crisis, in an area previously controlled by the Maute Group. This is his third visit, after July 20 and August 4. Simeon Celi Jr /PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO
http://www.mindanews.com/photo-of-the-day/2017/08/duterte-in-marawi/
Marines spread awareness vs terror threats in Puerto Princesa
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 24): Marines spread awareness vs terror threats in Puerto Princesa
Government peacekeepers here began on Wednesday the first of a series of community forums to spread awareness among residents on the threats of insurgency and terrorism.
The 3rd Marine Brigade (3MBDE) started the public forum in Barangay Buenavista, an outlying barangay north of the city, said Captain Jordan Mijares, civil military officer of the 3MBDE.
Similar public dialogues will also be held in Barangays Bahile and Macarascas in the following days, he said.
Mijares said the support of Puerto Princesa communities against threats of insurgency and terrorism is important to prevent any untoward incident which may affect the lives of innocent civilians.
“Insurgency is an ill of the society, and if not addressed, will affect our tourism industry. If this happens, our economy will be affected,” Mijares said.
Mijares added their campaign is also meant to increase the confidence of civilians in cooperating with the armed forces and the police in solving peace and order problems.
He added that a similar campaign was conducted in July in the towns of Brooke’s Point and Bataraza particularly in Barangays Saraza and Bono-bono.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1007418
Government peacekeepers here began on Wednesday the first of a series of community forums to spread awareness among residents on the threats of insurgency and terrorism.
The 3rd Marine Brigade (3MBDE) started the public forum in Barangay Buenavista, an outlying barangay north of the city, said Captain Jordan Mijares, civil military officer of the 3MBDE.
Similar public dialogues will also be held in Barangays Bahile and Macarascas in the following days, he said.
Mijares said the support of Puerto Princesa communities against threats of insurgency and terrorism is important to prevent any untoward incident which may affect the lives of innocent civilians.
“Insurgency is an ill of the society, and if not addressed, will affect our tourism industry. If this happens, our economy will be affected,” Mijares said.
Mijares added their campaign is also meant to increase the confidence of civilians in cooperating with the armed forces and the police in solving peace and order problems.
He added that a similar campaign was conducted in July in the towns of Brooke’s Point and Bataraza particularly in Barangays Saraza and Bono-bono.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1007418
Iligan cop chief: Threat level remains high
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 24): Iligan cop chief: Threat level remains high
More than three months after the armed conflict in Marawi City, the threat level in the neighboring city of Iligan remains high, the city's chief of police said Thursday.
Senior Supt. Leony Roy Ga, Iligan city police director, said local authorities are still on high alert following advisory from the Philippine National Police (PNP) high command.
While armed extremist fighters are still engaging the government forces in Marawi, Ga cited credible reports of suspicious persons mingling with the evacuees.
“We receive intelligence reports from time to time, and we have to verify their veracity. But just the same we remain on alert,” Ga said in an interview at the sidelines of the awarding ceremony held at the PNP-10 headquarters at Camp Vicente Alagar in Barangay Lapasan on Thursday.
Ga and the Iligan city police office are both awardees of the PNP. Ga was adjudged as the Best Senior Police Commissioned Officer for Operations, while his office was awarded with the Best City Police Office.
The awarding ceremony was graced by Deputy Director General Ramon Apolinario, the deputy chief PNP for Administration.
He said the donation of 10 Vios patrol cars and 14 pick-up trucks from the local government had boosted the morale of that city’s police force owing to their all-out anti-crime operations.
Ga said the patrol cars are being used for urban police visibility while the pick-up trucks for securing the city’s boundaries it shared with Lanao del Norte and Misamis Oriental.
With the influx of internally displaced persons from Marawi, he said the Iligan city police are always on the lookout for possible terrorists.
“In light of the Marawi conflict, we are doubling our efforts. Even during the start of the Marawi crisis, we had already anticipated that the next target is Iligan,” he said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1007405
More than three months after the armed conflict in Marawi City, the threat level in the neighboring city of Iligan remains high, the city's chief of police said Thursday.
Senior Supt. Leony Roy Ga, Iligan city police director, said local authorities are still on high alert following advisory from the Philippine National Police (PNP) high command.
While armed extremist fighters are still engaging the government forces in Marawi, Ga cited credible reports of suspicious persons mingling with the evacuees.
“We receive intelligence reports from time to time, and we have to verify their veracity. But just the same we remain on alert,” Ga said in an interview at the sidelines of the awarding ceremony held at the PNP-10 headquarters at Camp Vicente Alagar in Barangay Lapasan on Thursday.
Ga and the Iligan city police office are both awardees of the PNP. Ga was adjudged as the Best Senior Police Commissioned Officer for Operations, while his office was awarded with the Best City Police Office.
The awarding ceremony was graced by Deputy Director General Ramon Apolinario, the deputy chief PNP for Administration.
He said the donation of 10 Vios patrol cars and 14 pick-up trucks from the local government had boosted the morale of that city’s police force owing to their all-out anti-crime operations.
Ga said the patrol cars are being used for urban police visibility while the pick-up trucks for securing the city’s boundaries it shared with Lanao del Norte and Misamis Oriental.
With the influx of internally displaced persons from Marawi, he said the Iligan city police are always on the lookout for possible terrorists.
“In light of the Marawi conflict, we are doubling our efforts. Even during the start of the Marawi crisis, we had already anticipated that the next target is Iligan,” he said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1007405
Marawi mayor warns of extremism in schools
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 24): Marawi mayor warns of extremism in schools
Marawi City Mayor Majul Gandamra has called on law enforcement authorities to help the local government in its drive to monitor and thwart extremist groups from radicalizing students.
Gandamra issued the appeal days after the Mindanao State University (MSU) reopened for the new academic year.
Gandamra said the government must step up measures to prevent radicalism not only inside the MSU campus, but local madrasahs (Islamic schools) as well.
While he does not advocate for the closure of madrasahs, the mayor said they must be "regulated" to prevent radical teachings from "spoiling the minds of the young students."
“We will not prevent the operation of madrasahs, but we will regulate and monitor them. This is to ensure that our children will really be guided with core Islamic values and not be swayed by extremism,” Gandamra told local journalists here Thursday.
One way to effectively monitor and prevent radicalism is for government to strengthen its intelligence assets, he said.
In the Philippines and in other countries with Muslim populations, a madrasah operates as a school for the study of Islamic religion. It complements its own elementary and secondary curriculum with approval from the Department of Education (DepEd).
Gandamra said he sees the need to vet all individuals and groups interested in reopening existing madrasahs, brief them on the dangers of radicalism and institute measures so it would be prevented.
“This will form part of the rehabilitation of Marawi City,” he said.
Gandamra said the local government unit has already coordinated with both the military and the Philippine National Police (PNP) to make sure that all security measures during the first week of classes in MSU are in place.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1007383
Marawi City Mayor Majul Gandamra has called on law enforcement authorities to help the local government in its drive to monitor and thwart extremist groups from radicalizing students.
Gandamra issued the appeal days after the Mindanao State University (MSU) reopened for the new academic year.
Gandamra said the government must step up measures to prevent radicalism not only inside the MSU campus, but local madrasahs (Islamic schools) as well.
While he does not advocate for the closure of madrasahs, the mayor said they must be "regulated" to prevent radical teachings from "spoiling the minds of the young students."
“We will not prevent the operation of madrasahs, but we will regulate and monitor them. This is to ensure that our children will really be guided with core Islamic values and not be swayed by extremism,” Gandamra told local journalists here Thursday.
One way to effectively monitor and prevent radicalism is for government to strengthen its intelligence assets, he said.
