Propaganda article from the English edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines Website (Sep 7): 4 firearms seized in Nueva Vizcaya
RED FIGHTERS of the New People’s Army (NPA)-Cagayan (Venerando Villacillo Command) seized four high powered firearms from a successful ambush against soldiers of the 84th IB.
The ambush was staged in Sitio Maglan, Barangay Dine, Kasibu, Nueva Vizcaya around 7:30 a.m. last September 1 wherein a K3 light machinegun and three R4 rifles were confiscated. Six were killed from the 84th IB including SSgt. Dexter John Tagacay, Cpl. Jayson Sabado and Cpl. Rusty Galan.
The 84th IB is active in suppressing the struggle of the residents in the mountainous portions of Kasibu. The people, including the Bugkalot and Igorot tribes, protest the widespread destructive mining operations in the area. Notorious among these are the large companies OceanaGold and Royalco, both from Australia.
Meanwhile, the NPA-Sorsogon (Celso Minguez Command or CMC) meted out punishment on SPO1 Nestor Austero, an element of the PNP-Bulan who is active in counterinsurgency operations.
According to Ka Samuel Guerrero of the CMC, Austero is active in organizing a network of intelligence informers in the barangays of Bulan which have resulted in many cases of human rights violations in the area.
Advances of the NPA in EV
Meanwhile, the NPA-Eastern Visayas (Efren Martirez Command or EMC) reported the renewed vigor and strength of the NPA in the region amidst the US-Duterte regime’s counterinsurgency campaign Oplan Kapayapaan.
According to Ka Karlos Manuel, EMC spokesperson, Oplan Kapayapaan’s attacks are intense in at least 152 barangays in the region. The 8th ID also put up 41 additional camps. Likewise, the 8th ID targets 32 towns and cities in Eastern Visayas for its counterinsurgency offensives.
The NPA in the region militantly confronted this campaign. From March to August, 65 various types of armed actions were launched by the NPA in the region against soldiers of the 8th ID and the PNP. These have resulted in 61 killed and 39 wounded on the part of the reactionary forces. Ten high powered firearms, including an M60 machinegun, and six other types of firearms, have been confiscated from these offensives.
Within the same period, membership of the NPA grew by 24% and four new platoons and four new squads were built. As a result, NPA-Northern Samar’s two guerrilla fronts have each grown to company formations, and a new guerrilla front has been set up. In Leyte, a new guerrilla front was established in a strategic area covering five towns and 14 barangays.
[Ang Bayan is the official newspaper of the Communist Party of the Philippines. Ang Bayan is published in Pilipino, Bisaya, Hiligaynon, Waray and English. Download Ang Bayan from the Philippine Revolution Web Central at www.philippinerevolution.info. Ang Bayan is published fortnightly by the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines.]
https://www.philippinerevolution.info/ang_bayan/20170907-4-firearms-seized-in-nueva-vizcaya/
Sunday, September 10, 2017
CPP/Ang Bayan: Editorial - Ihiwalay at labanan ang rehimeng US-Duterte
Propaganda editorial from the Tagalog edition of Ang Bayan posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines Website (Sep 7): Editorial - Ihiwalay at labanan ang rehimeng US-Duterte
Mabilis na naiipon ang galit ng sambayanang Pilipino kay Rodrigo Duterte sa patuloy na pagdanak ng dugo sa ilalim ng kanyang mapaniil na paghahari.
Sinasakdal nila si Duterte sa sunud-sunod na pagpatay ng kanyang mga armadong utusan sa mga kabataan nitong nagdaang mga araw: sina Kian delos Santos, 17, Carl Angelo Arnaiz, 19 taon at Reynaldo de Guzman, 14, na pawang pinahirapan at pinatay sa saksak at pagbaril ng mga pulis sa ilalim ng “gera kontra-droga;” at si Obillo Bay-ao, 19, kabataang Lumad mula sa Talaingod, Davao del Norte na binaril at pinatay ng mga pwersang paramilitar.
Sinasakdal ng sambayanan si Duterte sa libu-libong buhay na kinitil sa tatlong gerang kanyang pinasimulan: ang Oplan Tokhang na “gera kontra droga,” ang Oplan Kapayapaan na gerang panunupil at batas militar sa Mindanao at ang gerang kontra-Moro at pagwasak sa Marawi. Kinasusuklaman ng bayan ang tila walang-katapusang pagbibigay ni Duterte ng proteksyon at pabuya sa mga pulis at sundalo na bulag na nagpapatupad ng kanyang utos ng pagpatay.
Duguan ang kamay ni Duterte sa kanyang mga gera ng pagpatay at pagwasak. Naninibasib ang kanyang mga sundalo at pulis. Sa nakaraang dalawang linggo, halos 20 ang pinatay sa ilalim ng Oplan Kapayapaan. Walang-habas ang pamamaslang ng mga pulis sa ilalim ng Oplan Tokhang. Walang-habas pa rin ang gera ng AFP sa Marawi na mahigit 100 araw na nitong kinubkob.
Suyang-suya na ang taumbayan sa paulit-ulit, mapang-uyam at bilib-sa-sariling mga talumpati ni Duterte. Mabilis na naglalaho ang bisa ng kanyang mga pagkukunwari, palabas at asta sa harap ng kongkretong mga hakbangin, patakaran at programang pumipinsala sa interes ng bayan at nang-aapi sa mahihirap.
Nagtetengang kawali si Duterte. Bingi siya sa taghoy ng Marawi at mamamayang Moro, sa pananangis ng mga ama’t ina ng dumaraming kabataang pinatay ng mga pulis, sa hiyaw ng mga pambansang minorya at mga magsasaka laban sa militarisasyon at panunupil, sa malawakang sigaw kontra sa paghuhulog ng bomba, sa daing ng mga maralitang lunsod, manggagawa, mga kabataan at iba pang uri at sektor laban sa pang-aapi at pagsasamantala.
Lalong tumitindi ang pagkamuhi ng bayan sa rehimeng Duterte at mga patakaran nitong mapaniil katulad ng itinutulak nitong National ID system, batas sa pagsupil sa pamamahayag at pag-amyenda sa konstitusyon para lalong mamonopolyo ni Duterte ang kapangyarihang pampulitika. Ibayong pang-aapi ang daranasin ng mga manggagawa sa planong ibasura ang 8-oras na arawang trabaho.
Dapat puspusang kumilos ang mga pwersang pambansa-demokratiko para palawakin at patatagin ang mga organisasyong masa at buuin ang pinakamalapad na bukluran ng sambayanan at ihiwalay at labanan ang rehimeng US-Duterte, ang tatlong gera nito at ang iba’t ibang patakaran at programa nitong maka-imperyalista, kontra-mamamayan at kontra-demokratiko.
Bawat usaping kinakaharap ng mamamayan sa ilalim ng rehimeng Duterte ay nagtutulak sa kanila na magbuklod sa iba’t ibang anyo ng malalapad na alyansa. Mapalalahok sa mga alyansang ito ang iba’t ibang mga pwersa at pulitikong karibal ni Duterte. Higit dito, dapat abutin, pakilusin at buklurin ang iba’t ibang samahan o asosasyon sa mga paaralan, sa mga komunidad, parokya, barangay, sa mga upisina, at iba pa.
Kaliwa’t kanan ngayon ang pagtutol sa “gera kontra-droga” ni Duterte at sa mga pagpatay at abuso ng mga pulis. Tumitindig ang iba’t ibang personahe, sektor, mga organisasyon at institusyon. Ang mga organisasyon ng mga kabataan sa mga komunidad at paaralan ay naghihintay ng magbubuklod sa kanila sa isang malawak na samahan laban sa Oplan Tokhang at mga abusong pulis at para sa komprehensibong solusyong panlipunan at pang-ekonomya sa problema ng droga.
May batayan din para buuin ang malapad na pagkakaisa laban sa Oplan Kapayapaan at gerang anti-Moro at mga hakbanging mapaniil tulad ng National ID. Dapat magkaisa rin para labanan ang pagsupil sa karapatan sa pamamahayag sa tabing ng pagkontrol sa pekeng balita. Dapat ding malawakang pagkaisahin ang masang manggagawa para ipagtanggol ang karapatan sa 8-oras na araw ng pagtatrabaho, para sa regularisasyon at umento sa sahod.
Dapat magkaisa rin ang iba’t ibang pwersa laban sa mga hakbangin ni Duterte para supilin ang kanyang mga karibal sa pulitika (pagkukulong, pagpapatalsik sa pwesto o pagpatay) at para monopolisahin ang kapangyarihang pampulitika sa anyo ng pagbabago sa konstitusyon sa ngalan ng “pederalismo.”
Ang pinaiiral ni Duterte na klima ng sindak at takot ay unti-unting pinangingibabawan at iwinawaksi ng mamamayan. Sa tindi at lawak ng pagkasuklam sa rehimeng US-Duterte, milyun-milyong mamamayan ang naghihintay ng pagkakataong makipagkaisa at kumilos upang ipamalas ang kanilang paninindigan laban sa pasista, kontra-mamamayan at kontra-demokratikong rehimen.
[Ang Bayan is the official newspaper of the Communist Party of the Philippines. Ang Bayan is published in Pilipino, Bisaya, Hiligaynon, Waray and English. Download Ang Bayan from the Philippine Revolution Web Central at www.philippinerevolution.info. Ang Bayan is published fortnightly by the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines.]
https://www.philippinerevolution.info/ang_bayan/20170907-ihiwalay-at-labanan-ang-rehireng-us-duterte/
Mabilis na naiipon ang galit ng sambayanang Pilipino kay Rodrigo Duterte sa patuloy na pagdanak ng dugo sa ilalim ng kanyang mapaniil na paghahari.
Sinasakdal nila si Duterte sa sunud-sunod na pagpatay ng kanyang mga armadong utusan sa mga kabataan nitong nagdaang mga araw: sina Kian delos Santos, 17, Carl Angelo Arnaiz, 19 taon at Reynaldo de Guzman, 14, na pawang pinahirapan at pinatay sa saksak at pagbaril ng mga pulis sa ilalim ng “gera kontra-droga;” at si Obillo Bay-ao, 19, kabataang Lumad mula sa Talaingod, Davao del Norte na binaril at pinatay ng mga pwersang paramilitar.
Sinasakdal ng sambayanan si Duterte sa libu-libong buhay na kinitil sa tatlong gerang kanyang pinasimulan: ang Oplan Tokhang na “gera kontra droga,” ang Oplan Kapayapaan na gerang panunupil at batas militar sa Mindanao at ang gerang kontra-Moro at pagwasak sa Marawi. Kinasusuklaman ng bayan ang tila walang-katapusang pagbibigay ni Duterte ng proteksyon at pabuya sa mga pulis at sundalo na bulag na nagpapatupad ng kanyang utos ng pagpatay.
Duguan ang kamay ni Duterte sa kanyang mga gera ng pagpatay at pagwasak. Naninibasib ang kanyang mga sundalo at pulis. Sa nakaraang dalawang linggo, halos 20 ang pinatay sa ilalim ng Oplan Kapayapaan. Walang-habas ang pamamaslang ng mga pulis sa ilalim ng Oplan Tokhang. Walang-habas pa rin ang gera ng AFP sa Marawi na mahigit 100 araw na nitong kinubkob.
Suyang-suya na ang taumbayan sa paulit-ulit, mapang-uyam at bilib-sa-sariling mga talumpati ni Duterte. Mabilis na naglalaho ang bisa ng kanyang mga pagkukunwari, palabas at asta sa harap ng kongkretong mga hakbangin, patakaran at programang pumipinsala sa interes ng bayan at nang-aapi sa mahihirap.
Nagtetengang kawali si Duterte. Bingi siya sa taghoy ng Marawi at mamamayang Moro, sa pananangis ng mga ama’t ina ng dumaraming kabataang pinatay ng mga pulis, sa hiyaw ng mga pambansang minorya at mga magsasaka laban sa militarisasyon at panunupil, sa malawakang sigaw kontra sa paghuhulog ng bomba, sa daing ng mga maralitang lunsod, manggagawa, mga kabataan at iba pang uri at sektor laban sa pang-aapi at pagsasamantala.
Lalong tumitindi ang pagkamuhi ng bayan sa rehimeng Duterte at mga patakaran nitong mapaniil katulad ng itinutulak nitong National ID system, batas sa pagsupil sa pamamahayag at pag-amyenda sa konstitusyon para lalong mamonopolyo ni Duterte ang kapangyarihang pampulitika. Ibayong pang-aapi ang daranasin ng mga manggagawa sa planong ibasura ang 8-oras na arawang trabaho.
Dapat puspusang kumilos ang mga pwersang pambansa-demokratiko para palawakin at patatagin ang mga organisasyong masa at buuin ang pinakamalapad na bukluran ng sambayanan at ihiwalay at labanan ang rehimeng US-Duterte, ang tatlong gera nito at ang iba’t ibang patakaran at programa nitong maka-imperyalista, kontra-mamamayan at kontra-demokratiko.
Bawat usaping kinakaharap ng mamamayan sa ilalim ng rehimeng Duterte ay nagtutulak sa kanila na magbuklod sa iba’t ibang anyo ng malalapad na alyansa. Mapalalahok sa mga alyansang ito ang iba’t ibang mga pwersa at pulitikong karibal ni Duterte. Higit dito, dapat abutin, pakilusin at buklurin ang iba’t ibang samahan o asosasyon sa mga paaralan, sa mga komunidad, parokya, barangay, sa mga upisina, at iba pa.
Kaliwa’t kanan ngayon ang pagtutol sa “gera kontra-droga” ni Duterte at sa mga pagpatay at abuso ng mga pulis. Tumitindig ang iba’t ibang personahe, sektor, mga organisasyon at institusyon. Ang mga organisasyon ng mga kabataan sa mga komunidad at paaralan ay naghihintay ng magbubuklod sa kanila sa isang malawak na samahan laban sa Oplan Tokhang at mga abusong pulis at para sa komprehensibong solusyong panlipunan at pang-ekonomya sa problema ng droga.
May batayan din para buuin ang malapad na pagkakaisa laban sa Oplan Kapayapaan at gerang anti-Moro at mga hakbanging mapaniil tulad ng National ID. Dapat magkaisa rin para labanan ang pagsupil sa karapatan sa pamamahayag sa tabing ng pagkontrol sa pekeng balita. Dapat ding malawakang pagkaisahin ang masang manggagawa para ipagtanggol ang karapatan sa 8-oras na araw ng pagtatrabaho, para sa regularisasyon at umento sa sahod.
Dapat magkaisa rin ang iba’t ibang pwersa laban sa mga hakbangin ni Duterte para supilin ang kanyang mga karibal sa pulitika (pagkukulong, pagpapatalsik sa pwesto o pagpatay) at para monopolisahin ang kapangyarihang pampulitika sa anyo ng pagbabago sa konstitusyon sa ngalan ng “pederalismo.”
Ang pinaiiral ni Duterte na klima ng sindak at takot ay unti-unting pinangingibabawan at iwinawaksi ng mamamayan. Sa tindi at lawak ng pagkasuklam sa rehimeng US-Duterte, milyun-milyong mamamayan ang naghihintay ng pagkakataong makipagkaisa at kumilos upang ipamalas ang kanilang paninindigan laban sa pasista, kontra-mamamayan at kontra-demokratikong rehimen.
[Ang Bayan is the official newspaper of the Communist Party of the Philippines. Ang Bayan is published in Pilipino, Bisaya, Hiligaynon, Waray and English. Download Ang Bayan from the Philippine Revolution Web Central at www.philippinerevolution.info. Ang Bayan is published fortnightly by the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines.]
https://www.philippinerevolution.info/ang_bayan/20170907-ihiwalay-at-labanan-ang-rehireng-us-duterte/
CPP/Cagayan Valley: Pamamarusa sa 84th IB na protektor ng dayuhang pagmimina sa Kasibu
NPA-Cagayan Valley propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines Website (Sep 8): Pamamarusa sa 84th IB na protektor ng dayuhang pagmimina sa Kasibu
Victor Servidores, Spokesperson
NPA-Cagayan Valley (Region II) (Fortunato Camus Command)
8 September 2017
Ang ambus na isinagawa ng Venerando Villacillo Command-NPA noong Setyembre 1 ay bahagi ng pamamarusa ng NPA sa 84th IB na matagal nang nagsisilbi bilang mga protektor ng interes ng dayuhang mapaminsalang pagmimina sa bayan ng Kasibu, Nueva Vizcaya.
