From Update Philippines (Sep 28): BIFF camp falls after land, air strikes
Government troops overran a fortified camp of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) following airstrike and artillery bombardment in the province of Maguindanao, a top military officials announced Thursday.
Maj. Gen. Arnel Dela Vega, Joint Task Force Central commander, said the fallen camp of the BIFF is located at Sitio Dagaring, Barangay Tee, Datu Salibu, Maguindanao
Dela Vega said troops from the Army’s 57th Infantry Battalion have recovered a cadaver of a slain BIFF member, four improvised bombs, two-M14 rifles, one M-16 Armalite rifle and a flag of the Islamic State for Iraq and Syria (ISIS) when they overran the camp at around 5:20 p.m. Wednesday.
He said the camp was targeted by airstrike and artillery bombardment while the ground troops and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) members maneuvered towards the fallen BIFF camp.
“Troops thoroughly scoured the area as the joint security campaign with the MILF is sustained to defeat the (BIFF) terrorists,” Dela Vega said.
Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) chief, said that “all means are currently being exhausted with the support of the MILF as combat operations are being launched in the area.”
https://www.update.ph/2017/09/biff-camp-falls-after-land-air-strikes/21130
Thursday, September 28, 2017
Duterte: US helped us a lot, provided crucial military equipment for Marawi
From Update Philippines (Sep 28): Duterte: US helped us a lot, provided crucial military equipment for Marawi
President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday during the 116th commemoration of the Balangiga Encounter acknowledged that the US has been making efforts to repay the damages brought by US occupation in the country.
“I’d rather be friendly to Americans now because the Americans redeemed themselves a lot… They helped us a lot. They were engaged here during the Japanese occupation. I would not say that they are saviors, but they are our allies,” he added.
“Even today, the Americans provided crucial equipment to our soldiers fighting terrorists in Marawi.”
The Chief Executive admitted that he turned emotional when he demanded for the return of the bells during his State of the Nation Address on July 24.
“I was under advise by DFA (Department of Foreign Affairs) to temper my language and avoid cursing, which I am prone to do if I get emotional,” he said.
This advice prompted him to be friendlier to the US, he said.
https://www.update.ph/2017/09/duterte-us-helped-us-a-lot-provided-crucial-military-equipment-for-marawi/21136
President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday during the 116th commemoration of the Balangiga Encounter acknowledged that the US has been making efforts to repay the damages brought by US occupation in the country.
“I’d rather be friendly to Americans now because the Americans redeemed themselves a lot… They helped us a lot. They were engaged here during the Japanese occupation. I would not say that they are saviors, but they are our allies,” he added.
“Even today, the Americans provided crucial equipment to our soldiers fighting terrorists in Marawi.”
The Chief Executive admitted that he turned emotional when he demanded for the return of the bells during his State of the Nation Address on July 24.
“I was under advise by DFA (Department of Foreign Affairs) to temper my language and avoid cursing, which I am prone to do if I get emotional,” he said.
This advice prompted him to be friendlier to the US, he said.
https://www.update.ph/2017/09/duterte-us-helped-us-a-lot-provided-crucial-military-equipment-for-marawi/21136
House to US: Return Balangiga bells
From the Philippine Star (Sep 28): House to US: Return Balangiga bells
The House of Representatives yesterday passed a resolution supporting President Duterte’s appeal for the US government to return the three Balangiga bells.
Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez, Majority Leader Rodolfo Fariñas, Minority Leader Danilo Suarez and Reps. Ben Evardone of Eastern Samar and Raul Daza of Northern Samar authored the resolution.
Before the measure’s passage, Evardone told his colleagues that the Americans seized the bells in Balangiga town in his province in 1901 as spoils of war.
He said two of the bells are on display in a trophy park at the Warren Air Base in Cheyenne, Wyoming. The other is kept at Camp Red Cloud, a US base in South Korea.
“Today, we ask for closure and healing. Give us the bells. Let those bells toll here to help heal the wounds of Balangiga,” Evardone said, reiterating Duterte’s appeal.
Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez has said US officials were willing to discuss with their Philippine counterparts the return of the Balangiga bells.
Meanwhile, a group of historians, legislators and youth leaders also urged the US government to not only return the bells and other war booties, but also to apologize for the atrocities committed by their soldiers during the Philippine-American War.
The group launched the Lingganay ng Kalayaan (Bells of Freedom), a campaign for the return of the Balangiga bells and other spoils of war, in Quezon City yesterday.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2017/09/28/1743352/house-us-return-balangiga-bells
The House of Representatives yesterday passed a resolution supporting President Duterte’s appeal for the US government to return the three Balangiga bells.
Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez, Majority Leader Rodolfo Fariñas, Minority Leader Danilo Suarez and Reps. Ben Evardone of Eastern Samar and Raul Daza of Northern Samar authored the resolution.
Before the measure’s passage, Evardone told his colleagues that the Americans seized the bells in Balangiga town in his province in 1901 as spoils of war.
He said two of the bells are on display in a trophy park at the Warren Air Base in Cheyenne, Wyoming. The other is kept at Camp Red Cloud, a US base in South Korea.
“Today, we ask for closure and healing. Give us the bells. Let those bells toll here to help heal the wounds of Balangiga,” Evardone said, reiterating Duterte’s appeal.
Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez has said US officials were willing to discuss with their Philippine counterparts the return of the Balangiga bells.
Meanwhile, a group of historians, legislators and youth leaders also urged the US government to not only return the bells and other war booties, but also to apologize for the atrocities committed by their soldiers during the Philippine-American War.
The group launched the Lingganay ng Kalayaan (Bells of Freedom), a campaign for the return of the Balangiga bells and other spoils of war, in Quezon City yesterday.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2017/09/28/1743352/house-us-return-balangiga-bells
116 YEARS AFTER MASSACRE | Group wants Balangiga bells and other PH possessions back from US
From InterAksyon (Sep 27): 116 YEARS AFTER MASSACRE | Group wants Balangiga bells and other PH possessions back from US
Archie Amano, Dr. Rey Imperial, Dr. Francis Gealogo, Roy Montes, Kabataan Rep. Sarah Elago, and Cedric Bermiso. Photo from Lingganay ng Kalayaan (Bells of Freedom) Campaign Movement for the Return of the Balangiga Bells and Historical Justice against U.S. Wars of Aggression.
On the 116th anniversary of the attack of Filipino revolutionaries on American troops in the Municipality of Balangiga in Eastern Samar, a group is echoing previous calls made for the return of the Balangiga bells by the United States to the Philippines.
The Lingganay ng Kalayaan (Bells of Freedom) Campaign Movement for the Return of the Balangiga Bells and Historical Justice against U.S. Wars of Aggression on Wednesday demanded the return of the Balangiga bells, and sought an official apology from the United States for its “crimes against the Filipino people” when it colonized the country and during “succeeding wars of aggression.”
The convenors of the movement include Kabataan Partylist Representative Sarah Elago, historians Dr. Rey Imperial and Dr. Francis Gealogo, Archie Amano (a descendant of the Amanos of Balangiga), Roy Montes of Ugop Waraynon, and Cedric Bermiso of Philippine Normal University publication The Torch.
On September 28, 1901, the Balangiga bells were used as a signal by Filipino revolutionaries in attacking American soldiers who were part of Company C of the 9th US Infantry. Almost every American soldier was killed in “one of the most monumental defeats” the Americans suffered under the hands of the Filipinos.
The Americans retaliated upon the instructions of Brigadier General Jacob H. Smith, who told his troops to “Kill and burn. The more you kill and burn, the better it will please me.”
Thus, the Americans burned Balangiga and killed everyone over 10 years old in what has become known as the Balangiga Massacre.
“Such was the barbarity of his campaign that even the American colonial government considered it excessive, and for it, General Smith was eventually court-martialled and indicted,” according to the advocacy group.
The Americans then seized the Balangiga bells as war booty.
Even during the time of former President Fidel V. Ramos, the Philippines had already asked the US government, then under former President Bill Clinton, to return the bells.
In 2002, Senator Nene Pimentel filed Resolution No. 393, which urged the administration of then President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to hold negotiations with the US for the return of the bells.
Five years later, Senator Manny Villar also filed a resolution for the return of the bells.
Bayan Muna Representative Carlos Zarate and Eastern Samar Representative Ben Evardone also filed during the 17th Congress House Bill No. 412 and House Bill No. 1142, respectively, to recover the bells.
President Rodrigo Duterte, meanwhile, said during his second State of the Nation Address, addressing the Americans, “Give us back those Balangiga bells,” insisting that the artifacts belonged to the Philippines and were part of the Filipinos’ national heritage.
Meanwhile, the Lingganay ng Kalayaan Campaign Movement recalled that during American colonization, “Mass murder, conflagration, rape, and abuse were done on a massive scale. This did not only occur on Samar—Batangas, Ilocos, Albay, Marinduque, Cebu, Jolo, Cotabato, Laguna, and other towns across the country also bore the full force of American aggression.
The war booty was not limited to the bells of Balangiga; the Americans also took important revolutionary documents, church relics, and personal possessions of Filipino citizens.
Archie Amano, Dr. Rey Imperial, Dr. Francis Gealogo, Roy Montes, Kabataan Rep. Sarah Elago, and Cedric Bermiso. Photo from Lingganay ng Kalayaan (Bells of Freedom) Campaign Movement for the Return of the Balangiga Bells and Historical Justice against U.S. Wars of Aggression.
On the 116th anniversary of the attack of Filipino revolutionaries on American troops in the Municipality of Balangiga in Eastern Samar, a group is echoing previous calls made for the return of the Balangiga bells by the United States to the Philippines.
The Lingganay ng Kalayaan (Bells of Freedom) Campaign Movement for the Return of the Balangiga Bells and Historical Justice against U.S. Wars of Aggression on Wednesday demanded the return of the Balangiga bells, and sought an official apology from the United States for its “crimes against the Filipino people” when it colonized the country and during “succeeding wars of aggression.”
The convenors of the movement include Kabataan Partylist Representative Sarah Elago, historians Dr. Rey Imperial and Dr. Francis Gealogo, Archie Amano (a descendant of the Amanos of Balangiga), Roy Montes of Ugop Waraynon, and Cedric Bermiso of Philippine Normal University publication The Torch.
On September 28, 1901, the Balangiga bells were used as a signal by Filipino revolutionaries in attacking American soldiers who were part of Company C of the 9th US Infantry. Almost every American soldier was killed in “one of the most monumental defeats” the Americans suffered under the hands of the Filipinos.
