Sunday, December 3, 2017

CPP/NPA-NCMR: Binuangan PNP Station, giatake sa NPA

NPA-North Central Mindanao Region propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines Website (Dec 4): Binuangan PNP Station, giatake sa NPA



Ka Malem Mabini, Spokesperson'
NPA-North Central Mindanao

4 December 2017

Giatake sa mga pwersa sa New People’s Army ubos sa Eastern Misamis Oriental-North Eastern Bukidnon (EMONEB) ang PNP station sa Binuangan, Misamis Oriental kaniadtong Desyembre 3, 2017 sa may alas tres sa kaadlawon. Mikabat og duha ka oras kapin ang sinukliay og bala ug luwas nga miatras ang BHB samtang upat ang samaron sa panig sa PNP.

Kini nga aksyong Militar mao ang pagpaningil sa utang dugo sa mga pulis sa Binuangan nga kabahin sa reinforcement force nga nagreyd sa mga sakop sa EMONEB nga naghimo og pagpasabot sa mga lumulupyo sa Brgy. Ampianga, Sugbongcogon, Misamis Oriental kabahin sa kadaut nga idulot kung dili mapugngan ang ekspansyon sa plantasyon sa Del Monte sa maong lugar. Nahitabo kini kaniadtong Agosto 2, 2012 kung asa usa ka kauban ang diha-dihang napatay atol sa pinusilay samtang ang laing usa nga samaron gitiwasan sa mga pulis.

Magsilbi usab nga tubag kini nga aksyong militar sa hinungog nga pagsabotahe sa rehimeng US-Duterte sa Panaghisgot Pangkalinaw. Gipakyas ni Duterte ang pangandoy sa katawhang Pilipino alang sa malahutayon ug makatarunganong kalinaw. Mas grabe pa, gibaharan pa niya ang mga ligal nga progresibong grupo pinaagi sa crackdown ug dinaghang pagpangdakop ug gideklarang “terorista” ang nasudnon-demokratikong rebolusyonaryong kalihukan.

Apan taliwala niini nga postura sa estado, lakip ang pag-angkon nga mas estable ug nagkalig-on karon ang ilang armadong kusog, napamatud-an sa gihapon sa rebolusyonaryong kalihukan nga anaa kini katakus alang sa pagtay-og sa pulitikanhong gahum sa reaksyon. Nagpamatuod usab kini sa labaw pang paglapad sa mga baseng masa sa rebolusyonaryong kalihukan, nga nahimong kaabag alang sa maong operasyon.

Busa, anaa karon sa rebolusyonaryong kalihukan ang pinakapaborable ug pinakatukma nga panahon aron pakyason ang laraw nga diktadurya ni Duterte. Dahumon pa sa estado ang mas subsob nga mga pagsukol sa katawhan, armado man o dili.

https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statements/20171204-binuangan-pnp-station-giatake-sa-npa

CPP/NPA-Cagayan: Baggao, Cagayan: AFP intelligence asset punished by NPA

NPA-Cagayan propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines Website (Dec 4): Baggao, Cagayan: AFP intelligence asset punished by NPA



Ester Falcon, Spokesperson
NPA-Cagayan (Henry Abraham Command)

4 December 2017
Press Release

Angelo “Buridek” Luis, an intelligence agent under the Military Inteligence Group of the AFP, was killed on Saturday by operatives of the Henry Abraham Command-NPA after attempting to escape arrest.

Luis was ordered arrested by the people’s revolutionary government to face charges of landgrabbing and murder filed against him at the people’s court. On December 2 at 7am, the NPA was about to arrest Luis at Barangay Awallan, Baggao, Cagayan when he attempted to escape and shoot at the arresting team.

The NPA confiscated two .45 caliber and one .22 caliber pistols; one BSL; and one M4 scope from Luis. Also found among his possessions were MIG files of high intelligence value.