Sa naturang ambus sa Barangay Dine, nasamsam ng mga Pulang mandirigma ang tatlong M16 at isang K3 na mga riple. Napatay ang mga Corporal na sina Jayson Sabado at Rusty Galan, SSgt Dexter Tagacay, at PFC Abraham Lindo. Sugatan naman si Corporal Gerby Soriano.
Ang kanilang tropa ay nagsasagawa ng operasyong militar upang takutin ang mamamayan na tumigil sa paglaban sa pagmimina sa kanilang lugar nang ambusin sila ng NPA. Nakakampo ang kinamumuhian ng masang 84th IB sa Sityo Upper Maglan sa nasabing barangay.
Mayaman sa ginto at tanso, ang lupain ng Nueva Vizcaya ay malaon nang kinakamkam at pinipinsala ng mga dayuhang kompanya sa pagmimina gaya ng OceanaGold Philippines, Inc at Royalco. Kapalit ng kanilang higanteng ganansya, nabaon sa lason ng basura sa pagmimina ang daanlibong ektarya ng palayan, gulayan at tirahan ng mamamayan doon.
Matagal nang hiling ng mamamayan ng Nueva Vizcaya na maparusahan ang dayuhang mga kompanya na nananalasa sa kanilang buhay at kabuhayan. Gayundin na hiling nilang maparusahan ang 84th IB na nagsisilbing protektor nito. Ikinagagalak nilang marinig ang mga putok ng pamamarusa ng NPA sa mga kaaway ng sambayanan.
Victor Servidores, Spokesperson
NPA-Cagayan Valley (Region II) (Fortunato Camus Command)
8 September 2017
Ang ambus na isinagawa ng Venerando Villacillo Command-NPA noong Setyembre 1 ay bahagi ng pamamarusa ng NPA sa 84th IB na matagal nang nagsisilbi bilang mga protektor ng interes ng dayuhang mapaminsalang pagmimina sa bayan ng Kasibu, Nueva Vizcaya.
Sa naturang ambus sa Barangay Dine, nasamsam ng mga Pulang mandirigma ang tatlong M16 at isang K3 na mga riple. Napatay ang mga Corporal na sina Jayson Sabado at Rusty Galan, SSgt Dexter Tagacay, at PFC Abraham Lindo. Sugatan naman si Corporal Gerby Soriano.
Ang kanilang tropa ay nagsasagawa ng operasyong militar upang takutin ang mamamayan na tumigil sa paglaban sa pagmimina sa kanilang lugar nang ambusin sila ng NPA. Nakakampo ang kinamumuhian ng masang 84th IB sa Sityo Upper Maglan sa nasabing barangay.
Mayaman sa ginto at tanso, ang lupain ng Nueva Vizcaya ay malaon nang kinakamkam at pinipinsala ng mga dayuhang kompanya sa pagmimina gaya ng OceanaGold Philippines, Inc at Royalco. Kapalit ng kanilang higanteng ganansya, nabaon sa lason ng basura sa pagmimina ang daanlibong ektarya ng palayan, gulayan at tirahan ng mamamayan doon.
Matagal nang hiling ng mamamayan ng Nueva Vizcaya na maparusahan ang dayuhang mga kompanya na nananalasa sa kanilang buhay at kabuhayan. Gayundin na hiling nilang maparusahan ang 84th IB na nagsisilbing protektor nito. Ikinagagalak nilang marinig ang mga putok ng pamamarusa ng NPA sa mga kaaway ng sambayanan.
CPP/NPA-NCM: Lumad nga nagpagamit sa pulitiko, gidis-armahansa NPA
NPA North Central Mindanao propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines Website (Sep 8): Lumad nga nagpagamit sa pulitiko, gidis-armahansa NPA
Ka Malem Mabini, Spokesperson
NPA-North Central Mindanao
8 September 2017
Press Release
GIDIS-ARMAHAN SA usa ka kompanya sa Pulang manggugubat, ilalom sa Eastern-Misamis Oriental-Northeastern Bukidnon (EMONEB)–Sub-Regional Command, ang usa ka Lumad nga nag pagamit sa pulitiko nga si Datu Keke Ansihagan niadtong Agosto 25, 2017, sa may alas-11 sa udto, sa Sitio Talangitog, Brgy. Eureka, Gingoog City.
Nasakmit gikan kang Ansihagan ang siyam (9) kaarmas nga gilangkoban sa usa (1) kashotgun, usa (1) kapaliuntod (homemade shotgun), usa (1) kacarbine, usa (1) kaingram, usa (1) ka KG9 ugupat (4) ka .45 caliber. Nakuha usab kaniya ang usa ka rifle scope, unom (6) ka handheld radio, mga magazine sa mga nasakmit nga armas ug sa M16, uguban pang mgahimangmilitar.
Napamatud-an nga nagpagamit si Ansihagan kang Gingoog Mayor Marie Guinggona aron mapasulod ang mga proyekto sa gobyerno sa masa National Greening Program (NGP) pinaagi sa Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title (CADT) ubos sa Indigenous People’s Rights Act (IPRA) Law RA 6371 nga gidumala sa National Commission on Indigenous People (NCIP). Pinaagi niini, napasulod ang plantasyon sa falcata nga miilog sa 20,000 kaektarya nga yuta ug ni-apekto sa 300 kapamilya sa mga Lumad.
Gi-armasan usab ni Ansihagan ang mga grupo ng paramilitar nga Alimaong ug BULIF aron manalipod sa iyahang mga laraw. Nahimo kining aktibo sa pagpanghasi, pagpanghulga ug pagpangbato sa mga sibilyan aron mapugngan sila sa pagpanguma sa kayutaang na sakop saiyang CADT claim. Gawas sa paramilitar, naa sab koneksyon si Ansihagan sa kapulisan. Gani, bisan ang mga Lumad nga nagatikad sa ilangkaugalingong yuta nga na sakop sa claim, ginapadakop niya sa mga pulis.
Dugang pa, anaa usab siyay ginataud nga “boom” nga gapaningil og toll fee nga P10.00 sa matag agi sa mga motorista. Naa usab siyay konsesyon nga nadawat sa Equiparco, usa ka road construction company sa maong lugar. Gipasulod tuod niya ang mga Lumad ngadto sa pagpanarbaho sa maong kompanya, apan kuhaan niya og P25.00 ang matag adlaw nga suholan niini.
Sa gimontar nga checkpoint sa mga pwersa sa EMONEB, naharang ang sakyanan sa Equiparco nga gi sakyan sa mga armadong alimaong ug CAFGU. Dinhi nasakmit ang upat (4) ka .45 kalibreng pistola ug ang kwartang P1.3 million nga pang sweldo sa mga trabahante sa nahisgutang kompanya.
Wala si Ansihagan pag-adto sa pwersa sa EMONEB sa iyang balay. Dinhi dugang nakumpiska ang usa (1) ka carbine, rifle scope, mga radio transceivers ug uban pang himan militar.
Pagkahuman niini nga mga aksyon, gi-turn-over sa clerk sa kompanya ang kwartang P1.3 million ayha miwidro ang mga NPA.
https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statements/20170908-lumad-nga-nagpagamit-sa-pulitiko-gidis-armahansa-npa
Ka Malem Mabini, Spokesperson
NPA-North Central Mindanao
8 September 2017
Press Release
GIDIS-ARMAHAN SA usa ka kompanya sa Pulang manggugubat, ilalom sa Eastern-Misamis Oriental-Northeastern Bukidnon (EMONEB)–Sub-Regional Command, ang usa ka Lumad nga nag pagamit sa pulitiko nga si Datu Keke Ansihagan niadtong Agosto 25, 2017, sa may alas-11 sa udto, sa Sitio Talangitog, Brgy. Eureka, Gingoog City.
Nasakmit gikan kang Ansihagan ang siyam (9) kaarmas nga gilangkoban sa usa (1) kashotgun, usa (1) kapaliuntod (homemade shotgun), usa (1) kacarbine, usa (1) kaingram, usa (1) ka KG9 ugupat (4) ka .45 caliber. Nakuha usab kaniya ang usa ka rifle scope, unom (6) ka handheld radio, mga magazine sa mga nasakmit nga armas ug sa M16, uguban pang mgahimangmilitar.
Napamatud-an nga nagpagamit si Ansihagan kang Gingoog Mayor Marie Guinggona aron mapasulod ang mga proyekto sa gobyerno sa masa National Greening Program (NGP) pinaagi sa Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title (CADT) ubos sa Indigenous People’s Rights Act (IPRA) Law RA 6371 nga gidumala sa National Commission on Indigenous People (NCIP). Pinaagi niini, napasulod ang plantasyon sa falcata nga miilog sa 20,000 kaektarya nga yuta ug ni-apekto sa 300 kapamilya sa mga Lumad.
Gi-armasan usab ni Ansihagan ang mga grupo ng paramilitar nga Alimaong ug BULIF aron manalipod sa iyahang mga laraw. Nahimo kining aktibo sa pagpanghasi, pagpanghulga ug pagpangbato sa mga sibilyan aron mapugngan sila sa pagpanguma sa kayutaang na sakop saiyang CADT claim. Gawas sa paramilitar, naa sab koneksyon si Ansihagan sa kapulisan. Gani, bisan ang mga Lumad nga nagatikad sa ilangkaugalingong yuta nga na sakop sa claim, ginapadakop niya sa mga pulis.
Dugang pa, anaa usab siyay ginataud nga “boom” nga gapaningil og toll fee nga P10.00 sa matag agi sa mga motorista. Naa usab siyay konsesyon nga nadawat sa Equiparco, usa ka road construction company sa maong lugar. Gipasulod tuod niya ang mga Lumad ngadto sa pagpanarbaho sa maong kompanya, apan kuhaan niya og P25.00 ang matag adlaw nga suholan niini.
Sa gimontar nga checkpoint sa mga pwersa sa EMONEB, naharang ang sakyanan sa Equiparco nga gi sakyan sa mga armadong alimaong ug CAFGU. Dinhi nasakmit ang upat (4) ka .45 kalibreng pistola ug ang kwartang P1.3 million nga pang sweldo sa mga trabahante sa nahisgutang kompanya.
Wala si Ansihagan pag-adto sa pwersa sa EMONEB sa iyang balay. Dinhi dugang nakumpiska ang usa (1) ka carbine, rifle scope, mga radio transceivers ug uban pang himan militar.
Pagkahuman niini nga mga aksyon, gi-turn-over sa clerk sa kompanya ang kwartang P1.3 million ayha miwidro ang mga NPA.
https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statements/20170908-lumad-nga-nagpagamit-sa-pulitiko-gidis-armahansa-npa
CPP Information Bureau: Duterte demands NPA surrender thru ceasefire while waging all-out war
CPP Information Bureau posts propaganda statement to Communist Party of the Philippines Website (Sep 9): Duterte demands NPA surrender thru ceasefire while waging all-out war
Information Bureau
Communist Party of the Philippines
9 September 2017
1. Duterte’s demand for an NPA ceasefire while the AFP conducts all-out war as precondition for peace talks is a demand to surrender. This is an unacceptable. Does Duterte really take the revolutionary forces for fools?
2. Duterte has lost all moral ground to make such a demand. Recall that the NPA declared a ceasefire on August 19, 2016 which lasted for close to 160 days as a response to Duterte’s signed commitment to release around 500 political prisoners through an amnesty proclamation. Duterte, however, wasted the goodwill of the NDFP when it failed to fulfill its commitment and took advantage of the NPA ceasefire to deploy his soldiers and conduct military offensives.
3. In the face of Duterte’s tyrannical rule and triple war, the people clamor for the NPA to mount more and more tactical offensives. Victories of the people’s army inspire resistance amid widespread killings and the climate of fear imposed by the Duterte regime.
4. The NPA launches tactical offensives to bring to account the Duterte regime and its soldiers and police for thousands upon thousands of Oplan Tokhang killings, the successive killing of peasants, national minorities and youths, military occupation of civilian communities, aerial bombings and shelling, the near-genocidal war against the Maranaos of Marawi, arbitrary arrests and detention and so on.
5. As proven in the past, NDFP-GRP negotiations can proceed and make progress even while the civil war rages. As a matter of principle, the revolutionary forces remain open to negotiations as a means to attain a just and lasting peace even as it wages people’s war, conduct tactical offensives and confront the US-Duterte regime’s Oplan Kapayapaan all-out war. The NDFP-GRP negotiations, however, cannot be fruitful while Duterte remains obsessed with Oplan Kapayapaan and demanding NPA capitulation.
6. The Filipino people and their revolutionary forces have waged close to fifty years of people’s war. They do not tire. They are determined as ever to wage revolution because they seek to end the unbearable sufferings of workers and peasants under the oppressive and exploitative system.
7. Duterte threatens to wage fifty more years of counterrevolutionary war. By the looks of it, Duterte may not even last his term. He has roused the anger of the Filipino people and caused his increasing isolation. The revolutionary movement will surely outlast the US-Duterte regime.
https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statements/20170909-duterte-demands-npa-surrender-thru-ceasefire-while-waging-all-out-war
Information Bureau
Communist Party of the Philippines
9 September 2017
1. Duterte’s demand for an NPA ceasefire while the AFP conducts all-out war as precondition for peace talks is a demand to surrender. This is an unacceptable. Does Duterte really take the revolutionary forces for fools?
2. Duterte has lost all moral ground to make such a demand. Recall that the NPA declared a ceasefire on August 19, 2016 which lasted for close to 160 days as a response to Duterte’s signed commitment to release around 500 political prisoners through an amnesty proclamation. Duterte, however, wasted the goodwill of the NDFP when it failed to fulfill its commitment and took advantage of the NPA ceasefire to deploy his soldiers and conduct military offensives.
3. In the face of Duterte’s tyrannical rule and triple war, the people clamor for the NPA to mount more and more tactical offensives. Victories of the people’s army inspire resistance amid widespread killings and the climate of fear imposed by the Duterte regime.
4. The NPA launches tactical offensives to bring to account the Duterte regime and its soldiers and police for thousands upon thousands of Oplan Tokhang killings, the successive killing of peasants, national minorities and youths, military occupation of civilian communities, aerial bombings and shelling, the near-genocidal war against the Maranaos of Marawi, arbitrary arrests and detention and so on.
5. As proven in the past, NDFP-GRP negotiations can proceed and make progress even while the civil war rages. As a matter of principle, the revolutionary forces remain open to negotiations as a means to attain a just and lasting peace even as it wages people’s war, conduct tactical offensives and confront the US-Duterte regime’s Oplan Kapayapaan all-out war. The NDFP-GRP negotiations, however, cannot be fruitful while Duterte remains obsessed with Oplan Kapayapaan and demanding NPA capitulation.
6. The Filipino people and their revolutionary forces have waged close to fifty years of people’s war. They do not tire. They are determined as ever to wage revolution because they seek to end the unbearable sufferings of workers and peasants under the oppressive and exploitative system.
7. Duterte threatens to wage fifty more years of counterrevolutionary war. By the looks of it, Duterte may not even last his term. He has roused the anger of the Filipino people and caused his increasing isolation. The revolutionary movement will surely outlast the US-Duterte regime.
https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statements/20170909-duterte-demands-npa-surrender-thru-ceasefire-while-waging-all-out-war
DSWD DROMIC Report #1 on the Armed Conflict in Arakan, North Cotabato as of 08 September 2017, 6PM
Posted to the Relief Web (Sep 8): DSWD DROMIC Report #1 on the Armed Conflict in Arakan, North Cotabato as of 08 September 2017, 6PM
SUMMARY
On September 1, 2017, a firefight between the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and New People’s Army (NPA) ensued in the Municipality of Arakan, North Cotabato.
http://reliefweb.int/report/philippines/dswd-dromic-report-1-armed-conflict-arakan-north-cotabato-08-september-2017-6pm
Report from Government of the Philippines
SUMMARY
On September 1, 2017, a firefight between the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and New People’s Army (NPA) ensued in the Municipality of Arakan, North Cotabato.