In the Philippines and in other countries with Muslim populations, a madrasah operates as a school for the study of Islamic religion. It complements its own elementary and secondary curriculum with approval from the Department of Education (DepEd).
Gandamra said he sees the need to vet all individuals and groups interested in reopening existing madrasahs, brief them on the dangers of radicalism and institute measures so it would be prevented.
“This will form part of the rehabilitation of Marawi City,” he said.
Gandamra said the local government unit has already coordinated with both the military and the Philippine National Police (PNP) to make sure that all security measures during the first week of classes in MSU are in place.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1007383
Filipino community in Texas sends gifts to wounded troops
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 24): Filipino community in Texas sends gifts to wounded troops
Troops wounded-in-action in the ongoing operations against Maute Group terrorists in Marawi City got a pleasant surprise from a Filipino community in Texas, United States last Tuesday.
In a statement Thursday, Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said the gift-giving event took place at the Heroes Ward of the AFP Medical Center along V. Luna Road in Quezon City.
An estimated 900 troopers were reported wounded and another 129 killed in the ongoing anti-terror campaign in Marawi City which started last May 23 after an attempt to arrest Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon and his cohorts.
“This is actually a reflection of the good reputation that the Armed Forces has, hindi lang dito sa Pilipinas kung ‘di sa abroad. Mataas na ang ating prestige doon kasi lahat tayo sumusunod sa batas,” Lorenzana said.
Lorenzana also thanked the San Angelo, Texas, Filipino Community and Rhea Agatep-Hale who initiated the collection of donations from community members. “
"Sabi nga niya, ‘Nag-umpisa ‘lang sa bahay ito. Then lumaki nang lumaki hanggang sa dumami na ‘yung participants and they had to transfer to a convention center,” Lorenzana said.
As the number of donors increased, the initial USD2,000 worth of donations has reached USD7,000 (PHP350,000), the DND chief said.
The turn-over of gifts to the patients was facilitated by the Defense Intelligence and Security Group (DISG) of the DND headed by Lt. Col. Estrellito P. Romero.
It is part of the month-long series of activities in celebration of the DISG’s 26th Anniversary which included the SND Cup, an invitational shooting competition held to raise funds for the beneficiaries of the AFP Educational Benefit Systems Office (AFPEBSO).
DISG was able to raise PHP150,000 which was formally turned over on Aug. 16 to AFPEBSO to help fund the education of children of soldiers who were killed or wounded in action.
Lorenzana likewise thanked the officers and enlisted personnel of the DISG for facilitating the gift-giving to their fellow soldiers. He also lauded them for ensuring safety in the department, providing the necessary physical protection to the Secretary of National Defense and other DND officials, and rendering critical intelligence support.
He also commended its members for regularly conducting community and environment-related activities. Established in 1991, the DISG has evolved from an ad hoc security unit created under the then Ministry of National Defense to a recognized support unit of the DND.
It will culminate its anniversary celebration this Aug. 24 with a simple program at the DISG Mini Park with the launch of its first-ever coffee table book, “Inside the Vest and Armor,” which tells the story of the DISG’s evolution and its tireless efforts in contributing to the DND’s mandate of guarding the nation against external and internal security threats.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1007339
Troops wounded-in-action in the ongoing operations against Maute Group terrorists in Marawi City got a pleasant surprise from a Filipino community in Texas, United States last Tuesday.
In a statement Thursday, Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said the gift-giving event took place at the Heroes Ward of the AFP Medical Center along V. Luna Road in Quezon City.
An estimated 900 troopers were reported wounded and another 129 killed in the ongoing anti-terror campaign in Marawi City which started last May 23 after an attempt to arrest Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon and his cohorts.
“This is actually a reflection of the good reputation that the Armed Forces has, hindi lang dito sa Pilipinas kung ‘di sa abroad. Mataas na ang ating prestige doon kasi lahat tayo sumusunod sa batas,” Lorenzana said.
Lorenzana also thanked the San Angelo, Texas, Filipino Community and Rhea Agatep-Hale who initiated the collection of donations from community members. “
"Sabi nga niya, ‘Nag-umpisa ‘lang sa bahay ito. Then lumaki nang lumaki hanggang sa dumami na ‘yung participants and they had to transfer to a convention center,” Lorenzana said.
As the number of donors increased, the initial USD2,000 worth of donations has reached USD7,000 (PHP350,000), the DND chief said.
The turn-over of gifts to the patients was facilitated by the Defense Intelligence and Security Group (DISG) of the DND headed by Lt. Col. Estrellito P. Romero.
It is part of the month-long series of activities in celebration of the DISG’s 26th Anniversary which included the SND Cup, an invitational shooting competition held to raise funds for the beneficiaries of the AFP Educational Benefit Systems Office (AFPEBSO).
DISG was able to raise PHP150,000 which was formally turned over on Aug. 16 to AFPEBSO to help fund the education of children of soldiers who were killed or wounded in action.
Lorenzana likewise thanked the officers and enlisted personnel of the DISG for facilitating the gift-giving to their fellow soldiers. He also lauded them for ensuring safety in the department, providing the necessary physical protection to the Secretary of National Defense and other DND officials, and rendering critical intelligence support.
He also commended its members for regularly conducting community and environment-related activities. Established in 1991, the DISG has evolved from an ad hoc security unit created under the then Ministry of National Defense to a recognized support unit of the DND.
It will culminate its anniversary celebration this Aug. 24 with a simple program at the DISG Mini Park with the launch of its first-ever coffee table book, “Inside the Vest and Armor,” which tells the story of the DISG’s evolution and its tireless efforts in contributing to the DND’s mandate of guarding the nation against external and internal security threats.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1007339
Military units recover Marawi City Police Station from Maute Group
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 24): Military units recover Marawi City Police Station from Maute Group
Government forces have finally recovered the Marawi City Police Station from the hands of the remaining Maute Group terrorists last Aug. 22, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) reported Thursday.
In a briefing, AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said the recovery of the police station is considered an important one due to its "strategic location".
It was one of the first buildings captured when the Maute Group terrorists launched their attacks after an attempt to capture Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon and his cohorts last May 23.
Padilla noted the recovery of the Marawi City Police Station highlights the ever-shrinking operational areas of the terrorist group and the government resolve to totally free the locality from the clutches of the lawless elements.
As this developed, operations are now underway to recover the Grand Mosque in Marawi City which was reportedly used by the terrorists as one of their key fighting positions.
No other details are available as of this posting but Padilla said clearing operations will immediately take place once the Grand Mosque is recovered to ensure that no bombs and improvised explosive devices are left behind.
The AFP spokesperson said 300 more buildings and establishments are needed to be cleared before Marawi City can be declared secured from the enemy.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1007406
Government forces have finally recovered the Marawi City Police Station from the hands of the remaining Maute Group terrorists last Aug. 22, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) reported Thursday.
In a briefing, AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said the recovery of the police station is considered an important one due to its "strategic location".
It was one of the first buildings captured when the Maute Group terrorists launched their attacks after an attempt to capture Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon and his cohorts last May 23.
Padilla noted the recovery of the Marawi City Police Station highlights the ever-shrinking operational areas of the terrorist group and the government resolve to totally free the locality from the clutches of the lawless elements.
As this developed, operations are now underway to recover the Grand Mosque in Marawi City which was reportedly used by the terrorists as one of their key fighting positions.
No other details are available as of this posting but Padilla said clearing operations will immediately take place once the Grand Mosque is recovered to ensure that no bombs and improvised explosive devices are left behind.