The Americans retaliated upon the instructions of Brigadier General Jacob H. Smith, who told his troops to “Kill and burn. The more you kill and burn, the better it will please me.”
Thus, the Americans burned Balangiga and killed everyone over 10 years old in what has become known as the Balangiga Massacre.
“Such was the barbarity of his campaign that even the American colonial government considered it excessive, and for it, General Smith was eventually court-martialled and indicted,” according to the advocacy group.
The Americans then seized the Balangiga bells as war booty.
Even during the time of former President Fidel V. Ramos, the Philippines had already asked the US government, then under former President Bill Clinton, to return the bells.
In 2002, Senator Nene Pimentel filed Resolution No. 393, which urged the administration of then President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to hold negotiations with the US for the return of the bells.
Five years later, Senator Manny Villar also filed a resolution for the return of the bells.
Bayan Muna Representative Carlos Zarate and Eastern Samar Representative Ben Evardone also filed during the 17th Congress House Bill No. 412 and House Bill No. 1142, respectively, to recover the bells.
President Rodrigo Duterte, meanwhile, said during his second State of the Nation Address, addressing the Americans, “Give us back those Balangiga bells,” insisting that the artifacts belonged to the Philippines and were part of the Filipinos’ national heritage.
Meanwhile, the Lingganay ng Kalayaan Campaign Movement recalled that during American colonization, “Mass murder, conflagration, rape, and abuse were done on a massive scale. This did not only occur on Samar—Batangas, Ilocos, Albay, Marinduque, Cebu, Jolo, Cotabato, Laguna, and other towns across the country also bore the full force of American aggression.
The war booty was not limited to the bells of Balangiga; the Americans also took important revolutionary documents, church relics, and personal possessions of Filipino citizens.
PH military conducts air strikes outside Marawi
From Rappler (Sep 28): PH military conducts air strikes outside Marawi
Unidentified armed men with boats are reportedly camping on Balt Island in Lanao Lake
The Philippine military conducted air strikes against unidentified armed men reportedly camping on an island in Bacolod-Kalawi in Lanao del Sur, a lakeside town not too far away from Marawi City.
Reporters on the ground witnessed military air strikes on Thursday morning, September 28.
Colonel Romeo Brawner, deputy commander of Task Group Ranao in Marawi City, confirmed military operations on Balt Island in Bacolod-Kalawi.
Brawner said the military responded when the unidentified armed men fired upon a Philippine Navy vessel that was approaching the island on Lanao Lake to verify the reported presence of armed men there.
Brawner said the military is not dismissing the possibility that the armed men, who reportedly had boats with them, are planning to reinforce the Maute Group terrorists in Marawi City.
This comes a week after unidentified armed men harassed a military detachment in Bayang, another lakeside town in Lanao del Sur.
The military said soldiers have pushed back the terrorists in Marawi City towards the lake.
Naval assets are guarding the waters to make sure the terrorists cannot escape and reinforcements are not able to enter the battle area in Marawi City.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/183645-philippine-military-air-strikes-lanao-del-sur-bacolod-kalawi
Unidentified armed men with boats are reportedly camping on Balt Island in Lanao Lake
The Philippine military conducted air strikes against unidentified armed men reportedly camping on an island in Bacolod-Kalawi in Lanao del Sur, a lakeside town not too far away from Marawi City.
Reporters on the ground witnessed military air strikes on Thursday morning, September 28.
Colonel Romeo Brawner, deputy commander of Task Group Ranao in Marawi City, confirmed military operations on Balt Island in Bacolod-Kalawi.
Brawner said the military responded when the unidentified armed men fired upon a Philippine Navy vessel that was approaching the island on Lanao Lake to verify the reported presence of armed men there.
Brawner said the military is not dismissing the possibility that the armed men, who reportedly had boats with them, are planning to reinforce the Maute Group terrorists in Marawi City.
This comes a week after unidentified armed men harassed a military detachment in Bayang, another lakeside town in Lanao del Sur.
The military said soldiers have pushed back the terrorists in Marawi City towards the lake.
Naval assets are guarding the waters to make sure the terrorists cannot escape and reinforcements are not able to enter the battle area in Marawi City.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/183645-philippine-military-air-strikes-lanao-del-sur-bacolod-kalawi
Mautes used bank vaults to hide from air strikes
From Rappler (Sep 28): Mautes used bank vaults to hide from air strikes
'Pinagtaguan yun kapag binobomba sila ng fighter jet eh. Alam kasi nilang matibay yung vault,' says former Maute hostage Lordvin Acopio
The Maute fighters in Marawi City opened the vault of government bank Land Bank of the Philippines inside the battle area, a former hostage revealed.
Former Maute hostage Lordvin Acopio, a teacher at Dansalan College, shared in a tell-all interview how the fighters hid in the vaults when the military conducted air strikes.
"Pinagtaguan yun kapag binobomba sila ng fighter jet eh. Alam kasi nilang matibay yung vault... Malaking vault (They hide inside the vault when the fighter jets are bombarding us. They know it's fortified. It's a big vault)," said Acopio.
Acopio said he doesn't know where they put the money in the vault.
But Acopio could not tell where the Maute fighters placed the money in the vaults. He said he assumed he took them.
The military was scheduled to turn over on Thursday, September 28, 4 vaults recovered from the site.
The government bank was located at the ground floor of the C&D Centerpoint building in the heart of the battle area, one of the Maute strongholds that the military found difficult to retake. It was where Army Captain Rommel Sandoval was killed, the highest ranking official to die in Marawi.
Land Bank served as headquarters and makeshift hospital when Safrullah Medical Hospital fell to government hands.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/183652-maute-landbank-vault-looting
'Pinagtaguan yun kapag binobomba sila ng fighter jet eh. Alam kasi nilang matibay yung vault,' says former Maute hostage Lordvin Acopio
The Maute fighters in Marawi City opened the vault of government bank Land Bank of the Philippines inside the battle area, a former hostage revealed.
Former Maute hostage Lordvin Acopio, a teacher at Dansalan College, shared in a tell-all interview how the fighters hid in the vaults when the military conducted air strikes.
"Pinagtaguan yun kapag binobomba sila ng fighter jet eh. Alam kasi nilang matibay yung vault... Malaking vault (They hide inside the vault when the fighter jets are bombarding us. They know it's fortified. It's a big vault)," said Acopio.
Acopio said he doesn't know where they put the money in the vault.
But Acopio could not tell where the Maute fighters placed the money in the vaults. He said he assumed he took them.
The military was scheduled to turn over on Thursday, September 28, 4 vaults recovered from the site.
The government bank was located at the ground floor of the C&D Centerpoint building in the heart of the battle area, one of the Maute strongholds that the military found difficult to retake. It was where Army Captain Rommel Sandoval was killed, the highest ranking official to die in Marawi.
Land Bank served as headquarters and makeshift hospital when Safrullah Medical Hospital fell to government hands.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/183652-maute-landbank-vault-looting
2 gunmen kill retired soldier
From the Mindanao Times (Sep 28): 2 gunmen kill retired soldier
A RETIRED army officer was shot dead yesterday in Barangay Ula, Tugbok District by a riding in tandem.
Sr. Insp. Maria Theresa Gaspan, spokesperson of Davao City Police Office, said the victim was identified as Remegio Millan, 57, also security guard of San Lorenzo Farm, Barangay Pangyan, Calinan District.
“Prior to the incident, the victim was traversing at Barangay Ula from his work going to his residence at Purok 13, Tugbok when suddenly two unidentified male persons on board a single motorcycle shot the victim several times,” Gaspan said.
The victim was brought to Angel Funeral Homes in Calinan. The authorities are already investigating the incident.
Sr. Insp. Maria Theresa Gaspan, spokesperson of Davao City Police Office, said the victim was identified as Remegio Millan, 57, also security guard of San Lorenzo Farm, Barangay Pangyan, Calinan District.
“Prior to the incident, the victim was traversing at Barangay Ula from his work going to his residence at Purok 13, Tugbok when suddenly two unidentified male persons on board a single motorcycle shot the victim several times,” Gaspan said.
The victim was brought to Angel Funeral Homes in Calinan. The authorities are already investigating the incident.
Sayyafs seize Jolo town official
From the Mindanao Examiner (Sep 28): Sayyafs seize Jolo town official
Abu Sayyaf militants have seized a town official in a daring abduction in Sulu, one of 5 provinces under the troubled Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao in southern Philippines, police said Thursday.
Police said Ezzeddin Soud Tan, a municipal councillor of Jolo, was abducted Wednesday evening in the village of Timbangan in the neighboring town of Indanan. Tan was heading home when gunmen on a red jeep intercepted him.
The abductors sped off toward Talipao town and that police have launched a search for the official. It was unknown how the gunmen managed to sneak into the town without being detected by the police and military in many checkpoints in the province.
Security officials and the mayor of Indanan did not release any statement on the latest abduction. Military and police commanders have previously said that the Abu Sayyaf is now on the run following a series of offensives against the notorious group, blamed by authorities for the spate of ransom kidnappings and terrorism.
The Department of the Interior and Local Government under acting Secretary Catalino Cuy stripped 132 mayors in Sulu and other provinces in the restive region of their police powers for their alleged failure to help authorities or supressed “terrorist acts” perpetrated by the Abu Sayyaf.
But Cuy did not sack police commanders for failing Abu Sayyaf atrocities. Police and military commanders are responsible in running after the Abu Sayyaf and not local government officials. Cuy’s unitary action was met with strong protests by government officials in the Muslim autonomous region.
The supervision by local chief executives over the police was suspended by Cuy in July this year “for their failure to impose measures to suppress terroristic acts and prevent lawless violence in their territories which is inimical to national security and poses serious threat to the lives and security of their constituents.”
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/sayyafs-seize-jolo-town-official/
Abu Sayyaf militants have seized a town official in a daring abduction in Sulu, one of 5 provinces under the troubled Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao in southern Philippines, police said Thursday.
Police said Ezzeddin Soud Tan, a municipal councillor of Jolo, was abducted Wednesday evening in the village of Timbangan in the neighboring town of Indanan. Tan was heading home when gunmen on a red jeep intercepted him.
The abductors sped off toward Talipao town and that police have launched a search for the official. It was unknown how the gunmen managed to sneak into the town without being detected by the police and military in many checkpoints in the province.
Security officials and the mayor of Indanan did not release any statement on the latest abduction. Military and police commanders have previously said that the Abu Sayyaf is now on the run following a series of offensives against the notorious group, blamed by authorities for the spate of ransom kidnappings and terrorism.
