From MindaNews (Nov 9): 5 NPAs arrested in Lake Sebu operation
Joint police and Army operatives arrested five suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in an operation on Monday afternoon at an outskirt village in Lake Sebu town in South Cotabato, belated reports said.
Sr. Supt Franklin Alvero, South Cotabato police director, said in a report Wednesday the suspects were nabbed around 4 p.m. by joint elements from the Lake Sebu municipal police station and the Army’s 27th Infantry Battalion at a checkpoint in Sitio Datal Ligaw in Barangay Tasiman.
He said the five alleged rebels were members of Platoon Samsung of the NPA’s Guerrilla Front 73 operating in parts of South Cotabato, Sarangani and Sultan Kudarat provinces.
Arrested were Encarnacion Comelio Sangco, 53, of Barangay Lambak, Senator Ninoy Aquino, Sultan Kudarat; Ronald Kulaman Joland alias Karding, 19, Joey Inson Salon alias Jack/Jordan, 24, and Hanna Blasan Adam, all residents of Sitio Datal Ligaw, Barangay Tasiman; and Bryan Dialoring Muca alias Brown, 21, of Barangay Kabasagan, Matanao, Davao del Sur.
Seized from the suspects were two grenades, a caliber .45 handgun loaded with five bullets, a 9mm pistol with five bullets and a caliber .357 pistol with three bullets.
Alvero said Sangco is reportedly the wife of Kumander Billy, the known leader of Platoon Samsung.
The official said Lake Sebu police station and the 27IB launched the “police visibility and prophylactic patrol” in the area after receiving reports regarding the presence of the NPA rebels.
He said the rebels were intercepted while passing a joint police and Army checkpoint along a major road in Barangay Tasiman.
“The team was able to surprise them so they were not able to put up any resistance,” he said in a radio interview.
Alvero said the suspects, who are currently detained at the Lake Sebu municipal police station, would be charged with violation of Republic Act (RA) 10591 for illegal possession of firearms and ammunition and RA 9516 for possession of explosives.
He said they sent additional personnel to the Lake Sebu police station to augment security at the facility.
The official sad he alerted all police stations and units within the province’s 10 towns and lone city for possible retaliatory attacks from the rebels as a result of the incident.
http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2017/11/5-npas-arrested-in-lake-sebu-operation/
Thursday, November 9, 2017
MNLF-Misuari: Photos - MNLF Women's Auxiliary, Jaban Nur, Lanao del Sur
Posted to the Facebook page of Ustadz Murshi Ibrahin, Secretary General of the MNLF -Misuari (Nov 8): Photos - MNLF Women's Auxiliary, Jaban Nur, Lanao del Sur
MANGA MUJAHIDAT O MNLF SA JABAN NUR, RANAO DEL SUR SA PAGOLOANAN O PAGARI TANO A SE GENERAL ALEX LAGAWA. PREPARADO SUPORTAHAN IRAN SO KAPAPATAGAN A GOBERNO SAGUNA NI PRESIDENTI DUTERTE AGO PROGRAMA NIAN MAPANTAG KO FEDERALISM ( THEY ARE THE AUXILIARY FORCES OF THE MNLF ON JABAR NUR (MT. OF LIGHT) IN LANAO DEL SUR UNDER THE COMMAND OF GEN. ALEX LAGAWA. THEY ARE STAUNCH AND DEDICATED SUPPORTERS OF PRES DUTERTE WITH HIS CORE AGENDA ON FEDERALISM.
MANGA MUJAHIDAT O MNLF SA JABAN NUR, RANAO DEL SUR SA PAGOLOANAN O PAGARI TANO A SE GENERAL ALEX LAGAWA. PREPARADO SUPORTAHAN IRAN SO KAPAPATAGAN A GOBERNO SAGUNA NI PRESIDENTI DUTERTE AGO PROGRAMA NIAN MAPANTAG KO FEDERALISM ( THEY ARE THE AUXILIARY FORCES OF THE MNLF ON JABAR NUR (MT. OF LIGHT) IN LANAO DEL SUR UNDER THE COMMAND OF GEN. ALEX LAGAWA. THEY ARE STAUNCH AND DEDICATED SUPPORTERS OF PRES DUTERTE WITH HIS CORE AGENDA ON FEDERALISM.
MNLF-Misuari: Photos - MNLF Women's Auxiliary, Jaban Nur, Lanao del Sur
Posted to the Facebook page of Ustadz Murshi Ibrahin, Secretary General of the MNLF -Misuari (Nov 8): Photos - MNLF Women's Auxiliary, Jaban Nur, Lanao del Sur
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=554408308243525&set=pcb.554408361576853&type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=554408348243521&set=pcb.554408361576853&type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/ustadzmurshi.ibrahim.3?hc_ref=PAGES_TIMELINE&fref=nf
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=554408308243525&set=pcb.554408361576853&type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=554408348243521&set=pcb.554408361576853&type=3&theater
https://www.facebook.com/ustadzmurshi.ibrahim.3?hc_ref=PAGES_TIMELINE&fref=nf
MILF: Editorial - Disturbing development!
Editorial posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Nov 9): Editorial - Disturbing development!
The Middle East, nay Muslim countries, are burning and in shambles. Iraq, Syria, Libya, Lebanon, and Palestine are devastated by wars. There is also the Saudi-Yemen conflict, the war in Afghanistan, the conflict involving several Muslims states such as Qatar, Bahrain, United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia, and the Saudi-Iran war of words. All these conflagrations put the future of the Muslim world in complete question mark.
Even Turkey and Iran, which possessed old civilizations and were once empires, are also under constant threat both from within and without. Pakistan is not an exception. It is also beleaguered from all sides and is ceaselessly castigated for allegedly supporting the Taliban. But the real reason is because it is a nuclear power.
There are thousands of leaders in this region, no doubt about it. But in the strict sense the Muslim world lacks real, nay effective, leaders; or maybe the enemies of Islam are so powerful that they effectively play one Muslim state against another.
Surely, the enemies of Islam will not cease until they take complete control of the Muslim world. This is evident everywhere. This explains also why Islam is also under non-stop demolition and attack.
Be this as it may, the most disturbing of all is the internal in-fighting involving the ruling Saudi family. Saudi Arabia is the centre of the Muslim world. The two holy places of Islam are here namely, the Kaaba in Mecca and the Prophet’s mosque in Madina. Every year, millions of Muslim all over the world perform their pilgrimage and visited these places.
The infighting is reportedly part of the sweeping purge, billed as a campaign against corruption. Dozens of senior figures including princes, ministers and a top business tycoon were already arrested. One of the princes arrested is the prominent billionaire Al-Waleed bin Talal. Separately, the head of the Saudi National Guard, once a leading contender to the throne, as well as the navy chief and the economy minister were replaced in a series of high-profile sackings that sent shock waves throughout the kingdom.
Of course, we have no right to dip our fingers into this controversy, because all our Muslims and it is their internal matter. The most that we can do is to pray to Allah that they would be able to settle their problems swiftly and justly.
The early settlement of this conflict is a collective interest of the Muslim world. The delay, on the other hand, would only benefit those who rejoice at Muslims’ sufferings!
And the saddest part, however, is that while the Arabs are cutting each other throats, Israel, the symbol of the Western world unjust foreign policy, is laughing to its heart full. What it cannot do it itself, the Arabs are doing it for them.
When will this disunity, so much bloodshed, and destruction in the Muslim world end? Will this situation last up to the coming of Imam Mahdi whom the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW) had prophesied to come when Muslims are severely oppressed in every corner of the world?
Imam Mahdi, the prophesy continued, will fight the oppressors, unite the Muslims, bring peace and justice to the world, rule over the Arabs, and lead a prayer in Mecca at which Jesus Christ (pbuh) will be present. (Muslims also believe in the second coming of Jesus Christ).
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1079/disturbing-development-
The Middle East, nay Muslim countries, are burning and in shambles. Iraq, Syria, Libya, Lebanon, and Palestine are devastated by wars. There is also the Saudi-Yemen conflict, the war in Afghanistan, the conflict involving several Muslims states such as Qatar, Bahrain, United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia, and the Saudi-Iran war of words. All these conflagrations put the future of the Muslim world in complete question mark.
Even Turkey and Iran, which possessed old civilizations and were once empires, are also under constant threat both from within and without. Pakistan is not an exception. It is also beleaguered from all sides and is ceaselessly castigated for allegedly supporting the Taliban. But the real reason is because it is a nuclear power.
There are thousands of leaders in this region, no doubt about it. But in the strict sense the Muslim world lacks real, nay effective, leaders; or maybe the enemies of Islam are so powerful that they effectively play one Muslim state against another.
Surely, the enemies of Islam will not cease until they take complete control of the Muslim world. This is evident everywhere. This explains also why Islam is also under non-stop demolition and attack.
Be this as it may, the most disturbing of all is the internal in-fighting involving the ruling Saudi family. Saudi Arabia is the centre of the Muslim world. The two holy places of Islam are here namely, the Kaaba in Mecca and the Prophet’s mosque in Madina. Every year, millions of Muslim all over the world perform their pilgrimage and visited these places.
The infighting is reportedly part of the sweeping purge, billed as a campaign against corruption. Dozens of senior figures including princes, ministers and a top business tycoon were already arrested. One of the princes arrested is the prominent billionaire Al-Waleed bin Talal. Separately, the head of the Saudi National Guard, once a leading contender to the throne, as well as the navy chief and the economy minister were replaced in a series of high-profile sackings that sent shock waves throughout the kingdom.
Of course, we have no right to dip our fingers into this controversy, because all our Muslims and it is their internal matter. The most that we can do is to pray to Allah that they would be able to settle their problems swiftly and justly.
The early settlement of this conflict is a collective interest of the Muslim world. The delay, on the other hand, would only benefit those who rejoice at Muslims’ sufferings!
And the saddest part, however, is that while the Arabs are cutting each other throats, Israel, the symbol of the Western world unjust foreign policy, is laughing to its heart full. What it cannot do it itself, the Arabs are doing it for them.
When will this disunity, so much bloodshed, and destruction in the Muslim world end? Will this situation last up to the coming of Imam Mahdi whom the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW) had prophesied to come when Muslims are severely oppressed in every corner of the world?
Imam Mahdi, the prophesy continued, will fight the oppressors, unite the Muslims, bring peace and justice to the world, rule over the Arabs, and lead a prayer in Mecca at which Jesus Christ (pbuh) will be present. (Muslims also believe in the second coming of Jesus Christ).
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1079/disturbing-development-
MILF: Radicalism and violent extremism is driven by hopelessness due to government’s failure to address long-standing societal problems: Dr. Dipatuan
Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Nov 9): Radicalism and violent extremism is driven by hopelessness due to government’s failure to address long-standing societal problems: Dr. Dipatuan
IN PHOTO- Dr. Safrullah M. Dipatuan, BDA Chairman delivering his message during the opening program of the agency’s Planning Workshop on the Prevention of Violent extremism in Bangsamoro on November 7, 2017 at Microtel, Davao City
The Planning Workshop on Community-based Prevention of Violent Extremism spearheaded by the Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA) formally started on November 7, 2017 at Microtel, Davao City.
The opening program was graced by the Chair of the MILF Peace Implementing Panel Mohagher M. Iqbal, and other prominent personalities, while participants are representatives of various sectors of Bangsamoro Society, etc. The Asia Foundation (TAF) and the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue (CHD) are sponsoring the activity.
In his Opening Remarks, BDA Chairman Dr. Saffrullah M. Dipatuan described the 5-month long Marawi Siege as a “holocaust of sort with soldiers and police utilized more than 60% of their military might to fight the rebels”.
“The artillery fires, helicopter gunships and aerial bombings destroyed civilian houses, private hospitals and schools and other public infrastructures”, Dr. Dipatuan said.
“In fact, many people including Marawi residents complained of an over-kill. This is the reason cited by those who claim that in the Marawi siege the government may have won the battle but, definitely, not the war”, he added.
In his remarks, Dr. Dipatuan said that “One of the most serious problems staring us in the eyes today is the emergence of terrorism and violent extremism that is being promoted mischievously in the name of Islam by radical groups exemplified by Daesh or ISIS”.
He described radicalism and violent extremism in the Philippines as “driven by hopelessness due to government’s failure to address long-standing societal problems such as injustices suffered by Indigenous Peoples including the Bangsamoro, abject poverty, unchecked graft and corruption in all levels of government bureaucracy, poor delivery of basic services, widespread trafficking”.
Violent extremism in the Muslim world, he said is relatively a new phenomenon. It is preceded by violent extremism in the west.