The AFP spokesperson said 300 more buildings and establishments are needed to be cleared before Marawi City can be declared secured from the enemy.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1007406
Battalion of troops to be redeployed to Basilan after Marawi crisis–official
From the Manila Times (Aug 23): Battalion of troops to be redeployed to Basilan after Marawi crisis–official
A battalion of troops will be redeployed to Basilan to fill in the security gaps in the province once the crisis in Marawi City is over, the Western Mindanao Command (WesMinCom) said on Wednesday.
The redeployment comes following the attack by the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in Basilan on Monday, which left seven civilians dead and 16 wounded.
“The redeployment of forces brought about by the war in Marawi caused the vacuum of personnel in the province after a battalion of soldiers were pulled out last June,” Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., commander for WestMinCom, said in a statement.
“The current security set up…is temporary. The moment fighting stops in Marawi, we will redeploy units back to [Basilan] to fill in the security gap,” said Galvez after he spoke with Gov. Jim Hataman and local officials over security issues in the province.
Galvez also noted the need to fortify defense capabilities in some areas “that are deemed most vulnerable,” and also called for the support of local chief executives in western Mindanao.
Galvez said these terrorist attacks, including those perpetrated by the Islamic State-inspired Maute and ASG extremists, were meant to “embarrass” government security forces.
“Basilan is a model for counter-terrorism. We also speak highly of the province and mention the same to local chief executives in Marawi City, but our enemy wants to embarrass us that is why they continue to do actions that will put us to shame,” he said.
President Rodrigo Duterte declared martial law in the whole island of Mindanao to help the military in suppressing Maute terrorists remaining in Marawi City and to avoid any spillover in other parts of Mindanao.
Despite this, Galvez said he would still want the local chief executives in Western Mindanao to be in-charge of their respective cities and towns.
“But to accomplish that, we need [everyone’s] commitment because, as local government officials, you know which mechanism will work in your respective areas,” he added.
http://www.manilatimes.net/battalion-troops-redeployed-basilan-marawi-crisis-official/346299/
A battalion of troops will be redeployed to Basilan to fill in the security gaps in the province once the crisis in Marawi City is over, the Western Mindanao Command (WesMinCom) said on Wednesday.
The redeployment comes following the attack by the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in Basilan on Monday, which left seven civilians dead and 16 wounded.
“The redeployment of forces brought about by the war in Marawi caused the vacuum of personnel in the province after a battalion of soldiers were pulled out last June,” Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., commander for WestMinCom, said in a statement.
“The current security set up…is temporary. The moment fighting stops in Marawi, we will redeploy units back to [Basilan] to fill in the security gap,” said Galvez after he spoke with Gov. Jim Hataman and local officials over security issues in the province.
Galvez also noted the need to fortify defense capabilities in some areas “that are deemed most vulnerable,” and also called for the support of local chief executives in western Mindanao.
Galvez said these terrorist attacks, including those perpetrated by the Islamic State-inspired Maute and ASG extremists, were meant to “embarrass” government security forces.
“Basilan is a model for counter-terrorism. We also speak highly of the province and mention the same to local chief executives in Marawi City, but our enemy wants to embarrass us that is why they continue to do actions that will put us to shame,” he said.
President Rodrigo Duterte declared martial law in the whole island of Mindanao to help the military in suppressing Maute terrorists remaining in Marawi City and to avoid any spillover in other parts of Mindanao.
Despite this, Galvez said he would still want the local chief executives in Western Mindanao to be in-charge of their respective cities and towns.
“But to accomplish that, we need [everyone’s] commitment because, as local government officials, you know which mechanism will work in your respective areas,” he added.
http://www.manilatimes.net/battalion-troops-redeployed-basilan-marawi-crisis-official/346299/
NPA rebel killed in Davao Norte clash
From the Sun Star-Davao (Aug 23): NPA rebel killed in Davao Norte clash
A COMMUNIST rebel was killed in a clash with government troopers Monday afternoon, August 21, in Mabantao village, Kapalong town in Davao del Norte province.
Captain Rhyan Batchar, spokesperson of the 10th Infantry Division, said that troops belonging to 60th Infantry Battalion (IB) were conducting security operation at 5:50 p.m. Monday, in Sitio Mambuto, Barangay Mabantao when they chanced upon five members of the New People’s Army (NPA).
A five-minute firefight ensued resulting to the death of NPA leader Alfonzo Kambal Jr. alias “Queen”, a resident of Barangay Mamangan, San Isidro, Davao del Norte.
The rebels are under the Pulang Bagani Command, Southern Mindanao Regional Committee led by Kambal, Batchar said.
Batchar said no government soldier was killed or wounded during the encounter.
Authorities recovered a handgun after the encounter.
Meanwhile, troopers recovered on Monday an M14 rifle and three improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in Sitio Lawbong, Barangay Tudok, T'boli, South Cotabato.
Authorities recovered the IEDs after a former NPA member informed them where it was hidden in Tudok village in T'boli.
The rebel returnee surrendered to the military along with his two high-powered firearms that are now under the custody of the Armed Forces.
The former rebel's enrollment to the Comprehensive Local Integration Program is now being processed.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/local-news/2017/08/23/npa-rebel-killed-davao-norte-clash-559975
A COMMUNIST rebel was killed in a clash with government troopers Monday afternoon, August 21, in Mabantao village, Kapalong town in Davao del Norte province.
Captain Rhyan Batchar, spokesperson of the 10th Infantry Division, said that troops belonging to 60th Infantry Battalion (IB) were conducting security operation at 5:50 p.m. Monday, in Sitio Mambuto, Barangay Mabantao when they chanced upon five members of the New People’s Army (NPA).
A five-minute firefight ensued resulting to the death of NPA leader Alfonzo Kambal Jr. alias “Queen”, a resident of Barangay Mamangan, San Isidro, Davao del Norte.
The rebels are under the Pulang Bagani Command, Southern Mindanao Regional Committee led by Kambal, Batchar said.
Batchar said no government soldier was killed or wounded during the encounter.
Authorities recovered a handgun after the encounter.
Meanwhile, troopers recovered on Monday an M14 rifle and three improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in Sitio Lawbong, Barangay Tudok, T'boli, South Cotabato.
Authorities recovered the IEDs after a former NPA member informed them where it was hidden in Tudok village in T'boli.
The rebel returnee surrendered to the military along with his two high-powered firearms that are now under the custody of the Armed Forces.
The former rebel's enrollment to the Comprehensive Local Integration Program is now being processed.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/local-news/2017/08/23/npa-rebel-killed-davao-norte-clash-559975
General who led fight vs. NPA in Davao is new ISAFP chief
From GMA News (Aug 23): General who led fight vs. NPA in Davao is new ISAFP chief
President Rodrigo Duterte has designated the commander of Philippine Army's 1001st Infantry Brigade based in Compostela Valley as the new chief of the Intelligence Service of the AFP (ISAFP), a military official said Wednesday.
Col. Edgard Arevalo, Armed Forces of the Philippines public affairs office chief, said Brigadier General Macairog Alberto is considered as a national security fellow and adept not only with combat operations but also with intelligence operations.
Alberto led the fight against New People's Army in the Davao region.
"He had successful stint in operations focusing in counter terrorism, counter-insurgency applied with educational training locally and abroad in the field of operations and intelligence,” Arevalo said of Alberto.
“He is expected to deliver, especially at this time that we are faced with challenges of terrorism, violent extremism, and the fact that the President declared that after Marawi, we will be focusing once more on counter-insurgency."
Alberto was a former commander of Task Force Davao and a recipient of various medical and awards including Distinguish Service Stars, Gold Cross Medal, and Bronze Cross Medal,
He will assume his new post on Friday replacing Maj. Gen. Ronald Villanueva, who has been designated as the new commander of the 4th Infantry Division in Cagayan de Oro City.