Luis, who also serves as a Sangguniang Bayan of Baggao, Cagayan, aided the military operations in October 2011 at Barangay San Miguel, Baggao that led to the murder of four NPA fighters, including NPA commander Dominador “Ka Martin” Javier.


https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statements/20171204-baggao-cagayan-afp-intelligence-asset-punished-by-nparn

US, RP seal new deal vs terrorism, narcos

From the Daily Tribune (Dec 3): US, RP seal new deal vs terrorism, narcos

The United States and the Philippines agreed to strengthen collaboration in areas including counter-terrorism, countering transnational drug trafficking and on maritime security, a joint statement released by the U.S. State Department said.

The agreement came on the heels of the recent visit of US President Donald Trump to the Philippines mid-November where he had a series of talks with President Duterte.

The statement followed a bilateral strategic dialog held in Washington on Thursday and Friday, during which the two sides discussed their shared concerns about security challenges and expressed their desire to strengthen regional cooperation under the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean)-U.S. Strategic Partnership.

Senior officials reaffirmed their commitment to deepening collaboration in areas including maritime security, humanitarian assistance and disaster response, cybersecurity, countering transnational drug trafficking, and countering terrorism, said the statement.

The State Department also congratulated the Duterte administration on defeating the Islamic State (IS)-supported terrorists in Mindanao and vowed to continue to support the fight against terrorism.
The Philippines has been working on strengthening its long-term ability to combat terrorist threats and prevent the spread of the IS militants to the region.

In the dialog, the United States and the Philippines also eyed to expand bilateral trade, including through exploring a potential Free Trade Agreement, according to the statement.

Both sides noted the substantive discussions on cooperating in areas such as science and technology,
agriculture and fisheries, and health and environment.

The US State Department said in its statement said the seventh Bilateral Strategic Dialogue was held in Washington, D.C. and the US panel was represented by Acting Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Susan Thornton and Acting Assistant Secretary of Defense for Asian and Pacific Security Affairs David Helvey while the Philippine delegation was led by Department of Foreign Affairs Undersecretary for Policy Enrique Manalo and Department of National Defense Undersecretary Ricardo David.

The dialog “is a key mechanism for discussing the full range of political, security, and economic cooperation between the United States and the Philippines,” the statement read.

It said four working groups convened to develop action plans for expanding our joint partnership on Defense and Security; Economics, Development, and Prosperity; Regional and Global Diplomatic Engagement; and Rule of Law and Law Enforcement.

During the dialog, senior officials discussed a wide variety of issues of mutual interest and reaffirmed their commitment to deepening collaboration in areas including maritime security, humanitarian assistance and disaster response, cybersecurity, countering transnational drug trafficking, countering terrorism, and improving drug prevention and treatment services, as well as combating wildlife trafficking and illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, it added.

US-RP FTA taken up

It added that the U.S. and Philippine delegations reaffirmed their commitment to deepening the extensive economic relationship between the two countries.

“Both sides noted the substantive discussions on cooperating In areas such as science & technology, agriculture and fisheries, and health and environment. They welcomed the bilateral Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) discussions held on November 29, and look forward to more robust discussions on ways to expand free, fair and reciprocal bilateral trade, including through exploring a potential Free Trade Agreement,” it said.

In the talks, the US and the Philippines discussed their shared concerns about security challenges in the region and pledged to work together to end North Korea’s unlawful ballistic missile and nuclear programs.

The State Department said it welcomed the Philippines’ compliance with the relevant United Nations Security Council Resolutions.

“Both sides reiterated their commitment to uphold freedom of navigation and overflight and other lawful uses of the sea in the South China Sea, and stressed the importance of peacefully resolving disputes in accordance with international law, as reflected in the Law of the Sea Convention,” it added.

Both sides also expressed their desire to strengthen regional cooperation under the Asean-U.S. Strategic Partnership and in APEC, and decided to focus on action plans that would contribute to regional stability, economic integration, and connectivity.

The US congratulated the Philippines on its success as the 2017 ASEAN Chair and for hosting President Trump’s successful visit to Manila, it added.

Regular talks set

The US and the Philippines reaffirmed the importance of regular high-level consultations during the talks. The US welcomed the Philippines’ offer to host the next Bilateral Strategic Dialogue in Manila in 2018.

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Undersecretary Ceferino Rodolfo confirmed the talks on a possible bilateral free trade agreement.

Quoting Ambassador to US Jose Manuel Romualdez, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Friday noted the two nations had a wide-ranging discussion of bilateral economic issues.