The Department of the Interior and Local Government under acting Secretary Catalino Cuy stripped 132 mayors in Sulu and other provinces in the restive region of their police powers for their alleged failure to help authorities or supressed “terrorist acts” perpetrated by the Abu Sayyaf.
But Cuy did not sack police commanders for failing Abu Sayyaf atrocities. Police and military commanders are responsible in running after the Abu Sayyaf and not local government officials. Cuy’s unitary action was met with strong protests by government officials in the Muslim autonomous region.
The supervision by local chief executives over the police was suspended by Cuy in July this year “for their failure to impose measures to suppress terroristic acts and prevent lawless violence in their territories which is inimical to national security and poses serious threat to the lives and security of their constituents.”
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/sayyafs-seize-jolo-town-official/
Pampanga declared 'insurgency-free'
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 26): Pampanga declared 'insurgency-free'
The Philippine Army's 7th Infantry Division (7ID) on Tuesday declared Pampanga as “insurgency-free” and ready for further development.
During the joint meeting of Regional Development Council III (RDC-3) and Regional Peace and Order Council III (RPOC-3) held at Kingsborough International Convention Center here, the declaration was made in view of the continuing progress in the province in terms of economy and tourism and the stakeholders' trust and confidence to its stable peace and order situation.
Lt. Col. George Bergonia of the 48th Infantry Battalion (IB) said that they are working hand-in-hand with the local government to clear more provinces of communist rebels.
“First was Bataan, Pampanga is the second to be declared as insurgent free province and we are hoping that by next year Bulacan will also be declared,"he said.
Governor Lilia Pineda, together with Maj. General Emmanuel B. Salamat, commander of the Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM); Maj. Gen. Angelito M. De Leon, commander of the 7ID of the Philippine Army (PA); Col. Abraham Claro C. Casis, 703 brigade commander; Pampanga Provincial Police Director Joel R. Consulta and Interior and Local Government (DILG) regional director Julie Daquioag marked the event with the signing of a memorandum of agreement (MOA) that reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining the province insurgency-free.
According to Bergonia, the agreement ensures to sustain and integrate internal security measures against Communist Terrorist Movement (CTM) and other organized elements or groups engaged in armed offensive against the government.
He also clarified that pursuit operations against suspected rebels will continue to ensure the safety of the community.
The joint-meeting tackled several concerns, including law enforcement, peace process, public safety, grassroots community development, and disaster response.
It was aimed at maintaining peace and ensuring the safety of the people in the entire Central Luzon region.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010836
The Philippine Army's 7th Infantry Division (7ID) on Tuesday declared Pampanga as “insurgency-free” and ready for further development.
During the joint meeting of Regional Development Council III (RDC-3) and Regional Peace and Order Council III (RPOC-3) held at Kingsborough International Convention Center here, the declaration was made in view of the continuing progress in the province in terms of economy and tourism and the stakeholders' trust and confidence to its stable peace and order situation.
Lt. Col. George Bergonia of the 48th Infantry Battalion (IB) said that they are working hand-in-hand with the local government to clear more provinces of communist rebels.
“First was Bataan, Pampanga is the second to be declared as insurgent free province and we are hoping that by next year Bulacan will also be declared,"he said.
Governor Lilia Pineda, together with Maj. General Emmanuel B. Salamat, commander of the Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM); Maj. Gen. Angelito M. De Leon, commander of the 7ID of the Philippine Army (PA); Col. Abraham Claro C. Casis, 703 brigade commander; Pampanga Provincial Police Director Joel R. Consulta and Interior and Local Government (DILG) regional director Julie Daquioag marked the event with the signing of a memorandum of agreement (MOA) that reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining the province insurgency-free.
According to Bergonia, the agreement ensures to sustain and integrate internal security measures against Communist Terrorist Movement (CTM) and other organized elements or groups engaged in armed offensive against the government.
He also clarified that pursuit operations against suspected rebels will continue to ensure the safety of the community.
The joint-meeting tackled several concerns, including law enforcement, peace process, public safety, grassroots community development, and disaster response.
It was aimed at maintaining peace and ensuring the safety of the people in the entire Central Luzon region.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010836
OPAPP eyes higher budget for road projects in 2018
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 26): OPAPP eyes higher budget for road projects in 2018
The Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) is eyeing a minimum of PHP250 million budget next year to build roads in conflict-stricken areas in the country.
Secretary Jesus Dureza said the office may get higher budget than the proposed amount with the inclusion of integrated development plan formulated by the local government units and submitted to President Rodrigo Duterte.
The proposal is higher than the PHP200 million funding this year for road projects under "Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (Pamana)," the national government’s convergence program that extends development interventions to isolated, hard-to-reach and conflict-affected communities, ensuring that they are not left behind.
“Pamana is our instrument in bringing peace assistance in responding to the needs especially on development of conflict-affected areas,” Dureza told reporters during a press briefing inside the army camp here Monday afternoon.
Dureza was in this city for the peace caravan dialogue in relation to "Peace Month" celebration.
During the dialogue, Dureza has expressed concern over reports that some projects in Samar provinces have been delayed as New People’s Army (NPA) reportedly threatened construction workers and attempted to collect revolutionary taxes from contractors.
“I am here also to look into how this problem can be addressed. Rebels must remember that Pamana projects are not for the government, but for the people. If the NPA are also for the people, they should not be an obstacle of these projects,” Dureza said.
In Samar Island, road projects have been implemented in conflict-affected towns of Matuguinao and San Jose de Buan in Samar province, Maslog and Jipapad in Eastern Samar and Lope de Vega and Silvino Lobos in Northern Samar.
Meanwhile, when asked about resumption of peace talks with communist rebels, he said they are still waiting for the President’s go signal to resume negotiations with the members of the National Democratic Front.
“What the President wants is before we resume peace talks, there should be talks first on the implementation of ceasefire,” Dureza told reporters in a press briefing inside the army camp here.
Attacks launched rebel groups against government forces prompted President Duterte to suspend the peace talk.
“Success of peace talks can be achieved if only members of rebel groups will not attack government forces,” he said.
The cabinet official also urged businessmen to invest in conflict-affected places to spur economic development and achieve lasting peace.
Businessmen should not wait for the place to have better situation, but rather take every opportunity for them to contribute to the peace and development efforts of the government, he said.
“If you will wait first for peace to happen, you are not contributing at all,” Dureza stressed. “They should come simultaneously, while you work for peace there must also be development.”
Dureza cited as example the experience of Datu Paglas, Maguindanao, a fourth class town now producing export quality banana.
He recalled that the town was known in the past for violence, but after a company invested on banana production, local abandoned their guns and start working in banana plantations, not only working there but also protecting their source of income.
Businessmen in Samar provinces should not be hesitant to invest in their hometowns because of insurgency and peace and security problem, he added.
“If you invest in areas that has problem on peace, when the situation get better you benefit the most because you are way ahead their compare to other businessmen,” Dureza explained.
Samar Governor Sharee Ann Tan-de los Santos agreed with Dureza, adding that peace and development is a shared responsibility.
“Peace and development is not only a job of police and military but all sectors in our society. We should not also focus only to local government officials but we must convince other sectors to help,” Tan said.
Tan added that under the Peace and Prosperity Roadmap formulated by the members of the Regional Peace and Order Council, proposed projects focuses on accessibility, but included livelihood development and tourism promotion.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010792
The Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) is eyeing a minimum of PHP250 million budget next year to build roads in conflict-stricken areas in the country.
Secretary Jesus Dureza said the office may get higher budget than the proposed amount with the inclusion of integrated development plan formulated by the local government units and submitted to President Rodrigo Duterte.
The proposal is higher than the PHP200 million funding this year for road projects under "Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (Pamana)," the national government’s convergence program that extends development interventions to isolated, hard-to-reach and conflict-affected communities, ensuring that they are not left behind.
“Pamana is our instrument in bringing peace assistance in responding to the needs especially on development of conflict-affected areas,” Dureza told reporters during a press briefing inside the army camp here Monday afternoon.
Dureza was in this city for the peace caravan dialogue in relation to "Peace Month" celebration.
During the dialogue, Dureza has expressed concern over reports that some projects in Samar provinces have been delayed as New People’s Army (NPA) reportedly threatened construction workers and attempted to collect revolutionary taxes from contractors.
“I am here also to look into how this problem can be addressed. Rebels must remember that Pamana projects are not for the government, but for the people. If the NPA are also for the people, they should not be an obstacle of these projects,” Dureza said.
In Samar Island, road projects have been implemented in conflict-affected towns of Matuguinao and San Jose de Buan in Samar province, Maslog and Jipapad in Eastern Samar and Lope de Vega and Silvino Lobos in Northern Samar.
Meanwhile, when asked about resumption of peace talks with communist rebels, he said they are still waiting for the President’s go signal to resume negotiations with the members of the National Democratic Front.
“What the President wants is before we resume peace talks, there should be talks first on the implementation of ceasefire,” Dureza told reporters in a press briefing inside the army camp here.
Attacks launched rebel groups against government forces prompted President Duterte to suspend the peace talk.
“Success of peace talks can be achieved if only members of rebel groups will not attack government forces,” he said.
The cabinet official also urged businessmen to invest in conflict-affected places to spur economic development and achieve lasting peace.
Businessmen should not wait for the place to have better situation, but rather take every opportunity for them to contribute to the peace and development efforts of the government, he said.
“If you will wait first for peace to happen, you are not contributing at all,” Dureza stressed. “They should come simultaneously, while you work for peace there must also be development.”
Dureza cited as example the experience of Datu Paglas, Maguindanao, a fourth class town now producing export quality banana.
He recalled that the town was known in the past for violence, but after a company invested on banana production, local abandoned their guns and start working in banana plantations, not only working there but also protecting their source of income.
Businessmen in Samar provinces should not be hesitant to invest in their hometowns because of insurgency and peace and security problem, he added.
“If you invest in areas that has problem on peace, when the situation get better you benefit the most because you are way ahead their compare to other businessmen,” Dureza explained.
Samar Governor Sharee Ann Tan-de los Santos agreed with Dureza, adding that peace and development is a shared responsibility.
“Peace and development is not only a job of police and military but all sectors in our society. We should not also focus only to local government officials but we must convince other sectors to help,” Tan said.