- Number of Affected Families / Persons
- Status of Affected Families/Persons
http://reliefweb.int/report/philippines/dswd-dromic-report-1-armed-conflict-arakan-north-cotabato-08-september-2017-6pm
Hot pursuit ops ordered against NPAs who killed a pregnant woman
From Rappler (Sep 8): Hot pursuit ops ordered against NPAs who killed a pregnant woman
Singapore's Ministry of Home Affairs says Imran Kassim has 'harbored the intention to join the pro-ISIS militant groups that had invaded Marawi City in southern Philippines'
Police in Singapore have arrested a Singaporean man for "terrorism-related" activities, after he showed intent to join the clashes in Marawi City in the Philippines.
Singapore's Ministry of Home Affairs said in a statement that 34-year-old Imran Kassim, who was arrested on Thursday, September 7, tried to join ISIS in Syria at least twice, then tried to join groups that pledged allegiance to ISIS instead.
Kassim "previously wanted to join the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), which is engaged in an armed struggle to establish an Islamic state in southern Philippines."
The Ministry added, "Since May 2017, he has harbored the intention to join the pro-ISIS militant groups that had invaded Marawi City in southern Philippines." (READ: Government throws out last-minute negotiations with Maute)
Prior to this, Kassim also said he was "prepared to attack Singaporean Armed Forces (SAF) personnel deployed in the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS, or hold them as hostages to demand ransom from the Singapore Government."
The ransom money would then be given to ISIS to further finance the group.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/181493-singapore-arrests-citizen-who-tried-to-join-marawi-fighting
Singapore's Ministry of Home Affairs says Imran Kassim has 'harbored the intention to join the pro-ISIS militant groups that had invaded Marawi City in southern Philippines'
Police in Singapore have arrested a Singaporean man for "terrorism-related" activities, after he showed intent to join the clashes in Marawi City in the Philippines.
Singapore's Ministry of Home Affairs said in a statement that 34-year-old Imran Kassim, who was arrested on Thursday, September 7, tried to join ISIS in Syria at least twice, then tried to join groups that pledged allegiance to ISIS instead.
Kassim "previously wanted to join the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), which is engaged in an armed struggle to establish an Islamic state in southern Philippines."
The Ministry added, "Since May 2017, he has harbored the intention to join the pro-ISIS militant groups that had invaded Marawi City in southern Philippines." (READ: Government throws out last-minute negotiations with Maute)
Prior to this, Kassim also said he was "prepared to attack Singaporean Armed Forces (SAF) personnel deployed in the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS, or hold them as hostages to demand ransom from the Singapore Government."
The ransom money would then be given to ISIS to further finance the group.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/181493-singapore-arrests-citizen-who-tried-to-join-marawi-fighting
Hot pursuit ops ordered against NPAs who killed a pregnant woman
From the Manila Bulletin (Sep 9): Hot pursuit ops ordered against NPAs who killed a pregnant woman
CAMP BANCASI, Butuan City – Maj. Gen. Ronald Villanueva, commanding general of the AFPs’ Northeastern and Northern Mindanao 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division (4th ID) on Saturday ordered field unit commanders in Surigao del Sur to widen their hot pursuit operations “without let up” against the New People’s Army (NPA) rebels who attacked a military detachment on Thursday and killed a pregnant woman.
Butuan City Map (Credits: Google Map | Manila Bulletin)
The 4th ID chief ordered Col. Franco Nemesio Gacal, commanding officer of the Army’s 402nd Infantry (Stingers) Brigade to direct his battalion commanders to extend assistance to the family of the victim.
The 4th ID chief was saddened after learning that Jennyfer Maca, 25 years old 3-months pregnant was hit and killed when NPAs, armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), staged the attack on the 16th Special Forces Company (16th SFC) detachment in Barangay Bitaugan, San Miguel, Surigao del Sur on Thursday.
Maj. Gen. Villanueva said the NPA fire that hit the pregnant woman was a proof of another violation of the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect to Human Rights and Int’l Humanitarian Law which was the document duly signed by the GPH (Government of the Philippines) and NDF (National Democratic Front) at Hague, Netherlands.
“We will not allow this anymore,” the 4th ID chief added.
Maca was peppered with AK47 rifle causing her instant death. The AK 47 rifle is an assault weapon of the NPA, Capt. Francisco P. Garello, Civil Military Operations (CMO) officer of the 36th Infantry Battallion (36th IB) told the Manila Bulletin on Friday.
He said no one was reported hurt from the 16th SFC soldiers who defended their Bitaugan detachment for almost 30 minute firefight, until their attackers withdrew to Diwata range of that same municipality (San Miguel).
Only the pregnant woman (whose house was nearby the detachment) was killed when some 20 heavily armed suspected NPAs attacked the 16th SFC detachment at 12:30 a.m. on Thursday, claimed the 36th CMO officer.
Lt. Col. Randolph I Rojas, commanding officer of the 36th IB immediately deployed additional combat maneuvering troops to beef up the pursuing Bitaugan 16th SFC in San Miguel area.
The ground Army commander also condemned the fleeing NPAs for victimizing another innocent civilian during their Thursday attack on a detachment in Bitaugan.
He added that it is again “another clear violation of the signed Comprehensive Agreement on Respect to Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law between the government and the CPP-NPA-NDF.”
http://news.mb.com.ph/2017/09/09/hot-pursuit-ops-ordered-against-npas-who-killed-a-pregnant-woman/
CAMP BANCASI, Butuan City – Maj. Gen. Ronald Villanueva, commanding general of the AFPs’ Northeastern and Northern Mindanao 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division (4th ID) on Saturday ordered field unit commanders in Surigao del Sur to widen their hot pursuit operations “without let up” against the New People’s Army (NPA) rebels who attacked a military detachment on Thursday and killed a pregnant woman.
Butuan City Map (Credits: Google Map | Manila Bulletin)
The 4th ID chief ordered Col. Franco Nemesio Gacal, commanding officer of the Army’s 402nd Infantry (Stingers) Brigade to direct his battalion commanders to extend assistance to the family of the victim.
The 4th ID chief was saddened after learning that Jennyfer Maca, 25 years old 3-months pregnant was hit and killed when NPAs, armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), staged the attack on the 16th Special Forces Company (16th SFC) detachment in Barangay Bitaugan, San Miguel, Surigao del Sur on Thursday.
Maj. Gen. Villanueva said the NPA fire that hit the pregnant woman was a proof of another violation of the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect to Human Rights and Int’l Humanitarian Law which was the document duly signed by the GPH (Government of the Philippines) and NDF (National Democratic Front) at Hague, Netherlands.
“We will not allow this anymore,” the 4th ID chief added.
Maca was peppered with AK47 rifle causing her instant death. The AK 47 rifle is an assault weapon of the NPA, Capt. Francisco P. Garello, Civil Military Operations (CMO) officer of the 36th Infantry Battallion (36th IB) told the Manila Bulletin on Friday.
He said no one was reported hurt from the 16th SFC soldiers who defended their Bitaugan detachment for almost 30 minute firefight, until their attackers withdrew to Diwata range of that same municipality (San Miguel).
Only the pregnant woman (whose house was nearby the detachment) was killed when some 20 heavily armed suspected NPAs attacked the 16th SFC detachment at 12:30 a.m. on Thursday, claimed the 36th CMO officer.
Lt. Col. Randolph I Rojas, commanding officer of the 36th IB immediately deployed additional combat maneuvering troops to beef up the pursuing Bitaugan 16th SFC in San Miguel area.
The ground Army commander also condemned the fleeing NPAs for victimizing another innocent civilian during their Thursday attack on a detachment in Bitaugan.
He added that it is again “another clear violation of the signed Comprehensive Agreement on Respect to Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law between the government and the CPP-NPA-NDF.”
http://news.mb.com.ph/2017/09/09/hot-pursuit-ops-ordered-against-npas-who-killed-a-pregnant-woman/
Duterte to communists: No talks until you declare ceasefire
From Rappler (Sep 8): Duterte to communists: No talks until you declare ceasefire
(UPDATED) 'Declare a ceasefire or nothing,' the President tells communists, challenging them to 50 more years of war
https://www.rappler.com/nation/181556-duterte-communists-no-talks-ceasefire
(UPDATED) 'Declare a ceasefire or nothing,' the President tells communists, challenging them to 50 more years of war
CHALLENGE TO REDS. President Rodrigo Duterte sits beside Labor Secretary and peace panel chief Bebot Bello during the SSS anniversary. Presidential photo
(UPDATED) – After weeks of not mentioning peace talks with communists, President Rodrigo Duterte gave an ultimatum: declare a ceasefire first then he might revive negotiations.
(UPDATED) – After weeks of not mentioning peace talks with communists, President Rodrigo Duterte gave an ultimatum: declare a ceasefire first then he might revive negotiations.
"There will be no talks until you declare a ceasefire," said Duterte on Friday, September 8, during the 17th anniversary of Digos in Davao del Sur.
He then challenged the communists to another 50 years of war if they refuse to silence their guns.
The President explained that he lost faith in the Communist Party of the Philippines after its armed wing, the New People's Army, launched attacks against the military and police – even while the lifting of a previous ceasefire had not yet taken effect.
"If you want to return to peace talks, you declare a ceasefire or nothing. And if you say you want another war, be my guest," said Duterte.
He repeated his offer to NPA rebels that he would make them "soldiers of this Republic" if they surrender to their mayor or to the military.
"Just CAFGU (Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit), but I will give you a gun to protect the Republic of the Philippines," said Duterte.
Last May, the government pulled out of the 5th round of talks with communists to be held in the Netherlands. This was after Duterte was angered by communists' orders to the NPA to intensify attacks against government following the President's martial law declaration.
Two months after, Duterte terminated talks after his own security personnel were wounded in an encounter with the NPA.
'Unacceptable,' says CPP
The CPP, however, said they cannot accept Duterte's ultimatum, which for them is a "demand to surrender."
"This is an unacceptable. Does Duterte really take the revolutionary forces for fools?" said the CPP in a statement Saturday, September 9.
The CPP said Duterte "lost all moral ground" to make such a demand. They cited NPA's declaration of a ceasefire in August, which was made in response to the President's commitment to released 500 political prisoners.
"Duterte, however, wasted the goodwill of the NDFP when it failed to fulfill its commitment and took advantage of the NPA ceasefire to deploy his soldiers and conduct military offensives," said the CPP.
"In the face of Duterte's tyrannical rule and triple war, the people clamor for the NPA to mount more and more tactical offensives. Victories of the people's army inspire resistance amid widespread killings and the climate of fear imposed by the Duterte regime," they said.
The CPP defended the NPA's "tactical offensives" as a way to make Duterte accountable for the police killings in the drug war; the alleged killing of peasants, national minorities, and youth; military occupation of civilian communities; and the Marawi conflict.
The CPP said peace talks "can proceed and make progress even while the civil war rages." They added that they remain open to negotiations, but they said negotiations will not be fruitful "while Duterte remains obsessed with Oplan Kapayapaan and demanding NPA capitulation."
"Duterte threatens to wage fifty more years of counterrevolutionary war. By the looks of it, Duterte may not even last his term," said the CPP.
"He has roused the anger of the Filipino people and caused his increasing isolation. The revolutionary movement will surely outlast the US-Duterte regime," they added.
"If you want to return to peace talks, you declare a ceasefire or nothing. And if you say you want another war, be my guest," said Duterte.
He repeated his offer to NPA rebels that he would make them "soldiers of this Republic" if they surrender to their mayor or to the military.
"Just CAFGU (Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit), but I will give you a gun to protect the Republic of the Philippines," said Duterte.
Last May, the government pulled out of the 5th round of talks with communists to be held in the Netherlands. This was after Duterte was angered by communists' orders to the NPA to intensify attacks against government following the President's martial law declaration.
Two months after, Duterte terminated talks after his own security personnel were wounded in an encounter with the NPA.
'Unacceptable,' says CPP
The CPP, however, said they cannot accept Duterte's ultimatum, which for them is a "demand to surrender."
"This is an unacceptable. Does Duterte really take the revolutionary forces for fools?" said the CPP in a statement Saturday, September 9.
The CPP said Duterte "lost all moral ground" to make such a demand. They cited NPA's declaration of a ceasefire in August, which was made in response to the President's commitment to released 500 political prisoners.
"Duterte, however, wasted the goodwill of the NDFP when it failed to fulfill its commitment and took advantage of the NPA ceasefire to deploy his soldiers and conduct military offensives," said the CPP.
"In the face of Duterte's tyrannical rule and triple war, the people clamor for the NPA to mount more and more tactical offensives. Victories of the people's army inspire resistance amid widespread killings and the climate of fear imposed by the Duterte regime," they said.
The CPP defended the NPA's "tactical offensives" as a way to make Duterte accountable for the police killings in the drug war; the alleged killing of peasants, national minorities, and youth; military occupation of civilian communities; and the Marawi conflict.
The CPP said peace talks "can proceed and make progress even while the civil war rages." They added that they remain open to negotiations, but they said negotiations will not be fruitful "while Duterte remains obsessed with Oplan Kapayapaan and demanding NPA capitulation."
"Duterte threatens to wage fifty more years of counterrevolutionary war. By the looks of it, Duterte may not even last his term," said the CPP.
"He has roused the anger of the Filipino people and caused his increasing isolation. The revolutionary movement will surely outlast the US-Duterte regime," they added.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/181556-duterte-communists-no-talks-ceasefire
Another Marawi mosque reclaimed from Maute
From the Philippine Star (Sep 9): Another Marawi mosque reclaimed from Maute
Muslim police and Army personnel prayed together on Friday at the iconic Islamic Center in Marawi City that Maute terrorists occupied for more than two months.
Policemen and soldiers prayed on Friday in another mosque in Marawi City where Maute gunmen reportedly raped women they held to shield them from military offensives.
The Islamic Center in Pangarungan Village was occupied by terrorists as they laid siege to strategic areas in Marawi City on May 23, sparking hostilities that have since dragged on.
Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr. of the Western Mindanao Command said on Saturday that Friday’s Salahtul Jumaah at the Islamic Center was the first since May 23.
The Salahtul Jumaah, or Friday worship rite, in the iconic Islamic Center was preceded by a congregational prayer last week at the Saad Almusairi Masjid that soldiers and policemen had cleared from Maute terrorists early on.
Galvez said 42 soldiers and personnel of the Marawi City police converged on Friday at the Islamic Center to show that authorities are now in control of the religious site and its immediate surroundings.
“We ought to thank the city government of Marawi and the provincial government of Lanao del Sur for helping restore law and order in the surroundings of mosques that have been cleared from occupation by terrorists,” Galvez said on Saturday.
The congregational prayer on Friday at the Islamic Center was led by the chief of the Marawi City police, Superintendent Ebra Moxsir, an Islamic theologian and former Imam in the Regional Police Office-Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
Police Director General Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa, who was at the headquarters of PRO-ARMM in Camp SK Pendatun in Maguindanao Thursday, lauded Moxsir and the region’s police director, Chief Superintendent Reuben Theodore Sindac, for actively supporting Malacañang’s effort to restore normalcy in the conflict-stricken Marawi City.
Dela Rosa said Moxsir, who is a moderate Muslim cleric, was intentionally designated chief of the Marawi City police for him to engage in religious activities meant to prevent the spread of Islamic militancy in the area.
“The situation there is different and Superintendent Moxsir is an Imam. He can help address the problem,” Dela Rosa said.
Evacuees from Marawi City have stories of how Maute terrorists tortured their captives in mosques they used sanctuaries after the May 23 hostilities there erupted.
The conflict in Marawi City displaced more than 300,000 villagers.
Captives who have escaped had also told authorities that Maute terrorists raped women inside mosques where they held hostages to prevent soldiers from getting close.
Moxsir said mosques can be offered as safe havens for victims of conflicts and calamities but can never be used as harboring sites for captives held against their will.
Policemen and soldiers prayed on Friday in another mosque in Marawi City where Maute gunmen reportedly raped women they held to shield them from military offensives.