“Marawi City is home to more than 200,000 people with more than 90% of the residents are Muslims belonging to the Mranaw or Maranao tribe, the 2nd most populous of the 13 ethnic Muslim tribes in the Philippines. It is the most conservative Muslim place in Mindanao. It is the religious, economic and educational capital of the entire Province of Lanao del Sur”, Dr. Dipatuan said.
Dr. Dipatuan enumerated the reasons why Marwi was chosen by the ISIS-inspired Maute Group:
1. The choice of Marawi is crucial in the plan because the rural setting where houses are distantly located from each other is not a good condition for the siege. Marawi is the only urban city in Lanao Del Sur that makes it a perfect site for the attack.
2. The second reason for choosing Marawi is because of the fact that it is the only Islamic City in the entire Philippines. It is relatively peaceful. Big wars in the past spared Marawi for obvious reasons. So any violent incident that will happen in Marawi will make news and catch the attention of local and international media.
3. The third reason is that these rebel groups plan to derail the on-going peace talks between the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. They believe that the creation of a Bangsamoro Government is a major hindrance to their plan of establishing a Wilayat of ISIS in this part of Southeast Asia. This is because any group creating violence and chaos after the establishment of the Bangsamoro government will face a formidable alliance of the Philippine military and police, on one hand, and the combined forces of the MILF and MNLF, on the other hand.
According to one estimate, it will take years – perhaps 70 – to restore Marawi to what it used to be. The devastation is so huge and widespread, as it looks like the picture of Manila after its liberation in World War II, with not one building left unscathed in the main battle zone where the Islamic Dawlah (Maute) rebels and their ISIS cohorts made their last stand, D. Dipatuan also said.
“The national and local government must be serious about addressing the abovementioned long standing societal problems such as injustices committed against Indigenous Communities including the Bangsamoro, poverty, criminalities, graft and corruption, drug abuse and trafficking, etc”, he stressed.
“In the context of the Bangsamoro areas, the government must grab this opportunity to once and for all pass the BTC-drafted Bangsamoro Basic Law in order to address hopelessness and frustration that are pushing our people to embrace terrorism and violent extremism. It will be a national disaster if the government misses this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity”, Dr. Dipatuan further sad.
- - - - - - - -
[Dr. Saffrullah M. Dipatuan is the Chairman of Bangsamoro Development Agency, Provincial Chief Executive Officer, MILF’s United Bangsamoro Justice Party, Province of Lanao del Sur and Chairman/Chief of Hospital, SMD General Hospital, Marawi City .]
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1076/radicalism_and_violent_extremism_is_driven_by_hopelessness_due_to_government___s_failure_to_address_long_standing_societal_problems__dr__dipatuan
IN PHOTO- Dr. Safrullah M. Dipatuan, BDA Chairman delivering his message during the opening program of the agency’s Planning Workshop on the Prevention of Violent extremism in Bangsamoro on November 7, 2017 at Microtel, Davao City
The Planning Workshop on Community-based Prevention of Violent Extremism spearheaded by the Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA) formally started on November 7, 2017 at Microtel, Davao City.
The opening program was graced by the Chair of the MILF Peace Implementing Panel Mohagher M. Iqbal, and other prominent personalities, while participants are representatives of various sectors of Bangsamoro Society, etc. The Asia Foundation (TAF) and the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue (CHD) are sponsoring the activity.
In his Opening Remarks, BDA Chairman Dr. Saffrullah M. Dipatuan described the 5-month long Marawi Siege as a “holocaust of sort with soldiers and police utilized more than 60% of their military might to fight the rebels”.
“The artillery fires, helicopter gunships and aerial bombings destroyed civilian houses, private hospitals and schools and other public infrastructures”, Dr. Dipatuan said.
“In fact, many people including Marawi residents complained of an over-kill. This is the reason cited by those who claim that in the Marawi siege the government may have won the battle but, definitely, not the war”, he added.
In his remarks, Dr. Dipatuan said that “One of the most serious problems staring us in the eyes today is the emergence of terrorism and violent extremism that is being promoted mischievously in the name of Islam by radical groups exemplified by Daesh or ISIS”.
He described radicalism and violent extremism in the Philippines as “driven by hopelessness due to government’s failure to address long-standing societal problems such as injustices suffered by Indigenous Peoples including the Bangsamoro, abject poverty, unchecked graft and corruption in all levels of government bureaucracy, poor delivery of basic services, widespread trafficking”.
Violent extremism in the Muslim world, he said is relatively a new phenomenon. It is preceded by violent extremism in the west.
“Marawi City is home to more than 200,000 people with more than 90% of the residents are Muslims belonging to the Mranaw or Maranao tribe, the 2nd most populous of the 13 ethnic Muslim tribes in the Philippines. It is the most conservative Muslim place in Mindanao. It is the religious, economic and educational capital of the entire Province of Lanao del Sur”, Dr. Dipatuan said.
Dr. Dipatuan enumerated the reasons why Marwi was chosen by the ISIS-inspired Maute Group:
1. The choice of Marawi is crucial in the plan because the rural setting where houses are distantly located from each other is not a good condition for the siege. Marawi is the only urban city in Lanao Del Sur that makes it a perfect site for the attack.
2. The second reason for choosing Marawi is because of the fact that it is the only Islamic City in the entire Philippines. It is relatively peaceful. Big wars in the past spared Marawi for obvious reasons. So any violent incident that will happen in Marawi will make news and catch the attention of local and international media.
3. The third reason is that these rebel groups plan to derail the on-going peace talks between the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. They believe that the creation of a Bangsamoro Government is a major hindrance to their plan of establishing a Wilayat of ISIS in this part of Southeast Asia. This is because any group creating violence and chaos after the establishment of the Bangsamoro government will face a formidable alliance of the Philippine military and police, on one hand, and the combined forces of the MILF and MNLF, on the other hand.
According to one estimate, it will take years – perhaps 70 – to restore Marawi to what it used to be. The devastation is so huge and widespread, as it looks like the picture of Manila after its liberation in World War II, with not one building left unscathed in the main battle zone where the Islamic Dawlah (Maute) rebels and their ISIS cohorts made their last stand, D. Dipatuan also said.
“The national and local government must be serious about addressing the abovementioned long standing societal problems such as injustices committed against Indigenous Communities including the Bangsamoro, poverty, criminalities, graft and corruption, drug abuse and trafficking, etc”, he stressed.
“In the context of the Bangsamoro areas, the government must grab this opportunity to once and for all pass the BTC-drafted Bangsamoro Basic Law in order to address hopelessness and frustration that are pushing our people to embrace terrorism and violent extremism. It will be a national disaster if the government misses this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity”, Dr. Dipatuan further sad.
- - - - - - - -
[Dr. Saffrullah M. Dipatuan is the Chairman of Bangsamoro Development Agency, Provincial Chief Executive Officer, MILF’s United Bangsamoro Justice Party, Province of Lanao del Sur and Chairman/Chief of Hospital, SMD General Hospital, Marawi City .]
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1076/radicalism_and_violent_extremism_is_driven_by_hopelessness_due_to_government___s_failure_to_address_long_standing_societal_problems__dr__dipatuan
MILF: Bangsamoro Assembly will push through on Nov 26-27: BTC Chairman
Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Nov 8): Bangsamoro Assembly will push through on Nov 26-27: BTC Chairman
The Chairman of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) issued on Tuesday (Nov 7) a statement announcing that the convening of the Bangsamoro Assembly will push through on November 26-27.
“This is to officially inform all concerned that the holding of the Bangsamoro Assembly will push through this coming November 26 and 27 at the Old Provincial Capitol Compound in Crossing Simway, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao, BTC Chairman Ghazali Jaafar said.
The Bangsamoro Assembly was set on November 3 to 4 but it was postponed due to reasons beyond control.
The statement further said that the arrival of delegates and participants will be on November 26 while the program proper will be on November 27.
“We are encouraging the Bangsamoros, indigenous peoples and Christian settlers to attend this historic event that would mark our common aspiration to have genuine peace in our homeland,” said Jaafar.
The BTC created Working Committees that handle the preparations for the upcoming event which seeks to gather a million people that will signify support to the passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL).
The BBL is measure that seeks to establish a meaningful autonomous Bangsamoro political entity that will replace the current Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
The BTC chair expressed thanks to those supporting the Bangsamoro Assembly and further urged help for the dissemination of the announcement.
For any inquiries regarding the event, the BTC Secretariat may be contacted through mobile number 0917-674-8011 or through email at bangsamoroassembly@gmail.com.
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1077/bangsamoro-assembly-will-push-through-on-nov-26-27--btc-chairman-
The Chairman of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) issued on Tuesday (Nov 7) a statement announcing that the convening of the Bangsamoro Assembly will push through on November 26-27.
“This is to officially inform all concerned that the holding of the Bangsamoro Assembly will push through this coming November 26 and 27 at the Old Provincial Capitol Compound in Crossing Simway, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao, BTC Chairman Ghazali Jaafar said.
The Bangsamoro Assembly was set on November 3 to 4 but it was postponed due to reasons beyond control.
The statement further said that the arrival of delegates and participants will be on November 26 while the program proper will be on November 27.
“We are encouraging the Bangsamoros, indigenous peoples and Christian settlers to attend this historic event that would mark our common aspiration to have genuine peace in our homeland,” said Jaafar.
The BTC created Working Committees that handle the preparations for the upcoming event which seeks to gather a million people that will signify support to the passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL).
The BBL is measure that seeks to establish a meaningful autonomous Bangsamoro political entity that will replace the current Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
The BTC chair expressed thanks to those supporting the Bangsamoro Assembly and further urged help for the dissemination of the announcement.
For any inquiries regarding the event, the BTC Secretariat may be contacted through mobile number 0917-674-8011 or through email at bangsamoroassembly@gmail.com.
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1077/bangsamoro-assembly-will-push-through-on-nov-26-27--btc-chairman-
MILF: ‘Changing the problematic government structure is possible thru the BBL’
Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Nov 8): ‘Changing the problematic government structure is possible thru the BBL’
Prof. Alih S. Aiyub giving inputs on Philippine Politics and Governance System in the continuing Youth Leadership Training Program. Photo by Cocoy Paradan
A Moro professor said that the passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) that is compliant with the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) could bring the much needed change on the problematic government structure and system.
Prof. Alih S. Aiyub underscored during his lecture to the participants of the Bangsamoro Youth Leadership Training at Ever-O Hotel, Zamboanga City on November 07, 2017 the importance of passing the BBL that shall pave the way for the establishment of a meaningful autonomous government attuned to the socio- cultural, political, and religious sensitivity of the Bangsamoro people.
Aiyub discussed the current state of Philippine politics and governance and the important parts of history that led into it.
He narrated the history of the Bangsamoro people starting on the rule of the sultanates and the subsequent colonization of the Spaniards wherein the empire governance was introduced.
He also talked about the occupation of the Americans and their utilization of Neo-colonialism to subjugate the region.
“At the end of American occupation, the democratic and presidential system of governance was established in the Philippines and this unitary system of governance provided a highly-centralized structure where all decisions come from the National government,” he said.
Aiyub also clarified that even though the purpose of creating a local government unit is the devolution and decentralization of power, in reality there is only a delegation of administrative powers.
Further in his lecture, he discussed about the three branches of government and its respective functions and explained that “even though these three branches should provide check and balance to each other, there is actually no direct monitoring from the legislative branch on the implementation of projects by the executive and this cause a certain lack of accountability.”
“The proposed Bangsamoro law seeks to address the lack of accountability mechanisms by changing the system from a unitary form to a parliamentary form of government,” said Aiyub.
He added, “The Bangsamoro government will also adopt a party-system in electing its government officials where the focus would be on the platforms and not on the popularity of the candidates.”
In the end, the Moro professor encouraged the youth participants to study the BBL so they can advocate it to their fellow youth.
He reiterated the importance of the support of the youth sector on the BBL because they constitute the majority of the voting population.
As stipulated in the CAB, the passage into law of the BBL is the sole responsibility of the Philippine government.
CAB concluded the 17-year peace talks between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front which primarily seeks to put an end to the decades of armed conflict in Southern Philippines.
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1078/___changing_the_problematic_government_structure_is_possible_thru_the_bbl___
Prof. Alih S. Aiyub giving inputs on Philippine Politics and Governance System in the continuing Youth Leadership Training Program. Photo by Cocoy Paradan
A Moro professor said that the passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) that is compliant with the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) could bring the much needed change on the problematic government structure and system.