The former commander of 4th Infantry Division, Maj. Gen. Benjamin Madrigal, took over as the head of Southern Luzon Command last Friday replacing retired Lt. Gen. Ferdinand Quidilla.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/nation/623050/general-who-led-fight-vs-npa-in-davao-is-new-isafp-chief/story/
President Rodrigo Duterte has designated the commander of Philippine Army's 1001st Infantry Brigade based in Compostela Valley as the new chief of the Intelligence Service of the AFP (ISAFP), a military official said Wednesday.
Col. Edgard Arevalo, Armed Forces of the Philippines public affairs office chief, said Brigadier General Macairog Alberto is considered as a national security fellow and adept not only with combat operations but also with intelligence operations.
Alberto led the fight against New People's Army in the Davao region.
"He had successful stint in operations focusing in counter terrorism, counter-insurgency applied with educational training locally and abroad in the field of operations and intelligence,” Arevalo said of Alberto.
“He is expected to deliver, especially at this time that we are faced with challenges of terrorism, violent extremism, and the fact that the President declared that after Marawi, we will be focusing once more on counter-insurgency."
Alberto was a former commander of Task Force Davao and a recipient of various medical and awards including Distinguish Service Stars, Gold Cross Medal, and Bronze Cross Medal,
He will assume his new post on Friday replacing Maj. Gen. Ronald Villanueva, who has been designated as the new commander of the 4th Infantry Division in Cagayan de Oro City.
The former commander of 4th Infantry Division, Maj. Gen. Benjamin Madrigal, took over as the head of Southern Luzon Command last Friday replacing retired Lt. Gen. Ferdinand Quidilla.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/nation/623050/general-who-led-fight-vs-npa-in-davao-is-new-isafp-chief/story/
Army's new 4th Infantry Division chief is Kagay-anon
From the Sun Star-Cagayan de Oro (Aug 24): Army's new 4th Infantry Division chief is Kagay-anon
A KAGAY-ANON has taken the reins of the Philippine Army’s 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division (4ID).
Major General Ronald Villanueva took his post as 4ID commander on Wednesday morning, August 23, at Camp Evangelista, Barangay Patag, Cagayan de Oro City.
"I was born in Manila, grew up in Cagayan de Oro, but my parents are from Butuan City, and I married to someone who is from Iligan," Villanueva told reporters yesterday.
"Camp Evangelista has been a home for my family. I grew up here since my father led this division from 1988 to 1990. Who would have thought that someday I would be standing here delivering my remarks as division commander just like my father 29 years ago," he said.
Villanueva was the Chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP) Intelligence Service before his assumption as the 41st Commander of the 4ID.
Villanueva was also the Company Commander under the 53rd Infantry Battlaion in 1987; Commanding Officer of the 28th Infantry Battalion in 2003 and later lead the 26th Infantry Battalion until 2005; and Commander of 1002nd Infantry Brigade stationed in Sarangani Province from 2014 to 2016.
He was the Defense Group Commander of the Department of National Defense where he served as Group Commander, as well as the Defense Intelligence and Security Group from 2007 until 2010 before orchestrating the affairs of the Counter Intelligence Division of the AFP's OJ2 from 2010 to 2011.
He likewise served as Head of the Faculty Department of the AFPCGSC in 2012. He became Chiefs of Staff of both the 4th and 7th Infantry Divisions from 2012 to 2014.
Raised inside the vicinity of Camp Evangelista, Villanueva spent his grade school and high school at Xavier University, where he also got his Master's degree in Business Administration.
Villanueva also has a Master's Degree in National Security from the National Defense College of the Philippines and a Diploma in International Development and Security from the Development Academy of the Philippines.
He is a Scout Ranger, a combat diver, an expert marksman, an Infantry and Intelligence Officer.
Villanueva said the existing directives and policies of his predecessor will remain in effect until he sees the need to replace them.
"As I face high expectations and challenges in this new position, I feel a strong sense of confidence with a dedicated team. We need to work harder so progress would continue unhampered, peace and order maintained. We will also continue to work with stakeholders," he added.
"Mission first, morale always," Villanueva told the 4ID soldiers Wednesday.
Villanueva took over from Major General Benjamin Madrigal, Jr. who led the division for one year and five months.
Madrigal has been appointed as the new commander of Southern Luzon Command.
During his stint as the division’s commanding general, a total of 239 New People's Army rebels either surrendered, died, or was captured during the combat operations; while soldiers recovered 243 assorted firearms and 125 Improvised Explosive Devices; arrested 140 drug personalities; and recovered illegal drugs with a total market value of 41 Million pesos in its support to law enforcement operations.
Also, Madrigal was also the proponent of the Bayanihan Oversight and Advisory Committee, a government body focused on addressing the concerns in conflict-affected areas.
All these efforts and achievements have paved way for the clearing of a total of 568 barangays in the two regions, Northern Mindanao and Caraga regions.
Madrigal's leadership also achieved the fourth and final stage of the Army Governance Pathway, an achievement which led the 4ID to garner the Gold Trailblazer award, after passing the revalida on June 5 this year at the Headquarters Philippine Army in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
The ceremony was graced by the Commanding General Philippine Army, Lieutenant General Glorioso V Miranda and was attended by different Local Chief Executives, Tribal Chieftains, Regional Directors, and distinguished guests from Northern Mindanao and Caraga Regions.
Both Villanueva and Madrigal are members of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1985.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/cagayan-de-oro/local-news/2017/08/24/armys-new-4th-infantry-division-chief-kagay-anon-560177
A KAGAY-ANON has taken the reins of the Philippine Army’s 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division (4ID).
Major General Ronald Villanueva took his post as 4ID commander on Wednesday morning, August 23, at Camp Evangelista, Barangay Patag, Cagayan de Oro City.
"I was born in Manila, grew up in Cagayan de Oro, but my parents are from Butuan City, and I married to someone who is from Iligan," Villanueva told reporters yesterday.
"Camp Evangelista has been a home for my family. I grew up here since my father led this division from 1988 to 1990. Who would have thought that someday I would be standing here delivering my remarks as division commander just like my father 29 years ago," he said.
Villanueva was the Chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP) Intelligence Service before his assumption as the 41st Commander of the 4ID.
Villanueva was also the Company Commander under the 53rd Infantry Battlaion in 1987; Commanding Officer of the 28th Infantry Battalion in 2003 and later lead the 26th Infantry Battalion until 2005; and Commander of 1002nd Infantry Brigade stationed in Sarangani Province from 2014 to 2016.
He was the Defense Group Commander of the Department of National Defense where he served as Group Commander, as well as the Defense Intelligence and Security Group from 2007 until 2010 before orchestrating the affairs of the Counter Intelligence Division of the AFP's OJ2 from 2010 to 2011.
He likewise served as Head of the Faculty Department of the AFPCGSC in 2012. He became Chiefs of Staff of both the 4th and 7th Infantry Divisions from 2012 to 2014.
Raised inside the vicinity of Camp Evangelista, Villanueva spent his grade school and high school at Xavier University, where he also got his Master's degree in Business Administration.
Villanueva also has a Master's Degree in National Security from the National Defense College of the Philippines and a Diploma in International Development and Security from the Development Academy of the Philippines.
He is a Scout Ranger, a combat diver, an expert marksman, an Infantry and Intelligence Officer.
Villanueva said the existing directives and policies of his predecessor will remain in effect until he sees the need to replace them.
"As I face high expectations and challenges in this new position, I feel a strong sense of confidence with a dedicated team. We need to work harder so progress would continue unhampered, peace and order maintained. We will also continue to work with stakeholders," he added.
"Mission first, morale always," Villanueva told the 4ID soldiers Wednesday.
Villanueva took over from Major General Benjamin Madrigal, Jr. who led the division for one year and five months.