The Islamic Center in Pangarungan Village was occupied by terrorists as they laid siege to strategic areas in Marawi City on May 23, sparking hostilities that have since dragged on.
Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr. of the Western Mindanao Command said on Saturday that Friday’s Salahtul Jumaah at the Islamic Center was the first since May 23.
The Salahtul Jumaah, or Friday worship rite, in the iconic Islamic Center was preceded by a congregational prayer last week at the Saad Almusairi Masjid that soldiers and policemen had cleared from Maute terrorists early on.
Galvez said 42 soldiers and personnel of the Marawi City police converged on Friday at the Islamic Center to show that authorities are now in control of the religious site and its immediate surroundings.
“We ought to thank the city government of Marawi and the provincial government of Lanao del Sur for helping restore law and order in the surroundings of mosques that have been cleared from occupation by terrorists,” Galvez said on Saturday.
The congregational prayer on Friday at the Islamic Center was led by the chief of the Marawi City police, Superintendent Ebra Moxsir, an Islamic theologian and former Imam in the Regional Police Office-Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
Police Director General Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa, who was at the headquarters of PRO-ARMM in Camp SK Pendatun in Maguindanao Thursday, lauded Moxsir and the region’s police director, Chief Superintendent Reuben Theodore Sindac, for actively supporting Malacañang’s effort to restore normalcy in the conflict-stricken Marawi City.
Dela Rosa said Moxsir, who is a moderate Muslim cleric, was intentionally designated chief of the Marawi City police for him to engage in religious activities meant to prevent the spread of Islamic militancy in the area.
“The situation there is different and Superintendent Moxsir is an Imam. He can help address the problem,” Dela Rosa said.
Evacuees from Marawi City have stories of how Maute terrorists tortured their captives in mosques they used sanctuaries after the May 23 hostilities there erupted.
The conflict in Marawi City displaced more than 300,000 villagers.
Captives who have escaped had also told authorities that Maute terrorists raped women inside mosques where they held hostages to prevent soldiers from getting close.
Moxsir said mosques can be offered as safe havens for victims of conflicts and calamities but can never be used as harboring sites for captives held against their will.
Duterte says ex-Marawi mayor commissioned to negotiate with Maute group
From ABS-CBN (Sep 9): Duterte says ex-Marawi mayor commissioned to negotiate with Maute group
President Rodrigo Duterte on Saturday said former Marawi City mayor Omar Solitario Ali was commissioned by Presidential Peace Adviser Jesus Dureza to negotiate with the Maute group.
"Yes, correct. He was commissioned by Dureza. It was with the acquiescence, not expressly ni Secretary (Delfin) Lorenzana. Dureza, and I and Lorenzana had a talk on the desire of Solitario to surrender 'cause he found out his name was on the list," Duterte said in a press briefing at the Camp Evangelista Station Hospital in Cagayan de Oro City.
"Sabi niya, 'I’m better off working for you than putting me in prison.' He proposed many things, mostly talking peace with Mautes, bargaining doon sa hostages. More ako doon sa release ng hostages. I confirm that it really happened," he added.
The military on Friday said it rejected offers or attempts of negotiations with the Islamic State-inspired Maute terror group to end the long-drawn conflict in Marawi City.
READ: Military rejects negotiations with Maute group anew
Ali reportedly sent a text message to government officials requesting for the safe exit of terrorists still holed up in the main battle area in exchange for the release of hostages.
Ali's name was previously included in the arrest order released by the Department of National Defense for alleged links to the Marawi siege and other attacks in Mindanao.
His brother, Fajad Umpar "Pre" Salic, also a former Marawi mayor, was arrested for rebellion at a checkpoint in Misamis Oriental last June.
Defense Chief Delfin Lorenzana earlier said that the government expects the Marawi siege to be over before the end of September.
The crisis, which has entered its 4th month, has left nearly 800 people dead, including 133 government troops.
It has also forced over 200,000 people out of their homes and has ravaged one of the bustling urban centers in Mindanao.
http://news.abs-cbn.com/news/09/09/17/duterte-says-ex-marawi-mayor-commissioned-to-negotiate-with-maute-group
President Rodrigo Duterte on Saturday said former Marawi City mayor Omar Solitario Ali was commissioned by Presidential Peace Adviser Jesus Dureza to negotiate with the Maute group.
"Yes, correct. He was commissioned by Dureza. It was with the acquiescence, not expressly ni Secretary (Delfin) Lorenzana. Dureza, and I and Lorenzana had a talk on the desire of Solitario to surrender 'cause he found out his name was on the list," Duterte said in a press briefing at the Camp Evangelista Station Hospital in Cagayan de Oro City.
"Sabi niya, 'I’m better off working for you than putting me in prison.' He proposed many things, mostly talking peace with Mautes, bargaining doon sa hostages. More ako doon sa release ng hostages. I confirm that it really happened," he added.
The military on Friday said it rejected offers or attempts of negotiations with the Islamic State-inspired Maute terror group to end the long-drawn conflict in Marawi City.
READ: Military rejects negotiations with Maute group anew
Ali reportedly sent a text message to government officials requesting for the safe exit of terrorists still holed up in the main battle area in exchange for the release of hostages.
Ali's name was previously included in the arrest order released by the Department of National Defense for alleged links to the Marawi siege and other attacks in Mindanao.
His brother, Fajad Umpar "Pre" Salic, also a former Marawi mayor, was arrested for rebellion at a checkpoint in Misamis Oriental last June.
Defense Chief Delfin Lorenzana earlier said that the government expects the Marawi siege to be over before the end of September.
The crisis, which has entered its 4th month, has left nearly 800 people dead, including 133 government troops.
It has also forced over 200,000 people out of their homes and has ravaged one of the bustling urban centers in Mindanao.
http://news.abs-cbn.com/news/09/09/17/duterte-says-ex-marawi-mayor-commissioned-to-negotiate-with-maute-group
Duterte rejects Maute proposal to trade hostages for safe exit from Marawi
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Sep 10): Duterte rejects Maute proposal to trade hostages for safe exit from Marawi
President Rodrigo Duterte answers questions from the media after visiting wounded soldiers at the Camp Evangelista Station Hospital (CESH) in Cagayan de Oro City on Saturday, Sept. 9, 2017. (Photo from an RTVM video)
President Rodrigo Duterte on Saturday rejected a proposal from Omar Maute for the safe exit for their followers in Marawi City exchange for the freedom of the hostages.
The exact number of hostages remaining in the hands of the Maute Group and its allies remained unclear, but Duterte said they could be between 70 and 300.
At least 40 Maute gunmen and other extremists were estimated to have remained in the main battle area in Marawi City and continued to hold on to the hostages – including the Marawi City vicar general, Fr. Teresito Suganob.
Since the fighting started, 145 military tooprs and police officer had been killed, while the Mute gunmen had suffered more than 600 deaths, according to the military.
Asked about Omar’s reported proposal, Duterte replied: “No way. No way.”
He said the only way for the Maute gunmen to get out of Marawi alive was to surrender to the government.
“This has to end. This cannot go on,” he said. “If they surrender, we will try them, give them due process, provide them with a lawyer.”
Duterte assured the Maute gunmen that no violence would befall them if they surrendered.
“There will be no oppression or harassment or anything,” he said. “No violence will be inflicted upon them if they surrender. That I could guarantee to you.”
Duterte said he would not allow Maute gunmen to be manhandled or starved while in government custody.
“That’s not the way how we treat people even if they are criminals,” he said. “They are not POWs to me. They are simply criminals.”
Duterte arrived here and pinned medals on 74 more troopers, who got injured in the nearly four months of fighting in Marawi City.
The injured fighters who received Kampilan medals from the President were among nearly 1,000 troops who had been injured in the fighting in Marawi since May 23.
They were being treated at the Camp Evangelista Station Hospital (CESH) of the 4th Infantry Division.
Capt. Patrick Martinez, the spokesperson of the 4th ID, said two of the wounded personnel the President visited and awarded on Saturday were officers. He did not provide their ranks though.
Martinez said that, since the fighting started, 1,143 wounded troops had already been treated at the CESH, the main military hospital in Northern Mindanao region.
More than 400 others were also rushed there for various illnesses, including malaria.
President Rodrigo Duterte answers questions from the media after visiting wounded soldiers at the Camp Evangelista Station Hospital (CESH) in Cagayan de Oro City on Saturday, Sept. 9, 2017. (Photo from an RTVM video)
President Rodrigo Duterte on Saturday rejected a proposal from Omar Maute for the safe exit for their followers in Marawi City exchange for the freedom of the hostages.
The exact number of hostages remaining in the hands of the Maute Group and its allies remained unclear, but Duterte said they could be between 70 and 300.
At least 40 Maute gunmen and other extremists were estimated to have remained in the main battle area in Marawi City and continued to hold on to the hostages – including the Marawi City vicar general, Fr. Teresito Suganob.
Since the fighting started, 145 military tooprs and police officer had been killed, while the Mute gunmen had suffered more than 600 deaths, according to the military.
Asked about Omar’s reported proposal, Duterte replied: “No way. No way.”
He said the only way for the Maute gunmen to get out of Marawi alive was to surrender to the government.
“This has to end. This cannot go on,” he said. “If they surrender, we will try them, give them due process, provide them with a lawyer.”
Duterte assured the Maute gunmen that no violence would befall them if they surrendered.
“There will be no oppression or harassment or anything,” he said. “No violence will be inflicted upon them if they surrender. That I could guarantee to you.”
Duterte said he would not allow Maute gunmen to be manhandled or starved while in government custody.
“That’s not the way how we treat people even if they are criminals,” he said. “They are not POWs to me. They are simply criminals.”
Duterte arrived here and pinned medals on 74 more troopers, who got injured in the nearly four months of fighting in Marawi City.
The injured fighters who received Kampilan medals from the President were among nearly 1,000 troops who had been injured in the fighting in Marawi since May 23.
They were being treated at the Camp Evangelista Station Hospital (CESH) of the 4th Infantry Division.
Capt. Patrick Martinez, the spokesperson of the 4th ID, said two of the wounded personnel the President visited and awarded on Saturday were officers. He did not provide their ranks though.
Martinez said that, since the fighting started, 1,143 wounded troops had already been treated at the CESH, the main military hospital in Northern Mindanao region.
More than 400 others were also rushed there for various illnesses, including malaria.
Scuba terrorists: Are jihadis attempting to swim into besieged Marawi City?
From Philippine Lifestyle News (Sep 8): Scuba terrorists: Are jihadis attempting to swim into besieged Marawi City?
The military recent prevented a boatful of would-be jihadis from entering Marawi. Ten were killed. Picture courtesy of Joint Task Force Marawi
SCUBA TERRORISTS: Reports from Marawi suggest would-be jihadis may be attempting to enter the besieged lakeside city using diving gear.
The military says it has received reports that known sympathisers of the Islamic State-linked militants have been trying to get their hands on masks and oxygen tanks.
Speaking at a press briefing today, Colonel Romeo Brawner said: “We received some reports that there were efforts to procure or produce scuba equipment by the Maute but so far we have not caught or seen cases of Maute coming into the battle area using this equipment.”
Lake a tough task for scuba terrorists
Zia Alonto Adiong, a local government spokesman, said the scuba terrorists would find it difficult to navigate Lake Lanao.
“There have been several attempts,” he said. “Even the National Geographic came over to get fish that are endemic to the lake.
“They weren’t able to go down deep enough.
“I don’t know how they can manage to sneak out using scuba equipment. There is a big difference when you do scuba diving on salt water compared to fresh water. I am not discounting the possibility, but it is quite hard.”
Col. Brawner’s unit is responsible for guarding the lake, and is composed of units from the navy, maritime police and army. He said they were working to prevent reinforcements “whether it is on the surface or subsurface”.
“We cannot be 100 per cent sure but as far as we know we have been able to prevent the entry of possible reinforcements and the entry of supplies.
“If you look at the operations for the past weeks, we have been able to prevent the entry of boats and neutralise some of the elements that attempted to come in.”
Ten reinforcements killed on boat
The threat of reinforcements entering the battle area is a big concern for the military. As we reported last month, troops intercepted two boats carrying armed men moving toward the battle area. Ten militants were killed in the clash.
Muslim rebel group the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has come to the aid of the military in recent weeks.
Captain Jo-ann Petinglay, spokesman of Joint Task Force Marawi, said the rebel group was also sharing intelligence with the military.
“They have been very successful in their previous operations and members of the MILF have died because of the recent clashes. It is a welcome development. They are helping us address the problem against terrorism,” she said.
Love or money draws support
The military believe that people trying to enter the battle area are either enticed by monetary rewards or by loyalty to the Maute clan.
Col. Brawner said: “Some are being paid for their boats so that they could bring in reinforcements through the lake. All these reports we received have been confirmed to be true.
“The Maute terrorist group is using monetary compensation to recruit people, and buy services as well as supplies.”
Of those trying to enter the battle zone out of loyalty, Capt. Petinglay said: “We have monitored that some of those who want to enter the battle area are relatives.
“Probably the relatives of the Maute members inside are asking for their help.”
The battle area is now confined to about 20 hectares and the military is aiming to end the battle “before October”.
Up to 145 government forces, at least 45 civilians and more than 600 terrorists have been killed in the chaos that has displaced up to 600,000 civilians.
http://philippineslifestyle.com/blog/2017/09/08/scuba-terrorists-swim-marawi-city/
The military recent prevented a boatful of would-be jihadis from entering Marawi. Ten were killed. Picture courtesy of Joint Task Force Marawi
SCUBA TERRORISTS: Reports from Marawi suggest would-be jihadis may be attempting to enter the besieged lakeside city using diving gear.
The military says it has received reports that known sympathisers of the Islamic State-linked militants have been trying to get their hands on masks and oxygen tanks.
Speaking at a press briefing today, Colonel Romeo Brawner said: “We received some reports that there were efforts to procure or produce scuba equipment by the Maute but so far we have not caught or seen cases of Maute coming into the battle area using this equipment.”
Lake a tough task for scuba terrorists
Zia Alonto Adiong, a local government spokesman, said the scuba terrorists would find it difficult to navigate Lake Lanao.
“There have been several attempts,” he said. “Even the National Geographic came over to get fish that are endemic to the lake.
“They weren’t able to go down deep enough.
“I don’t know how they can manage to sneak out using scuba equipment. There is a big difference when you do scuba diving on salt water compared to fresh water. I am not discounting the possibility, but it is quite hard.”
Col. Brawner’s unit is responsible for guarding the lake, and is composed of units from the navy, maritime police and army. He said they were working to prevent reinforcements “whether it is on the surface or subsurface”.
“We cannot be 100 per cent sure but as far as we know we have been able to prevent the entry of possible reinforcements and the entry of supplies.
“If you look at the operations for the past weeks, we have been able to prevent the entry of boats and neutralise some of the elements that attempted to come in.”
Ten reinforcements killed on boat
The threat of reinforcements entering the battle area is a big concern for the military. As we reported last month, troops intercepted two boats carrying armed men moving toward the battle area. Ten militants were killed in the clash.
Muslim rebel group the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has come to the aid of the military in recent weeks.
Captain Jo-ann Petinglay, spokesman of Joint Task Force Marawi, said the rebel group was also sharing intelligence with the military.
“They have been very successful in their previous operations and members of the MILF have died because of the recent clashes. It is a welcome development. They are helping us address the problem against terrorism,” she said.
Love or money draws support
The military believe that people trying to enter the battle area are either enticed by monetary rewards or by loyalty to the Maute clan.
Col. Brawner said: “Some are being paid for their boats so that they could bring in reinforcements through the lake. All these reports we received have been confirmed to be true.
“The Maute terrorist group is using monetary compensation to recruit people, and buy services as well as supplies.”
Of those trying to enter the battle zone out of loyalty, Capt. Petinglay said: “We have monitored that some of those who want to enter the battle area are relatives.
“Probably the relatives of the Maute members inside are asking for their help.”
The battle area is now confined to about 20 hectares and the military is aiming to end the battle “before October”.