Prof. Alih S. Aiyub underscored during his lecture to the participants of the Bangsamoro Youth Leadership Training at Ever-O Hotel, Zamboanga City on November 07, 2017 the importance of passing the BBL that shall pave the way for the establishment of a meaningful autonomous government attuned to the socio- cultural, political, and religious sensitivity of the Bangsamoro people.
Aiyub discussed the current state of Philippine politics and governance and the important parts of history that led into it.
He narrated the history of the Bangsamoro people starting on the rule of the sultanates and the subsequent colonization of the Spaniards wherein the empire governance was introduced.
He also talked about the occupation of the Americans and their utilization of Neo-colonialism to subjugate the region.
“At the end of American occupation, the democratic and presidential system of governance was established in the Philippines and this unitary system of governance provided a highly-centralized structure where all decisions come from the National government,” he said.
Aiyub also clarified that even though the purpose of creating a local government unit is the devolution and decentralization of power, in reality there is only a delegation of administrative powers.
Further in his lecture, he discussed about the three branches of government and its respective functions and explained that “even though these three branches should provide check and balance to each other, there is actually no direct monitoring from the legislative branch on the implementation of projects by the executive and this cause a certain lack of accountability.”
“The proposed Bangsamoro law seeks to address the lack of accountability mechanisms by changing the system from a unitary form to a parliamentary form of government,” said Aiyub.
He added, “The Bangsamoro government will also adopt a party-system in electing its government officials where the focus would be on the platforms and not on the popularity of the candidates.”
In the end, the Moro professor encouraged the youth participants to study the BBL so they can advocate it to their fellow youth.
He reiterated the importance of the support of the youth sector on the BBL because they constitute the majority of the voting population.
As stipulated in the CAB, the passage into law of the BBL is the sole responsibility of the Philippine government.
CAB concluded the 17-year peace talks between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front which primarily seeks to put an end to the decades of armed conflict in Southern Philippines.
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1078/___changing_the_problematic_government_structure_is_possible_thru_the_bbl___
DWDD: FLYING COLORS | PAF flew thousands of sorties, troops in Marawi
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Nov 7): FLYING COLORS | PAF flew thousands of sorties, troops in Marawi
COL JESUS VILLAMOR AIRBASE, Pasay City (DWDD) – The Philippine Air Force conducted 1,358 sorties, flew a total of 4,950 hours, transported 6,716 soldiers and police, and extricated and evacuated hundreds of wounded out of harm’s way in its operations against the Daesh-inspired Maute terror group in Marawi City,
According to PAF Commanding General Lieutenant General Galileo Gerard Kintanar Jr., these airmen demonstrated air power that was felt, seen and used round-the-clock, whenever, wherever. They symbolize the Air Force at its finest hour, and the airmen at their greatest defining moment in recent memory,
Around 1,007 airmen were involved in the operations including pilots, forward air controllers, and support personnel to included the Philippine Forward Air Controllers (PFACS), the Explosives Ordnance Division specialists, the snipers, combat engineers, the maintenance crew, the medics and the mobile kitchen staff. All of them took part as Team AFP.
The PAF’s air campaign, saw the flights of its modern air assets like the FA-50s and the AW-109s, the sharpest tip of their airpower spear. They also utilized the reliable OV-10 Broncos, the MG-520 Defenders, and the SF-260 Warriors for close air support; UH-1 Hueys, the Bell-412 combat utility helicopters, and the Sokols for tactical air mobility, rescue and case evacuation; C-130s and the C-295s that transported close to 7,000 soldiers and marines to the battle area.
It cannot be discounted that PAF officers and personnel have stories of gallantry, bravery, boldness, daring, and sacrifice during their sorties and work.
“Some of our comrades’ stories will be written and retold, some will be heard, and some will fall into oblivion. But the powerful imagery etched in the minds of our people is these aircraft that dominated the air. And the memories that will be forever embedded in our history – in the advent of social, print and news media, will be the valiant airmen, soldiers and marines who joined forces together and responded to the call of duty for the past five months” Kintanar said. AES/MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/11/07/flying-colors-paf-flew-thousands-of-sorties-troops-in-marawi/
COL JESUS VILLAMOR AIRBASE, Pasay City (DWDD) – The Philippine Air Force conducted 1,358 sorties, flew a total of 4,950 hours, transported 6,716 soldiers and police, and extricated and evacuated hundreds of wounded out of harm’s way in its operations against the Daesh-inspired Maute terror group in Marawi City,
According to PAF Commanding General Lieutenant General Galileo Gerard Kintanar Jr., these airmen demonstrated air power that was felt, seen and used round-the-clock, whenever, wherever. They symbolize the Air Force at its finest hour, and the airmen at their greatest defining moment in recent memory,
Around 1,007 airmen were involved in the operations including pilots, forward air controllers, and support personnel to included the Philippine Forward Air Controllers (PFACS), the Explosives Ordnance Division specialists, the snipers, combat engineers, the maintenance crew, the medics and the mobile kitchen staff. All of them took part as Team AFP.
The PAF’s air campaign, saw the flights of its modern air assets like the FA-50s and the AW-109s, the sharpest tip of their airpower spear. They also utilized the reliable OV-10 Broncos, the MG-520 Defenders, and the SF-260 Warriors for close air support; UH-1 Hueys, the Bell-412 combat utility helicopters, and the Sokols for tactical air mobility, rescue and case evacuation; C-130s and the C-295s that transported close to 7,000 soldiers and marines to the battle area.
It cannot be discounted that PAF officers and personnel have stories of gallantry, bravery, boldness, daring, and sacrifice during their sorties and work.
“Some of our comrades’ stories will be written and retold, some will be heard, and some will fall into oblivion. But the powerful imagery etched in the minds of our people is these aircraft that dominated the air. And the memories that will be forever embedded in our history – in the advent of social, print and news media, will be the valiant airmen, soldiers and marines who joined forces together and responded to the call of duty for the past five months” Kintanar said. AES/MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/11/07/flying-colors-paf-flew-thousands-of-sorties-troops-in-marawi/
DWDD: THE FEW THE PROUD | PRRD at PMC 67th Anniversary
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Nov 7): THE FEW THE PROUD | PRRD at PMC 67th Anniversary
MARINE BARRACKS RUDIARDO BROWN, Bonifacio Naval Station, Taguig City (DWDD) – President Rodrigo Roa Duterte troops the line during his attendance in launching of Department of Agriculture’s (DA) ‘Karne, Isda Supply Suporta sa Masa at Ekonomiya’ (KISS ME) Project and the 67th Birthday of the Philippine Marine Corps at the Bonifacio Naval Station in Fort Andres Bonifacio, Taguig City on November 7, 2017. PCOO/MCAG
https://web.facebook.com/presidentialcom/videos/1930383420324643/
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/11/07/the-few-the-proud-prrd-at-pmc-67th-anniversary/
MARINE BARRACKS RUDIARDO BROWN, Bonifacio Naval Station, Taguig City (DWDD) – President Rodrigo Roa Duterte troops the line during his attendance in launching of Department of Agriculture’s (DA) ‘Karne, Isda Supply Suporta sa Masa at Ekonomiya’ (KISS ME) Project and the 67th Birthday of the Philippine Marine Corps at the Bonifacio Naval Station in Fort Andres Bonifacio, Taguig City on November 7, 2017. PCOO/MCAG
https://web.facebook.com/presidentialcom/videos/1930383420324643/
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/11/07/the-few-the-proud-prrd-at-pmc-67th-anniversary/
Ex-student leader, 2 other suspected NPA rebels killed in clash with Army troops in Capiz
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Nov 8): Ex-student leader, 2 other suspected NPA rebels killed in clash with Army troops in Capiz
Remy Beraye, a former student leader, was among those killed in a clash with Army troops. (Contributed photo)
Three suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA), one of them a former student leader, was killed in a clash with Army troops in Capiz province on Tuesday afternoon.
Remy Beraye, a political science graduate of the West Visayas State University (WVSU) in Iloilo City, died in an hour-long clash with troops of the Army’s 61st Infantry Battalion (61st IB) in Sitio Tigpaka Daku in Barangay Putian in Cuartero town.
Beraye, 43, was vice chairperson of the WVSU University Student Council and chair of the militant student group League of Filipino Students, according to his profile in the Spire, the university yearbook.
The two others were identified as Federico Diaz of Cuartero and Alan Lerona, a resident of Mambusao town.
No casualties were reported among the government troops.
Lt. Col Sisenando Magbalot Jr., 61st IB commander, said Diaz was the vice commander and Lerona was the finance officer of the 30-member rebel unit that clashed with the same number of soldiers.
Magbalot said the encounter happened after soldiers responded to reports that rebels were conducting “extortion activities” in the area.
Soldiers seized from the slain suspects an AK-47 rifle, an M16 rifle, a grenade, two laptop computers, cellphones, and personal belongings.
He said the death of the alleged rebel leaders was “big blow” to the NPA in Panay.
In a post on its Facebook page, the underground rebel newspaper Daba-Daba lauded the three rebels.
“Red salute Ka Val, Ka Bong, Ka Remy. The people’s army and the masses will draw strength, determination and resoluteness from the wisdom, abilities, and life you have sacrificed in defeating the enemy,” according to the post.
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/944021/army-npa-clash-capiz-romy-beraye
Remy Beraye, a former student leader, was among those killed in a clash with Army troops. (Contributed photo)
Three suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA), one of them a former student leader, was killed in a clash with Army troops in Capiz province on Tuesday afternoon.
Remy Beraye, a political science graduate of the West Visayas State University (WVSU) in Iloilo City, died in an hour-long clash with troops of the Army’s 61st Infantry Battalion (61st IB) in Sitio Tigpaka Daku in Barangay Putian in Cuartero town.
Beraye, 43, was vice chairperson of the WVSU University Student Council and chair of the militant student group League of Filipino Students, according to his profile in the Spire, the university yearbook.
The two others were identified as Federico Diaz of Cuartero and Alan Lerona, a resident of Mambusao town.
No casualties were reported among the government troops.
Lt. Col Sisenando Magbalot Jr., 61st IB commander, said Diaz was the vice commander and Lerona was the finance officer of the 30-member rebel unit that clashed with the same number of soldiers.
Magbalot said the encounter happened after soldiers responded to reports that rebels were conducting “extortion activities” in the area.
Soldiers seized from the slain suspects an AK-47 rifle, an M16 rifle, a grenade, two laptop computers, cellphones, and personal belongings.
He said the death of the alleged rebel leaders was “big blow” to the NPA in Panay.
In a post on its Facebook page, the underground rebel newspaper Daba-Daba lauded the three rebels.
“Red salute Ka Val, Ka Bong, Ka Remy. The people’s army and the masses will draw strength, determination and resoluteness from the wisdom, abilities, and life you have sacrificed in defeating the enemy,” according to the post.
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/944021/army-npa-clash-capiz-romy-beraye
Opinion: IS in the Philippines (Part 1)
Opinion piece by Lito Monico C. Lorezana in the Manila Times (Nov 9): IS in the Philippines (Part 1)
Part 1 – Genesis of IS
IN the afternoon of May 23, 2017, a joint police and military operation was conducted to serve a warrant of arrest on the terrorist Isnilon Hapilon, leader of the dreaded Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), in what was thought to be merely a walk in the park. A heavy firefight ensued. National security adviser Hermogenes Esperon declared that “the AFP was in full control of the situation.” This was echoed by Armed Forces Chief Gen. Eduardo Año. This was not true! The government forces were clueless. That same evening, the IS flag was flying over parts of Marawi, considered the Philippines’ only Islamic city. It was a total failure of intelligence. DU30 cut short his Moscow state visit and declared martial law in the entire island of Mindanao.
Facts intermittently filtered out through the haze of battle. The Maute, a small terrorist group headed by two brothers led a series of attacks upon the failure of government to arrest Hapilon. This was a different ball game being played by the terrorists as they have shifted strategy; from the usual kidnap-for-ransom (KFR), extortion and bombings to an all-out control of territory. The same strategy the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (IS) employed in Mosul in Iraq and Raqqa in Syria. The Maute and ASG combined under the leadership of Hapilon was to establish a caliphate in Marawi under the “Emir” Hapilon. This is the first major incident that saw the emergence of the IS. It was obvious that they have been preparing for months, digging tunnels between houses and buildings and stocking up on guns, ammunition, logistics and even cash.
The government was caught flatfooted and this exacted a terrible toll. Marawi was devastated almost beyond recognition and would take months if not years to rehabilitate costing billions of pesos: 168 military personnel gave up their lives; thousands of “collateral damage” of dead civilians; and hundreds of thousands more displaced Marawi residents called “bakwit.”