Madrigal has been appointed as the new commander of Southern Luzon Command.
During his stint as the division’s commanding general, a total of 239 New People's Army rebels either surrendered, died, or was captured during the combat operations; while soldiers recovered 243 assorted firearms and 125 Improvised Explosive Devices; arrested 140 drug personalities; and recovered illegal drugs with a total market value of 41 Million pesos in its support to law enforcement operations.
Also, Madrigal was also the proponent of the Bayanihan Oversight and Advisory Committee, a government body focused on addressing the concerns in conflict-affected areas.
All these efforts and achievements have paved way for the clearing of a total of 568 barangays in the two regions, Northern Mindanao and Caraga regions.
Madrigal's leadership also achieved the fourth and final stage of the Army Governance Pathway, an achievement which led the 4ID to garner the Gold Trailblazer award, after passing the revalida on June 5 this year at the Headquarters Philippine Army in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
The ceremony was graced by the Commanding General Philippine Army, Lieutenant General Glorioso V Miranda and was attended by different Local Chief Executives, Tribal Chieftains, Regional Directors, and distinguished guests from Northern Mindanao and Caraga Regions.
Both Villanueva and Madrigal are members of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1985.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/cagayan-de-oro/local-news/2017/08/24/armys-new-4th-infantry-division-chief-kagay-anon-560177
NPA reactivating urban hit squad
From the Sun Star-Davao (Aug 24): NPA reactivating urban hit squad
LOCAL authorities are validating the possibility that the New People's Army (NPA) has reactivated their Special Partisan Unit (Sparu or Sparrow), the rebel group's urban hit squad that prey on law enforcers, government officials, and those who volunteer to help government.
Task Force Davao head Colonel Erwin Bernard Neri said on Wednesday that they are considering the possibility that the guns recovered at a checkpoint in Lasang are intended for a "liquidation unit."
“We are still actually validating all those information. Actually, the plan of the CPP-NPA really is to deploy liquidation teams in different parts of the region but as far as Davao City is concerned, we are further validating this information with regards to the seizure of the eight firearms last Monday,” Neri said.
An investigation by the Davao City Police Office is still ongoing. The police have already identified a male suspect who rode a bus in Surigao City going to Davao City. He was one of the 26 passengers of the Bachelor Bus who went missing after passengers were asked to disembark at the checkpoint.
Neri seeks the support of the public to report to the authorities if they notice suspicious-looking individuals in their communities.
“As far as nandito na ba sa loob, we cannot discount the fact na meron na and that’s the reason that we really have to be alert all the time,” he said.
Of the seven .45 caliber pistols seized, only one has a serial number, which reinforces their suspicion that will be used for criminal acts.
“Once na-establish, we can conclude gamit ito ng liquidation squads," Neri said. "But then if you look at the recovered firearms, the other Ingram machine pistol may silencer siya. 'Pag mga ganyan, it will be used for liquidation,” he added.
Meanwhile, Philippine Army’s 10th Infantry Division (ID) spokesperson Captain Rhyan Batchar said they are still validating reports that the hit squad is active again after the NPA's Southern Mindanao Regional Committee released a directive to its ground unit.
In the area of 10th ID, six security personnel were allegedly killed by Sparrow unit members.
“They resort to this because they have been hit very hard by our operations and we can even say that by the number of NPA neutralized or killed during encounters, the number of firearms recovered during encounters,” he said.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police are now in high alert against possible threats of their lives perpetrated by lawless armed group.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/local-news/2017/08/24/npa-reactivating-urban-hit-squad-560175
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/local-news/2017/08/24/npa-reactivating-urban-hit-squad-560175
'Humanitarian catastrophe' in Philippines – aid groups
From Rappler (Aug 24): 'Humanitarian catastrophe' in Philippines – aid groups
Fighting in Mindanao and extreme weather events combine to make a 'huge humanitarian crisis' in the Philippines, says Thibault Henry of the charity Acted
Fighting in the troubled southern Philippine region of Mindanao has combined with extreme weather events to create a "humanitarian catastrophe", French aid groups said Wednesday.
Around one million people have fled their homes in the region, according to Thibault Henry, head of the Philippines chapter of the charity Acted.
"Basic needs are not covered," Henry told AFP.
"Clearly it's a huge humanitarian crisis, a catastrophe, that will affect the region for many years," he said, noting that more than half of the population lives in poverty.
In early July a top government official estimated the number of displaced at 400,000.
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and government forces, with US military backing, are battling terrorists who support the Islamic State group (ISIS) in the region.
Hundreds of ISIS supporters occupied parts of the city of Marawi in late May in a conflict that has claimed more than 700 lives.
Mindanao was struck by typhoons in 2012 and 2013 and a drought in 2016, Henry noted, adding that other rebel movements affected other parts of the region.
Vanessa Cardamone of Handicap International said conflict combined with extreme weather events had created a "complex crisis".
She said only six percent of those displaced are in camps, while most are lodging with private individuals.
For his part Javad Amoozegar of the French charity Action Contre la Faim said humanitarian aid is falling far short of needs.
"The Philippines is at the bottom of the list... forgotten by the news," he said. "Most donors look at the number of victims before mobilising. Here the people aren't dead yet, but we want to help them so they don't die."
The 10,000-strong MILF has been leading a decades-long rebellion to establish an independent or autonomous homeland in Mindanao for the mainly Catholic Philippines' Muslim minority.
Hardline militants including former MILF members oppose any form of peace with the government, and some have in recent years pledged allegiance to ISIS.
The MILF has repeatedly warned that if the peace process collapses it will lose many of its younger members to ISIS-aligned groups.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/179802-humanitarian-catastrophe-philippines-aid-groups
Fighting in Mindanao and extreme weather events combine to make a 'huge humanitarian crisis' in the Philippines, says Thibault Henry of the charity Acted
WADING INTO THE FRONT LINES. This photo taken on August 22, 2017 shows a government police officer along with members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF-back) wading through a flooded farm on their way to the frontline in Datu Salibo town, Maguindanao province, in Mindanao. Photo by Ferdinandh Cabrera/ AFP
Fighting in the troubled southern Philippine region of Mindanao has combined with extreme weather events to create a "humanitarian catastrophe", French aid groups said Wednesday.
Around one million people have fled their homes in the region, according to Thibault Henry, head of the Philippines chapter of the charity Acted.
"Basic needs are not covered," Henry told AFP.
"Clearly it's a huge humanitarian crisis, a catastrophe, that will affect the region for many years," he said, noting that more than half of the population lives in poverty.
In early July a top government official estimated the number of displaced at 400,000.
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and government forces, with US military backing, are battling terrorists who support the Islamic State group (ISIS) in the region.
Hundreds of ISIS supporters occupied parts of the city of Marawi in late May in a conflict that has claimed more than 700 lives.
Mindanao was struck by typhoons in 2012 and 2013 and a drought in 2016, Henry noted, adding that other rebel movements affected other parts of the region.
Vanessa Cardamone of Handicap International said conflict combined with extreme weather events had created a "complex crisis".
She said only six percent of those displaced are in camps, while most are lodging with private individuals.
For his part Javad Amoozegar of the French charity Action Contre la Faim said humanitarian aid is falling far short of needs.
"The Philippines is at the bottom of the list... forgotten by the news," he said. "Most donors look at the number of victims before mobilising. Here the people aren't dead yet, but we want to help them so they don't die."
The 10,000-strong MILF has been leading a decades-long rebellion to establish an independent or autonomous homeland in Mindanao for the mainly Catholic Philippines' Muslim minority.
Hardline militants including former MILF members oppose any form of peace with the government, and some have in recent years pledged allegiance to ISIS.