Tan added that under the Peace and Prosperity Roadmap formulated by the members of the Regional Peace and Order Council, proposed projects focuses on accessibility, but included livelihood development and tourism promotion.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010792
Military on alert to thwart rescue attempt of BIFF bomber
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 26): Military on alert to thwart rescue attempt of BIFF bomber
MIDSAYAP, North Cotabato -- Authorities here implemented Tuesday full- alert status to secure the detained high-ranking official of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighter (BIFF) arrested by joint military and police operatives on Sunday.
Lt. Colonel Gerry Besana, commander of 6th Civil Military Operations (CMO) Battalion, said intelligence reports showed the outlawed group was out to rescue Muslimin Ladtugan alias Commander “Mus,” a bomb expert of BIFF operating in Central Mindanao.
Supt. Gilbert Tuzon, chief of Midsayap police, said police here have been augmented by police force from provincial office to prevent any attempt to bring the suspect out of detention while waiting for court order where to commit the suspect.
Ladtugan was nabbed in the Army’s 34th IB and Midsayap PNP’s joint law enforcement operation in his residence in Barangay Nabalawag.
The raiding team recovered M14 rifle, two .45 pistol, a Rocket Propelled Grenade (RPG), several ammunition and Improvised Explosive Devices (IED)
Besana said the group of Ladtugan was planning to execute attacks in Maguindanao and North Cotabato to avenge the death of their comrades due to intense operations of military’s Task Force Central and Moro Islamic Liberations Front (MILF’s) Task Force Ittihad (Unity).
Local residents helped the police and military in locating the suspect Monday.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010817
MIDSAYAP, North Cotabato -- Authorities here implemented Tuesday full- alert status to secure the detained high-ranking official of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighter (BIFF) arrested by joint military and police operatives on Sunday.
Lt. Colonel Gerry Besana, commander of 6th Civil Military Operations (CMO) Battalion, said intelligence reports showed the outlawed group was out to rescue Muslimin Ladtugan alias Commander “Mus,” a bomb expert of BIFF operating in Central Mindanao.
Supt. Gilbert Tuzon, chief of Midsayap police, said police here have been augmented by police force from provincial office to prevent any attempt to bring the suspect out of detention while waiting for court order where to commit the suspect.
Ladtugan was nabbed in the Army’s 34th IB and Midsayap PNP’s joint law enforcement operation in his residence in Barangay Nabalawag.
The raiding team recovered M14 rifle, two .45 pistol, a Rocket Propelled Grenade (RPG), several ammunition and Improvised Explosive Devices (IED)
Besana said the group of Ladtugan was planning to execute attacks in Maguindanao and North Cotabato to avenge the death of their comrades due to intense operations of military’s Task Force Central and Moro Islamic Liberations Front (MILF’s) Task Force Ittihad (Unity).
Local residents helped the police and military in locating the suspect Monday.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010817
Deputy police chief, 2 others killed in resto attack
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 27): Deputy police chief, 2 others killed in resto attack
Three people, including a town deputy chief of police, were killed while five others were wounded after unidentified suspects opened fire using automatic rifles at a restaurant in Polomolok town in South Cotabato late Tuesday night.
Chief Insp. Aldrin Gonzales, chief of the Polomolok municipal police station, said the town's deputy police, chief, Sr. Insp. Hernan Gabat, and his two companions have just arrived at Mang Ephoy Lechon House along the national highway in Purok Pag-asa of Barangay Magsaysay at around 11:50 p.m. when two suspects suddenly fired at their direction.
Gabat was actively involved in the local police campaign against illegal drugs.
Gonzales said the police officer came to the restaurant along with barangay councilman Lemuel Cariaga and Rio Salig Sr. of the Bureau of Fire Protection to have late dinner and conduct intelligence monitoring.
But while they were looking for a table, he said "sudden bursts of gunfire" came towards their direction and hit Gabat, his companion Salig, and several other customers.
Cariaga was able to duck and was unharmed, he said.
Gonzales said the 48-year-old Gabat, who was hit on the left side of his body, was declared dead on arrival at the Howard Hubbard Memorial Hospital in Polomolok.
Salig and a customer identified as Karl Plomillo sustained gunshot wounds on the body and died while being treated at the Polomolok Municipal Hospital and the Howard Hubbard Memorial Hospital, respectively.
The wounded customers were identified as Edgar Luzon, 26; Riza Diamante, 36; Jade Silva, 28; Ralyn Pitogo, 18; and, Garizalde Villacora, 45.
Luzon and Silva, who sustained gunshot wounds on the head, were brought to a hospital here and listed in critical condition.
Pitogo was rushed to the South Cotabato Provincial Hospital in Koronadal City, while Villacora was treated for slight wounds on the arm at the Polomolok Municipal Hospitak and was released.
Citing accounts from witnesses, Gonzales said the suspects were positioned at a dark portion of the nearby PMCO road during the shooting.
He said the two suspects were both armed with caliber 5.56 or M-16 Armalite rifles.
After emptying their magazines, he said the two fled aboard a motorcycle towards the direction of PMCO Village in Barangay Magsaysay.
Responding personnel from the Police Regional Office-12's regional crime laboratory recovered at the scene some 30 cartridge cases of caliber 5.56, three metal fragments and one fired slug, he said.
Gonzales said the circumstances of the incident showed that it was planned and Gabat was the main target.
"He was clearly followed by the suspects and they knew the pattern of his movements," he said.
The police official said they are still investigating the possible suspects to find out whether they are affiliated to any group.
But he said they are looking at the attack as possibly "work-related" as Gabat was also the police station's intelligence officer.
He said Gabat, who previously served as the station's officer-in-charge, had led several major operations that led to the arrest of a number of suspects.
The slain police official was also at the forefront of the police station's campaign against illegal drugs in the area.
"He is a big loss to us. We will exert all efforts to resolve this case and at the same continue to do our jobs," Gonzales said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010910
Three people, including a town deputy chief of police, were killed while five others were wounded after unidentified suspects opened fire using automatic rifles at a restaurant in Polomolok town in South Cotabato late Tuesday night.
Chief Insp. Aldrin Gonzales, chief of the Polomolok municipal police station, said the town's deputy police, chief, Sr. Insp. Hernan Gabat, and his two companions have just arrived at Mang Ephoy Lechon House along the national highway in Purok Pag-asa of Barangay Magsaysay at around 11:50 p.m. when two suspects suddenly fired at their direction.
Gabat was actively involved in the local police campaign against illegal drugs.
Gonzales said the police officer came to the restaurant along with barangay councilman Lemuel Cariaga and Rio Salig Sr. of the Bureau of Fire Protection to have late dinner and conduct intelligence monitoring.
But while they were looking for a table, he said "sudden bursts of gunfire" came towards their direction and hit Gabat, his companion Salig, and several other customers.
Cariaga was able to duck and was unharmed, he said.
Gonzales said the 48-year-old Gabat, who was hit on the left side of his body, was declared dead on arrival at the Howard Hubbard Memorial Hospital in Polomolok.
Salig and a customer identified as Karl Plomillo sustained gunshot wounds on the body and died while being treated at the Polomolok Municipal Hospital and the Howard Hubbard Memorial Hospital, respectively.
The wounded customers were identified as Edgar Luzon, 26; Riza Diamante, 36; Jade Silva, 28; Ralyn Pitogo, 18; and, Garizalde Villacora, 45.
Luzon and Silva, who sustained gunshot wounds on the head, were brought to a hospital here and listed in critical condition.
Pitogo was rushed to the South Cotabato Provincial Hospital in Koronadal City, while Villacora was treated for slight wounds on the arm at the Polomolok Municipal Hospitak and was released.
Citing accounts from witnesses, Gonzales said the suspects were positioned at a dark portion of the nearby PMCO road during the shooting.
He said the two suspects were both armed with caliber 5.56 or M-16 Armalite rifles.
After emptying their magazines, he said the two fled aboard a motorcycle towards the direction of PMCO Village in Barangay Magsaysay.
Responding personnel from the Police Regional Office-12's regional crime laboratory recovered at the scene some 30 cartridge cases of caliber 5.56, three metal fragments and one fired slug, he said.
Gonzales said the circumstances of the incident showed that it was planned and Gabat was the main target.
"He was clearly followed by the suspects and they knew the pattern of his movements," he said.
The police official said they are still investigating the possible suspects to find out whether they are affiliated to any group.
But he said they are looking at the attack as possibly "work-related" as Gabat was also the police station's intelligence officer.
He said Gabat, who previously served as the station's officer-in-charge, had led several major operations that led to the arrest of a number of suspects.
The slain police official was also at the forefront of the police station's campaign against illegal drugs in the area.
"He is a big loss to us. We will exert all efforts to resolve this case and at the same continue to do our jobs," Gonzales said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010910
Army starts training new recruits
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 27): Army starts training new recruits
The Army's 10th Infantry Division will start training of 300 lumads from Davao City, Davao provinces and the Socsargen areas.
The 300 lumads are part of the 400 new recruits to undergo a six-month training in basic military training and candidate soldier course at the 10th Infantry Division Academy to become soldiers.
This was revealed by Capt. Rhyan Batchar, spokesperson for the 10th Infantry Division, saying 19 of the 300 lumads are females. The recruitment of the lumads was made after learning that many of them wanted to join the government forces.
Batchar also pointed out that the lumads are vulnerable to the recruitment of the lawless groups. In fact, he said majority of the New People’s Army (NPA) rebels who were arrested or surrendered to the government authorities were lumads.
Asked if the Army consulted the tribal leaders, Batchar said the Army went through the consultation process because they cannot just accept lumads without the recommendation of the tribal leaders, who know the members of their community.
To give the lumads wish to become soldiers, Batchar said some requirements were waived by the Army such as education level, age, and the civil registry documents. The lumads, however, were required to undergo the medical examination.
All the new recruits will serve as soldiers for one term (3 years) and will be given the opportunity to re-enlist for another three years if they want. But, they will have to take the Armed Forces of the Philippines Service Aptitude Test (APSAT) to qualify for another three years of service.
Lt. Col. Norman Alcomindras of the 10th ID G7 said that after training, the lumads will be deployed to different brigades.
Alcomindras also confirmed that the recruitment of lumads went through series of coordination and processes through the Mindanao Indigenous Peoples Conference for Peace and Development (MIPCD) in respect to their culture.
Batchar dismissed impression the lumads will just serve as CAFGUs. He said the lumads will serve as soldiers and they are entitled to free uniforms, accommodation, and other benefits given to a soldier.
Batchar said the advantage of enlisting the lumads is their familiarity with the terrain in the hinterlands.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010960
The Army's 10th Infantry Division will start training of 300 lumads from Davao City, Davao provinces and the Socsargen areas.