“Ladies and Gentlemen, I hereby declare Marawi liberated, from the terrorists’ influence that marks the beginning of rehabilitation,” Duterte proclaimed on October 17, the 148th day of the Marawi fighting. This prompted former President PNoy to later gloat, comparing statistics. The Mamasapano encounter, on which Pnoy’s reputation was tattered, lasted 24 hours, exacted 44 lives of the Philippine Special Action Force (SAF) that went in to capture the terrorist Zulkifli Abdhir. No city was obliterated and there was minimal displacement of residents.
Al-Qaida and IS
According to a book co-written by US journalist Michael Weiss and Hassan Hassan, a Syrian political analyst, the pedigree of IS comes from various strains of faith-based Islamic groups, various terrorist fundamentalists and nationalists of many shades coming from the Levant around the Mediterranean basin.
In the aftermath of al-Qaida’s September 11, 2001 attack on New York’s Twin Towers, America with its NATO allies decided to invade Afghanistan to capture Osama bin Laden and destroy his al-Qaida network. They failed but toppled the terrorist’s sponsor, the Taliban government. Subsequently, a US-led coalition in 2003 invaded Iraq, the region’s sponsor of terrorist groups, although it was not involved in the 9/11 Twin Tower attacks, under the pretext that it had weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and the fear that it was going to farm these out to international terrorists like al-Qaida.
After the blitzkrieg invasion, Iraq was tragically managed by the conquering armies. The collapse of the Ba’athist government and the execution of President Saddam Hussein produced a vacuum that precipitated sectarian violence between the minority but politically dominant Sunni (Saddam was a Sunni) and the Shias. Saddam’s disappearance from the scene wreaked havoc on the fragile balance of political accommodation that for years had kept the peace between the two major Islamic strands. In the chaos, various Sunni, Shia and other ethnicities formed sectarian militias principally to protect families, clans and tribal interests against the others. The expulsion of the invading US-led Western “infidels, unbelievers and enemies of Islam” (jihad) was a common goal. But later, the appearance of a deadlier extremist Islamic jihadist, Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, working in tandem at first with Osama bin Laden, expanded Islamic extremism and reoriented their targets. IS champions Sunni minority in Iraq, the persecuted Sunni majority against the Alawite dictatorship in Syria and the encroachment of Russia, the Gulf States and the US, the Shias in Iran and “Iran’s satrapy in Baghdad.”
IS was bent on the elimination of national boundaries, redrawing the map and bringing back the 13th century idea of the Sunni-led caliphate of an Islamic empire “reaching Spain again and defeat the armies of Rome.” IS spokesman Abu Muhamad al-Adnani declared that killing disbelievers abroad, including Muslims allied with the West or against the Islamic State and salafism (irreconcilability of Islamic Faith with western-style democracy and modernity) are core tenets.
The two founders of these deadly Islamic extremist groups were both assassinated by the Americans; al-Zarqawi in 2006 through an F16 laser- guided 500-lb bomb and Osama bin Laden in 2011 by the Special Forces and Seal Team Six. They are now gone but they have spawned a coterie of zealots, a cancer that could metastasize worldwide by establishing franchises swearing their allegiance to IS.
The swift sacking of Mosul, a province in Iraq of two million, and Raqqa, a predominantly Sunni populated city in Syria, redirected the attention of the jihadists towards IS; which reflected the declining influence of al-Qaida’s brand and the ascendancy of IS. Also, Al-Zarqawi understood the power of the marriage of mass media and horror. Images of public televised beheading became the “de rigueur” in its propaganda and recruitment. These tools of terror were employed to establish a pattern for IS to hold territories and their people; although it held these areas only for three years (2014-2017), IS established a modicum of government administration extending public services and even health care for the remaining citizens. It was in Mosul that al-Zarqawi’s heir, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, proclaimed the birth of the Caliphate. But deadlier was the influx of foreign jihadists to Mosul and Raqqa to fight for IS. This was perhaps the IS template for future expansion of the Islamic Caliphate.
This loss in IS territories and the marked contraction of the caliphate produced an unintended chilling effect. Foreign jihadists (those from other Muslim countries outside of Iraq and Syria) heeding the call of the caliphate came in droves to train and fight in Iraq and Syria. The highly trained and motivated survivors may now have to use their deadly skills; skills to bomb, maim and kill, where it is needed most. A new battlefield—in a new country.
Among the dead jihadists in Marawi were those from Saudi Arabia, Morocco, Chechnya, Yemen, Indonesia, Malaysia. (Part 2—IS in the Philippines—Marawi aftermath)
http://www.manilatimes.net/is-in-the-philippines/361526/
Part 1 – Genesis of IS
IN the afternoon of May 23, 2017, a joint police and military operation was conducted to serve a warrant of arrest on the terrorist Isnilon Hapilon, leader of the dreaded Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), in what was thought to be merely a walk in the park. A heavy firefight ensued. National security adviser Hermogenes Esperon declared that “the AFP was in full control of the situation.” This was echoed by Armed Forces Chief Gen. Eduardo Año. This was not true! The government forces were clueless. That same evening, the IS flag was flying over parts of Marawi, considered the Philippines’ only Islamic city. It was a total failure of intelligence. DU30 cut short his Moscow state visit and declared martial law in the entire island of Mindanao.
Facts intermittently filtered out through the haze of battle. The Maute, a small terrorist group headed by two brothers led a series of attacks upon the failure of government to arrest Hapilon. This was a different ball game being played by the terrorists as they have shifted strategy; from the usual kidnap-for-ransom (KFR), extortion and bombings to an all-out control of territory. The same strategy the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (IS) employed in Mosul in Iraq and Raqqa in Syria. The Maute and ASG combined under the leadership of Hapilon was to establish a caliphate in Marawi under the “Emir” Hapilon. This is the first major incident that saw the emergence of the IS. It was obvious that they have been preparing for months, digging tunnels between houses and buildings and stocking up on guns, ammunition, logistics and even cash.
The government was caught flatfooted and this exacted a terrible toll. Marawi was devastated almost beyond recognition and would take months if not years to rehabilitate costing billions of pesos: 168 military personnel gave up their lives; thousands of “collateral damage” of dead civilians; and hundreds of thousands more displaced Marawi residents called “bakwit.”
“Ladies and Gentlemen, I hereby declare Marawi liberated, from the terrorists’ influence that marks the beginning of rehabilitation,” Duterte proclaimed on October 17, the 148th day of the Marawi fighting. This prompted former President PNoy to later gloat, comparing statistics. The Mamasapano encounter, on which Pnoy’s reputation was tattered, lasted 24 hours, exacted 44 lives of the Philippine Special Action Force (SAF) that went in to capture the terrorist Zulkifli Abdhir. No city was obliterated and there was minimal displacement of residents.
Al-Qaida and IS
According to a book co-written by US journalist Michael Weiss and Hassan Hassan, a Syrian political analyst, the pedigree of IS comes from various strains of faith-based Islamic groups, various terrorist fundamentalists and nationalists of many shades coming from the Levant around the Mediterranean basin.
In the aftermath of al-Qaida’s September 11, 2001 attack on New York’s Twin Towers, America with its NATO allies decided to invade Afghanistan to capture Osama bin Laden and destroy his al-Qaida network. They failed but toppled the terrorist’s sponsor, the Taliban government. Subsequently, a US-led coalition in 2003 invaded Iraq, the region’s sponsor of terrorist groups, although it was not involved in the 9/11 Twin Tower attacks, under the pretext that it had weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and the fear that it was going to farm these out to international terrorists like al-Qaida.
After the blitzkrieg invasion, Iraq was tragically managed by the conquering armies. The collapse of the Ba’athist government and the execution of President Saddam Hussein produced a vacuum that precipitated sectarian violence between the minority but politically dominant Sunni (Saddam was a Sunni) and the Shias. Saddam’s disappearance from the scene wreaked havoc on the fragile balance of political accommodation that for years had kept the peace between the two major Islamic strands. In the chaos, various Sunni, Shia and other ethnicities formed sectarian militias principally to protect families, clans and tribal interests against the others. The expulsion of the invading US-led Western “infidels, unbelievers and enemies of Islam” (jihad) was a common goal. But later, the appearance of a deadlier extremist Islamic jihadist, Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, working in tandem at first with Osama bin Laden, expanded Islamic extremism and reoriented their targets. IS champions Sunni minority in Iraq, the persecuted Sunni majority against the Alawite dictatorship in Syria and the encroachment of Russia, the Gulf States and the US, the Shias in Iran and “Iran’s satrapy in Baghdad.”
IS was bent on the elimination of national boundaries, redrawing the map and bringing back the 13th century idea of the Sunni-led caliphate of an Islamic empire “reaching Spain again and defeat the armies of Rome.” IS spokesman Abu Muhamad al-Adnani declared that killing disbelievers abroad, including Muslims allied with the West or against the Islamic State and salafism (irreconcilability of Islamic Faith with western-style democracy and modernity) are core tenets.
The two founders of these deadly Islamic extremist groups were both assassinated by the Americans; al-Zarqawi in 2006 through an F16 laser- guided 500-lb bomb and Osama bin Laden in 2011 by the Special Forces and Seal Team Six. They are now gone but they have spawned a coterie of zealots, a cancer that could metastasize worldwide by establishing franchises swearing their allegiance to IS.
The swift sacking of Mosul, a province in Iraq of two million, and Raqqa, a predominantly Sunni populated city in Syria, redirected the attention of the jihadists towards IS; which reflected the declining influence of al-Qaida’s brand and the ascendancy of IS. Also, Al-Zarqawi understood the power of the marriage of mass media and horror. Images of public televised beheading became the “de rigueur” in its propaganda and recruitment. These tools of terror were employed to establish a pattern for IS to hold territories and their people; although it held these areas only for three years (2014-2017), IS established a modicum of government administration extending public services and even health care for the remaining citizens. It was in Mosul that al-Zarqawi’s heir, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, proclaimed the birth of the Caliphate. But deadlier was the influx of foreign jihadists to Mosul and Raqqa to fight for IS. This was perhaps the IS template for future expansion of the Islamic Caliphate.
This loss in IS territories and the marked contraction of the caliphate produced an unintended chilling effect. Foreign jihadists (those from other Muslim countries outside of Iraq and Syria) heeding the call of the caliphate came in droves to train and fight in Iraq and Syria. The highly trained and motivated survivors may now have to use their deadly skills; skills to bomb, maim and kill, where it is needed most. A new battlefield—in a new country.
Among the dead jihadists in Marawi were those from Saudi Arabia, Morocco, Chechnya, Yemen, Indonesia, Malaysia. (Part 2—IS in the Philippines—Marawi aftermath)
http://www.manilatimes.net/is-in-the-philippines/361526/
Police eye Abu Sayyaf in Lamitan City IED blast
From the Philippine Star (Nov 9): Police eye Abu Sayyaf in Lamitan City IED blast
The seat of the local government unit of Lamitan City. Philstar.com/John Unson, file
An improvised bomb exploded Tuesday night in a village of Lamitan City, Basilan and brought tension to the neighborhood, police said.
Responding elements of the 64th Infantry Battalion and Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit recovered another improvised explosive device (IED) on the scene.
According to Basilan Provincial Police Office reports, the IED exploded about 6:30p.m in the compound of the 2M Construction Firm in Sitio Lagasan, Barangay Kulay Bato, near the city's port area.
The bomb attack was the second in the last three years. The Abu Sayyaf group is believed to have been behind an improvised bomb that exploded in the same area in September 2014.
Police said nobody was reported hurt in the explosion on Tuesday night.
Investigators believe the bomb attack was meant to harass the firm and make it pay the Abu Sayyaf extortion money.
The city government of Lamitan urged the local business group not to submit to the terrorist group and assured it that police and military units are going after the Abu Sayyaf.
Mayor Gulam Boy Hataman of Sumisip town said the Abu Sayyaf group is now on the run and has been reduced to thuggery.
“Cutting any support from these people would eventually dislodge the existence of the Abu Sayyaf group in the province,” Hataman said.
The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao is also completing a 55-kilometer transcentral road network that is meant to bring commerce, security and government services closer to remote parts of Basilan.
The regional government kicked off the road network's second phase — which cuts through Sampinit Complex, an Abu Sayyaf hideout — last weekend.
The concreting of the 14-kilometer road, which is the remaining part of the 55-kilometer transcentral road, will be done by the district engineering office under engineer Soler Undog as a project of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao-Department of Public Works and Highway.