“This TIFA meeting came barely a fortnight after the successful bilateral meeting between Philippine President Rodrigo R. Duterte and US President Donald J. Trump in Manila, where the two leaders affirmed their commitment to further deepen the extensive United States-Philippines economic relationship,” Rodolfo quoted Romualdez as saying.

The DFA said Duterte and Trump had a “productive bilateral meeting” in Manila last November.
“This early follow-up is a clear demonstration of the two countries’ shared resolve to enhance our long-standing partnership for mutual prosperity,” Romualdez said.

He said Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano gave him “explicit instructions” to build on his recent visit to Washington, together with the Philippine economic managers, and to follow-up on US-Philippine’s mutual efforts to advance core economic interests.

“I find it auspicious, therefore, that we had a productive and frank TIFA meeting with the US side on my first official day as Philippine Ambassador to the United States,” he said.

In their opening remarks, Rodolfo and Acting Assistant US Trade Representative for Southeast Asia and the Pacific Karl Ehlers welcomed the opportunity to provide substantive action to the pledge of Presidents Duterte and Trump to nurture the economic ties.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/us-rp-seal-new-deal-vs-terrorism-narcos

2 killed, 7 wounded in BIFF attack in Maguindanao town

From the Philippine Star (Dec 4): 2 killed, 7 wounded in BIFF attack in Maguindanao town




 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The military believes the BIFF attack was meant to avenge the deaths of 30 militants killed in recent months. Google Earth

 Islamic State-inspired militants killed two villagers and left seven wounded in an attack in Shariff Aguak town in Maguindanao on Sunday night.
 
Four of those injured were children.
 
The fatalities, Unti Kamama, 60, and his 13-year-old grandson, Mohammad Kamama, died from multiple gunshot wounds.
 
Responding police and Army investigators said a soldier, PFC Clinton Rigor of the 40th Infantry Battalion, was also wounded in the incident.
 
Some 30 gunmen from the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters first attacked an Army detachment in Barangay Timbangan in Shariff Aguak on Sunday evening.
 
Another group of bandits also fired at nearby houses, killing the Kamamas and wounding the four children.
 
Also reported wounded were Aila Amor, Tukay Kamama and Ela Tayog.
 
The BIFF, which splintered from the MILF in 2010, uses the flag of the Islamic State — also known as the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria — as its banner.
 
Maj. Gen. Arnel Dela Vega of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division said Wednesday the latest BIFF attack was meant to avenge the deaths of more than 30 members killed in recent offensives by the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and units of 6th ID.
 
MILF forces have killed 27 militants in one of three BIFF factions, the one under Esmael Abdulmalik, in encounters from the last week of July to early September.
 
The MILF launched the offensive against Abdulmalik and his men after they attempted to hoist the ISIS flag in strategic areas in Maguindanao’s Datu Salibo and Shariff Saydona Mustapha towns.
 
More than ten BIFF gunmen under another faction under Imam Bongos were also reportedly killed in an operation last month by the Army’s 57th, 19th and 40th Infantry Battalions at the boundary of Maguindanao’s Datu Unsay and Shariff Aguak towns.
 
Senior Superintendent Agustin Tello, director of the Maguindanao police, said community elders in Shariff Aguak have confirmed that followers of Imam Bongos were behind the harassment of the Army detachment in Barangay Timbangan on Sunday night.
 
Abu Misry Mama, spokesman of the BIFF’s Bongos faction, said the attack was part of their continuing offensive against the police and the military.
 
Tello said Shariff Aguak Mayor Marop Ampatuan is now helping provide for the needs of villagers wounded in the attack.
 
Ampatuan said his office will also allocate funds for those recuperating in a hospital.
 
"I’m appealing to these armed groups not to roam in populated areas for innocent villagers not to get hurt," Ampatuan said.
 
The mayor said their municipal peace and order council will work to prevent a repeat of the incident.
 

US working 'very hard' to return Balangiga bells, envoy says

From the Philippine Star (Dec 4): US working 'very hard' to return Balangiga bells, envoy says



 "Just as the issue of Balangiga Bells is a deeply emotional issue for the Philippine side, I think it’s similar in the United States," US Ambassador Sung Kim said. AP, file

Washington remains committed to reaching a resolution that would allow the return of the Balangiga Bells to the Philippines, US Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim said Monday.
 