Up to 145 government forces, at least 45 civilians and more than 600 terrorists have been killed in the chaos that has displaced up to 600,000 civilians.
http://philippineslifestyle.com/blog/2017/09/08/scuba-terrorists-swim-marawi-city/
Peace advocates urge conduct of inclusive anti-extremism summits
From the Manila Bulletin (Sep 9): Peace advocates urge conduct of inclusive anti-extremism summits
Awakened by the bloody siege of Marawi City by extremist militants, peace advocates in public and private sectors have called for the conduct of inclusive and comprehensive anti-extremism summits across the country, starting with the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) where such issue pervades.
Maguindanao Gov. Esmael Mangudadatu echoed lately persistent propositions by civilian, police and military sectors for summits against terrorism-bound religious extremism, likening the Islamic militancy issue to a “wild fire” that could bring about graver adversities in the Filipino society “if not addressed squarely.”
Maguindanao Gov. Esmael Mangudadatu (left) and ARMM Gov. Mujiv Hataman
(MANILA BULLETIN)
In a casual talk with journalists at the sidelight of the three-day workshop on enhanced interventions for children with physical, mental and behavioral disorders at Buluan, Maguindanao recently, the governor shifted the conversation to his advocacy for “cohesive summits” on religious extremism.
The ARMM Gov. Mujiv Hataman had sponsored two major related summits before and after the siege of Marawi City on May 23 by Islamic State-inspired militants led by jihadist brothers Omar and Abdullah Maute in cahoots with Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon.
But police and military authorities said the ARMM-led summits came up only with condemnations by the participating Muslim religious leaders and imams against the “barbaric” activities of the Abu Sayyaf and the Maute groups.
In corroboration, Mangudadatu said anti-extremism summits should be able to draw the attendance of all sectors of the society, including academic, religious, traditional, youth, professional, media, police, military organizations, and “come up with a list of short- and long-term solutions to extremism and terrorism.”
Mangudadatu said the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) should also be involved in the summits to recommend their own perceived solutions to the issue.
MILF field forces in coordination with the police and Army’s 6th Infantry Division have launched combat operations in mid-August, fighting in sporadic battles guerillas of a faction in the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) affiliated with the Islamic State. More than 30 people have been killed and scores maimed on both sides.
Academician Omar Khalid, a sociology professor of the Mindanao State University main campus in Marawi City, once pointed out in the social media Facebook that military solution alone cannot solve religious extremism.
Bullets cannot kill a set of ideas, either wrong or right, such as those espoused violently in Marawi City, Khalid said, pointing out that the “proper venue to address the issue is inside classrooms and other related forums.
http://news.mb.com.ph/2017/09/09/peace-advocates-urge-conduct-of-inclusive-anti-extremism-summits/
Awakened by the bloody siege of Marawi City by extremist militants, peace advocates in public and private sectors have called for the conduct of inclusive and comprehensive anti-extremism summits across the country, starting with the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) where such issue pervades.
Maguindanao Gov. Esmael Mangudadatu echoed lately persistent propositions by civilian, police and military sectors for summits against terrorism-bound religious extremism, likening the Islamic militancy issue to a “wild fire” that could bring about graver adversities in the Filipino society “if not addressed squarely.”
Maguindanao Gov. Esmael Mangudadatu (left) and ARMM Gov. Mujiv Hataman
(MANILA BULLETIN)
In a casual talk with journalists at the sidelight of the three-day workshop on enhanced interventions for children with physical, mental and behavioral disorders at Buluan, Maguindanao recently, the governor shifted the conversation to his advocacy for “cohesive summits” on religious extremism.
The ARMM Gov. Mujiv Hataman had sponsored two major related summits before and after the siege of Marawi City on May 23 by Islamic State-inspired militants led by jihadist brothers Omar and Abdullah Maute in cahoots with Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon.
But police and military authorities said the ARMM-led summits came up only with condemnations by the participating Muslim religious leaders and imams against the “barbaric” activities of the Abu Sayyaf and the Maute groups.
In corroboration, Mangudadatu said anti-extremism summits should be able to draw the attendance of all sectors of the society, including academic, religious, traditional, youth, professional, media, police, military organizations, and “come up with a list of short- and long-term solutions to extremism and terrorism.”
Mangudadatu said the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) should also be involved in the summits to recommend their own perceived solutions to the issue.
MILF field forces in coordination with the police and Army’s 6th Infantry Division have launched combat operations in mid-August, fighting in sporadic battles guerillas of a faction in the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) affiliated with the Islamic State. More than 30 people have been killed and scores maimed on both sides.
Academician Omar Khalid, a sociology professor of the Mindanao State University main campus in Marawi City, once pointed out in the social media Facebook that military solution alone cannot solve religious extremism.
Bullets cannot kill a set of ideas, either wrong or right, such as those espoused violently in Marawi City, Khalid said, pointing out that the “proper venue to address the issue is inside classrooms and other related forums.
http://news.mb.com.ph/2017/09/09/peace-advocates-urge-conduct-of-inclusive-anti-extremism-summits/
DND seeks P1 B more for Marawi campaign
From the Philippine Star (Sep 10): DND seeks P1 B more for Marawi campaign
“We have been provided a budget for the year for our regular and normal operations,” AFP spokesman Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla told the Mindanao Hour briefing in Malacañang yesterday. File
The Department of National Defense (DND) is asking for a supplemental budget of at least P1 billion to replenish the contingency funds of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
“We have been provided a budget for the year for our regular and normal operations,” AFP spokesman Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla told the Mindanao Hour briefing in Malacañang yesterday.
“But Marawi is like a crisis that has come out… that will be provided for by our contingencies. And in order to prepare for other contingencies, we need to replenish our funds,” Padilla explained.
With estimated expenses of P3 billion over more than three months of fighting, Padilla admitted the military’s resources have been used mostly to augment the needs of the troops fighting the Maute terrorists in Marawi City.
“We went beyond our contingencies already. So, we need to replenish them and keep our stocks of much-needed armaments, ammunition, equipment, maintenance items, so that in the event of any crisis, we’ll still be able to sustain whatever requirements we need,” he said.
Padilla, however, pointed out the AFP’s operations dedicated to protecting our sovereignty have continued relentlessly, including areas in the West Philippine Sea.
“Guarding our territorial areas, our sovereignty, we have forces deployed in the West Philippine Sea,” he said.
“We have forces deployed all over Mindanao to address the local communist movement in the Eastern Mindanao side; the other local terrorist groups in Basilan, Tawi-Tawi and Jolo, and other parts of Maguindanao, Cotabato and other parts of the Philippines,” Padilla said.
The military presence remains active in Luzon and in the Visayas region.
“In Southern Luzon, as well as Palawan, all of it is supported by our regular budget,” Padilla said.
As the fight closes in on the Marawi terrorists, Padilla admitted the stakes remained high in terms of logistics.
“Each day passes, that is true, the cash register clicks. And so we move on to fight them but everyday we also incur expenses. This fighting is rather expensive for the government to maintain, notwithstanding the sacrifices of the troops,” he said.
The number of soldiers killed in action has reached 145 with scores more injured during the three months of fighting.
The AFP shunned efforts for negotiations with the Maute’s remaining leaders for safe passage in exchange for freeing the civilian hostages.
Padilla said AFP chief Gen. Eduardo Año has thumbed down reports that former Marawi mayor Omar Solitario Ali is reaching out to the government for safe passage in exchange of freeing hostages.
“First of all, we never took Solitario seriously. He is known to be a supporter of the Maute group there in Marawi. He should be arrested for instigating what is happening there right now,” Padilla said.
He said the AFP stands by the no negotiation policy with terrorists.
“So whatever this guy is saying is not true. That’s what the chief of staff said. And he said the crisis in Marawi will soon be over and we will neutralize all remaining armed members of this Maute group inside Marawi,” Padilla said.
Padilla said any negotiation would just prolong the conflict and it would be an insult to the entire military if Solitario was given leeway to get his comrades out of the war zone unscathed when many lives have been sacrificed.
The government must hold Solitario accountable for the lives of the civilians who have been lost in the area. The AFP said Solitario is a key supporter of the Maute group in Mindanao.
Solitario was among local officials linked to the Maute group that laid siege in Marawi City. His brother Pre Salic was also a former mayor and relative by affinity of the Mautes.
Solitario denied the allegations and volunteered to help end the fighting in Marawi.
The Department of National Defense (DND) is asking for a supplemental budget of at least P1 billion to replenish the contingency funds of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
“We have been provided a budget for the year for our regular and normal operations,” AFP spokesman Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla told the Mindanao Hour briefing in Malacañang yesterday.
“But Marawi is like a crisis that has come out… that will be provided for by our contingencies. And in order to prepare for other contingencies, we need to replenish our funds,” Padilla explained.
With estimated expenses of P3 billion over more than three months of fighting, Padilla admitted the military’s resources have been used mostly to augment the needs of the troops fighting the Maute terrorists in Marawi City.
“We went beyond our contingencies already. So, we need to replenish them and keep our stocks of much-needed armaments, ammunition, equipment, maintenance items, so that in the event of any crisis, we’ll still be able to sustain whatever requirements we need,” he said.
Padilla, however, pointed out the AFP’s operations dedicated to protecting our sovereignty have continued relentlessly, including areas in the West Philippine Sea.
“Guarding our territorial areas, our sovereignty, we have forces deployed in the West Philippine Sea,” he said.
“We have forces deployed all over Mindanao to address the local communist movement in the Eastern Mindanao side; the other local terrorist groups in Basilan, Tawi-Tawi and Jolo, and other parts of Maguindanao, Cotabato and other parts of the Philippines,” Padilla said.
The military presence remains active in Luzon and in the Visayas region.
“In Southern Luzon, as well as Palawan, all of it is supported by our regular budget,” Padilla said.
As the fight closes in on the Marawi terrorists, Padilla admitted the stakes remained high in terms of logistics.
“Each day passes, that is true, the cash register clicks. And so we move on to fight them but everyday we also incur expenses. This fighting is rather expensive for the government to maintain, notwithstanding the sacrifices of the troops,” he said.
The number of soldiers killed in action has reached 145 with scores more injured during the three months of fighting.
The AFP shunned efforts for negotiations with the Maute’s remaining leaders for safe passage in exchange for freeing the civilian hostages.
Padilla said AFP chief Gen. Eduardo Año has thumbed down reports that former Marawi mayor Omar Solitario Ali is reaching out to the government for safe passage in exchange of freeing hostages.
“First of all, we never took Solitario seriously. He is known to be a supporter of the Maute group there in Marawi. He should be arrested for instigating what is happening there right now,” Padilla said.
He said the AFP stands by the no negotiation policy with terrorists.
“So whatever this guy is saying is not true. That’s what the chief of staff said. And he said the crisis in Marawi will soon be over and we will neutralize all remaining armed members of this Maute group inside Marawi,” Padilla said.
Padilla said any negotiation would just prolong the conflict and it would be an insult to the entire military if Solitario was given leeway to get his comrades out of the war zone unscathed when many lives have been sacrificed.
The government must hold Solitario accountable for the lives of the civilians who have been lost in the area. The AFP said Solitario is a key supporter of the Maute group in Mindanao.
Solitario was among local officials linked to the Maute group that laid siege in Marawi City. His brother Pre Salic was also a former mayor and relative by affinity of the Mautes.
Solitario denied the allegations and volunteered to help end the fighting in Marawi.
Heavy equipment para sa pag-ayos ng Marawi, nasa Mindanao na
From ABS-CBN (Sep 10): Heavy equipment para sa pag-ayos ng Marawi, nasa Mindanao na
Naihatid na sa katabing-bayan ng Marawi ang mga heavy equipment na gagamitin sa pagsasaayos ng lungsod, kasama ang mga relief goods na ipamamahagi sa mga residente. Joint Task Force Marawi
Dumating na sa Iligan port Linggo ang ilang heavy equipment na gagamitin para sa rehabilitasyon ng Marawi City, na nawasak ng mahigit 3-buwan na digmaan sa pagitan ng gobyerno at mga terorista.
Lulan ng BRP Davao del Norte ang mga heavy equipment ng Philippine Army at Navy. Kabilang dito ang ilang payloader at back hoe.
Gagamitin ang mga ito sa pagtatayo ng mga pansamantalang tahanan sa mga residenteng naapektuhan ng bakbakan, partikular na sa Barangay Sangonsongan, ayon kay Lt. Gen Carlito Galvez, hepe ng Western Mindanao Command.
Pansamantalang mananatili ang mga heavy equipment sa Balo-i, Lanao del Norte, katabing-bayan ng Marawi.
Naihatid na sa katabing-bayan ng Marawi ang mga heavy equipment na gagamitin sa pagsasaayos ng lungsod, kasama ang mga relief goods na ipamamahagi sa mga residente. Joint Task Force Marawi
Bukod sa heavy equipment, nagdala rin ang BRP Davao del Sur ng mga relief goods, hygiene kit at laruan para sa mga batang bakwit.
Una nang tinanggihan ng pamahalaan Biyernes ang anumang alok na negosaysyon ng mga terorista mula sa Maute group upang tuldukan ang digmaan sa Marawi na pumutok nitong Marso 23.
Naihatid na sa katabing-bayan ng Marawi ang mga heavy equipment na gagamitin sa pagsasaayos ng lungsod, kasama ang mga relief goods na ipamamahagi sa mga residente. Joint Task Force Marawi
Sinabi naman ni Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana na inaasahang matatapos ang kaguluhan ngayong Setyembre.
Halos 800 na ang nasawi sa digmaan, kabilang ang 133 sundalo at pulis. Napilitan naman ang tinatayang 200,000 residente na lisanin ang kanilanga mga tahanan sa Marawi, na dati'y isa sa mga sentro ng kalakalan sa Mindanao.
http://news.abs-cbn.com/news/09/10/17/heavy-equipment-para-sa-pag-ayos-ng-marawi-nasa-mindanao-na
Naihatid na sa katabing-bayan ng Marawi ang mga heavy equipment na gagamitin sa pagsasaayos ng lungsod, kasama ang mga relief goods na ipamamahagi sa mga residente. Joint Task Force Marawi
Dumating na sa Iligan port Linggo ang ilang heavy equipment na gagamitin para sa rehabilitasyon ng Marawi City, na nawasak ng mahigit 3-buwan na digmaan sa pagitan ng gobyerno at mga terorista.
Lulan ng BRP Davao del Norte ang mga heavy equipment ng Philippine Army at Navy. Kabilang dito ang ilang payloader at back hoe.
Gagamitin ang mga ito sa pagtatayo ng mga pansamantalang tahanan sa mga residenteng naapektuhan ng bakbakan, partikular na sa Barangay Sangonsongan, ayon kay Lt. Gen Carlito Galvez, hepe ng Western Mindanao Command.
Pansamantalang mananatili ang mga heavy equipment sa Balo-i, Lanao del Norte, katabing-bayan ng Marawi.
Naihatid na sa katabing-bayan ng Marawi ang mga heavy equipment na gagamitin sa pagsasaayos ng lungsod, kasama ang mga relief goods na ipamamahagi sa mga residente. Joint Task Force Marawi
Bukod sa heavy equipment, nagdala rin ang BRP Davao del Sur ng mga relief goods, hygiene kit at laruan para sa mga batang bakwit.
Una nang tinanggihan ng pamahalaan Biyernes ang anumang alok na negosaysyon ng mga terorista mula sa Maute group upang tuldukan ang digmaan sa Marawi na pumutok nitong Marso 23.
Naihatid na sa katabing-bayan ng Marawi ang mga heavy equipment na gagamitin sa pagsasaayos ng lungsod, kasama ang mga relief goods na ipamamahagi sa mga residente. Joint Task Force Marawi
Sinabi naman ni Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana na inaasahang matatapos ang kaguluhan ngayong Setyembre.
Halos 800 na ang nasawi sa digmaan, kabilang ang 133 sundalo at pulis. Napilitan naman ang tinatayang 200,000 residente na lisanin ang kanilanga mga tahanan sa Marawi, na dati'y isa sa mga sentro ng kalakalan sa Mindanao.
http://news.abs-cbn.com/news/09/10/17/heavy-equipment-para-sa-pag-ayos-ng-marawi-nasa-mindanao-na
Australian presence in Marawi limited to technical assistance
From ABS-CBN (Sep 10): Australian presence in Marawi limited to technical assistance
Australian Defense Minister Marise Payne shakes hands with her Filipino counterpart Delfin Lorenzana, before their meeting to discuss military strategy and assistance in the Philippines' fight against Islamist militants in Marawi, at Villamor Air Base in Pasay, Friday. Erik De Castro, Reuters
Australian troops in the Philippines are limited to providing surveillance support and will not be involved in combat, Malacanang said Sunday.