Davao’s local peace efforts rolling despite CPP rejection
From the often pro-CPP online publication the Davao Today (Nov 9): Davao’s local peace efforts rolling despite CPP rejection
The Davao City Local Peace Committee (DC-Peace) will push through with their meeting on November 17 even after the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) recently announced it opposes the said undertaking.
Davao Archbishop Romulo Valles, one of the members of the DC-Peace, said despite CPP’s opposition, they will try their best to push through with the localized peace talks.
Their first agenda: a half-day refresher course on peace building.
Valles said that talking to commanders of New People’s Army fighters in Davao City will result to something good.
The CPP has warned the local government that its localized version of peace talks will only fail. It explained that only the Negotiating Panel of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines represents the revolutionary forces in peace negotiations with the government.
READ: CPP, NDF reject localized peace talks, says Duterte is ‘wasting time’
The effort to push through localized peace talks was initiated by Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio, a move supported by her father, President Rodrigo Duterte.
Duterte-Carpio initially planned to talk with the communists in February this year but it had to be deferred as the NDFP was on table with the government for the fourth round of peace negotiations.
Talks between both sides, though, had been stalled since May this year.
President Duterte had directed the negotiators not to resume the formal talks unless the communists agree to halt attacks against government troops in Mindanao, as well as its practice of collecting revolutionary taxes from plantations.
On the other hand, the communists asked to finish discussing all the substantial agenda, including social and economic reforms, political reforms and the release of political prisoners, prior to discussing the end of hostilities with the government.
Archbishop Valle admitted he is not too confident whether the local talks will prosper, but he said “talking is better than shooting.”
“We will try our best. The test will be on the actual talks, the human face of dialogue, of negotiations,” he said.
http://davaotoday.com/main/politics/localized-peace-talks-davao-city-rolling/
The Davao City Local Peace Committee (DC-Peace) will push through with their meeting on November 17 even after the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) recently announced it opposes the said undertaking.
Davao Archbishop Romulo Valles, one of the members of the DC-Peace, said despite CPP’s opposition, they will try their best to push through with the localized peace talks.
Their first agenda: a half-day refresher course on peace building.
Valles said that talking to commanders of New People’s Army fighters in Davao City will result to something good.
The CPP has warned the local government that its localized version of peace talks will only fail. It explained that only the Negotiating Panel of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines represents the revolutionary forces in peace negotiations with the government.
READ: CPP, NDF reject localized peace talks, says Duterte is ‘wasting time’
The effort to push through localized peace talks was initiated by Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio, a move supported by her father, President Rodrigo Duterte.
Duterte-Carpio initially planned to talk with the communists in February this year but it had to be deferred as the NDFP was on table with the government for the fourth round of peace negotiations.
Talks between both sides, though, had been stalled since May this year.
President Duterte had directed the negotiators not to resume the formal talks unless the communists agree to halt attacks against government troops in Mindanao, as well as its practice of collecting revolutionary taxes from plantations.
On the other hand, the communists asked to finish discussing all the substantial agenda, including social and economic reforms, political reforms and the release of political prisoners, prior to discussing the end of hostilities with the government.
Archbishop Valle admitted he is not too confident whether the local talks will prosper, but he said “talking is better than shooting.”
“We will try our best. The test will be on the actual talks, the human face of dialogue, of negotiations,” he said.
http://davaotoday.com/main/politics/localized-peace-talks-davao-city-rolling/
Expert warns of further radicalization after Marawi siege
From the San Francisco Chronicle (Nov 8): Expert warns of further radicalization after Marawi siege
Sidney Jones, director of the Jakarta-based Institute for Policy Analysis of Conflict, answers questions from members of the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines at the financial district of Makati, in metropolitan Manila, Philippines on Wednesday, Nov. 8, 2017. Jones, a terrorism expert, says revenge bombings and possible attacks on Philippine embassies can come next after the government declared victory over Islamic State aligned militants who laid siege on southern Marawi city, but the biggest risk lies in further radicalization, with slain militants' children and younger siblings likely to emerge as a new generation of fighters.
There is a large risk of further radicalization in the southern Philippines if there is unhappiness with the reconstruction of bombed-out Marawi city, where the government has declared victory over Islamic State group-aligned militants who laid siege to the city, a terrorism expert said Wednesday.
Sidney Jones, director of the Jakarta-based Institute for Policy Analysis of Conflict, also warned that children and younger siblings of slain militants may emerge as a new generation of fighters.
She told journalists in Manila that reconstruction of the city is key, and that a new militant movement with a more Islamist stance could develop and challenge the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, an older rebel group that has signed a peace deal with the government.
The military ended its offensive in Marawi on Oct. 23 after quelling the insurrection and sending a few remaining gunmen into hiding. More than 900 militants, 165 troops and policemen and 47 civilians were killed in the five months of fighting.
"One of the biggest dangers is that we have this ongoing radicalization taking place in a very quiet, below-the-radar-screen level in a way that can be exacerbated if there is a failure to rebuild Marawi very quickly or very efficiently," Jones said.
Other possible scenarios after the end of the Marawi conflict are revenge bombings in Manila or in other cities, and attacks on Philippine embassies abroad, she said.
Jones said the United States' offer of large rewards for the arrest or neutralization of militants may also have diverted attention from developing an overall strategy to combat extremism. The U.S. has deployed forces to train and assist Philippine troops in counter-terrorism.
http://www.sfchronicle.com/news/world/article/Expert-warns-of-further-radicalization-after-12340634.php#photo-14511007
Sidney Jones, director of the Jakarta-based Institute for Policy Analysis of Conflict, answers questions from members of the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines at the financial district of Makati, in metropolitan Manila, Philippines on Wednesday, Nov. 8, 2017. Jones, a terrorism expert, says revenge bombings and possible attacks on Philippine embassies can come next after the government declared victory over Islamic State aligned militants who laid siege on southern Marawi city, but the biggest risk lies in further radicalization, with slain militants' children and younger siblings likely to emerge as a new generation of fighters.
There is a large risk of further radicalization in the southern Philippines if there is unhappiness with the reconstruction of bombed-out Marawi city, where the government has declared victory over Islamic State group-aligned militants who laid siege to the city, a terrorism expert said Wednesday.
Sidney Jones, director of the Jakarta-based Institute for Policy Analysis of Conflict, also warned that children and younger siblings of slain militants may emerge as a new generation of fighters.
She told journalists in Manila that reconstruction of the city is key, and that a new militant movement with a more Islamist stance could develop and challenge the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, an older rebel group that has signed a peace deal with the government.
The military ended its offensive in Marawi on Oct. 23 after quelling the insurrection and sending a few remaining gunmen into hiding. More than 900 militants, 165 troops and policemen and 47 civilians were killed in the five months of fighting.
"One of the biggest dangers is that we have this ongoing radicalization taking place in a very quiet, below-the-radar-screen level in a way that can be exacerbated if there is a failure to rebuild Marawi very quickly or very efficiently," Jones said.
Other possible scenarios after the end of the Marawi conflict are revenge bombings in Manila or in other cities, and attacks on Philippine embassies abroad, she said.
Jones said the United States' offer of large rewards for the arrest or neutralization of militants may also have diverted attention from developing an overall strategy to combat extremism. The U.S. has deployed forces to train and assist Philippine troops in counter-terrorism.
http://www.sfchronicle.com/news/world/article/Expert-warns-of-further-radicalization-after-12340634.php#photo-14511007
Wanted Singaporean militant at large in Central Mindanao: Security source
From Channel News Asia (Nov 8): Wanted Singaporean militant at large in Central Mindanao: Security source
KUALA LUMPUR: A Singaporean militant, wanted by the Philippines authorities, is believed to be at large in Central Mindanao together with three Uighurs, according to a Manila security source.
“Muawiya, a Singaporean, is still at large together with three Turkish believed to be Uighurs in Central Mindanao,” a security source from Manila told Channel NewsAsia.
The source gave no further details.
Last May, Singapore’s Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said in a statement that Muhamad Ali Abdul Rahiman @ Muawiya, has been in the southern Philippines since the 1990s.
“Muawiya, a Singaporean, is still at large together with three Turkish believed to be Uighurs in Central Mindanao,” a security source from Manila told Channel NewsAsia.
The source gave no further details.
Last May, Singapore’s Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said in a statement that Muhamad Ali Abdul Rahiman @ Muawiya, has been in the southern Philippines since the 1990s.
MHA said there was no information about whether he is involved in the armed insurgency in Marawi City on Mindanao island which was seized by pro-Islamic State (IS) militants led by the Maute Group and Isnilon Hapilon of the Abu Sayyaf Group on May 23.
The siege lasted five months and left more than 1,100 people dead.
"We take a serious view of anyone who supports, promotes, undertakes or makes preparations to undertake armed violence regardless of where the violence takes place,” said an MHA spokesperson in May.
"We will continue to work with the Philippines authorities to identify any Singaporean who may be involved in terrorism-related activities in the Philippines,” the statement added.
Lieutenant-Colonel Gerry Besana, spokesman from the military’s Joint Task Force Central, told Channel NewsAsia the military has detected the presence of foreign fighters in Central Mindanao and is working to identify them.
“We are verifying the reported presence of foreign fighters. Unfortunately, the foreigners are mostly sporting long beards and have their faces covered most of the time,” said Lieutenant-Colonel Besana.
In 2015, Philippines’ authorities said Muawiya is a member of Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) and is believed to be protected by the pro-Islamic State (IS) Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), a breakaway faction of the separatist Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
The siege lasted five months and left more than 1,100 people dead.
"We take a serious view of anyone who supports, promotes, undertakes or makes preparations to undertake armed violence regardless of where the violence takes place,” said an MHA spokesperson in May.
"We will continue to work with the Philippines authorities to identify any Singaporean who may be involved in terrorism-related activities in the Philippines,” the statement added.
Lieutenant-Colonel Gerry Besana, spokesman from the military’s Joint Task Force Central, told Channel NewsAsia the military has detected the presence of foreign fighters in Central Mindanao and is working to identify them.
“We are verifying the reported presence of foreign fighters. Unfortunately, the foreigners are mostly sporting long beards and have their faces covered most of the time,” said Lieutenant-Colonel Besana.
In 2015, Philippines’ authorities said Muawiya is a member of Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) and is believed to be protected by the pro-Islamic State (IS) Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), a breakaway faction of the separatist Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
BIFF is seen as one of the most dangerous pro-IS groups in Mindanao. JI is the Al-Qaeda-linked regional terror group behind 2002 devastating Bali bombings.
According to former JI leader Malaysian Nasir Abas and founder of the JI para-military training camp in southern Philippines which has since been shut down, Muawiya has been in Mindanao since 1995.
Abas described him as small in stature, standing at around 155-160 centimetres tall.
“I met Muawiya in the nineties. He has been there since 1995. He wasn’t a member of JI. At that time, he was a preacher and was pretty much on his own. I don’t know what happened to him after that,” Abas told Channel NewsAsia.
“He is an Indian Muslim and is married to a Filipino woman,” Abas added.
According to former JI leader Malaysian Nasir Abas and founder of the JI para-military training camp in southern Philippines which has since been shut down, Muawiya has been in Mindanao since 1995.
Abas described him as small in stature, standing at around 155-160 centimetres tall.
“I met Muawiya in the nineties. He has been there since 1995. He wasn’t a member of JI. At that time, he was a preacher and was pretty much on his own. I don’t know what happened to him after that,” Abas told Channel NewsAsia.
“He is an Indian Muslim and is married to a Filipino woman,” Abas added.
MILF invites Christians, Lumad to attend Bangsamoro Assembly
From Davao Today (Nov 8): MILF invites Christians, Lumad to attend Bangsamoro Assembly
After its postponement last November 3, the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) will push through with the Bangsamoro Assembly this month to gather the stakeholders of the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL).
The assembly will be held on November 26-27 at the Old Provincial Capitol Compound in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao province.
“We are encouraging the Bangsamoros, indigenous people, and Christian settlers to attend this historic event that would mark our common aspiration to have genuine peace in our homeland,” said BTC Chairman and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Vice Chairman Ghadzali Jaafar on Wednesday, November 8.
The assembly was originally scheduled on November 3-4 but was postponed due to what Jaafar described as “reasons beyond control.”
The BTC crafted the new BBL which aims to establish a new political entity called the Bangsmoro that will replace the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. The BBL was supposedly passed during the term of former President Benigno Aquino III when the Mamasapano clash erupted.