The 300 lumads are part of the 400 new recruits to undergo a six-month training in basic military training and candidate soldier course at the 10th Infantry Division Academy to become soldiers.
This was revealed by Capt. Rhyan Batchar, spokesperson for the 10th Infantry Division, saying 19 of the 300 lumads are females. The recruitment of the lumads was made after learning that many of them wanted to join the government forces.
Batchar also pointed out that the lumads are vulnerable to the recruitment of the lawless groups. In fact, he said majority of the New People’s Army (NPA) rebels who were arrested or surrendered to the government authorities were lumads.
Asked if the Army consulted the tribal leaders, Batchar said the Army went through the consultation process because they cannot just accept lumads without the recommendation of the tribal leaders, who know the members of their community.
To give the lumads wish to become soldiers, Batchar said some requirements were waived by the Army such as education level, age, and the civil registry documents. The lumads, however, were required to undergo the medical examination.
All the new recruits will serve as soldiers for one term (3 years) and will be given the opportunity to re-enlist for another three years if they want. But, they will have to take the Armed Forces of the Philippines Service Aptitude Test (APSAT) to qualify for another three years of service.
Lt. Col. Norman Alcomindras of the 10th ID G7 said that after training, the lumads will be deployed to different brigades.
Alcomindras also confirmed that the recruitment of lumads went through series of coordination and processes through the Mindanao Indigenous Peoples Conference for Peace and Development (MIPCD) in respect to their culture.
Batchar dismissed impression the lumads will just serve as CAFGUs. He said the lumads will serve as soldiers and they are entitled to free uniforms, accommodation, and other benefits given to a soldier.
Batchar said the advantage of enlisting the lumads is their familiarity with the terrain in the hinterlands.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010960
Zambo cop killed, 2 others wounded in shooting
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 28): Zambo cop killed, 2 others wounded in shooting
ZAMBOANGA CITY -- Police are conducting investigation to identify the gunman and his cohort behind the killing of a policeman outside a commercial establishment in this city.
Two other people, including a policeman, were injured in the shooting incident that happened at around 5:18 p.m. Tuesday on Agan Avenue in Barangay Camino Nuevo, this city.
Supt. Ariston Limos, Police Station 11 chief, identified the slain policeman as SPO4 Abdurahman Estino, 46, who was assigned in Siocon, Zamboanga del Norte.
Wounded were Estino’s cousin, SPO2 Abdulmunir, 40, assigned in the province of Sulu and Leo Calago, a security guard.
Limos said the Estinos were leaving from a motorcycle shoppe when they were shot by one of two men riding in tandem in a motorcycle that stopped in front of the establishment.
Calago was hit by stray bullet when the gunman, armed with caliber .45 pistol, repeatedly shot the Estinos.
Limos said Abdurahman ran inside the motorcycle shoppe while his cousin, Abdulmunir, towards the nearby gasoline station.
They were later rushed to the nearby hospital where Abdurahman expired while undergoing medical treatment.
Limos said they have already requested a copy of the video captured by the closed circuit television (CCTV) camera of the motorcycle shoppe and that of the nearby establishments to enable them to identify the triggerman and his cohort.
He said that all other possible motives that could also help them solve the case are being looked into and considered by the assigned investigator.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010965
ZAMBOANGA CITY -- Police are conducting investigation to identify the gunman and his cohort behind the killing of a policeman outside a commercial establishment in this city.
Two other people, including a policeman, were injured in the shooting incident that happened at around 5:18 p.m. Tuesday on Agan Avenue in Barangay Camino Nuevo, this city.
Supt. Ariston Limos, Police Station 11 chief, identified the slain policeman as SPO4 Abdurahman Estino, 46, who was assigned in Siocon, Zamboanga del Norte.
Wounded were Estino’s cousin, SPO2 Abdulmunir, 40, assigned in the province of Sulu and Leo Calago, a security guard.
Limos said the Estinos were leaving from a motorcycle shoppe when they were shot by one of two men riding in tandem in a motorcycle that stopped in front of the establishment.
Calago was hit by stray bullet when the gunman, armed with caliber .45 pistol, repeatedly shot the Estinos.
Limos said Abdurahman ran inside the motorcycle shoppe while his cousin, Abdulmunir, towards the nearby gasoline station.
They were later rushed to the nearby hospital where Abdurahman expired while undergoing medical treatment.
Limos said they have already requested a copy of the video captured by the closed circuit television (CCTV) camera of the motorcycle shoppe and that of the nearby establishments to enable them to identify the triggerman and his cohort.
He said that all other possible motives that could also help them solve the case are being looked into and considered by the assigned investigator.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010965
Ex-councilor survives ambush, cops hunt attackers
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 28): Ex-councilor survives ambush, cops hunt attackers
Police have launched manhunt against two men on motorbike who tried, but failed, to assassinate a former Maguindanao town councilor Wednesday afternoon, police said.
Chief Inspector Achmad Alibonga, police chief of Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao, said Thursday Hadji Peda Diocolano Binangon, 61, a resident of Cotabato City, was on board a family-owned vehicle heading toward Cotabato City when ambushed by two men on separate motorbike at around 2 p.m.
The incident happened along a sharp curve road at sitio Tenorio, Barangay Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao, about a kilometer from the Army’s 6th Infantry Division headquarters.
Binangon is president of Association of Barangay Captain of South Upi, Maguindanao and sits as ex-officio member of the town council.
Alibonga said Binangon sustained bullet injuries on his lower torso and is now recuperating at a government hospital here.
“We are not sure of the motive..we are still investigating,” Alibonga said, adding that Binangon has no threat to his life as per statement from his wife.
Apparently, the suspects tailed the victim from South Upi to Cotabato City.
Alibonga said investigators are still determining the identities of the gunmen.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1011072
Police have launched manhunt against two men on motorbike who tried, but failed, to assassinate a former Maguindanao town councilor Wednesday afternoon, police said.
Chief Inspector Achmad Alibonga, police chief of Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao, said Thursday Hadji Peda Diocolano Binangon, 61, a resident of Cotabato City, was on board a family-owned vehicle heading toward Cotabato City when ambushed by two men on separate motorbike at around 2 p.m.
The incident happened along a sharp curve road at sitio Tenorio, Barangay Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao, about a kilometer from the Army’s 6th Infantry Division headquarters.
Binangon is president of Association of Barangay Captain of South Upi, Maguindanao and sits as ex-officio member of the town council.
Alibonga said Binangon sustained bullet injuries on his lower torso and is now recuperating at a government hospital here.
“We are not sure of the motive..we are still investigating,” Alibonga said, adding that Binangon has no threat to his life as per statement from his wife.
Apparently, the suspects tailed the victim from South Upi to Cotabato City.
Alibonga said investigators are still determining the identities of the gunmen.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1011072
MILF vows war vs terror, sides with gov’t
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 28): MILF vows war vs terror, sides with gov’t
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) officially declared that massive manhunt against ISIS-inspired armed group in this province will continue as it expressed support to government’s campaign against terrorism.
Ghazali Jaafar, MILF vice chair for political affairs, on Wednesday said the MILF has no choice but to protect the gains of the Mindanao peace process and the peace agreement it entered into with the Philippine government.
The MILF’s Task Force Al-Ittihad (Unity) has been fighting an ISIS-inspired Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) Esmael Abdulmalik faction after it tried to influence MILF-identified communities in Datu Salibo, Maguindanao.
Both sides have already lost more than 50 fighters in a protracted war that pitted former Moro comrade in arms.
The BIFF broke away from MILF in 2008 after it disagreed with the peace process the MILF had been working with Manila.
“To protect our people, to protect the gains of the peace process, we have to do it,” Jaafar told reporters.
“We side with the government in the Marawi siege and in the fight against Maute and Abu Sayyaf, we will also side with the government,” he added.
Recently, Grand Mufti Abu Huraira Abdulrahman Udasan issued the fatwa (ruling) on the MILF defense position against intrusion by any terror group, even the BIFF who used to be MILF members.
MILF chief negotiator Mohagher Iqbal earlier issued a statement admitting the MILF has to fight the BIFF “because it was trying to destroy Moro communities through its twisted ideology.”
“We are obliged to defend and protect our people,” Iqbal said.
A streamer posted in one of Maguindanao’s major highway read: “Terrorist is the enemy of Islam.”
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010998
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) officially declared that massive manhunt against ISIS-inspired armed group in this province will continue as it expressed support to government’s campaign against terrorism.
Ghazali Jaafar, MILF vice chair for political affairs, on Wednesday said the MILF has no choice but to protect the gains of the Mindanao peace process and the peace agreement it entered into with the Philippine government.
The MILF’s Task Force Al-Ittihad (Unity) has been fighting an ISIS-inspired Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) Esmael Abdulmalik faction after it tried to influence MILF-identified communities in Datu Salibo, Maguindanao.
Both sides have already lost more than 50 fighters in a protracted war that pitted former Moro comrade in arms.
The BIFF broke away from MILF in 2008 after it disagreed with the peace process the MILF had been working with Manila.
“To protect our people, to protect the gains of the peace process, we have to do it,” Jaafar told reporters.
“We side with the government in the Marawi siege and in the fight against Maute and Abu Sayyaf, we will also side with the government,” he added.
Recently, Grand Mufti Abu Huraira Abdulrahman Udasan issued the fatwa (ruling) on the MILF defense position against intrusion by any terror group, even the BIFF who used to be MILF members.
MILF chief negotiator Mohagher Iqbal earlier issued a statement admitting the MILF has to fight the BIFF “because it was trying to destroy Moro communities through its twisted ideology.”
“We are obliged to defend and protect our people,” Iqbal said.
A streamer posted in one of Maguindanao’s major highway read: “Terrorist is the enemy of Islam.”
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010998
Abu men seize Sulu town councilor
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 28): Abu men seize Sulu town councilor
Troops are tracking down the whereabouts of Abu Sayyaf Group members who forcibly seized a town councilor in the province of Sulu, a top military official disclosed Thursday.
Brig. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Joint Task Force Sulu commander, identified the victim as Councilor Ezzedin Suod Tan of Jolo, the province’ capital.
Sobejana said Abu Sayyaf bandits abducted Tan at around 6 p.m. Wednesday at the boundary of Barangays Timbangan and Tagbak in Indanan town.
Sobejana said Tan was with a group of 12 bikers traversing the road between Timbangan and Tagbak when forcibly taken by six ASG members aboard a Tamaraw FX. Tan is a member of the Tausog Bikers Club.