An Australian P3 Orion spy plane has been tapped "for some time now" as the military battled the Islamic State-inspired Maute Group in Marawi City, said Presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella.
Training from the visiting forces will be "limited within the confines of our military bases," Abella said.
"These and other joint military exercises with Australia will not involve any boots on the ground in accordance with our law prohibiting the direct participation of foreign troops in combat operations."
"The fight against terrorism – to reiterate -- is not only the concern of the Philippines, but it is a concern of many nations around the world, especially those around the region," Abella said.
Extremists have held parts of the lakeside town for nearly 4 months, leaving some 800 people killed in fighting that prompted President Rodrigo Duterte to place the entire southern island of Mindanao under martial rule.
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana earlier said the government expected the Marawi conflcit to be over before the end of September.
http://news.abs-cbn.com/news/09/10/17/australian-presence-in-marawi-limited-to-technical-assistance
Australian Defense Minister Marise Payne shakes hands with her Filipino counterpart Delfin Lorenzana, before their meeting to discuss military strategy and assistance in the Philippines' fight against Islamist militants in Marawi, at Villamor Air Base in Pasay, Friday. Erik De Castro, Reuters
Australian troops in the Philippines are limited to providing surveillance support and will not be involved in combat, Malacanang said Sunday.
An Australian P3 Orion spy plane has been tapped "for some time now" as the military battled the Islamic State-inspired Maute Group in Marawi City, said Presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella.
Training from the visiting forces will be "limited within the confines of our military bases," Abella said.
"These and other joint military exercises with Australia will not involve any boots on the ground in accordance with our law prohibiting the direct participation of foreign troops in combat operations."
"The fight against terrorism – to reiterate -- is not only the concern of the Philippines, but it is a concern of many nations around the world, especially those around the region," Abella said.
Extremists have held parts of the lakeside town for nearly 4 months, leaving some 800 people killed in fighting that prompted President Rodrigo Duterte to place the entire southern island of Mindanao under martial rule.
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana earlier said the government expected the Marawi conflcit to be over before the end of September.
http://news.abs-cbn.com/news/09/10/17/australian-presence-in-marawi-limited-to-technical-assistance
Rescued hostages handed over to Indon authorities
From News 5/InterAksyon (Sep 9): Rescued hostages handed over to Indon authorities
Rescued Indonesian hostages at Western Mindanao Command headquarters. Photograph from WESTMINCOM.
Philippine Army Captain Jo-Ann D. Petinglay, Public Information Officer of the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM), on Friday disclosed that the military has turned over two rescued hostages to Indonesian authorities.
Sarapuddin Koni and Sawal Maryam, both Indonesians and held captive by the Abu Sayyaf Group in Sulu, were handed over by the Command, represented by Rear Admiral Rene Medina, the commander of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao Command, to Colonel Asep Saefudin, Indonesian defense attaché, and Captain Nyoman Joko Gunawan, of the International Monitoring Team.
Koni and Maryam, both crew members of a Malaysian Trawler, were rescued by the Philippine Marine Ready Fleet Sulu, under Colonel Antonio V. Rosario, Jr., in Barangay Bunot, Indanan, Sulu early Thursday.
They were aboard a vehicle when intercepted by the Marine troops.
They were abducted by five Abu Sayyaf members in waters of Marabong near Kunah District in Sabah on November 19, 2016.
“We are elated to know that Koni and Maryam will soon reunite with their families and loved ones,” said Lt. Gen. Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., Commander of the Western Mindanao Command.
Rescued Indonesian hostages at Western Mindanao Command headquarters. Photograph from WESTMINCOM.
Philippine Army Captain Jo-Ann D. Petinglay, Public Information Officer of the Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM), on Friday disclosed that the military has turned over two rescued hostages to Indonesian authorities.
Sarapuddin Koni and Sawal Maryam, both Indonesians and held captive by the Abu Sayyaf Group in Sulu, were handed over by the Command, represented by Rear Admiral Rene Medina, the commander of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao Command, to Colonel Asep Saefudin, Indonesian defense attaché, and Captain Nyoman Joko Gunawan, of the International Monitoring Team.
Koni and Maryam, both crew members of a Malaysian Trawler, were rescued by the Philippine Marine Ready Fleet Sulu, under Colonel Antonio V. Rosario, Jr., in Barangay Bunot, Indanan, Sulu early Thursday.
They were aboard a vehicle when intercepted by the Marine troops.
They were abducted by five Abu Sayyaf members in waters of Marabong near Kunah District in Sabah on November 19, 2016.
“We are elated to know that Koni and Maryam will soon reunite with their families and loved ones,” said Lt. Gen. Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., Commander of the Western Mindanao Command.
CPP: Unacceptable that Duterte seeks NPA surrender while waging all-out war
From News 5/InterAksyon (Sep 9): CPP: Unacceptable that Duterte seeks NPA surrender while waging all-out war
NPA fighters perform symbolic revolution themed dance. Phographed by Erwin Mascariñas, News5-InterAksyon
The Information Bureau of the Communist Party of the Philippines on Saturday said President Rodrigo Duterte is taking the revolutionary forces for fools by demanding their surrender as precondition for peace talks while the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) conducts all-out war against the rebel New Peoples Army (NPA).
“This is an unacceptable,” a CPP statement published on the web stated. “Duterte has lost all moral ground to make such a demand.”
The declared a cease fire on August 19, 2016, which lasted for close to 160 days, in response to Pres. Duterte’s signed commitment to release around 500 political prisoners through an amnesty proclamation. “Duterte, however, wasted the goodwill of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines when it failed to fulfill that commitment, and even took advantage of the NPA cease fire to deploy his soldiers and conduct military offensives,” CPP said.
In the face of “Duterte’s tyrannical rule and triple war,” the NPA said in the statement, it launches tactical offensives to bring the Duterte regime to account, “and its soldiers and police for thousands upon thousands of Oplan Tokhang killings, the successive killing of peasants, national minorities and youths, military occupation of civilian communities, aerial bombings and shelling, the near-genocidal war against the Maranaos of Marawi, arbitrary arrests and detention and so on.”
As a matter of principle, though, the revolutionary forces say they remain open to negotiations as a means to attain a just and lasting peace even as it wages people’s war, but the peace talks “cannot be fruitful with Duterte … demanding NPA capitulation.”
In an editorial posted on the NDFP web site, the CPP organ, Ang Bayan, said “the Filipino people’s outrage is rapidly accumulating against Rodrigo Duterte over the blood being spilt under his repressive tyrannical rule.”
Ang BAyan highlighted the successive killings of several youths these past days “by his armed minions”: Kian delos Santos, 17 years old, Carl Angelo Arnaiz, 19 and Reynaldo de Guzman, 14, who all were tortured and killed by stabbing and shooting by the police in the war against drugs; and Obillio Bay-ao, 19, Lumad youth in Talaingod, Davao del Norte, who was shot and killed by paramilitary forces.
The people indict Duterte for the thousands upon thousands of lives snuffed by the three wars he has launched: the Oplan Tokhang “war against drugs”, the Oplan Kapayapaan war of suppression and martial law in Mindanao and the anti-Moro war and destruction of Marawi. The people detest Duterte for repeatedly ensuring protection and giving incentives to police and soldiers for blindly following his kill orders.
“Duterte’s “war against drugs” is now rousing widespread resistance over police abuses and killings. Various personalities, sectors, organizations and institutions are standing up. Youth organizations in communities and schools are waiting to be brought together in a broad front against Oplan Tokhang and police abuses and to demand a comprehensive socioeconomic solution to the drug problem.”
NPA fighters perform symbolic revolution themed dance. Phographed by Erwin Mascariñas, News5-InterAksyon
The Information Bureau of the Communist Party of the Philippines on Saturday said President Rodrigo Duterte is taking the revolutionary forces for fools by demanding their surrender as precondition for peace talks while the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) conducts all-out war against the rebel New Peoples Army (NPA).
“This is an unacceptable,” a CPP statement published on the web stated. “Duterte has lost all moral ground to make such a demand.”
The declared a cease fire on August 19, 2016, which lasted for close to 160 days, in response to Pres. Duterte’s signed commitment to release around 500 political prisoners through an amnesty proclamation. “Duterte, however, wasted the goodwill of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines when it failed to fulfill that commitment, and even took advantage of the NPA cease fire to deploy his soldiers and conduct military offensives,” CPP said.
In the face of “Duterte’s tyrannical rule and triple war,” the NPA said in the statement, it launches tactical offensives to bring the Duterte regime to account, “and its soldiers and police for thousands upon thousands of Oplan Tokhang killings, the successive killing of peasants, national minorities and youths, military occupation of civilian communities, aerial bombings and shelling, the near-genocidal war against the Maranaos of Marawi, arbitrary arrests and detention and so on.”
As a matter of principle, though, the revolutionary forces say they remain open to negotiations as a means to attain a just and lasting peace even as it wages people’s war, but the peace talks “cannot be fruitful with Duterte … demanding NPA capitulation.”
In an editorial posted on the NDFP web site, the CPP organ, Ang Bayan, said “the Filipino people’s outrage is rapidly accumulating against Rodrigo Duterte over the blood being spilt under his repressive tyrannical rule.”
Ang BAyan highlighted the successive killings of several youths these past days “by his armed minions”: Kian delos Santos, 17 years old, Carl Angelo Arnaiz, 19 and Reynaldo de Guzman, 14, who all were tortured and killed by stabbing and shooting by the police in the war against drugs; and Obillio Bay-ao, 19, Lumad youth in Talaingod, Davao del Norte, who was shot and killed by paramilitary forces.
The people indict Duterte for the thousands upon thousands of lives snuffed by the three wars he has launched: the Oplan Tokhang “war against drugs”, the Oplan Kapayapaan war of suppression and martial law in Mindanao and the anti-Moro war and destruction of Marawi. The people detest Duterte for repeatedly ensuring protection and giving incentives to police and soldiers for blindly following his kill orders.
“Duterte’s “war against drugs” is now rousing widespread resistance over police abuses and killings. Various personalities, sectors, organizations and institutions are standing up. Youth organizations in communities and schools are waiting to be brought together in a broad front against Oplan Tokhang and police abuses and to demand a comprehensive socioeconomic solution to the drug problem.”
Australia defense chief currently in PH
From Update Philippines (Sep 8): Australia defense chief currently in PH
The Minister for Defence of Australia Senator the Hon Marise Payne is in the country to conduct a meeting with her Filipino counterpart, National Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana today, September 8.
The two defense officials are expected to discuss security situation in the southern Philippines, specifically Philippines’ fight against terrorists in Marawi.
According to Payne’s office, she will also meet with Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Secretary Jesus Dureza to discuss the Government of the Philippines’ efforts to bring about peace and long-term stability to the southern Philippines.
“Australia’s defence relationship with the Philippines spans decades, and is underpinned by a comprehensive Defence Cooperation Program. The spread of Daesh is threat to regional stability and we are committed to supporting the Philippines in its fight against terrorism,” Minister Payne said.
“My meeting with my counterpart, Secretary Lorenzana, will discuss how Australia can provide further support in this fight against Daesh-aligned forces,” she added.
Minister Payne just completed a meeting with South Korea Prime Minister Lee Nak-yeon and Minister for National Defense Song Young-moo in Seoul to further enhance Australia’s bilateral relationship with the Republic of Korea, Australia’s fourth largest trading partner.
https://www.update.ph/2017/09/australia-defense-chief-currently-in-ph/20607
The Minister for Defence of Australia Senator the Hon Marise Payne is in the country to conduct a meeting with her Filipino counterpart, National Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana today, September 8.
The two defense officials are expected to discuss security situation in the southern Philippines, specifically Philippines’ fight against terrorists in Marawi.
According to Payne’s office, she will also meet with Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Secretary Jesus Dureza to discuss the Government of the Philippines’ efforts to bring about peace and long-term stability to the southern Philippines.
“Australia’s defence relationship with the Philippines spans decades, and is underpinned by a comprehensive Defence Cooperation Program. The spread of Daesh is threat to regional stability and we are committed to supporting the Philippines in its fight against terrorism,” Minister Payne said.
“My meeting with my counterpart, Secretary Lorenzana, will discuss how Australia can provide further support in this fight against Daesh-aligned forces,” she added.
Minister Payne just completed a meeting with South Korea Prime Minister Lee Nak-yeon and Minister for National Defense Song Young-moo in Seoul to further enhance Australia’s bilateral relationship with the Republic of Korea, Australia’s fourth largest trading partner.
https://www.update.ph/2017/09/australia-defense-chief-currently-in-ph/20607
Basketball match between Moro Islamic Liberation Front members turns into gun battle
From Update Philippines (Sep 8): Basketball match between Moro Islamic Liberation Front members turns into gun battle
A friendly basketball game involving members of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) turned bloody Thursday when players used guns instead of basketball in shooting in North Cotabato.
Chief Inspector Romy Castanares, police chief of Pikit town, said two players were killed and another was injured when what was supposedly a friendly match turned bloody.
Castanares identified the slain players as Ismael Muhamadali, 34 and Mamaila Udlayan, 32, both of Barangay Gokotan, Pikit, North Cotabato. Injured was a certain Ali Jamel.
All of them were members of MILF under Commander Karim Dubua alias “Midnight.”
Citing reports from Barangay Gokotan chair Mustapha A. Aliman, Castanares identified the suspects as Macabuat Tambungalan and Manguda Tambungalan, also MILF members under Commander Masibpal. Macabuat Tambungalan was also injured.
The suspects and the victims were all playing basketball in the village with pot money for winner when the game went “physical.” One of them pulled his Armalite rifle and opened fire. Relatives of the slain MILF members retaliated, triggering a gun battle.
“There was misunderstanding that turned into a heated argument until they took up arms,” Aliman told police investigators.
Castanares said MILF elders have intervened to pacify warring members and stop the fighting.
https://www.update.ph/2017/09/basketball-match-between-moro-islamic-liberation-front-members-turns-into-gun-battle/20612
A friendly basketball game involving members of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) turned bloody Thursday when players used guns instead of basketball in shooting in North Cotabato.
Chief Inspector Romy Castanares, police chief of Pikit town, said two players were killed and another was injured when what was supposedly a friendly match turned bloody.
Castanares identified the slain players as Ismael Muhamadali, 34 and Mamaila Udlayan, 32, both of Barangay Gokotan, Pikit, North Cotabato. Injured was a certain Ali Jamel.
All of them were members of MILF under Commander Karim Dubua alias “Midnight.”
Citing reports from Barangay Gokotan chair Mustapha A. Aliman, Castanares identified the suspects as Macabuat Tambungalan and Manguda Tambungalan, also MILF members under Commander Masibpal. Macabuat Tambungalan was also injured.
The suspects and the victims were all playing basketball in the village with pot money for winner when the game went “physical.” One of them pulled his Armalite rifle and opened fire. Relatives of the slain MILF members retaliated, triggering a gun battle.
“There was misunderstanding that turned into a heated argument until they took up arms,” Aliman told police investigators.
Castanares said MILF elders have intervened to pacify warring members and stop the fighting.
https://www.update.ph/2017/09/basketball-match-between-moro-islamic-liberation-front-members-turns-into-gun-battle/20612
Duterte warns NPA of nationwide martial law: I will arrest all of you
From Update Philippines (Sep 10): Duterte warns NPA of nationwide martial law: I will arrest all of you
Saying that the Maute terrorists will be treated as criminals and if they surrender they will be prosecuted, President Rodrigo Duterte warned the NPA not to stage a rebellion on the streets. He said he will not hesitate to order a nationwide martial law.
“So with the NPAs. Kasi ang NPA hindi mo na kasi ngayon ma-ano eh. Actively, ‘yung front nila. Wala na silang tago-tago. Their meetings are in public. Hinayaan ko lang, sige. Pati ‘yung liga nila, mga leftist organization, harap-harapan na nakikipagkita na sila,” the President said in media interview during his visit to wounded-in-action (WIA) soldiers admitted at Camp Evangelista Station Hospital, 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, Brgy. Patag, Cagayan de Oro City on Saturday.