President Rodrigo Duterte on October 29, vowed to push for the passage of BBL in Congress saying that its non-passage might cause trouble in the country.
The MILF sees the passage of the BBL as one of the steps that can provide long-term solutions against violent extremism.
MILF Peace Implementing Panel Chairperson Mohagher Iqbal previously said: “There is a continuing risk of youths being enticed by violent and extremist ideologies and join local ISIS-inspired groups as a result of existing global and domestic injustices.”
He said the lack of political settlement to address the clamor of the Moro people for autonomy is one reason which the MILF sees as fuel for discontent among young Muslims.
http://davaotoday.com/main/politics/milf-invites-christians-lumad-to-attend-bangsamoro-assembly/
After its postponement last November 3, the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) will push through with the Bangsamoro Assembly this month to gather the stakeholders of the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL).
The assembly will be held on November 26-27 at the Old Provincial Capitol Compound in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao province.
“We are encouraging the Bangsamoros, indigenous people, and Christian settlers to attend this historic event that would mark our common aspiration to have genuine peace in our homeland,” said BTC Chairman and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Vice Chairman Ghadzali Jaafar on Wednesday, November 8.
The assembly was originally scheduled on November 3-4 but was postponed due to what Jaafar described as “reasons beyond control.”
The BTC crafted the new BBL which aims to establish a new political entity called the Bangsmoro that will replace the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. The BBL was supposedly passed during the term of former President Benigno Aquino III when the Mamasapano clash erupted.
President Rodrigo Duterte on October 29, vowed to push for the passage of BBL in Congress saying that its non-passage might cause trouble in the country.
The MILF sees the passage of the BBL as one of the steps that can provide long-term solutions against violent extremism.
MILF Peace Implementing Panel Chairperson Mohagher Iqbal previously said: “There is a continuing risk of youths being enticed by violent and extremist ideologies and join local ISIS-inspired groups as a result of existing global and domestic injustices.”
He said the lack of political settlement to address the clamor of the Moro people for autonomy is one reason which the MILF sees as fuel for discontent among young Muslims.
http://davaotoday.com/main/politics/milf-invites-christians-lumad-to-attend-bangsamoro-assembly/
1 rebel dead, 8 soldiers wounded in military-NPA clash in N. Vizcaya
From InterAksyon (Nov 9): 1 rebel dead, 8 soldiers wounded in military-NPA clash in N. Vizcaya
An NPA guerrilla stands guard at a rebel camp in this file photo . INTERAKSYON FILE PHOTO
DUPAX DEL SUR, Philippines – Eight soldiers were seriously wounded and one member of the New People’s Army died in a gun battle early Thursday morning in Barangay Sanguit in this town in Nueva Vizcaya province.
According to Maj. Gen. Felimon Santos, commanding general of the 7ID, his troops engaged in battle with an undetermined number of communist rebels under the Venerando Villacillio Command.
Santos said his troops were conducting security patrols after getting information on the presence of communist rebels in the area.
High-powered firearms were seized from the slain unidentified rebel.
Government troops are still conducting pursuit operations against the rebels.
An NPA guerrilla stands guard at a rebel camp in this file photo . INTERAKSYON FILE PHOTO
DUPAX DEL SUR, Philippines – Eight soldiers were seriously wounded and one member of the New People’s Army died in a gun battle early Thursday morning in Barangay Sanguit in this town in Nueva Vizcaya province.
According to Maj. Gen. Felimon Santos, commanding general of the 7ID, his troops engaged in battle with an undetermined number of communist rebels under the Venerando Villacillio Command.
Santos said his troops were conducting security patrols after getting information on the presence of communist rebels in the area.
High-powered firearms were seized from the slain unidentified rebel.
Government troops are still conducting pursuit operations against the rebels.
Turkish company providing gun system for PH navy’s upcoming frigates
From Update Philippines (Nov 8): Turkish company providing gun system for PH navy’s upcoming frigates
Aerospace, defence and security business information outlet Shephard Media reported that Aselsan will supply the 30mm SMASH remote-controlled naval gun system as secondary gun for the two Philippine Navy future frigates ordered from Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI).
According to MaxDefense Philippines, the 30mm Aselsan SMASH conforms to the Technical Specifications of Navy frigate acquisition program as it was part of HHI’s Alternative Configuration.
“But since the PN is already using the MSI Defence Seahawk and BAE Systems Mk.38 Mod.2 remote operated stabilized guns, the PN originally wanted the MSI Defence 30mm Seahawk which was offered by Hyundai as part of their Baseline Configuration,” it added.
“Cost could be the issue since sources confirmed that the Aselsan SMASH is around $300,000 cheaper than the MSI Defence Seahawk,” MaxDefense said.
Aselsan is a Turkish defense corporation that produces defense systems for the Turkish Armed Forces.
https://www.update.ph/2017/11/turkish-company-providing-gun-system-for-ph-navys-upcoming-frigates/22415
Aerospace, defence and security business information outlet Shephard Media reported that Aselsan will supply the 30mm SMASH remote-controlled naval gun system as secondary gun for the two Philippine Navy future frigates ordered from Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI).
According to MaxDefense Philippines, the 30mm Aselsan SMASH conforms to the Technical Specifications of Navy frigate acquisition program as it was part of HHI’s Alternative Configuration.
“But since the PN is already using the MSI Defence Seahawk and BAE Systems Mk.38 Mod.2 remote operated stabilized guns, the PN originally wanted the MSI Defence 30mm Seahawk which was offered by Hyundai as part of their Baseline Configuration,” it added.
“Cost could be the issue since sources confirmed that the Aselsan SMASH is around $300,000 cheaper than the MSI Defence Seahawk,” MaxDefense said.
Aselsan is a Turkish defense corporation that produces defense systems for the Turkish Armed Forces.
https://www.update.ph/2017/11/turkish-company-providing-gun-system-for-ph-navys-upcoming-frigates/22415
Philippines sends largest warship, frigate for ASEAN war games
From Update Philippines (Nov 8): Philippines sends largest warship, frigate for ASEAN war games
The Philippine Navy on Wednesday, November 8 sent off its Tarlac-class landing platform dock BRP Tarlac (LD601) and Del Pilar-class frigate BRP Gregorio Del Pilar (FF15) to participate in the first-ever ASEAN Multilateral Naval Exercise (AMNEX) on November 13 to 22 in Thailand hosted by Royal Thai Navy (RTN).
Navy the Vice Commander Rear Admiral Allan Ferdinand V. Cusi led the send-off of the approximately 600-man contingent composed of sailors and Marines, as well as students from naval training institutions.
According to Navy AMNEX is the maritime security collaboration of navies in Southeast Asia Region.
“It is in conjunction with the commemoration of the 50thASEAN founding anniversary along with International Fleet Review and the 11th ASEAN Navy Chiefs’ Meeting (ANCM),” the Navy said.
“It will be participated by the ten ASEAN countries and nine non-ASEAN countries such as Australia, Bangladesh, China, India, Japan, South Korea, Russia, Sri Lanka, and the United States of America,” it added.
https://www.update.ph/2017/11/philippines-sends-largest-warship-frigate-for-asean-wargames/22422
The Philippine Navy on Wednesday, November 8 sent off its Tarlac-class landing platform dock BRP Tarlac (LD601) and Del Pilar-class frigate BRP Gregorio Del Pilar (FF15) to participate in the first-ever ASEAN Multilateral Naval Exercise (AMNEX) on November 13 to 22 in Thailand hosted by Royal Thai Navy (RTN).
Navy the Vice Commander Rear Admiral Allan Ferdinand V. Cusi led the send-off of the approximately 600-man contingent composed of sailors and Marines, as well as students from naval training institutions.
According to Navy AMNEX is the maritime security collaboration of navies in Southeast Asia Region.
“It is in conjunction with the commemoration of the 50thASEAN founding anniversary along with International Fleet Review and the 11th ASEAN Navy Chiefs’ Meeting (ANCM),” the Navy said.
“It will be participated by the ten ASEAN countries and nine non-ASEAN countries such as Australia, Bangladesh, China, India, Japan, South Korea, Russia, Sri Lanka, and the United States of America,” it added.
https://www.update.ph/2017/11/philippines-sends-largest-warship-frigate-for-asean-wargames/22422
AFP chief gets 4-star rank
From Update Philippines (Nov 9): AFP chief gets 4-star rank
Newly-appointed Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief-of-Staff Lt. Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero was formally promoted to four-star rank Wednesday.
In the Philippine military, a four-star rank is equivalent to a full general, the highest position in the AFP.
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and AFP Vice Chief-of-Staff Lt. Gen. Melchor Mison Jr. donned Guerrero’s fourth star during a ceremony held at the new Philippine Air Force Hall of Flags, Villamor Air Base in Pasay City.
PAF photo
Guerrero, who was appointed AFP chief last Oct. 26, is a member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1984.
Prior to his appointment as AFP chief, he led the Eastern Mindanao Command, Capiz-based 3rd Infantry Division, 701st Infantry Brigade, and Task Force Davao.
He also served as chief-of-staff of the Philippine Army.
Guerrero has also been awarded the Distinguished Service Star four times; the Order of Lakandula (Degree of Commander); the Philippine Legion of Honor (Degree of Officer); and the Honorary Airborne Wings from the Royal Thai Army.
https://www.update.ph/2017/11/afp-chief-gets-4-star-rank/22455
Newly-appointed Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief-of-Staff Lt. Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero was formally promoted to four-star rank Wednesday.
In the Philippine military, a four-star rank is equivalent to a full general, the highest position in the AFP.
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and AFP Vice Chief-of-Staff Lt. Gen. Melchor Mison Jr. donned Guerrero’s fourth star during a ceremony held at the new Philippine Air Force Hall of Flags, Villamor Air Base in Pasay City.
PAF photo
Guerrero, who was appointed AFP chief last Oct. 26, is a member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1984.
Prior to his appointment as AFP chief, he led the Eastern Mindanao Command, Capiz-based 3rd Infantry Division, 701st Infantry Brigade, and Task Force Davao.
He also served as chief-of-staff of the Philippine Army.
Guerrero has also been awarded the Distinguished Service Star four times; the Order of Lakandula (Degree of Commander); the Philippine Legion of Honor (Degree of Officer); and the Honorary Airborne Wings from the Royal Thai Army.
https://www.update.ph/2017/11/afp-chief-gets-4-star-rank/22455
LOOK: Philippine Air Force C-130 travels to Singapore
From Update Philippines (Nov 9): LOOK: Philippine Air Force C-130 travels to Singapore
One of the Philippine Air Force’s (PAF) C-130 military transport aircraft operated by 220th Airlift Wing ferried the Philippine Army Shooting Contingent to Singapore on November 6 to participate in the 27th ASEAN Armies Rifle Meet (AARM).
The aircraft is being commanded by Air Force Colonel Bienvenido J. Casaclang PAF with Pilots-in-Command Major Elias Garry Gregorio and Major Claire Belle Clua.
220AW photo
“International sorties of this kind are not new to 220th Airlift Wing considering its recent flights include long-haul transpacific sorties,” the 220AW said.
220AW photo
“Through these sorties, the airlifters continue to improve their techniques and procedures especially on flying over international airspace and has enhanced air mobility operations,” it added.
220AW said that with increasing frequency of international flights, its pilots and crew have greatly improved their skills and ultimately, put to test the full spectrum of capabilities Air Mobility Command provides the nation.
https://www.update.ph/2017/11/look-philippine-air-force-c-130-travels-to-singapore/22460
One of the Philippine Air Force’s (PAF) C-130 military transport aircraft operated by 220th Airlift Wing ferried the Philippine Army Shooting Contingent to Singapore on November 6 to participate in the 27th ASEAN Armies Rifle Meet (AARM).
The aircraft is being commanded by Air Force Colonel Bienvenido J. Casaclang PAF with Pilots-in-Command Major Elias Garry Gregorio and Major Claire Belle Clua.
220AW photo
“International sorties of this kind are not new to 220th Airlift Wing considering its recent flights include long-haul transpacific sorties,” the 220AW said.
220AW photo
“Through these sorties, the airlifters continue to improve their techniques and procedures especially on flying over international airspace and has enhanced air mobility operations,” it added.
220AW said that with increasing frequency of international flights, its pilots and crew have greatly improved their skills and ultimately, put to test the full spectrum of capabilities Air Mobility Command provides the nation.
https://www.update.ph/2017/11/look-philippine-air-force-c-130-travels-to-singapore/22460
Mega rehab facility may be turned over to Armed Forces
From Update Philippines (Nov 9): Mega rehab facility may be turned over to Armed Forces
Malacanang on Thursday welcomed Sen. Vicente Sotto III’s suggestion to use the mega drug rehabilitation and treatment center located in Nueva Ecija as a ‘drug enforcement academy’.