“Accordingly, they were on their way back to Jolo after making a turn at the town of Maimbung,” he told Philippine News Agency through a a text message.
Octavio Dinampo, Save the Sulu Movement spokesperson, disclosed he received information that the abductors of Tan was led by Abu Sayyaf sub-leader Alden Bagadi also known as Sayning.
“Before the abduction occurred, a certain Malik a brother-in law of ASG supporter-financier Abdulsalam Baridji alias Rambo was monitored conducting surveillance and spotted at vicinity of Barangay Timbangan of same municipality (of Indanan),” Dinampo said.
“Information further disclosed that a certain Radzkan; Ajang; and, Najid were identified as the very abductors who forcibly took the victim,” he claimed.
Sobejana said a Crisis Management Committee has been activated to work for the safe recovery of the victim “the soonest possible time.”
“Search and rescue operations are ongoing and we look forward for the victim’s safe rescue,” Sobejana added.
For years, the Abu Sayyaf has thrived in raking ransom money from its kidnapping activities. It is believed that the money is being used to finance their terrorist acts.
President Rodrigo Duterte has ordered the military to intensify its offensive against the ASG on the island provinces of Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.
The Abu Sayyaf bandits splintered into small groups and constantly moving from one municipality to other to avoid detection by military forces.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1011057
Troops are tracking down the whereabouts of Abu Sayyaf Group members who forcibly seized a town councilor in the province of Sulu, a top military official disclosed Thursday.
Brig. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Joint Task Force Sulu commander, identified the victim as Councilor Ezzedin Suod Tan of Jolo, the province’ capital.
Sobejana said Abu Sayyaf bandits abducted Tan at around 6 p.m. Wednesday at the boundary of Barangays Timbangan and Tagbak in Indanan town.
Sobejana said Tan was with a group of 12 bikers traversing the road between Timbangan and Tagbak when forcibly taken by six ASG members aboard a Tamaraw FX. Tan is a member of the Tausog Bikers Club.
“Accordingly, they were on their way back to Jolo after making a turn at the town of Maimbung,” he told Philippine News Agency through a a text message.
Octavio Dinampo, Save the Sulu Movement spokesperson, disclosed he received information that the abductors of Tan was led by Abu Sayyaf sub-leader Alden Bagadi also known as Sayning.
“Before the abduction occurred, a certain Malik a brother-in law of ASG supporter-financier Abdulsalam Baridji alias Rambo was monitored conducting surveillance and spotted at vicinity of Barangay Timbangan of same municipality (of Indanan),” Dinampo said.
“Information further disclosed that a certain Radzkan; Ajang; and, Najid were identified as the very abductors who forcibly took the victim,” he claimed.
Sobejana said a Crisis Management Committee has been activated to work for the safe recovery of the victim “the soonest possible time.”
“Search and rescue operations are ongoing and we look forward for the victim’s safe rescue,” Sobejana added.
For years, the Abu Sayyaf has thrived in raking ransom money from its kidnapping activities. It is believed that the money is being used to finance their terrorist acts.
President Rodrigo Duterte has ordered the military to intensify its offensive against the ASG on the island provinces of Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.
The Abu Sayyaf bandits splintered into small groups and constantly moving from one municipality to other to avoid detection by military forces.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1011057
7 NPA rebels surrender
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 28): 7 NPA rebels surrender
Seven more New People’s Army (NPA) rebels, pressured by the continuous military combat operations, have surrendered in Zamboanga Sibugay province, a top official said Thursday.
Maj. Gen. Rolando Joselito Bautista, Army’s 1st Infantry Division commander, said the rebels surrendered at aroundn 6 a.m. Wednesday at the headquarters of the 102nd Infantry Brigade in Barangay Sanito, Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay.
Bautista identified them as the following: Henry Bawan Becsala alias Natoy; Benbin Gumandag Mandaw alias Lito; Mario Oksik Maghanaoy alias Rex; Lauravel Obaran Niadas alias Maribel; Villa Neadas alias Sandra; Marcelino Gumangay Lavares alias Ruben; and, Joseph Gumangay Lavarez alias Michael.
Becsala, Mandaw, and Maghanaoy have turned-over two AK-47 rifles and a caliber .45 pistol.
“This surrender is a result of the combined intelligence and combat operations being launched by our troops on the ground to employ more pressure and compel the communist terrorists to lay down their arms,” Bautista said.
He said they are undergoing custodial debriefing.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1011148
Seven more New People’s Army (NPA) rebels, pressured by the continuous military combat operations, have surrendered in Zamboanga Sibugay province, a top official said Thursday.
Maj. Gen. Rolando Joselito Bautista, Army’s 1st Infantry Division commander, said the rebels surrendered at aroundn 6 a.m. Wednesday at the headquarters of the 102nd Infantry Brigade in Barangay Sanito, Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay.
Bautista identified them as the following: Henry Bawan Becsala alias Natoy; Benbin Gumandag Mandaw alias Lito; Mario Oksik Maghanaoy alias Rex; Lauravel Obaran Niadas alias Maribel; Villa Neadas alias Sandra; Marcelino Gumangay Lavares alias Ruben; and, Joseph Gumangay Lavarez alias Michael.
Becsala, Mandaw, and Maghanaoy have turned-over two AK-47 rifles and a caliber .45 pistol.
“This surrender is a result of the combined intelligence and combat operations being launched by our troops on the ground to employ more pressure and compel the communist terrorists to lay down their arms,” Bautista said.
He said they are undergoing custodial debriefing.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1011148
Troops overrun BIFF camp
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 28): Troops overrun BIFF camp
Government troops overran a fortified camp of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) following airstrike and artillery bombardment in the province of Maguindanao, a top military officials announced Thursday.
Maj. Gen. Arnel Dela Vega, Joint Task Force Central commander, said the fallen camp of the BIFF is located at Sitio Dagaring, Barangay Tee, Datu Salibu, Maguindanao
Dela Vega said troops from the Army’s 57th Infantry Battalion have recovered a cadaver of a slain BIFF member, four improvised bombs, two-M14 rifles, one M-16 Armalite rifle and a flag of the Islamic State for Iraq and Syria (ISIS) when they overran the camp at around 5:20 p.m. Wednesday.
He said the camp was targeted by airstrike and artillery bombardment while the ground troops and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) members maneuvered towards the fallen BIFF camp.
“Troops thoroughly scoured the area as the joint security campaign with the MILF is sustained to defeat the (BIFF) terrorists,” Dela Vega said.
Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) chief, said that “all means are currently being exhausted with the support of the MILF as combat operations are being launched in the area.”
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1011154
Government troops overran a fortified camp of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) following airstrike and artillery bombardment in the province of Maguindanao, a top military officials announced Thursday.
Maj. Gen. Arnel Dela Vega, Joint Task Force Central commander, said the fallen camp of the BIFF is located at Sitio Dagaring, Barangay Tee, Datu Salibu, Maguindanao
Dela Vega said troops from the Army’s 57th Infantry Battalion have recovered a cadaver of a slain BIFF member, four improvised bombs, two-M14 rifles, one M-16 Armalite rifle and a flag of the Islamic State for Iraq and Syria (ISIS) when they overran the camp at around 5:20 p.m. Wednesday.
He said the camp was targeted by airstrike and artillery bombardment while the ground troops and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) members maneuvered towards the fallen BIFF camp.
“Troops thoroughly scoured the area as the joint security campaign with the MILF is sustained to defeat the (BIFF) terrorists,” Dela Vega said.
Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) chief, said that “all means are currently being exhausted with the support of the MILF as combat operations are being launched in the area.”
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1011154
Lumads joining NPA rise; alarms SoCot execs
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 28): Lumads joining NPA rise; alarms SoCot execs
South Cotabato officials have raised alarm over the rising number of indigenous peoples (IPs) in the province who have been “duped” into joining the New People’s Army (NPA).
South Cotabato Gov. Daisy Avance-Fuentes said Thursday an assessment made by the Provincial Peace and Coordinating Council (PPOC) showed that majority of the members of NPA units currently operating in parts of the province are composed of IPs or lumads.
In some areas, she said only the field commanders or leaders of NPA operating units are non-IPs.
“Nine of every 10 (NPA) cadres in South Cotabato are reportedly lumads and that is a sad situation,” Fuentes said.
The governor said such assessment was backed by reports from concerned stakeholders and security personnel.
The province’s main tribal groups are the B’laans and T’bolis, who are mostly settled in remote upland villages.
Lt. Col. Benjamin Leander, commander of the Army’s 27th Infantry Battalion, confirmed that the NPA’s recruitment activities among the IPs in the area have intensified these past months.
He said they monitored the recruitment activities, which carried out by members of the NPA’s Front 73, in parts of Banga, T’boli and Lake Sebu towns.
The official said some of the recruits were minors who were promised of salaries reaching P5,000 a month and other support for their families.
“These were never realized and remained promises so some of them eventually decided to surrender,” he said.
Owing to this, Fuentes said there is need for the local government to step up its engagements with the IP communities, especially those in remote areas.
"This is a challenge for to focus our services and programs on the IPs and our Muslim communities," she said.
She said efforts are underway to expand the local government’s convergence outreach activities to more IP communities.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1011069
South Cotabato officials have raised alarm over the rising number of indigenous peoples (IPs) in the province who have been “duped” into joining the New People’s Army (NPA).
South Cotabato Gov. Daisy Avance-Fuentes said Thursday an assessment made by the Provincial Peace and Coordinating Council (PPOC) showed that majority of the members of NPA units currently operating in parts of the province are composed of IPs or lumads.
In some areas, she said only the field commanders or leaders of NPA operating units are non-IPs.
“Nine of every 10 (NPA) cadres in South Cotabato are reportedly lumads and that is a sad situation,” Fuentes said.
The governor said such assessment was backed by reports from concerned stakeholders and security personnel.
The province’s main tribal groups are the B’laans and T’bolis, who are mostly settled in remote upland villages.
Lt. Col. Benjamin Leander, commander of the Army’s 27th Infantry Battalion, confirmed that the NPA’s recruitment activities among the IPs in the area have intensified these past months.
He said they monitored the recruitment activities, which carried out by members of the NPA’s Front 73, in parts of Banga, T’boli and Lake Sebu towns.
The official said some of the recruits were minors who were promised of salaries reaching P5,000 a month and other support for their families.
“These were never realized and remained promises so some of them eventually decided to surrender,” he said.