“Sabi ko: Sige, hayaan mo,” Duterte said. “But do not commit the mistake.”
“Ako, hindi ako nananakot ha. Do not commit the mistake of staging a rebellion. ‘Yung sabihin mo na there’s a fighting on the streets,” he noted.
“I will not hesitate to impose martial law all throughout the country and order the arrest of everybody,” the President said. “Ke may kampo ako o wala. Hindi ako nananakot. Pero gagamitin ko talaga ang Armed Forces pati pulis.”
“Ayaw ko makipagpatayan but if you do that, I will arrest all of you. All of you. Hindi ako nananakot, sinasabi ko lang sa inyo ‘yan,” he said.
https://www.update.ph/2017/09/duterte-warns-npa-of-nationwide-martial-law-i-will-arrest-all-of-you/20621
Saying that the Maute terrorists will be treated as criminals and if they surrender they will be prosecuted, President Rodrigo Duterte warned the NPA not to stage a rebellion on the streets. He said he will not hesitate to order a nationwide martial law.
“So with the NPAs. Kasi ang NPA hindi mo na kasi ngayon ma-ano eh. Actively, ‘yung front nila. Wala na silang tago-tago. Their meetings are in public. Hinayaan ko lang, sige. Pati ‘yung liga nila, mga leftist organization, harap-harapan na nakikipagkita na sila,” the President said in media interview during his visit to wounded-in-action (WIA) soldiers admitted at Camp Evangelista Station Hospital, 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, Brgy. Patag, Cagayan de Oro City on Saturday.
“Sabi ko: Sige, hayaan mo,” Duterte said. “But do not commit the mistake.”
“Ako, hindi ako nananakot ha. Do not commit the mistake of staging a rebellion. ‘Yung sabihin mo na there’s a fighting on the streets,” he noted.
“I will not hesitate to impose martial law all throughout the country and order the arrest of everybody,” the President said. “Ke may kampo ako o wala. Hindi ako nananakot. Pero gagamitin ko talaga ang Armed Forces pati pulis.”
“Ayaw ko makipagpatayan but if you do that, I will arrest all of you. All of you. Hindi ako nananakot, sinasabi ko lang sa inyo ‘yan,” he said.
https://www.update.ph/2017/09/duterte-warns-npa-of-nationwide-martial-law-i-will-arrest-all-of-you/20621
Wounded-in-action soldiers awarded Order of Lapu-Lapu Kampilan Medal
From Update Philippines (Sep 10): Wounded-in-action soldiers awarded Order of Lapu-Lapu Kampilan Medal
Presidential photo
Seventy-six (76) Wounded-in-action uniformed personnel of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) were conferred the Order of Lapu-Lapu Kampilan Medal by President Rodrigo Duterte during his visit to Camp Evangelista Station Hospital, 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, Brgy. Patag, Cagayan de Oro City on Saturday, September 9.
The Order of Lapu-Lapu was created through Executive Order 17 signed April 2017.
The Order will be awarded to officials and personnel of the government, and private individuals in recognition of their invaluable or extraordinary service in relation to a campaign or advocacy of the President.
Presidential photo
The Kampilan Medal is awarded to individual seriously injured or wounded as result of direct participation in activity pursuant to the President’s campaign or advocacy.
In his speech the President told the troops to “try to be alive and fight for the country. Our duty here is to protect the people and to preserve itong Pilipinas natin. Medyo magulo pero kaya nagsakripisiyo kayo.”
“Kaya it behooves upon me na kailangan katabi ninyo ako. Kung pwede lang sana pati doon sa barilan. Ako, gusto ko. Karami kong magagandang baril na hindi ko magamit,” he added.
https://www.update.ph/2017/09/wounded-in-action-soldiers-awarded-order-of-lapu-lapu-kampilan-medal/20628
Presidential photo
Seventy-six (76) Wounded-in-action uniformed personnel of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) were conferred the Order of Lapu-Lapu Kampilan Medal by President Rodrigo Duterte during his visit to Camp Evangelista Station Hospital, 4th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, Brgy. Patag, Cagayan de Oro City on Saturday, September 9.
The Order of Lapu-Lapu was created through Executive Order 17 signed April 2017.
The Order will be awarded to officials and personnel of the government, and private individuals in recognition of their invaluable or extraordinary service in relation to a campaign or advocacy of the President.
Presidential photo
The Kampilan Medal is awarded to individual seriously injured or wounded as result of direct participation in activity pursuant to the President’s campaign or advocacy.
In his speech the President told the troops to “try to be alive and fight for the country. Our duty here is to protect the people and to preserve itong Pilipinas natin. Medyo magulo pero kaya nagsakripisiyo kayo.”
“Kaya it behooves upon me na kailangan katabi ninyo ako. Kung pwede lang sana pati doon sa barilan. Ako, gusto ko. Karami kong magagandang baril na hindi ko magamit,” he added.
https://www.update.ph/2017/09/wounded-in-action-soldiers-awarded-order-of-lapu-lapu-kampilan-medal/20628
LOOK: Air Force helicopter squadron in action in Marawi
From Update Philippines (Sep 10): LOOK: Air Force helicopter squadron in action in Marawi
208THS photo
Since the battle between government forces and Maute terrorists erupted in Marawi City, Philippine Air Force (PAF) 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing (205THW) has been providing support “to help the government troops flush out rebels and retake control of the battered city,” the 208th Tactical Helicopter Squadron (208THS) said.
208THS, also known as the Daggers, is a UH-1H helicopter squadron operating under the command of 205THW. 208THS is based in Brigadier General Benito Ebuen Air Base, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu.
“Dagger flight from 208th Tactical Helicopter Squadron was one of the elements deployed and has been present all throughout in helping the troops to perform deliberate operations in the city,” 208THS said.
“As the conflict enters its third month, the Daggers together with other flying units of the PAF continue to be faithful to its mandated tasks to provide heli-lift transport to our operating troops on the ground,” 208THS added.
208THS photo
The said squadron has been performing daily air evacuation of the wounded and killed personnel in the ongoing Marawi conflict.
https://www.update.ph/2017/09/look-air-force-helicopter-squadron-in-action-in-marawi/20639
208THS photo
Since the battle between government forces and Maute terrorists erupted in Marawi City, Philippine Air Force (PAF) 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing (205THW) has been providing support “to help the government troops flush out rebels and retake control of the battered city,” the 208th Tactical Helicopter Squadron (208THS) said.
208THS, also known as the Daggers, is a UH-1H helicopter squadron operating under the command of 205THW. 208THS is based in Brigadier General Benito Ebuen Air Base, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu.
“Dagger flight from 208th Tactical Helicopter Squadron was one of the elements deployed and has been present all throughout in helping the troops to perform deliberate operations in the city,” 208THS said.
“As the conflict enters its third month, the Daggers together with other flying units of the PAF continue to be faithful to its mandated tasks to provide heli-lift transport to our operating troops on the ground,” 208THS added.
208THS photo
The said squadron has been performing daily air evacuation of the wounded and killed personnel in the ongoing Marawi conflict.
https://www.update.ph/2017/09/look-air-force-helicopter-squadron-in-action-in-marawi/20639
BRP Davao del Sur delivers heavy equipment for Marawi rehabilitation
From Update Philippines (Sep 10): BRP Davao del Sur delivers heavy equipment for Marawi rehabilitation
Philippine Navy’s Tarlac-class landing platform dock BRP Davao del Sur (LD-602) on Sunday, September 10 delivered at the Port of Iligan in Iligan City military heavy equipment to be used for the rehabilitation of Marawi City.
Among the heavy equipment are payloader and back hoe.
According to Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Western Mindanao Command (WESMINCOM) Commanding General Lieutenant General Carlito Galvez these heavy equipment will help in creating temporary shelters for families displaced by the ongoing battle against terrorists in Marawi City.
Joint Task Force Marawi photo
Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella on Friday, September 8 said the construction of temporary shelters in the 9-hectare Transitional Shelter Site provided by the Marawi City Government started on that day.
He said the team in charge arrived in Marawi City on Thursday, September 7 to facilitate the necessary coordination for the start of the construction.
As of September 7, 7 pm 653 terrorists were already killed. 145 were killed on the government side.
“Those killed by the terrorists from the civilian sector, as well as those rescued remains the same at 45 and 1,728, respectively,” AFP spokesperson Brigadier General Restituto Padilla, Jr. said.
https://www.update.ph/2017/09/brp-davao-del-sur-delivers-heavy-equipment-for-marawi-rehabilitation/20643
Philippine Navy’s Tarlac-class landing platform dock BRP Davao del Sur (LD-602) on Sunday, September 10 delivered at the Port of Iligan in Iligan City military heavy equipment to be used for the rehabilitation of Marawi City.
Among the heavy equipment are payloader and back hoe.
According to Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Western Mindanao Command (WESMINCOM) Commanding General Lieutenant General Carlito Galvez these heavy equipment will help in creating temporary shelters for families displaced by the ongoing battle against terrorists in Marawi City.
Joint Task Force Marawi photo
Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella on Friday, September 8 said the construction of temporary shelters in the 9-hectare Transitional Shelter Site provided by the Marawi City Government started on that day.
He said the team in charge arrived in Marawi City on Thursday, September 7 to facilitate the necessary coordination for the start of the construction.
As of September 7, 7 pm 653 terrorists were already killed. 145 were killed on the government side.
“Those killed by the terrorists from the civilian sector, as well as those rescued remains the same at 45 and 1,728, respectively,” AFP spokesperson Brigadier General Restituto Padilla, Jr. said.
https://www.update.ph/2017/09/brp-davao-del-sur-delivers-heavy-equipment-for-marawi-rehabilitation/20643
Duterte now asks Maute Group to surrender
From Rappler (Sep 10): Duterte now asks Maute Group to surrender
'We will try them, give them due process, and provide them with a lawyer,' President Rodrigo Duterte says, as he makes another U-turn on his policy regarding the war in Marawi City
(UPDATED) – President Rodrigo Duterte junked on Saturday, September 9, the proposal to give the local terrorist groups in Marawi City a safe passage out of the war zone in exchange for the release of the hostages.
"No way," said Duterte mimicking his son Paolo's now viral response to Senator Antonio Trillanes IV when he asked to see if he has the Chinese triad tattoo.
Duterte said the local terrorists can surrender and they will live.
"We will try them, give them due process, and provide them with a lawyer. There will be no opression or harassment or anything. No violence will be inflicted upon them if they surrender. I will guarantee that," said Duterte
"Kapag nag-surrender sila, walang sabihin mo na bugbugin o i-oppress o gutumin (If they surrender, they will not be beaten or oppressed). Nothing of the sort. I will not also allow it. That's not the way you treat people even if they are criminals," said Duterte.
"They will be treated as criminals. If they surrender, they will be prosecuted. If they choose to fight, the State has right to kill them," Duterte said.
It's another apparent U-turn on his policy regarding the war in Marawi City.
Earlier in the war, Duterte said in a speech that he would rather the soldiers kill the terrorists than arrest them because he wouldn't want to pay for their meals in prison.
Last week, Duterte also made a statement that appeared he was open to giving the local terrorists a safe passage if only to end the war that has dragged on for more than 3 months.
Duterte said in a speech on August 30: "Pero kung sabi ko lang na ano, kung sana makiusap na lang tayo na lumabas na lang and free the hostages, do not harm them, do not cut their heads because mag-init lalo. I mean, kung makita 'nyo 'yung sundalo, it's gonna be a bloodbath. But still up to this time, I have sent somebody na we could save the day for all of us."
It was this statement that triggered the proposal from former Marawi City Mayor Omar Ali Solitario to reach out to the Mautes to negotiate the safe passage.
The military and local officials in Marawi City junked any negotiation with the Mautes.
Duterte has made pronouncements that he was not open to negotiating with the terrrorists. On Saturday, he confirmed the talks with Solitario.
Last week, Duterte also said he has given the military the go signal to bomb if necessary the mosques that serve as strongholds of the Maute.
A few days later, he took it back, He said the Maranaos will be hurt if the mosques are bombed.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/181655-duterte-maute-group-surrender-marawi-uturn
'We will try them, give them due process, and provide them with a lawyer,' President Rodrigo Duterte says, as he makes another U-turn on his policy regarding the war in Marawi City
(UPDATED) – President Rodrigo Duterte junked on Saturday, September 9, the proposal to give the local terrorist groups in Marawi City a safe passage out of the war zone in exchange for the release of the hostages.
"No way," said Duterte mimicking his son Paolo's now viral response to Senator Antonio Trillanes IV when he asked to see if he has the Chinese triad tattoo.
Duterte said the local terrorists can surrender and they will live.
"We will try them, give them due process, and provide them with a lawyer. There will be no opression or harassment or anything. No violence will be inflicted upon them if they surrender. I will guarantee that," said Duterte
"Kapag nag-surrender sila, walang sabihin mo na bugbugin o i-oppress o gutumin (If they surrender, they will not be beaten or oppressed). Nothing of the sort. I will not also allow it. That's not the way you treat people even if they are criminals," said Duterte.
"They will be treated as criminals. If they surrender, they will be prosecuted. If they choose to fight, the State has right to kill them," Duterte said.
It's another apparent U-turn on his policy regarding the war in Marawi City.
Earlier in the war, Duterte said in a speech that he would rather the soldiers kill the terrorists than arrest them because he wouldn't want to pay for their meals in prison.
Last week, Duterte also made a statement that appeared he was open to giving the local terrorists a safe passage if only to end the war that has dragged on for more than 3 months.
Duterte said in a speech on August 30: "Pero kung sabi ko lang na ano, kung sana makiusap na lang tayo na lumabas na lang and free the hostages, do not harm them, do not cut their heads because mag-init lalo. I mean, kung makita 'nyo 'yung sundalo, it's gonna be a bloodbath. But still up to this time, I have sent somebody na we could save the day for all of us."
It was this statement that triggered the proposal from former Marawi City Mayor Omar Ali Solitario to reach out to the Mautes to negotiate the safe passage.
The military and local officials in Marawi City junked any negotiation with the Mautes.
Duterte has made pronouncements that he was not open to negotiating with the terrrorists. On Saturday, he confirmed the talks with Solitario.
Last week, Duterte also said he has given the military the go signal to bomb if necessary the mosques that serve as strongholds of the Maute.
A few days later, he took it back, He said the Maranaos will be hurt if the mosques are bombed.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/181655-duterte-maute-group-surrender-marawi-uturn
Duterte to biz sector: “There will be no peace in Mindanao for the longest time”
From MindaNews (Sep 10): Duterte to biz sector: “There will be no peace in Mindanao for the longest time”
As the Marawi Crisis and martial law-in-Mindanao entered Day 110 on Saturday, the country’s first Mindanawon President gave delegates to the 26th Mindanao Business Conference in Cagayan de Oro City mixed signals about Mindanao’s future under his administration.
Reading his speech at the latter part of his 37-minute talk, President Rodrigo Duterte said he was “confident” that with the business sector’s cooperation and the people’s support, “we will create a more prosperous and progressive Mindanao,” but in the earlier part of his speech which he delivered extemporaneously, he painted a grim scenario of its future: “Mindanao seems to be in trouble,” “what’s happening in Marawi seems to stretch the trouble farther than we expect,” “there will be no peace in Mindanao for the longest time,” “we are headed for a long haul of trouble,” and “the next flash point is still Mindanao.”
President Rodrigo Duterte delivers his speech at the closing ceremony of the 26th Mindanao Business Conference (MINBIZCON) at the Xavier Sports and Country Club in Cagayan de Oro City on September 9, 2017. Ace Morandante/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO
As is typical of a Duterte extemporaneous speech, he rambled on, shifting from one topic to the other.
He said it has often been asked what ails Mindanao, why it lags behind. “Mainly because Mindanao seems to be in trouble,” he replied, and added: “I would admit that I have to correct the historical injustice asked by the Moro people but then again, what’s happening in Marawi seems to stretch the trouble farther than we expect.” He did not elaborate.