Kim reiterated his earlier statement that the US is willing to return the three bells taken from Balangiga, Eastern Samar in the Philippine-American War at an earlier date.

The US envoy echoed the statement of Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez, who said that he is optimistic that the three bells will be returned to the country soon.

"We are continuing to work very hard to reach a mutually satisfactory resolution... I’m on the same page with Ambassador Romualdez in the sense that, yes, we very much hope that the resolution will be soon," Kim said in an interview with ANC's Headstart on Monday.

RELATED: US to resolve Balangiga bells issue with Philippines

Kim, however, admitted that there are challenges in the US as some veterans' groups, local politicians and citizens are reluctant to return the bells to the Philippines.
 
"Just as the issue of Balangiga Bells is a deeply emotional issue for the Philippine side, I think it’s similar in the United States," Kim said.

The US government is engaging in dialogue with various groups and stakeholders to reach a resolution on the matter, the US envoy added.

During President Rodrigo Duterte's second State of the Nation Address in July, the president demanded that the US return the three bells that American troops seized in 1901 as war booty.

The bells were part of a signal for Filipinos to attack American troops in town on September 28, 1901. The attack, which happened early in the morning, left at least 48 members of the 9th US Infantry Regiment dead.

The Philippines has been trying to have the bells returned since Fidel Ramos was president. A petition to have the bells returned was revived in the wake of Typhoon Yolanda in 2013. Samar was among the islands devastated by the supertyphoon.

Two of the bells are now in a US military base in Cheyenne, Wyoming while another one is at a museum in South Korea.
 

US vows continued aid in anti-terror campaign

From Malaya Business Insight (Dec 4): US vows continued aid in anti-terror campaign

THE United States will continue to support the Philippine campaign against terrorism and the rehabilitation of Marawi even as it stressed the importance of upholding the rule of law and human rights.

This was stressed in a joint statement after the 7th Bilateral Strategic Dialogue held from November 30 to December 1 in Washington D.C. attended by DFA Undersecretary for Policy Enrique Manalo and Defense Undersecretary Ricardo David, Acting Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Susan Thornton and Acting Assistant Secretary of Defense for Asian and Pacific Security Affairs David Helvey.

Both sides affirmed their commitment to deepen collaboration not only in the area of counterterrorism but also in maritime security, humanitarian assistance and disaster response, cybersecurity, anti-drug trafficking and drug prevention and treatment services as well as combating wildlife trafficking and illegal fishing.

The officials also pledged to continue working together to eliminate human trafficking.

“The United States congratulated the Philippines on defeating ISIS-supported terrorists in Mindanao and vowed to continue to support the fight against terrorism and the rehabilitation of Marawi,” the joint statement said, adding that “The US and Philippine delegations emphasized the importance of the rule of law, human rights and fundamental freedoms.”

Earlier, the US Embassy in Manila said the US government will continue to assist the AFP in its counter-terrorist efforts by providing technical assistance and surveillance.

The embassy said over the past three years the US has provided the Philippines with assistance valued at over P15 billion to establish better command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities for the AFP.

At the height of the war in Marawi, the US deployed unmanned aerial surveillance aircraft to provide surveillance support to Filipino troops.

The US has also delivered to the AFP a Raven tactical unmanned aircraft system and two Cessna-208B surveillance aircraft, as well as various munitions and weapons to support urgent defense and counterterrorism needs.

The US also delivered 12 Ford F150 pick-up trucks to increase the mobility of the Philippine Navy Naval Special Warfare Group.

Last June, the US also delivered 300 M4 assault rifles, 200 Glock 21 pistols, 25 units combat rubber raiding craft, 100 M203 rail-mounted grenade launchers, 30 outboard motors and four M134 Dillon Gatling-type machine guns to the Philippine Marines.

This followed an earlier delivery of 400 M203 grenade launchers, 95 M40A5 sniper rifles and an RQ 11B Raven unmanned aerial vehicle system.