The MILF has repeatedly warned that if the peace process collapses it will lose many of its younger members to ISIS-aligned groups.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/179802-humanitarian-catastrophe-philippines-aid-groups
10 MILF fighters dead in clashes with ISIS-linked groups
From Rappler (Aug 24): 10 MILF fighters dead in clashes with ISIS-linked groups
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front is seeking to prevent a different group from gaining a foothold in an area of Mindanao island that it calls its own, senior rebel leader Mohagher Iqbal says
DATU SALIBO, Philippines – The Moro Islamic Liberation Front said on Wednesday, August 23, it had lost 10 fighters in battles to stop a "growing force" of radical militants who support the Islamic State group (ISIS).
The MILF is seeking to prevent the militants from gaining a foothold in an area of Mindanao island that the MILF calls its own, senior rebel leader Mohagher Iqbal told AFP.
Iqbal said 50 or so militants had pledged allegiance to ISIS and had ties to gunmen waging a deadly 3-month-old battle with government forces in the southern city of Marawi.
"The radical elements are growing as a force," Iqbal told the Agence France-Presse by telephone.
An Agence France-Presse video journalist who joined the MILF soldiers on Tuesday said the fighting was centred on vast marshy forests and farmlands near the town of Datu Salibo.
MILF men were filmed firing automatic weapons from a house, crossing streams and marshes with their machine guns, automatic rifles and rations raised above their heads, and inspecting the ruins of burnt houses.
Datu Salibo is about 100 kilometers (60 miles) south of Marawi and about 800 kilometers south of Manila.
Iqbal put the MILF death toll from the fighting, which began early this month, at 10.
He said the militants had also sustained fatalities, although he could not give confirmed numbers.
The 10,000-strong MILF has been leading a decades-long rebellion to establish an independent or autonomous homeland in Mindanao for the mainly Catholic Philippines' Muslim minority.
The conflict has claimed more than 100,000 lives.
The MILF signed a peace agreement with the previous administration in 2014 that envisages an autonomous Muslim homeland in Mindanao, and is hoping President Rodrigo Duterte can shepherd a final deal through a reluctant Congress.
However a range of more hardline militants, including former MILF members, oppose any form of peace with the government and some have in recent years pledged allegiance to ISIS.
The MILF has repeatedly warned that, if the peace process collapses, it will lose many of its younger members to ISIS-aligned groups.
Hundreds of ISIS supporters occupied parts of Marawi in late May.
Government forces have been unable to dislodge the militants in Marawi despite a massive, US-backed military campaign.
The conflict has claimed more than 700 lives.
Iqbal said the MILF's current battles against another group near Datu Salibo showed IS was becoming a threat in other parts of the south.
"They're an affiliate of ISIS and they plant the black (ISIS) flag wherever they go," Iqbal said, using an alternate acronym meaning Islamic State of Iraq and Syria.
"They cause trouble everywhere. We are against their way of life. We are against terrorism."
https://www.rappler.com/nation/179780-moro-islamic-liberation-front-isis-alarm-philippines
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front is seeking to prevent a different group from gaining a foothold in an area of Mindanao island that it calls its own, senior rebel leader Mohagher Iqbal says
TO THE FRONT LINES. This photo taken on August 22, 2017 shows a member of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) wading through a flooded farm on his way to the frontline in Datu Salibo town, Maguindanao province, Mindanao. Photo by Ferdinandh Cabrera/AFP
DATU SALIBO, Philippines – The Moro Islamic Liberation Front said on Wednesday, August 23, it had lost 10 fighters in battles to stop a "growing force" of radical militants who support the Islamic State group (ISIS).
The MILF is seeking to prevent the militants from gaining a foothold in an area of Mindanao island that the MILF calls its own, senior rebel leader Mohagher Iqbal told AFP.
Iqbal said 50 or so militants had pledged allegiance to ISIS and had ties to gunmen waging a deadly 3-month-old battle with government forces in the southern city of Marawi.
"The radical elements are growing as a force," Iqbal told the Agence France-Presse by telephone.
An Agence France-Presse video journalist who joined the MILF soldiers on Tuesday said the fighting was centred on vast marshy forests and farmlands near the town of Datu Salibo.
MILF men were filmed firing automatic weapons from a house, crossing streams and marshes with their machine guns, automatic rifles and rations raised above their heads, and inspecting the ruins of burnt houses.
Datu Salibo is about 100 kilometers (60 miles) south of Marawi and about 800 kilometers south of Manila.
Iqbal put the MILF death toll from the fighting, which began early this month, at 10.
He said the militants had also sustained fatalities, although he could not give confirmed numbers.
The 10,000-strong MILF has been leading a decades-long rebellion to establish an independent or autonomous homeland in Mindanao for the mainly Catholic Philippines' Muslim minority.
The conflict has claimed more than 100,000 lives.
The MILF signed a peace agreement with the previous administration in 2014 that envisages an autonomous Muslim homeland in Mindanao, and is hoping President Rodrigo Duterte can shepherd a final deal through a reluctant Congress.
However a range of more hardline militants, including former MILF members, oppose any form of peace with the government and some have in recent years pledged allegiance to ISIS.
The MILF has repeatedly warned that, if the peace process collapses, it will lose many of its younger members to ISIS-aligned groups.
Hundreds of ISIS supporters occupied parts of Marawi in late May.
Government forces have been unable to dislodge the militants in Marawi despite a massive, US-backed military campaign.
The conflict has claimed more than 700 lives.
Iqbal said the MILF's current battles against another group near Datu Salibo showed IS was becoming a threat in other parts of the south.
"They're an affiliate of ISIS and they plant the black (ISIS) flag wherever they go," Iqbal said, using an alternate acronym meaning Islamic State of Iraq and Syria.
"They cause trouble everywhere. We are against their way of life. We are against terrorism."
https://www.rappler.com/nation/179780-moro-islamic-liberation-front-isis-alarm-philippines
Malaysian militants back from the dead
From The New Straits Times (Aug 24): Malaysian militants back from the dead
Former Selayang Municipal Council officer Muhammad Joraimee Awang Raimee (third from left) in a video by the Islamic State on Monday, A man, believed to be Universiti Malaya Dr. Mahmud Ahmad, stands to his right.
Isnilon Hapilon, the so-called emir of the IS forces in the Philippines
TWO wanted Malaysians fighting alongside the Islamic State in southern Philippines have appeared in the terror group’s latest propaganda video that calls on Muslims in the region to join them.
Looking very different from images of them in open sources, former Universiti Malaya lecturer Dr Mahmud Ahmad and former Selayang Municipal Council officer Muhammad Joraimee Awang Raimee are believed to still be active in the battle for Marawi.
The video, titled “Inside 3”, released by the group’s official media, al-Hayat, on Monday, also showed the so-called emir of the IS forces in the Philippines, Isnilon Hapilon, with fighters, supposedly during a break from fighting with the armed forces of the Philippines.
Philippine authorities have not been able to confirm if the man with a US$5 million bounty on his head is dead or alive. IS members in Mindanao, as reflected in their chat rooms, say he is still part of the group fighting the Philippine military.
“The emir of East Asia Wilayat, Abu Abdilah, in action,” one of them said. Abu Abdilah is another nom de guerre for Hapilon.
One part of the video showed Hapilon, in full battle gear, being embraced by his subordinates. It cannot be independently established if the man standing close by, and was also being greeted by the rank and file, was Mahmud.
Intelligence reports have placed Mahmud as the leader-in-waiting for the Syria and Iraq based-IS’s only outpost.
The signboards and gateway arch shown in the video, as well as the use of Tagalog, indicated that it was produced in Marawi.