“We welcome the suggestion of Senator Vicente Sotto III on the mega drug rehabilitation and treatment center in Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija,” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said in a statement.
Roque said the long-term goal of the government to make use of the facility for other purposes.
“Our long-term vision is once the drug problem has been resolved, this can be turned over to the military who owns the land or other agencies of government that can utilize, manage and optimize the facility,” Roque added.
Sotto earlier said the facility can be used as an extension of the existing Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) academy.
The construction of the facility started in July 2016 and can accommodate 10,000 patients once completed.
The Department of Health earlier said the center will have 2,000 drug dependents for its first batch of patients coming from other overcrowded facilities in the country.
https://www.update.ph/2017/11/mega-rehab-facility-may-be-turned-over-to-armed-forces/22481
Malacanang on Thursday welcomed Sen. Vicente Sotto III’s suggestion to use the mega drug rehabilitation and treatment center located in Nueva Ecija as a ‘drug enforcement academy’.
“We welcome the suggestion of Senator Vicente Sotto III on the mega drug rehabilitation and treatment center in Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija,” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said in a statement.
Roque said the long-term goal of the government to make use of the facility for other purposes.
“Our long-term vision is once the drug problem has been resolved, this can be turned over to the military who owns the land or other agencies of government that can utilize, manage and optimize the facility,” Roque added.
Sotto earlier said the facility can be used as an extension of the existing Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) academy.
The construction of the facility started in July 2016 and can accommodate 10,000 patients once completed.
The Department of Health earlier said the center will have 2,000 drug dependents for its first batch of patients coming from other overcrowded facilities in the country.
https://www.update.ph/2017/11/mega-rehab-facility-may-be-turned-over-to-armed-forces/22481
DND strengthens partnerships in Asia Pacific
From Update Philippines (Nov 9): DND strengthens partnerships in Asia Pacific
The Department of National Defense (DND) is now collaborating with more countries in the Asia-Pacific region while maintaining relations with its long-standing allies.
“To broaden our international defense and security engagements and in relation to the directive of the President to establish an independent foreign policy, the DND collaborates with more countries in the Asia-Pacific Region, while maintaining our long-standing relation with traditional allies,” DND Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said.
The Philippines has successfully hosted the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Defense Ministers Meeting (ADMM)-Plus last October.
Lorenzana said this is in connection with the country’s ASEAN chairmanship this year.
The National Defense College of the Philippines (NDCP) also hosted two international conferences such as the 1st ASEAN Regional Forum Heads of Defense Universities, Colleges, Institutions Meeting, and the 10th Track II Network of ASEAN Defense and Security Institutions Meeting.
In line with these efforts, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) has also organized the ASEAN Joint Task Group on Emergency Preparednesss and Response Under the Committee on Security, Peace and Order, and Emergency Preparedness to Ensure the successful hosting of the ASEAN meetings in the Philippines.
“Moreover, to immediately address security issues particularly on terrorism in the maritime areas of concern, a Framework on Trilateral Cooperative Arrangements among the Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia was signed last July 2016 and was launched in June of this year,” Lorenzana added.
“This program was started by Secretary (Voltaire) Gazmin together with the Defense Chiefs of Indonesia and Malaysia, we have also formally launched the Joint Trilateral Air Patrol last October 12 of this year at Royal Malaysian Air Force, Subang Air Base in Malaysia,” he further stressed.
https://www.update.ph/2017/11/dnd-strengthens-partnerships-in-asia-pacific/22486
The Department of National Defense (DND) is now collaborating with more countries in the Asia-Pacific region while maintaining relations with its long-standing allies.
“To broaden our international defense and security engagements and in relation to the directive of the President to establish an independent foreign policy, the DND collaborates with more countries in the Asia-Pacific Region, while maintaining our long-standing relation with traditional allies,” DND Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said.
The Philippines has successfully hosted the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Defense Ministers Meeting (ADMM)-Plus last October.
Lorenzana said this is in connection with the country’s ASEAN chairmanship this year.
The National Defense College of the Philippines (NDCP) also hosted two international conferences such as the 1st ASEAN Regional Forum Heads of Defense Universities, Colleges, Institutions Meeting, and the 10th Track II Network of ASEAN Defense and Security Institutions Meeting.
In line with these efforts, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) has also organized the ASEAN Joint Task Group on Emergency Preparednesss and Response Under the Committee on Security, Peace and Order, and Emergency Preparedness to Ensure the successful hosting of the ASEAN meetings in the Philippines.
“Moreover, to immediately address security issues particularly on terrorism in the maritime areas of concern, a Framework on Trilateral Cooperative Arrangements among the Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia was signed last July 2016 and was launched in June of this year,” Lorenzana added.
“This program was started by Secretary (Voltaire) Gazmin together with the Defense Chiefs of Indonesia and Malaysia, we have also formally launched the Joint Trilateral Air Patrol last October 12 of this year at Royal Malaysian Air Force, Subang Air Base in Malaysia,” he further stressed.
https://www.update.ph/2017/11/dnd-strengthens-partnerships-in-asia-pacific/22486
AFP, DND assure Robredo: No support for revolutionary government
From Rappler (Nov 8): AFP, DND assure Robredo: No support for revolutionary government
Vice President Leni Robredo is also briefed by the AFP and the DND on the ongoing rehabilitation efforts in Marawi City
Vice President Leni Robredo is also briefed by the AFP and the DND on the ongoing rehabilitation efforts in Marawi City
SECURITY BRIEFING. Vice President Leni Robredo receives a national security briefing from Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and AFP chief of staff Rey Leonardo Guerrero. Photo by the OVP
The chiefs of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Department of National Defense (DND) said they will not be supporting any moves to establish a revolutionary government.
This was the assurance given by AFP chief of staff Rey Leonardo Guerrero and DND Secretary Delfin Lorenzana to Vice President Leni Robredo during a security briefing at the Philippine Air Force headquarters in Pasay City on Wednesday, November 8.
The Vice President said she asked Guerrero and Lorenzana where the AFP stands on President Rodrigo Duterte’s warning he will declare a revolutionary government once he senses that a destabilization plot is about to install a new leader to replace him.
The Vice President said she asked Guerrero and Lorenzana where the AFP stands on President Rodrigo Duterte’s warning he will declare a revolutionary government once he senses that a destabilization plot is about to install a new leader to replace him.
“In-assure tayo, in no uncertain terms, both ni Secretary Lorenzana saka ni AFP chief of staff Guerrero, na hindi sila susuporta sa revolutionary government at [sa] kahit anong threat sa ating Konstitusyon,” Robredo told reporters after the briefing. (We were assured, in no uncertain terms, both by Secretary Lorenzana and AFP chief of staff Guerrero that they will not be supporting a revolutionary government and any other similar threats to our Constitution.)
“Nagtatanong pa din tayo kasi may mga opisyal ng pamahalaan na involved sa usapin ng revolutionary government. Pero this afternoon, na-assure tayo, at madiin iyong assurance na hindi sila susuporta sa ganiyan[g mga plano],” she added. (We asked because government officials are involved in the talks on a revolutionary government. But there was an assurance this afternoon that they will not support a plan like that.)
Opposition group Tindig Pilipinas, whose politician members are part of Robredo’s Liberal Party, had called Duterte a "paranoid and insecure little man" for eyeing a revolutionary government. The Vice President, however, is not a member of this opposition coalition.
During the security briefing, Robredo also asked the AFP and the DND for updates on the ongoing rehabilitation efforts in Marawi City, where government troops engaged in a months-long battle with homegrown terrorists led by the Maute Group and a faction of the Abu Sayaff Group.
On October 17, Duterte declared the liberation of Marawi City after soldiers killed siege leaders Isnilon Hapilon and Omar Maute.
The Office of the Vice President already sent a team to Marawi to determine how they can assist in the rehabilitation efforts through Robredo’s flagship anti-poverty program Angat Buhay.
“Nagtatanong pa din tayo kasi may mga opisyal ng pamahalaan na involved sa usapin ng revolutionary government. Pero this afternoon, na-assure tayo, at madiin iyong assurance na hindi sila susuporta sa ganiyan[g mga plano],” she added. (We asked because government officials are involved in the talks on a revolutionary government. But there was an assurance this afternoon that they will not support a plan like that.)
Opposition group Tindig Pilipinas, whose politician members are part of Robredo’s Liberal Party, had called Duterte a "paranoid and insecure little man" for eyeing a revolutionary government. The Vice President, however, is not a member of this opposition coalition.
During the security briefing, Robredo also asked the AFP and the DND for updates on the ongoing rehabilitation efforts in Marawi City, where government troops engaged in a months-long battle with homegrown terrorists led by the Maute Group and a faction of the Abu Sayaff Group.
On October 17, Duterte declared the liberation of Marawi City after soldiers killed siege leaders Isnilon Hapilon and Omar Maute.
The Office of the Vice President already sent a team to Marawi to determine how they can assist in the rehabilitation efforts through Robredo’s flagship anti-poverty program Angat Buhay.
Return Balangiga bells, Trump told ahead of PH trip
From Rappler (Nov 9): Return Balangiga bells, Trump told ahead of PH trip
'At the end of the day, that is not owned by the United States or the Philippines. It's owned by the Catholic Church,' ex-DFA chief Roberto Romulo tells Rappler
US President Donald Trump should order the return of the historic Balangiga bells to the Philippines as he visits Manila from November 12 to 14, a former Philippine top diplomat said.
'At the end of the day, that is not owned by the United States or the Philippines. It's owned by the Catholic Church,' ex-DFA chief Roberto Romulo tells Rappler
"I personally believe that President Trump should, once and for all, return the Balangiga bells," former Philippine foreign secretary Roberto Romulo told Rappler on Wednesday,
"At the end of the day, that is not owned by the United States or the Philippines. It's owned by the Catholic Church," Romulo added.
Trump will visit the Philippines to join the 31st Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit and Related Meetings, and to meet with Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte.
Duterte earlier called on the US to return the Balangiga bells. In response, the US vowed to resolve the Balangiga bells issue, but without a specific timeframe in mind.
The Balangiga bells, once found in Balangiga Church in Eastern Samar, had been taken by the Americans as spoils of war. The tolling of these bells in 1901 had led to the massacre of American troops, in the US military's worst single defeat in the Philippines.
Trump will visit the Philippines to join the 31st Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit and Related Meetings, and to meet with Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte.
Duterte earlier called on the US to return the Balangiga bells. In response, the US vowed to resolve the Balangiga bells issue, but without a specific timeframe in mind.
The Balangiga bells, once found in Balangiga Church in Eastern Samar, had been taken by the Americans as spoils of war. The tolling of these bells in 1901 had led to the massacre of American troops, in the US military's worst single defeat in the Philippines.
Trump can make orders, Romulo says
Staunch opposition in the US has prevented the return of the Balangiga bells.
Staunch opposition in the US has prevented the return of the Balangiga bells.
Romulo, however, said that "as commander in chief of the US armed forces," Trump "can tell them, 'Return it,' despite the opposition."
Romulo served as secretary of the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) from 1992 to 1995 under then president Fidel V. Ramos, who sought the return of the Balangiga bells, to no avail.
In his column for the Philippine Star on Wednesday, Romulo quoted a letter by his American friend Henry Howard to Trump on October 12, 2017, about the Balangiga bells.
Howard told Trump: "There is no political downside for you in Wyoming by returning the bells since you won so overwhelmingly there and there is tremendous upside for you as president of the United States in the Philippines by returning the bells before or during your trip to the Philippines in November."
"As the president of the United States and commander in chief of the US Army and US Air Force, you have the command and legal authority to permit the prompt return of the 3 bells," Howard said.
Romulo wrote: "If President Trump does indeed send the bells back, it would be an important step in Philippine-US relations and it would remove this long and deep wound between our two countries."
Romulo served as secretary of the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) from 1992 to 1995 under then president Fidel V. Ramos, who sought the return of the Balangiga bells, to no avail.
In his column for the Philippine Star on Wednesday, Romulo quoted a letter by his American friend Henry Howard to Trump on October 12, 2017, about the Balangiga bells.
Howard told Trump: "There is no political downside for you in Wyoming by returning the bells since you won so overwhelmingly there and there is tremendous upside for you as president of the United States in the Philippines by returning the bells before or during your trip to the Philippines in November."
"As the president of the United States and commander in chief of the US Army and US Air Force, you have the command and legal authority to permit the prompt return of the 3 bells," Howard said.