The Philippine Navy also received a tethered aerostat radar system from the US to bolster its capability to monitor the country’s territorial waters and airspace.

http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/us-vows-continued-aid-anti-terror-campaign

‘Propaganda,’ Palace calls Karapatan letter to UN

From Malaya Business Insight (Dec 4): ‘Propaganda,’ Palace calls Karapatan letter to UN

PRESIDENTIAL spokesman Harry Roque yesterday dismissed as “propaganda” the submission of a “letter of allegation” by the leftist human rights group Karapatan to United Nations special rapporteurs Agnes Callamard and Michael Forst about extrajudicial killings (EJK) in connection with President Duterte’s anti-insurgency drive.

Roque said he has yet to see the letter submitted to the rapporteurs, and he has yet to determine if Karapatan had filed complaints before local courts before going to the international body.

“It’s useless to go to go the UN without filing cases before the fiscal’s office. Filing directly with the UN is only for propaganda purposes because there are institutions in the Philippines that could address it,” Roque said.

Karapatan on Saturday said it informed Callamard, special rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary, or arbitrary execution, and Forst, special rapporteur on human rights defenders, about 47 EJKs, first last April.

In the second and latest letter, Karapatan said there were 25 cases of EJKs perpetrated by security forces in relation to the administration’s counter-insurgency program.

Karapatan said it has so far documented 104 victims of EJKs under Duterte’s counter-insurgency program from July 2016 to October 2017.

Roque said: “We find it unfortunate that human rights group advocate Karapatan wrote two separate letters to the United Nations… in connection with alleged cases of extrajudicial killings in the Philippines. The State – not international bodies like the United Nations – is duty-bound to investigate alleged cases of EJKs. Karapatan knows that it can avail of all domestic remedial mechanisms.”

Roque said the criminal justice system in the Philippines remains to be effective and legal processes are well-functioning.

He also said a special body has been created by the Duterte government to specifically look into alleged extrajudicial killing cases.

“We therefore hope that they will file their complaints in the proper courts, not before the so-called human rights rapporteurs who have politicized views of the Philippines’ campaign against illegal drugs. Certainly, Karapatan knows the cases will not prosper there in the UN. It is the political mileage they are after in pursuit of their continued intent to malign this administration, through the special rapporteurs who only seem too willing to act based on fake political information,” he added.

Karapatan last week slammed Duterte for his repeated attacks against Callamard, the latest was when he said she would “slap” the rapporteur if she investigates EJKs being linked to his war against the illegal drugs trade.

http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/%E2%80%98propaganda%E2%80%99-palace-calls-karapatan-letter-un

AFP studying lease of Camp Aguinaldo

From Malaya Business Insight (Dec 4): AFP studying lease of Camp Aguinaldo

ARMED Forces chief Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero has ordered a study on the possible lease out of Camp Aguinaldo, the military’s general headquarters in Quezon City, and other military camps to raise funds for soldiers.

AFP public affairs chief Col. Edgard Arevalo said the study would consider the strategic value of these camps.

The lease was broached by President Duterte last month.

The deed of donation for Camp Aguinaldo and the adjacent Camp Crame, the headquarters of the Philippine National Police, states that the property should be returned to original owners if the government will sell or use it for other purposes. The land of the two camps was donated by the Ortigas family during the Commonwealth, solely for military use.
Duterte, during a visit to the Army’s Special Operations Command in Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija on November 22, said leasing out Camp Aguinaldo would raise billions of pesos for the soldiers. He also earlier raised the idea of leasing out the Army headquarters in Fort Bonifacio in Taguig City, and idle lands inside military camps throughout the country.
“We understand what the President said and his intention why he mentioned that recommendation. That’s why the chief of staff has ordered to study this particular proposal or idea of the President,” said Arevalo.

Arevalo said the AFP chief ordered the study so that the military can “strike a good balance between commercial value and strategic value” of these camps.

A security official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said leasing Camp Aguinaldo is a “thorny issue,” noting that a large part of the camp was donated by the Ortigas family solely for the use of the Armed Forces.

“It’s a complicated issue. That’s a thorny issue because there is a clause in the (donation) contract that it shall be for the use of the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” the source said.

“So it might not be possible to sell or lease. It is of my opinion that if it is not going to be used by the Armed Forces, we have to return the donated land to them. Leasing the camp will have some legal implications,” he also said.