Sources said it was Mahmud who made the opening remark in the 6.47-minute video.
He can be heard reciting a few lines from the surah Ali Imran verse 103, which calls on Muslims to “cling onto the rope of Allah and not split”.
However, the source said the man in the middle, who was seen as if he was the one doing the talking, was believed to be someone else.
The source said Mahmud used Bahasa Malaysia at the beginning of the video, as the group was targeting its supporters, particularly in Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore, to join them in Marawi.
Mahmud, the source said, was the one standing second from the left, holding an assault rifle.
He took pains to disguise himself and used a shemagh to hide his face, exposing only his eyes.
“The voice that can be heard during the opening of the video is Mahmud’s, although it appears that the man in the middle was the one speaking. We believe he was just the stand-in guy.
“Mahmud is the one who is standing second from the left. Beside him is Joraimee, who is of the same height as Mahmud,” the source said.
Mahmud, the source said, chose to remain unidentified in IS propaganda videos to give authorities a hard time.
Reports in recent months have both cited him as having been killed in action and alive, although he was reportedly badly injured in the early stages of the Marawi siege.
Joraimee was seen in the video standing on Mahmud’s left, holding a shotgun on his right hand and an over-sized keris, a trademark of his, according to sources.
“He is known for his interest in keris. This is not the first picture of him with that particular one,” the source added.
Mahmud and Joraimee were among five Malaysians who fled the country. They first joined the Abu Sayyaf group before the southern Philippine-based group pledged allegiance to the IS.
Other Malaysians who were with them were Mahmud’s close aide, Mohd Najib Husen, and Jeknal Adil, who have died in battle with the authorities.
Only the whereabouts of Mohd Amin Baco, a member of outlawed group Darul Islam Sabah, remain unknown.
Bukit Aman’s Special Branch Counter-terrorism Division principal assistant director Datuk Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay said the police would need more time to confirm the identities of the Malaysians in the video.
This, he said, was to allow the police to match their faces to data in the facial recognition system.
Asked on the video, Ayob said the clip was made with the intention to motivate Muslims, especially those in Southeast Asia, to take up their cause.
“Even the background music that they use, in addition to the speeches by the IS fighters... they are all intended to influence IS sympathisers to join the fight in Marawi,” he said, adding that IS control of areas in Marawi had reduced significantly.
The narration of the video, released just as IS marked its third-month occupation of the Islamic city, started with a voice-over on the group’s “success in securing several areas in Marawi”.
“Today (yesterday) marks the third month of the group’s incursion of Marawi and the authorities have failed to recapture some of the areas controlled by the group.
“They are playing up this ‘psychological victory’ that they hope to inspire more to join them in their fight.
“They are now encouraged as they have control over these areas despite their strength likely made up only of pocket groups,” Ayob said.
https://www.nst.com.my/news/exclusive/2017/08/271852/malaysian-militants-back-dead
Former Selayang Municipal Council officer Muhammad Joraimee Awang Raimee (third from left) in a video by the Islamic State on Monday, A man, believed to be Universiti Malaya Dr. Mahmud Ahmad, stands to his right.
Isnilon Hapilon, the so-called emir of the IS forces in the Philippines
TWO wanted Malaysians fighting alongside the Islamic State in southern Philippines have appeared in the terror group’s latest propaganda video that calls on Muslims in the region to join them.
Looking very different from images of them in open sources, former Universiti Malaya lecturer Dr Mahmud Ahmad and former Selayang Municipal Council officer Muhammad Joraimee Awang Raimee are believed to still be active in the battle for Marawi.
The video, titled “Inside 3”, released by the group’s official media, al-Hayat, on Monday, also showed the so-called emir of the IS forces in the Philippines, Isnilon Hapilon, with fighters, supposedly during a break from fighting with the armed forces of the Philippines.
Philippine authorities have not been able to confirm if the man with a US$5 million bounty on his head is dead or alive. IS members in Mindanao, as reflected in their chat rooms, say he is still part of the group fighting the Philippine military.
“The emir of East Asia Wilayat, Abu Abdilah, in action,” one of them said. Abu Abdilah is another nom de guerre for Hapilon.
One part of the video showed Hapilon, in full battle gear, being embraced by his subordinates. It cannot be independently established if the man standing close by, and was also being greeted by the rank and file, was Mahmud.
Intelligence reports have placed Mahmud as the leader-in-waiting for the Syria and Iraq based-IS’s only outpost.
The signboards and gateway arch shown in the video, as well as the use of Tagalog, indicated that it was produced in Marawi.
Sources said it was Mahmud who made the opening remark in the 6.47-minute video.
He can be heard reciting a few lines from the surah Ali Imran verse 103, which calls on Muslims to “cling onto the rope of Allah and not split”.
However, the source said the man in the middle, who was seen as if he was the one doing the talking, was believed to be someone else.
The source said Mahmud used Bahasa Malaysia at the beginning of the video, as the group was targeting its supporters, particularly in Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore, to join them in Marawi.
Mahmud, the source said, was the one standing second from the left, holding an assault rifle.
He took pains to disguise himself and used a shemagh to hide his face, exposing only his eyes.
“The voice that can be heard during the opening of the video is Mahmud’s, although it appears that the man in the middle was the one speaking. We believe he was just the stand-in guy.
“Mahmud is the one who is standing second from the left. Beside him is Joraimee, who is of the same height as Mahmud,” the source said.
Mahmud, the source said, chose to remain unidentified in IS propaganda videos to give authorities a hard time.
Reports in recent months have both cited him as having been killed in action and alive, although he was reportedly badly injured in the early stages of the Marawi siege.
Joraimee was seen in the video standing on Mahmud’s left, holding a shotgun on his right hand and an over-sized keris, a trademark of his, according to sources.
“He is known for his interest in keris. This is not the first picture of him with that particular one,” the source added.
Mahmud and Joraimee were among five Malaysians who fled the country. They first joined the Abu Sayyaf group before the southern Philippine-based group pledged allegiance to the IS.
Other Malaysians who were with them were Mahmud’s close aide, Mohd Najib Husen, and Jeknal Adil, who have died in battle with the authorities.
Only the whereabouts of Mohd Amin Baco, a member of outlawed group Darul Islam Sabah, remain unknown.
Bukit Aman’s Special Branch Counter-terrorism Division principal assistant director Datuk Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay said the police would need more time to confirm the identities of the Malaysians in the video.
This, he said, was to allow the police to match their faces to data in the facial recognition system.
Asked on the video, Ayob said the clip was made with the intention to motivate Muslims, especially those in Southeast Asia, to take up their cause.
“Even the background music that they use, in addition to the speeches by the IS fighters... they are all intended to influence IS sympathisers to join the fight in Marawi,” he said, adding that IS control of areas in Marawi had reduced significantly.
The narration of the video, released just as IS marked its third-month occupation of the Islamic city, started with a voice-over on the group’s “success in securing several areas in Marawi”.
“Today (yesterday) marks the third month of the group’s incursion of Marawi and the authorities have failed to recapture some of the areas controlled by the group.
“They are playing up this ‘psychological victory’ that they hope to inspire more to join them in their fight.
“They are now encouraged as they have control over these areas despite their strength likely made up only of pocket groups,” Ayob said.
https://www.nst.com.my/news/exclusive/2017/08/271852/malaysian-militants-back-dead
Vietnam thankful to Philippine Navy for rescue of Vietnamese kidnapped by terrorists
From Update Philippines (Aug 24): Vietnam thankful to Philippine Navy for rescue of Vietnamese kidnapped by terrorists
Peoples Republic of Vietnam Ambassador to the Philippines Ly Quoc Tuan met with Philippine Navy Flag-Office-In-Command Vice Admiral Ronald Joseph S Mercado on August 23 at Navy headquarters toe extend his country’s gratitude for the successful rescue operation for Vietnamese kidnap victim on August 20 in Basilan.