Romulo wrote: "If President Trump does indeed send the bells back, it would be an important step in Philippine-US relations and it would remove this long and deep wound between our two countries."
6 soldiers killed in clash with Abu Sayyaf in Basilan
From Rappler (Nov 9): 6 soldiers killed in clash with Abu Sayyaf in Basilan
The fighting lasted for about 4 hours, leading to an undetermined number of casualties among the Abu Sayyaf, says Colonel Juvymax Uy
The fighting lasted for about 4 hours, leading to an undetermined number of casualties among the Abu Sayyaf, says Colonel Juvymax Uy
BASILAN, Philippines – Six soldiers were killed and 4 others wounded in a clash with Abu Sayyaf members and their supporters in Sumisip town on Wednesday, November 8.
Lieutenant General Carlito Galvez Jr, Western Mindanao Command chief, reported the outcome of the encounter on Thursday, November 9.
“We are sad to report the death of 6 of your soldiers during the encounter yesterday in Basilan,” Galvez said.
He said combat operations against the Abu Sayyaf "will be intensified with our intelligence operations and sustained campaign."
Elements of the 18th Infantry Battalion conducted a strike operation against the Abu Sayyaf under Siar Alhamsirol and Parong Tedi in Barangay Upper Cabengbeng, Sumisip at 12:41 pm on Wednesday.
The Abu Sayyaf got reinforcement from lawless elements that engaged the troops near the Basilan circumferential road in Sumisip, said Colonel Juvymax Uy, commander of the Joint Task Force Basilan.
“We are sad to report the death of 6 of your soldiers during the encounter yesterday in Basilan,” Galvez said.
He said combat operations against the Abu Sayyaf "will be intensified with our intelligence operations and sustained campaign."
Elements of the 18th Infantry Battalion conducted a strike operation against the Abu Sayyaf under Siar Alhamsirol and Parong Tedi in Barangay Upper Cabengbeng, Sumisip at 12:41 pm on Wednesday.
The Abu Sayyaf got reinforcement from lawless elements that engaged the troops near the Basilan circumferential road in Sumisip, said Colonel Juvymax Uy, commander of the Joint Task Force Basilan.
“As they edged towards the circumferential road, operating troops were met with heavy fire by lawless elements believed to be relatives and sympathizers of the Abu Sayyaf bandits,” said Uy.
The firefight lasted for about 4 hours, leading to an undetermined number of casualties on the other side, the military officer said.
The firefight lasted for about 4 hours, leading to an undetermined number of casualties on the other side, the military officer said.
The Air Force provided close air support past 2 pm on Wednesday, while troops of the 64th and 68th Infantry Battalions augmented the government forces in the engagement area, Uy said.
The remains of the 6 soldiers had been transported to Zamboanga City.
The wounded were evacuated to the headquarters of the 64th Infantry Battalion and received medical treatment at the Camp Navarro General Hospital and a private hospital.
The remains of the 6 soldiers had been transported to Zamboanga City.
The wounded were evacuated to the headquarters of the 64th Infantry Battalion and received medical treatment at the Camp Navarro General Hospital and a private hospital.
12 bags of IED components recovered at NPA clash site
From the Mindanao Times (Nov 9): 12 bags of IED components recovered at NPA clash site
THE 66TH Infantry Battalion recovered 12 bags of improvised explosive device (IED) components after two encounters with around 30 members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Sitio Sarayon, Barangay Araibo, Pantukan, Compostela Valley on Wednesday.
Capt. Jerry Lamosao, spokesperson of 10th Infantry Division, said the soldiers received a report from concern citizens about rebel presence in the barangay.
At around 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Lamosao said a platoon of 66th IB clashed with the rebels, believed to be Section Committee (Sec Com) 18 of Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC) and Pulang Bagani Command (PBC) 6.
“Despite the presence of their top leaders, the enemy withdrew to south direction from the encounter site,” he said.
Around 1:30 p.m on the same day, another platoon clashed with the same group during a pursuit operation at the vicinity of Sitio Sarayon.
At around 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Lamosao said a platoon of 66th IB clashed with the rebels, believed to be Section Committee (Sec Com) 18 of Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC) and Pulang Bagani Command (PBC) 6.
“Despite the presence of their top leaders, the enemy withdrew to south direction from the encounter site,” he said.
Around 1:30 p.m on the same day, another platoon clashed with the same group during a pursuit operation at the vicinity of Sitio Sarayon.
The platoon called for air support which forced the NPAs to scamper to different directions. The firefight lasted for about one hour and ten minutes.
The operation resulted in the recovery of 12 bags of IED component and wires. There are no reported casualties from the soldiers.
Maj. Gen Noel Clement, the 10th ID commander, said they will continue their offensives against the NPA. He also credited the help of the community in pinning down the rebels.
“The 10ID is grateful to the people of Sitio Sarayon and whole of Barangay Araibo especially the local officials for their continued support to the government by timely reporting the presence of NPAs,” he said.
The operation resulted in the recovery of 12 bags of IED component and wires. There are no reported casualties from the soldiers.
Maj. Gen Noel Clement, the 10th ID commander, said they will continue their offensives against the NPA. He also credited the help of the community in pinning down the rebels.
“The 10ID is grateful to the people of Sitio Sarayon and whole of Barangay Araibo especially the local officials for their continued support to the government by timely reporting the presence of NPAs,” he said.
Sayyafs kill 6 soldiers, wounds 4 more in Basilan
From the Mindanao Examiner (Nov 9): Sayyafs kill 6 soldiers, wounds 4 more in Basilan
Abu Sayyaf gunmen killed 6 army soldiers and wounded 4 others in an ambush in Basilan, one of 5 provinces under the restive Muslim autonomous region in southern Philippines, officials said Thursday.
Officials said the soldiers were pursuing a band of militants when gunmen – mostly supporters and relatives of Abu Sayyaf fighters – ambushed them Wednesday in Upper Cabengbeng village in Sumisip, hometown of ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman.
“As they edged towards the circumferential road, operating troops were met with heavy fire by lawless elements believed to be relatives and sympathizers of the Abu Sayyaf bandits,” said Colonel Juvymax Uy, commander of the anti-terror Joint Task Force Basilan.
He said two of the Abu Sayyaf leaders involved in the fighting have been identified as Siar Alhamsirol and Parong Tedi who managed to escape the military operation.
The heavy fighting, according to Uy, lasted over 4 hours and needed air force bombers to support ground troops battling the militants. The clashes were so intense that the army had to deploy the 64th and 68th Infantry Battalions to augment members of the 18th Battalion fighting the Abu Sayyaf.
The Western Mindanao Command on Thursday said the bodies of the slain soldiers were handed over to the grieving families. And the wounded soldiers are now in a military hospital here where they are being treated for gunshot wounds.
“We are sad to report the death of six of your soldiers during the encounter yesterday in Basilan,” said Lieutenant General Carlito Galvez, Jr., chief of the Western Mindanao Command.
He said military operations against the Abu Sayyaf and their support groups are continuing in Basilan, just several nautical miles south of Zamboanga City. “As we mourn, combat operations against the bandits will be intensified with our intelligence operations and sustained campaign to defeat the remaining terrorists. Rest assured that this will not stop us from crushing the enemies of the state,” Galvez said.
Both Galvez and Hataman have previously trumpeted victory against the Abu Sayyaf and the surrender of many of its fighters in Sumisip and other parts of Basilan and claiming the government is winning the war against terrorism in the province.
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/sayyafs-kill-6-soldiers-wounds-4-more-in-basilan/
Abu Sayyaf gunmen killed 6 army soldiers and wounded 4 others in an ambush in Basilan, one of 5 provinces under the restive Muslim autonomous region in southern Philippines, officials said Thursday.
Officials said the soldiers were pursuing a band of militants when gunmen – mostly supporters and relatives of Abu Sayyaf fighters – ambushed them Wednesday in Upper Cabengbeng village in Sumisip, hometown of ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman.
“As they edged towards the circumferential road, operating troops were met with heavy fire by lawless elements believed to be relatives and sympathizers of the Abu Sayyaf bandits,” said Colonel Juvymax Uy, commander of the anti-terror Joint Task Force Basilan.
He said two of the Abu Sayyaf leaders involved in the fighting have been identified as Siar Alhamsirol and Parong Tedi who managed to escape the military operation.
The heavy fighting, according to Uy, lasted over 4 hours and needed air force bombers to support ground troops battling the militants. The clashes were so intense that the army had to deploy the 64th and 68th Infantry Battalions to augment members of the 18th Battalion fighting the Abu Sayyaf.
The Western Mindanao Command on Thursday said the bodies of the slain soldiers were handed over to the grieving families. And the wounded soldiers are now in a military hospital here where they are being treated for gunshot wounds.
“We are sad to report the death of six of your soldiers during the encounter yesterday in Basilan,” said Lieutenant General Carlito Galvez, Jr., chief of the Western Mindanao Command.
He said military operations against the Abu Sayyaf and their support groups are continuing in Basilan, just several nautical miles south of Zamboanga City. “As we mourn, combat operations against the bandits will be intensified with our intelligence operations and sustained campaign to defeat the remaining terrorists. Rest assured that this will not stop us from crushing the enemies of the state,” Galvez said.
Both Galvez and Hataman have previously trumpeted victory against the Abu Sayyaf and the surrender of many of its fighters in Sumisip and other parts of Basilan and claiming the government is winning the war against terrorism in the province.
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/sayyafs-kill-6-soldiers-wounds-4-more-in-basilan/
Armed men torch passenger van in Sarangani
From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 8): Armed men torch passenger van in Sarangani
Unidentified armed men burned a passenger van from this city in a coastal village in Maasim town in Sarangani Province on Tuesday night.
Sr. Insp. Nemesio Calipjo Jr., chief of the Maasim municipal police station, said Wednesday the van was en route to Maitum town in Sarangani when it was flagged down and torched by the suspects at a portion of the national highway in Barangay Lumasal at around 8 p.m.
Citing accounts from witnesses, he said one of the van’s passengers initially requested to disembark at the barangay proper of Lumasal.
But Calipjo said a group of armed were already waiting in the area and ordered the van’s driver and passengers to disembark.
“They poured gasoline on the van, set it on fire and hastily left the scene,” Calipjo said.
The police official said they are currently determining the identity of the suspects and their possible affiliation.
Several passenger buses, vans and company delivery trucks had been torched since late last year in parts of Sarangani in daring attacks claimed by New People’s Army (NPA).
Last month, suspected NPA rebels burned a delivery van of the KCC Mall of GenSan at a portion of Barangay Tuyan in Malapatan, Sarangani.
In all instances, the suspects, who introduced themselves as NPA members, did not harm any of the drivers and passengers.
But in the latest incident in Maasim town, none of the suspects reportedly made any claim nor declared affiliation to any group.
“The investigation is still ongoing and a (police) team is currently in the area to track down the suspects,” Calipjo said.
Investigators are still in the process of identifying the owner of the Toyota Hi-Ace passenger van as it was totally burned and no recognizable markings were found on the unit.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/1015167
Unidentified armed men burned a passenger van from this city in a coastal village in Maasim town in Sarangani Province on Tuesday night.
Sr. Insp. Nemesio Calipjo Jr., chief of the Maasim municipal police station, said Wednesday the van was en route to Maitum town in Sarangani when it was flagged down and torched by the suspects at a portion of the national highway in Barangay Lumasal at around 8 p.m.
Citing accounts from witnesses, he said one of the van’s passengers initially requested to disembark at the barangay proper of Lumasal.
But Calipjo said a group of armed were already waiting in the area and ordered the van’s driver and passengers to disembark.
“They poured gasoline on the van, set it on fire and hastily left the scene,” Calipjo said.
The police official said they are currently determining the identity of the suspects and their possible affiliation.
Several passenger buses, vans and company delivery trucks had been torched since late last year in parts of Sarangani in daring attacks claimed by New People’s Army (NPA).
Last month, suspected NPA rebels burned a delivery van of the KCC Mall of GenSan at a portion of Barangay Tuyan in Malapatan, Sarangani.
In all instances, the suspects, who introduced themselves as NPA members, did not harm any of the drivers and passengers.
But in the latest incident in Maasim town, none of the suspects reportedly made any claim nor declared affiliation to any group.
“The investigation is still ongoing and a (police) team is currently in the area to track down the suspects,” Calipjo said.
Investigators are still in the process of identifying the owner of the Toyota Hi-Ace passenger van as it was totally burned and no recognizable markings were found on the unit.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/1015167
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