“Mindanao cannot progress,” Duterte stressed, citing the problem of law and order, the presence of the New People’s Army which he said, is into extortion, the warlords in government. He also pointed to three government agencies issuing land titles and how corruption in government has contribute to this disorder.
He said he was not trying to “agitate or scare anybody” but “the historical system of unitary type of government — which is actually fundamentally for control (of) the population because we were colonized — would not work at this time anymore.”
He reiterated that the only way historical injustice in Mindanao can be corrected is “for everybody to reconsider that position. And the elite of this country cannot hang on to this unitary type of power grab every time.”
Amending the Constitution
He did not explain how a shift to a federal form of government could address terrorism or violent extremism but warned that “if we cannot solve the problem of Mindanao vis-a-vis the different contending parties for sharing, maybe an equitable distribution of all things, we are headed for a long haul of trouble.”
“I will guarantee you that being from Mindanao, with a mother from — a Mindanawon, I will tell you now straight that there will be no peace in Mindanao for the longest time,” the President said.
Duterte has been pushing for a shift from the highly centralized Presidential, unitary system, to a federal system where power is shared by the central government and the federal states.
The shift, however, requires amending the 1987 Constitution and although he initially promised a Constitutional Convention, Duterte last year agreed to scrap the convention, citing the huge expense it would entail, and instead let Congress sit as a constituent assembly to amend the Constitution after a 25-member Consultative Committee (ConCom) submits its recommendations.
Duterte signed Executive Order10 on December 7, 2016, creating a ConCom of not more than 25 members, to “study, conduct consultations, and review the provisions of the 1987 Constitution, including but not limited to, the provisions on the structure and powers of the government, local governance, and economic policies.” The ConCom has up to six months to complete its work.
But nine months after issuing EO 10, the President has yet to name the ConCom members, pushing back the administration’s original timetable to hold the plebiscite on the amendments simultaneous with the May 2019 mid-term elections.
“Cotabato will explode”
Also on Saturday, Duterte warned the situation in Cotabato would “explode” but did not say which Cotabato he was referring to — Cotabato City? North Cotabato South Cotabato? — and did not also provide details into why it would “explode.”
‘Yang Cotabato na ‘yan, puputok ‘yan, kaya isang… isang lote, tatlo ang titulo (That Cotabato, it will explode … one lot, three titles). And somebody has to explain that. Otherwise, pupu… tignan mo, ano ang sunod na…. the next flash point is still in Mindanao,” Duterte said.
Duterte’s pronouncement caused distress among residents of the Cotabatos.
On September 1, Duterte said at the Eastern Mindanao Command’s 11th anniversary celebration that he was already considering lifting martial law earlier “but the way it looks, parang may spillover na sa ARMM eh. Sa Buldon,” refering to Buldon in Maguindanao.
Duterte’s pronouncement surprised local officials and the military who said no such “spillover” was monitored.
“Prosperous and progressive Mindanao”
Shifting from extemporaneous delivery to reading his prepared speech, Duterte noted that with the right infrastructure and sound business environment, Mindanao’s great potential can be realized, hence government is “aggressively pursuing infrastructure projects in Mindanao” to facilitate transfer of goods and services and boost mobility and connectivity.
He cited the Mindanao Railway system, the Panguil Bay Bridge and the Laguindingan Airport development projects which are “in various stages of implementation.” He said government is actively providing assistance in the production of “high value crops,” that the Color-Coded Agri-Fishery Map is now available to farmers to help them identify the most suitable crops to plant their areas.
President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, in his speech during the closing ceremony of the 26th Mindanao Business Conference (MINBIZCON) at the Xavier Sports and Country Club in Cagayan de Oro City on September 9, 2017, reiterates he will stop corruption and restore peace and order in Mindanao so that the island can become more conducive for businesses to thrive. Simeon Celi, Jr. /PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO
But Duterte admitted that efforts to promote business, trade and investment in Mindanao “will be in vain if we cannot ensure stability and order, as well as secure just and lasting peace in the island.”
He said government is intensifying the fight against illegal drugs, crime and corruption to create a more enabling and nurturing business environment in Mindanao.
He assured the business sector that government remains “firmly committed to wiping out local terrorists and other threat groups that continue to hinder our peace and development efforts, especially the ISIS-inspired ones who have attempted to take over the City of Marawi.”
“Government will do everything to make sure that Marawi City recovers and that it will rise again as a thriving and flourishing city,” he said.
He said the “grand plans for Mindanao” will not succeed without the help and participation of the private sector. He assured them of government’s help and “with your cooperation and our people’s support, I am confident that we will create a more prosperous and progressive Mindanao.”
Peace process
Duterte also assured the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) that he continues to “respect the leadership and we would like to pursue the talks” and gave the same assurance to his friend Nur Misuari, founding chair of the Moro National Liberarion Front (MNLF).
The MNLF and MILF, however, are no longer on the “peace talks” level but on implementation. Peace agreements had been signed with government in the last four decades: 1976 Tripoli Agreement and 1996 Final Peace Agreement with the MNLF and the 2012 Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro and the 2014 Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro with the MILF.
MNLF Peace Implementing Panel chair Randolph Parcasio on July 19 said they will no longer submit their proposed amendatory law to enhance the Autonomous Region in Muslim MIndanao (ARMM) but will instead push for federalism. Paracasio has been told by the President that he would be part of the 25-member ConCom.
The GPH-MILF’s peace agreement provides for the passage of a Bangsamoro Basic Law to pave the way for the creation of the Bangsamoro, a new autonomous political entity that would replace the ARMM. During his Presidential campaign, Duterte said he would make the BBL a “template for federalism.”
The Bangsamoro Transition Commission which drafted the BBL submitted it to the President on July 17 but it took a month for the Office of the President to transmit it to the Senate and the House of Representatives.
As of September 9, the draft BBL has yet to be filed as bill as it still awaits authors.
The Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council on August 29 released a list of 28 priority bills of the Duterte administration, the proposed BBL not among them although Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III and Presidential spokesperson Ernie Abella said it would be included in the next LEDAC meeting.
A five-member MILF delegation met with the President in Malacanang on September 5.
BTC chair Ghazali Jaafar said the President called for a meeting on September 14 also in Malacanang, with the BTC, leaders of Congress, the government’s peace implementing panel and Cabinet officials involved in peace and security issues.
In no other time in Philippine history has there been a situation where the Philippine President is a Mindanawon, and the Senate President, House Speaker, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process, secretaries of Defense, Finance, Health, Labor, Agriculture, among others, are also all Mindanawons. Duterte also named three Maranaos to top posts.
Peace pacts and violent extremism
But while Duterte points to “local terrorists and other threat groups” as hindering peace and development efforts, MILF and MNLF leaders had already warned in a forum on federalism on November 30 last year that a continued failure in implementing the peace agreements will be the rallying point of violent extremists,
“We, the MNLF and MILF .. we will become irrelevant if our peace agreements will not be implemented and in fact that is the issue, the rallying point of the extremists in Mindanao. They’re saying, ‘look at the MNLF and the MILF, their agreements have never been implemented. So there’s no point talking with this government who has violated peace agreements since time immemorial,’” Parcasio said.
Mohagher Iqbal, chair of the peace implementing panel of the MILF, said “until and unless the historic injustices committed against the Moro people (are addressed), I think … the violent extremist groups would still multiply because they have so much reason to fight the government.”
http://www.mindanews.com/peace-process/2017/09/duterte-to-biz-sector-there-will-be-no-peace-in-mindanao-for-the-longest-time/
As the Marawi Crisis and martial law-in-Mindanao entered Day 110 on Saturday, the country’s first Mindanawon President gave delegates to the 26th Mindanao Business Conference in Cagayan de Oro City mixed signals about Mindanao’s future under his administration.
Reading his speech at the latter part of his 37-minute talk, President Rodrigo Duterte said he was “confident” that with the business sector’s cooperation and the people’s support, “we will create a more prosperous and progressive Mindanao,” but in the earlier part of his speech which he delivered extemporaneously, he painted a grim scenario of its future: “Mindanao seems to be in trouble,” “what’s happening in Marawi seems to stretch the trouble farther than we expect,” “there will be no peace in Mindanao for the longest time,” “we are headed for a long haul of trouble,” and “the next flash point is still Mindanao.”
President Rodrigo Duterte delivers his speech at the closing ceremony of the 26th Mindanao Business Conference (MINBIZCON) at the Xavier Sports and Country Club in Cagayan de Oro City on September 9, 2017. Ace Morandante/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO
As is typical of a Duterte extemporaneous speech, he rambled on, shifting from one topic to the other.
He said it has often been asked what ails Mindanao, why it lags behind. “Mainly because Mindanao seems to be in trouble,” he replied, and added: “I would admit that I have to correct the historical injustice asked by the Moro people but then again, what’s happening in Marawi seems to stretch the trouble farther than we expect.” He did not elaborate.
“Mindanao cannot progress,” Duterte stressed, citing the problem of law and order, the presence of the New People’s Army which he said, is into extortion, the warlords in government. He also pointed to three government agencies issuing land titles and how corruption in government has contribute to this disorder.
He said he was not trying to “agitate or scare anybody” but “the historical system of unitary type of government — which is actually fundamentally for control (of) the population because we were colonized — would not work at this time anymore.”
He reiterated that the only way historical injustice in Mindanao can be corrected is “for everybody to reconsider that position. And the elite of this country cannot hang on to this unitary type of power grab every time.”
Amending the Constitution
He did not explain how a shift to a federal form of government could address terrorism or violent extremism but warned that “if we cannot solve the problem of Mindanao vis-a-vis the different contending parties for sharing, maybe an equitable distribution of all things, we are headed for a long haul of trouble.”
“I will guarantee you that being from Mindanao, with a mother from — a Mindanawon, I will tell you now straight that there will be no peace in Mindanao for the longest time,” the President said.
Duterte has been pushing for a shift from the highly centralized Presidential, unitary system, to a federal system where power is shared by the central government and the federal states.
The shift, however, requires amending the 1987 Constitution and although he initially promised a Constitutional Convention, Duterte last year agreed to scrap the convention, citing the huge expense it would entail, and instead let Congress sit as a constituent assembly to amend the Constitution after a 25-member Consultative Committee (ConCom) submits its recommendations.
Duterte signed Executive Order10 on December 7, 2016, creating a ConCom of not more than 25 members, to “study, conduct consultations, and review the provisions of the 1987 Constitution, including but not limited to, the provisions on the structure and powers of the government, local governance, and economic policies.” The ConCom has up to six months to complete its work.
But nine months after issuing EO 10, the President has yet to name the ConCom members, pushing back the administration’s original timetable to hold the plebiscite on the amendments simultaneous with the May 2019 mid-term elections.
“Cotabato will explode”
Also on Saturday, Duterte warned the situation in Cotabato would “explode” but did not say which Cotabato he was referring to — Cotabato City? North Cotabato South Cotabato? — and did not also provide details into why it would “explode.”
‘Yang Cotabato na ‘yan, puputok ‘yan, kaya isang… isang lote, tatlo ang titulo (That Cotabato, it will explode … one lot, three titles). And somebody has to explain that. Otherwise, pupu… tignan mo, ano ang sunod na…. the next flash point is still in Mindanao,” Duterte said.
Duterte’s pronouncement caused distress among residents of the Cotabatos.
On September 1, Duterte said at the Eastern Mindanao Command’s 11th anniversary celebration that he was already considering lifting martial law earlier “but the way it looks, parang may spillover na sa ARMM eh. Sa Buldon,” refering to Buldon in Maguindanao.
Duterte’s pronouncement surprised local officials and the military who said no such “spillover” was monitored.
“Prosperous and progressive Mindanao”
Shifting from extemporaneous delivery to reading his prepared speech, Duterte noted that with the right infrastructure and sound business environment, Mindanao’s great potential can be realized, hence government is “aggressively pursuing infrastructure projects in Mindanao” to facilitate transfer of goods and services and boost mobility and connectivity.
He cited the Mindanao Railway system, the Panguil Bay Bridge and the Laguindingan Airport development projects which are “in various stages of implementation.” He said government is actively providing assistance in the production of “high value crops,” that the Color-Coded Agri-Fishery Map is now available to farmers to help them identify the most suitable crops to plant their areas.
President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, in his speech during the closing ceremony of the 26th Mindanao Business Conference (MINBIZCON) at the Xavier Sports and Country Club in Cagayan de Oro City on September 9, 2017, reiterates he will stop corruption and restore peace and order in Mindanao so that the island can become more conducive for businesses to thrive. Simeon Celi, Jr. /PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO
But Duterte admitted that efforts to promote business, trade and investment in Mindanao “will be in vain if we cannot ensure stability and order, as well as secure just and lasting peace in the island.”
He said government is intensifying the fight against illegal drugs, crime and corruption to create a more enabling and nurturing business environment in Mindanao.
He assured the business sector that government remains “firmly committed to wiping out local terrorists and other threat groups that continue to hinder our peace and development efforts, especially the ISIS-inspired ones who have attempted to take over the City of Marawi.”
“Government will do everything to make sure that Marawi City recovers and that it will rise again as a thriving and flourishing city,” he said.
He said the “grand plans for Mindanao” will not succeed without the help and participation of the private sector. He assured them of government’s help and “with your cooperation and our people’s support, I am confident that we will create a more prosperous and progressive Mindanao.”
Peace process
Duterte also assured the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) that he continues to “respect the leadership and we would like to pursue the talks” and gave the same assurance to his friend Nur Misuari, founding chair of the Moro National Liberarion Front (MNLF).
The MNLF and MILF, however, are no longer on the “peace talks” level but on implementation. Peace agreements had been signed with government in the last four decades: 1976 Tripoli Agreement and 1996 Final Peace Agreement with the MNLF and the 2012 Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro and the 2014 Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro with the MILF.
MNLF Peace Implementing Panel chair Randolph Parcasio on July 19 said they will no longer submit their proposed amendatory law to enhance the Autonomous Region in Muslim MIndanao (ARMM) but will instead push for federalism. Paracasio has been told by the President that he would be part of the 25-member ConCom.
The GPH-MILF’s peace agreement provides for the passage of a Bangsamoro Basic Law to pave the way for the creation of the Bangsamoro, a new autonomous political entity that would replace the ARMM. During his Presidential campaign, Duterte said he would make the BBL a “template for federalism.”
The Bangsamoro Transition Commission which drafted the BBL submitted it to the President on July 17 but it took a month for the Office of the President to transmit it to the Senate and the House of Representatives.
As of September 9, the draft BBL has yet to be filed as bill as it still awaits authors.
The Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council on August 29 released a list of 28 priority bills of the Duterte administration, the proposed BBL not among them although Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III and Presidential spokesperson Ernie Abella said it would be included in the next LEDAC meeting.
A five-member MILF delegation met with the President in Malacanang on September 5.
BTC chair Ghazali Jaafar said the President called for a meeting on September 14 also in Malacanang, with the BTC, leaders of Congress, the government’s peace implementing panel and Cabinet officials involved in peace and security issues.
In no other time in Philippine history has there been a situation where the Philippine President is a Mindanawon, and the Senate President, House Speaker, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process, secretaries of Defense, Finance, Health, Labor, Agriculture, among others, are also all Mindanawons. Duterte also named three Maranaos to top posts.
Peace pacts and violent extremism
But while Duterte points to “local terrorists and other threat groups” as hindering peace and development efforts, MILF and MNLF leaders had already warned in a forum on federalism on November 30 last year that a continued failure in implementing the peace agreements will be the rallying point of violent extremists,
“We, the MNLF and MILF .. we will become irrelevant if our peace agreements will not be implemented and in fact that is the issue, the rallying point of the extremists in Mindanao. They’re saying, ‘look at the MNLF and the MILF, their agreements have never been implemented. So there’s no point talking with this government who has violated peace agreements since time immemorial,’” Parcasio said.
Mohagher Iqbal, chair of the peace implementing panel of the MILF, said “until and unless the historic injustices committed against the Moro people (are addressed), I think … the violent extremist groups would still multiply because they have so much reason to fight the government.”
http://www.mindanews.com/peace-process/2017/09/duterte-to-biz-sector-there-will-be-no-peace-in-mindanao-for-the-longest-time/
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