“You have the commitment of the Philippine Navy and the armed forces. In spite of our efforts right now in Marawi, we are not abandoning all our efforts in Jolo, Basilan, and Tawi-tawi in rescuing the kidnap victims,” Vice Admiral Mercado said during the event.
Do Trung Huiqe was rescued by the combined forces of Joint Task Force Basilan through Naval Task Group Basilan and Naval Task Force 61 from the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) last Aug. 20 in Mataja Island, Basilan.
He is a crew member of MV Royal 16.
“The Vietnamese sailor, along with other five crew members of said bulk carrier, was abducted by Abu Sayyaf bandits on Nov. 11, 2016 off the waters of Coco Island, Basilan, ” the Philippine Navy said.
https://www.update.ph/2017/08/vietnam-thankful-to-philippine-navy-for-rescue-of-vietnamese-kidnapped-by-terrorists/20270
Peoples Republic of Vietnam Ambassador to the Philippines Ly Quoc Tuan met with Philippine Navy Flag-Office-In-Command Vice Admiral Ronald Joseph S Mercado on August 23 at Navy headquarters toe extend his country’s gratitude for the successful rescue operation for Vietnamese kidnap victim on August 20 in Basilan.
“You have the commitment of the Philippine Navy and the armed forces. In spite of our efforts right now in Marawi, we are not abandoning all our efforts in Jolo, Basilan, and Tawi-tawi in rescuing the kidnap victims,” Vice Admiral Mercado said during the event.
Do Trung Huiqe was rescued by the combined forces of Joint Task Force Basilan through Naval Task Group Basilan and Naval Task Force 61 from the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) last Aug. 20 in Mataja Island, Basilan.
He is a crew member of MV Royal 16.
“The Vietnamese sailor, along with other five crew members of said bulk carrier, was abducted by Abu Sayyaf bandits on Nov. 11, 2016 off the waters of Coco Island, Basilan, ” the Philippine Navy said.
https://www.update.ph/2017/08/vietnam-thankful-to-philippine-navy-for-rescue-of-vietnamese-kidnapped-by-terrorists/20270
PMA Class ’85 members assume key govt posts
From The Standard (Aug 24): PMA Class ’85 members assume key govt posts
The Philippine Military Academy “Sandiwa” Class of 1985 is the next ruling class in the Armed Forces of the Philippines, replacing the PMA “Matikas” Class ’83 currently being held by Chief of Staff General Eduardo Año.
Many of the Matikas class members were also appointed in key positions in the Duterte government.
Año, who has been repeatedly announced by President Rodrigo Duterte as his choice to lead the Department of the Interior and Local Government, will reach his mandatory retirement age of 56 on Oct. 26 this year.
He will replace Ismael Sueno who was sacked by Duterte because of allegation of corruption in the procurement of multi-million worth of fire trucks.
Reportedly in the race to the military top position to replace Año are Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) chief Lieutenant General Carlito Galvez Jr., Southern Luzon Command (Solcom) chief Major General Benjamin Madrigal Jr., and 1st Infantry Division chief Maj. Gen. Rolando Joselito Bautista.
One of these Sandiwa generals will soon get the most-coveted position.
But according to Duterte, Año could not immediately assume his new government position because of the one-year ban of Republic Act 6975 or the Department of the Interior and Local Government Act of 1990, “no retired or resigned military officer or police official may be appointed as Secretary within one year from the date of his retirement or resignation.”
If not for the outbreak of the Marawi conflict by the ISIS-inspired Maute and Abu Sayyaf groups, Ano could have been at the DILG post after Duterte asked him to retire early retire. As a result, Duterte ordered the recall of Ano’s early retirement and extended his stint to another six months.
The Marawi conflict had frustrated the supposed assumption to the military top post of Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) chief Lt. Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero (PMA “Maharlika” Class ’84), the batch that took Davao City Mayor Sarah Duterte as honorary member.
This time, it looks like Ano’s retirement is on track and Duterte said he will take the general as his senior aide in Malacanang while waiting for the one-year ban.
Before Ano, his classmates, retired Gens. Hernando Irriberi and now National Irrigation Administration (NIA) Administrator Ricardo Visaya also became AFP chief.
Another classmate, retiring Army chief Lt. Gen. Glorioso Miranda also served as acting AFP chief during the 2016 presidential election until Duterte appointed Visaya as his first military chief.
Meanwhile, on Wednesday, Madrigal turned over his former command to his successor Maj. Gen. General Ronald Villanueva, former Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
Villanueva is also a Sandiwa member.
ISAFP is now led by Brig. Gen. Macairog Alberto (PMA “Sinagtala” Class ’86.
Camp Aguinaldo sources said there will be more reshuffle of key positions that include the top position of the Civil Relations Service (CRS), a two-star position in the AFP.
http://thestandard.com.ph/news/national/245250/pma-class-85-members-assume-key-govt-posts.html
The Philippine Military Academy “Sandiwa” Class of 1985 is the next ruling class in the Armed Forces of the Philippines, replacing the PMA “Matikas” Class ’83 currently being held by Chief of Staff General Eduardo Año.
Many of the Matikas class members were also appointed in key positions in the Duterte government.
Año, who has been repeatedly announced by President Rodrigo Duterte as his choice to lead the Department of the Interior and Local Government, will reach his mandatory retirement age of 56 on Oct. 26 this year.
He will replace Ismael Sueno who was sacked by Duterte because of allegation of corruption in the procurement of multi-million worth of fire trucks.
Reportedly in the race to the military top position to replace Año are Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) chief Lieutenant General Carlito Galvez Jr., Southern Luzon Command (Solcom) chief Major General Benjamin Madrigal Jr., and 1st Infantry Division chief Maj. Gen. Rolando Joselito Bautista.
One of these Sandiwa generals will soon get the most-coveted position.
But according to Duterte, Año could not immediately assume his new government position because of the one-year ban of Republic Act 6975 or the Department of the Interior and Local Government Act of 1990, “no retired or resigned military officer or police official may be appointed as Secretary within one year from the date of his retirement or resignation.”
If not for the outbreak of the Marawi conflict by the ISIS-inspired Maute and Abu Sayyaf groups, Ano could have been at the DILG post after Duterte asked him to retire early retire. As a result, Duterte ordered the recall of Ano’s early retirement and extended his stint to another six months.
The Marawi conflict had frustrated the supposed assumption to the military top post of Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) chief Lt. Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero (PMA “Maharlika” Class ’84), the batch that took Davao City Mayor Sarah Duterte as honorary member.
This time, it looks like Ano’s retirement is on track and Duterte said he will take the general as his senior aide in Malacanang while waiting for the one-year ban.
Before Ano, his classmates, retired Gens. Hernando Irriberi and now National Irrigation Administration (NIA) Administrator Ricardo Visaya also became AFP chief.
Another classmate, retiring Army chief Lt. Gen. Glorioso Miranda also served as acting AFP chief during the 2016 presidential election until Duterte appointed Visaya as his first military chief.
Meanwhile, on Wednesday, Madrigal turned over his former command to his successor Maj. Gen. General Ronald Villanueva, former Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
Villanueva is also a Sandiwa member.
ISAFP is now led by Brig. Gen. Macairog Alberto (PMA “Sinagtala” Class ’86.
Camp Aguinaldo sources said there will be more reshuffle of key positions that include the top position of the Civil Relations Service (CRS), a two-star position in the AFP.
http://thestandard.com.ph/news/national/245250/pma-class-85-members-assume-key-govt-posts.html
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