Owing to this, Fuentes said there is need for the local government to step up its engagements with the IP communities, especially those in remote areas.
"This is a challenge for to focus our services and programs on the IPs and our Muslim communities," she said.
She said efforts are underway to expand the local government’s convergence outreach activities to more IP communities.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1011069
NBI warns Bohol bizmen vs extort tries
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 28): NBI warns Bohol bizmen vs extort tries
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) here warned local businessmen on Wednesday about extortionists who pose as members of rebel groups.
Lawyer Rennan Oliva issued the warning during the Bohol Provincial Peace and Order Council meeting at the People’s Mansion here after the local NBI has received a number of extortion complaints.
According to reports, some extortionists have asked businessmen to pay the so-called "revolutionary tax" or give aid to the revolutionary activities of the communist guerillas or rebels affiliated to Muslim extremists.
Businessmen have reportedly been contacted by the extortion ring either by calls or text messages via their cellular phones, Oliva said.
Oliva said the calls or texts were sent from outside Bohol, particularly Mindanao.
"Be wary of that," Oliva warned. He advised the businessmen to report any instance of extortion and refuse to give in to the demands of the callers.
The NBI became aware of the situation after some businessmen were subjected to an extort try by alleged members of the New People's Army and ISIS.
The local police have also started their own investigation following the increasing number of complaints lodged by local businessmen.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1011119
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) here warned local businessmen on Wednesday about extortionists who pose as members of rebel groups.
Lawyer Rennan Oliva issued the warning during the Bohol Provincial Peace and Order Council meeting at the People’s Mansion here after the local NBI has received a number of extortion complaints.
According to reports, some extortionists have asked businessmen to pay the so-called "revolutionary tax" or give aid to the revolutionary activities of the communist guerillas or rebels affiliated to Muslim extremists.
Businessmen have reportedly been contacted by the extortion ring either by calls or text messages via their cellular phones, Oliva said.
Oliva said the calls or texts were sent from outside Bohol, particularly Mindanao.
"Be wary of that," Oliva warned. He advised the businessmen to report any instance of extortion and refuse to give in to the demands of the callers.
The NBI became aware of the situation after some businessmen were subjected to an extort try by alleged members of the New People's Army and ISIS.
The local police have also started their own investigation following the increasing number of complaints lodged by local businessmen.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1011119
Give US enough time to return Balangiga bells: Duterte
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 28): Give US enough time to return Balangiga bells: Duterte
President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday said the Philippines is giving the United States government enough time to return the Balangiga bells taken by American soldiers 116 years ago.
“They are looking for ways how to get out of this problem because it remains to be not only a source of irritation, but also a source of painful reaction of what really happened to our countrymen,” Duterte said during the 116th commemoration of the Balangiga Encounter.
Speaking before thousands of local officials and townsfolk at a covered court in this town late afternoon, Duterte said the process is “not that easy.”
“Those things will only be returned with the permission of US Congress and if the President will approve it. We give them enough time. The Americans say that they are processing it. I hope that the US Congress will give President Trump the authority to return the bells,” he said.
He assured that there is an ongoing negotiation and the US government is trying to figure out how to return the bells.
“To them, it is like a war trophy, but if you will look at it, it cost a lot of innocent lives. Just return it and we will be happy. We’re not angry at you,” the President said.
The President, however, acknowledged that the US has been making efforts to repay the damages brought by US occupation in the country.
“I’d rather be friendly to Americans now because the Americans redeemed themselves a lot... They helped us a lot. They were engaged here during the Japanese occupation. I would not say that they are saviors, but they are our allies,” he added.
“Even today, the Americans provided crucial equipment to our soldiers fighting terrorists in Marawi.”
The Chief Executive admitted that he turned emotional when he demanded for the return of the bells during his State of the Nation Address on July 24.
“I was under advise by DFA (Department of Foreign Affairs) to temper my language and avoid cursing, which I am prone to do if I get emotional,” he said.
This advice prompted him to be friendlier to the US, he said.
Aside from recalling the heroism of Filipinos in Balangiga, the President also reiterated his administration’s staunch war against illegal drugs in his one-hour speech that concluded at 5:30 p.m.
The President arrived in town past 4:00 p.m. and left around 5:45 p.m.
More than 150 residents, mostly schoolchildren, prepared an hour-long reenactment, but the President left before the presentation started.
Before he ended his speech, Duterte vowed to confer the Order of Lapu-Lapu to the family of local warriors who fought the Americans.
The Order of Lapu-Lapu, created through Executive Order No. 17, is to be awarded to officials, government personnel, and private citizens "in recognition of invaluable or extraordinary service in relation to a campaign or advocacy of the President."
The Balangiga Encounter happened on Sept. 28, 1901, when town residents led by Valeriano Abanador initiated an attack against US soldiers while having breakfast.
Around 2,500 Filipinos were killed by the US retaliatory attack. The Americans took the Balangiga bells as war trophies.
Until now, the three bells are still in the custody of the US government. Two of the bells are at the FE Warren Air Force Base in Cheyenne, Wyoming, while one is located in the 9th US Infantry Regiment in Camp Red Cloud in South Korea.
Previous attempts made by the past presidents and even by the Catholic Church to return the Balangiga Bells to the country were all unsuccessful.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1011166
President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday said the Philippines is giving the United States government enough time to return the Balangiga bells taken by American soldiers 116 years ago.
“They are looking for ways how to get out of this problem because it remains to be not only a source of irritation, but also a source of painful reaction of what really happened to our countrymen,” Duterte said during the 116th commemoration of the Balangiga Encounter.
Speaking before thousands of local officials and townsfolk at a covered court in this town late afternoon, Duterte said the process is “not that easy.”
“Those things will only be returned with the permission of US Congress and if the President will approve it. We give them enough time. The Americans say that they are processing it. I hope that the US Congress will give President Trump the authority to return the bells,” he said.
He assured that there is an ongoing negotiation and the US government is trying to figure out how to return the bells.
“To them, it is like a war trophy, but if you will look at it, it cost a lot of innocent lives. Just return it and we will be happy. We’re not angry at you,” the President said.
The President, however, acknowledged that the US has been making efforts to repay the damages brought by US occupation in the country.
“I’d rather be friendly to Americans now because the Americans redeemed themselves a lot... They helped us a lot. They were engaged here during the Japanese occupation. I would not say that they are saviors, but they are our allies,” he added.
“Even today, the Americans provided crucial equipment to our soldiers fighting terrorists in Marawi.”
The Chief Executive admitted that he turned emotional when he demanded for the return of the bells during his State of the Nation Address on July 24.
“I was under advise by DFA (Department of Foreign Affairs) to temper my language and avoid cursing, which I am prone to do if I get emotional,” he said.
This advice prompted him to be friendlier to the US, he said.
Aside from recalling the heroism of Filipinos in Balangiga, the President also reiterated his administration’s staunch war against illegal drugs in his one-hour speech that concluded at 5:30 p.m.
The President arrived in town past 4:00 p.m. and left around 5:45 p.m.
More than 150 residents, mostly schoolchildren, prepared an hour-long reenactment, but the President left before the presentation started.
Before he ended his speech, Duterte vowed to confer the Order of Lapu-Lapu to the family of local warriors who fought the Americans.
The Order of Lapu-Lapu, created through Executive Order No. 17, is to be awarded to officials, government personnel, and private citizens "in recognition of invaluable or extraordinary service in relation to a campaign or advocacy of the President."
The Balangiga Encounter happened on Sept. 28, 1901, when town residents led by Valeriano Abanador initiated an attack against US soldiers while having breakfast.
Around 2,500 Filipinos were killed by the US retaliatory attack. The Americans took the Balangiga bells as war trophies.
Until now, the three bells are still in the custody of the US government. Two of the bells are at the FE Warren Air Force Base in Cheyenne, Wyoming, while one is located in the 9th US Infantry Regiment in Camp Red Cloud in South Korea.
Previous attempts made by the past presidents and even by the Catholic Church to return the Balangiga Bells to the country were all unsuccessful.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1011166
RDC Calabarzon beefs up outreach programs vs insurgency
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 28): RDC Calabarzon beefs up outreach programs vs insurgency
The Regional Development Council (RDC) in Calabarzon has intensified its series of outreach activities and intervention projects and programs in keeping the region's peace and order and help address insurgency issues.
In its report released on Thursday, the RDC has planned to conduct outreach activities among the 45 convergence areas in the region.
The outreach activities are aimed at raising the visibility of national agencies and development partners and improve delivery of public goods and services to constituents in geographically-isolated and disadvantaged areas.
The report said these programs are in support to the government efforts to address the root causes of insurgency.
RDC has already conducted an outreach activity in Barangays Bamban, Landing and Mapulot in Tagkawayan, Quezon last month.
It assessed that specific areas in Tagkawayan, Quezon are vulnerable to the influence of insurgents due to poverty and inaccessibility of communities for government services.
During the activity, programs and services of participating agencies were launched for public awareness.
School and dental supplies, nutritional snacks, milk, cupcakes and slippers were distributed to some 1,020 students.
The far-flung engagement also provided medical and dental services to students and parents.
Planting materials, seeds and malongs were also given to parents while laptops, desktops, umbrellas and bags were turned over to school officials.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1011132
The Regional Development Council (RDC) in Calabarzon has intensified its series of outreach activities and intervention projects and programs in keeping the region's peace and order and help address insurgency issues.
In its report released on Thursday, the RDC has planned to conduct outreach activities among the 45 convergence areas in the region.
The outreach activities are aimed at raising the visibility of national agencies and development partners and improve delivery of public goods and services to constituents in geographically-isolated and disadvantaged areas.
The report said these programs are in support to the government efforts to address the root causes of insurgency.
RDC has already conducted an outreach activity in Barangays Bamban, Landing and Mapulot in Tagkawayan, Quezon last month.
It assessed that specific areas in Tagkawayan, Quezon are vulnerable to the influence of insurgents due to poverty and inaccessibility of communities for government services.
During the activity, programs and services of participating agencies were launched for public awareness.
School and dental supplies, nutritional snacks, milk, cupcakes and slippers were distributed to some 1,020 students.
The far-flung engagement also provided medical and dental services to students and parents.
Planting materials, seeds and malongs were also given to parents while laptops, desktops, umbrellas and bags were turned over to school officials.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1011132
PH using 3-pronged strategy to defeat terrorism
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 27): PH using 3-pronged strategy to defeat terrorism
The Philippines is using a three-pronged strategy to defeat the threats posed by terrorism to help ensure there is no repeat of the ongoing crisis in Marawi City.
The Philippines is using a three-pronged strategy to defeat the threats posed by terrorism to help ensure there is no repeat of the ongoing crisis in Marawi City.
This was emphasized by Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana in a briefing late Tuesday.
Fighting in Marawi City is now on its fourth month following the foiled attempt to arrest Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon and his cohorts last May 23.
"And as a response to these threats, the Philippines is adopting a three-pronged strategy -- One, stopping the incursion of foreign terrorist elements and flow of financial and material support into the country," the DND chief said.
"Two, countering the spread of 'radical ideology' into the Philippines and identifying and resolving the root causes of radicalization among our people; and Three, improving intelligence and security operations and cooperating with the global community in fighting violent extremism," he added.
As of this posting, Maute Group terrorists killed in the ongoing fighting are now at 707 while civilians killed and executed by the lawless elements are now placed at 47.
Slain government troops are now at 151 and captured enemy weapons at 698 while rescued civilians are now at 1,730.
BRP Andres Bonifacio to join maritime training in Malaysia
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 27): BRP Andres Bonifacio to join maritime training in Malaysia
One of the Philippine Navy (PN)'s most capable warships, the BRP Andres Bonifacio (FF-17), will be participating in this year's Maritime Training Activity (MTA) MALPHI LAUT 20-17 slated Oct. 16-25 at the Kuantan Naval Base in Malaysia.
The ship and her crew, comprised of 200 officers and enlisted personnel, will be departing Pier 13 of the Manila South Harbor on Saturday, Navy spokesperson Capt. Lued Lincuna said Wednesday.
The ship, one of the three ex-Hamilton class cutters acquired by Navy, is capable of speed up to 25 knots and armed with a 76-mm Oto Melara automatic cannon.
Prior to her attendance to MTA MALPHI LAUT, BRP Andres Bonifacio will first proceed to Maura, Brunei Darussalam to participate in the Golden Jubilee Celebration of the Sultanate.
Lincuna said departure ceremonies will be presided by PN chief-of-naval staff Rear Admiral Allan Ferdinand V. Cusi.
MTA MALPHI LAUT is an annual bilateral exercise between PN and Royal Malaysian Navy to enhance inter-operability, working relationship and camaraderie through the conduct of coordinated maritime patrol training focusing on common maritime threats and other illegal maritime activities in both countries.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010915
One of the Philippine Navy (PN)'s most capable warships, the BRP Andres Bonifacio (FF-17), will be participating in this year's Maritime Training Activity (MTA) MALPHI LAUT 20-17 slated Oct. 16-25 at the Kuantan Naval Base in Malaysia.
The ship and her crew, comprised of 200 officers and enlisted personnel, will be departing Pier 13 of the Manila South Harbor on Saturday, Navy spokesperson Capt. Lued Lincuna said Wednesday.
The ship, one of the three ex-Hamilton class cutters acquired by Navy, is capable of speed up to 25 knots and armed with a 76-mm Oto Melara automatic cannon.
Prior to her attendance to MTA MALPHI LAUT, BRP Andres Bonifacio will first proceed to Maura, Brunei Darussalam to participate in the Golden Jubilee Celebration of the Sultanate.
Lincuna said departure ceremonies will be presided by PN chief-of-naval staff Rear Admiral Allan Ferdinand V. Cusi.
MTA MALPHI LAUT is an annual bilateral exercise between PN and Royal Malaysian Navy to enhance inter-operability, working relationship and camaraderie through the conduct of coordinated maritime patrol training focusing on common maritime threats and other illegal maritime activities in both countries.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1010915
PH, US discuss joint exercises in Hawaii
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 28): PH, US discuss joint exercises in Hawaii
Ranking Filipino military officials are now in Hawaii to discuss with their American counterparts possible joint exercises that will be held in the Philippines.
This was disclosed by Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana when asked what joint military exercises the Philippines can conduct with its American allies following the successful conclusion of "Tempest Wind" on Tuesday.
Tempest Wind, which focused solely on anti-terrorism drills, started on Sept. 18 at various locations in the Philippines and Hawaii.
"The exercises to be held next year is (now) being discussed in Hawaii with the (AFP) chief-of-staff (Gen. Eduardo Año) and some of the Philippine commanders. They all went to Hawaii to attend the MDB-SEB (Mutual Defense Board-Security Engagement Board) with their counterpart and they will discuss there what exercises (that) will be pursued, what will be removed and what will be downgraded," Lorenzana said.
Updates of the matter will be given by the AFP chief once he returns home next week, he added.
One of the well-known Philippines-US joint military exercises is the annual "Balikatan" where Filipino and American troops conduct drills to enhance their inter-operability in various scenarios including humanitarian assistance and disaster response, anti-terrorism, to name a few.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1011034
Ranking Filipino military officials are now in Hawaii to discuss with their American counterparts possible joint exercises that will be held in the Philippines.
This was disclosed by Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana when asked what joint military exercises the Philippines can conduct with its American allies following the successful conclusion of "Tempest Wind" on Tuesday.
Tempest Wind, which focused solely on anti-terrorism drills, started on Sept. 18 at various locations in the Philippines and Hawaii.
"The exercises to be held next year is (now) being discussed in Hawaii with the (AFP) chief-of-staff (Gen. Eduardo Año) and some of the Philippine commanders. They all went to Hawaii to attend the MDB-SEB (Mutual Defense Board-Security Engagement Board) with their counterpart and they will discuss there what exercises (that) will be pursued, what will be removed and what will be downgraded," Lorenzana said.
Updates of the matter will be given by the AFP chief once he returns home next week, he added.
One of the well-known Philippines-US joint military exercises is the annual "Balikatan" where Filipino and American troops conduct drills to enhance their inter-operability in various scenarios including humanitarian assistance and disaster response, anti-terrorism, to name a few.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1011034
Terrorism among topics in ASEAN defense ministers’ meet
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 28): Terrorism among topics in ASEAN defense ministers’ meet
Countering the threats posed by terrorism is one of the main topics in the upcoming 11th ASEAN Defense Ministers Meeting (ADMM) and 4th ADMM-Plus meeting, said Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Thursday.
The event, which will be held Oct. 23 to 24, will be held at Clark Field, Pampanga.
"One (of the topics in the coming ADMM) is counter-terrorism, one is climate mitigation, drug problems, and of course, we are going to have some statements also on the resolution of the conflicts within the West Philippine Sea," he noted.
Lorenzana said he is hopeful that ASEAN nations will have a unified statement on these matters.
Aside from ASEAN members, the DND chief said that dialogues will also be held with eight other nations which include the US, China, Russia, South Korea, New Zealand, Australia, India, and Japan.
"It is now, more than ever, that all countries must come together to unite against terrorism and violent extremism. the global war on terror cannot succeed if we do not explore avenues for cooperation and mutual exchanges," the DND chief earlier said.
Lorenzana also pointed out that as a community of nations, every country must do its fair share against terrorism since these problems go beyond borders and national boundaries.
"Violence in one country can spread to another, with far reaching consequences in regional peace, security, and trade," he said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1011115
Countering the threats posed by terrorism is one of the main topics in the upcoming 11th ASEAN Defense Ministers Meeting (ADMM) and 4th ADMM-Plus meeting, said Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Thursday.
The event, which will be held Oct. 23 to 24, will be held at Clark Field, Pampanga.
"One (of the topics in the coming ADMM) is counter-terrorism, one is climate mitigation, drug problems, and of course, we are going to have some statements also on the resolution of the conflicts within the West Philippine Sea," he noted.
Lorenzana said he is hopeful that ASEAN nations will have a unified statement on these matters.
Aside from ASEAN members, the DND chief said that dialogues will also be held with eight other nations which include the US, China, Russia, South Korea, New Zealand, Australia, India, and Japan.
"It is now, more than ever, that all countries must come together to unite against terrorism and violent extremism. the global war on terror cannot succeed if we do not explore avenues for cooperation and mutual exchanges," the DND chief earlier said.
Lorenzana also pointed out that as a community of nations, every country must do its fair share against terrorism since these problems go beyond borders and national boundaries.
"Violence in one country can spread to another, with far reaching consequences in regional peace, security, and trade," he said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1011115
Surrendering Maute Group bandits to be spared
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 28): Surrendering Maute Group bandits to be spared
With fighting in Marawi City expected to end soon, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Thursday said lives of surrendering Maute Group terrorists will be spared.
He made this statement after Lanao Del Sur 2nd District Rep. Mauyag Papandayan told him that some of the surviving terrorists have expressed their willingness to surrender.
"I told him (Papandayan) no problem, in fact Western Mindanao Command troops are going around with bullhorns daily in Marawi City (urging them to surrender). If they want to surrender, then they must come out with their hands up and our soldiers will not kill them, our troops don't kill surrendering people," Lorenzana said in Filipino.
And once these terrorists surrender, the DND chief said it is up to the courts to determine what kind of charges and sanctions to be meted against them.
Earlier, Lorenzana said Maute Group resistance in Marawi City could crumble within three days time after another enclave of the terrorists, the White Mosque, was captured earlier Thursday.
He also estimated the remaining bandits to be around less than 100.
As of this posting, Maute Group terrorists killed in the ongoing fighting are now at 707 while civilians killed and executed by the lawless elements are placed at 47. Slain government troops are at 151 and captured enemy weapons at 698 while rescued civilians are at 1,730.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1011130
With fighting in Marawi City expected to end soon, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Thursday said lives of surrendering Maute Group terrorists will be spared.
He made this statement after Lanao Del Sur 2nd District Rep. Mauyag Papandayan told him that some of the surviving terrorists have expressed their willingness to surrender.
"I told him (Papandayan) no problem, in fact Western Mindanao Command troops are going around with bullhorns daily in Marawi City (urging them to surrender). If they want to surrender, then they must come out with their hands up and our soldiers will not kill them, our troops don't kill surrendering people," Lorenzana said in Filipino.
And once these terrorists surrender, the DND chief said it is up to the courts to determine what kind of charges and sanctions to be meted against them.
Earlier, Lorenzana said Maute Group resistance in Marawi City could crumble within three days time after another enclave of the terrorists, the White Mosque, was captured earlier Thursday.
He also estimated the remaining bandits to be around less than 100.
As of this posting, Maute Group terrorists killed in the ongoing fighting are now at 707 while civilians killed and executed by the lawless elements are placed at 47. Slain government troops are at 151 and captured enemy weapons at 698 while rescued civilians are at 1,730.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1011130
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