The previous administration also considered leasing part of the 178-hectare Camp Aguinaldo to raise funds for the modernization of the Armed Forces. The plan was, however, overtaken by events.

In 2011, then Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin said technical working groups were looking into legal issues that may arise from leasing out the military installations.

The Ramos administration has sold military lands, also supposedly for the benefit of soldiers and policemen. Republic Act 7227, or the Bases Conversion and Development Act of 1992, paved the way for the privatization of Fort Bonifacio and Villamor Air Base and military installations in Subic and Clark. Questions have been raised as to whether government has followed the allotment scheme for proceeds of the sale.

http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/afp-studying-lease-camp-aguinaldo

6 Abu Sayyaf captives freed after paying ransom

From Malaya Business Insight (Dec 4): 6 Abu Sayyaf captives freed after paying ransom 

SIX civilians, including two children, were released by the Abu Sayyaf in Patikul town in Sulu on Friday, two weeks after they were abducted.

Brig. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, commander of the military’s Joint Task Force Sulu, said the victims gave the Abu Sayyaf P100,000 “for board and lodging,” which means ransom.

Released were Nelson Hapole, 7; Marciano Hapole, 14; Lucy Hapole, 21; Jimmy Trinidad, 21; Jessie Trinidad, 53; and Marissa Trinidad, 54.


Sobejana said the six were released at around 2 p.m. Friday in Sitio Buhawan-Buhawan, Barangay Latih in Patikul town.

Sobejana said the victims are “the poorest of the poor in Jolo. He said they sold their properties “at a very low cost” and their neighbors contributed to raise the money demanded by the Abu Sayyaf.

The six were seized by the Abu Sayyaf, led by one Roger Samlahon, in Barangay Anuling, Patikul town on November 14.

Sobejana said government forces conducted operations to rescue the victims “but we cannot control everything.”

The Abu Sayyaf is holding 13 foreign and Filipino kidnap victims in Sulu, including Dutch wildlife photographer Elwood Horn who was abducted from Tawi-Tawi in February 2012.

http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/6-abu-sayyaf-captives-freed-after-paying-ransom

State forces blocking assistance to Surigao del Sur ‘bakwit’ – lumad supporters

From InterAksyon (Dec 2): State forces blocking assistance to Surigao del Sur ‘bakwit’ – lumad supporters



An aid worker vainly negotiates with Army soldiers for aid to be delivered to hundreds of lumad evacuees in the hinterlands of Lianga, Surigao del Sur. (photo courtesy of Chad Booc)

Government security forces have allegedly been preventing food aid from reaching more than a thousand lumad evacuees, including students of tribal schools, who have been staying in a hinterland village of Lianga, Surigao del Sur since fleeing their homes on November 26.

Chad Booc, a University of the Philippines graduate who volunteers as a teacher at the Alternative Center for Agricultural and Livelihood Development in Han-ayan, barangay Diatagon, said aside from 244 families, or 1,170 individuals, from 12 communities, 406 students and 59 teachers from ALCADEV and another school run by the Tribal Filipino Program of Surigao del Sur, have been staying at the community called Kilometer 9, which he said “is the nearest to the national highway.”

The latest evacuation, like earlier incidents, was triggered by military operations in the vicinity of the Manobo communities, Booc said.

These communities were among those that joined the massive lumad exodus triggered by the murders of ALCADEV executive director Emerito Samarca and Manobo leaders Dionel Campos, chaiman of the Malahutayong Pakigbisog Alang sa Sumusunod or Mapasu, and Datu Jovello Sinzo on September 1, 2015 by members of the Bagani militia.

The killings happened in sight of nearby Army units that did nothing to prevent the atrocities or apprehend the perpetrators. In the succeeding months, the Army and its allied militias portrayed ALCADEV and the lumad communities as communist rebel supporters and military officers even escorted one militia commander to a congressional hearing where he justified the killing of Samarca for supposedly “poisoning” the minds of tribal youth.


Aside from being suspected of supporting the rebels, the Andap Valley, which the tribal communities consider their ancestral domain, has long been eyed by mining firms because of its rich deposits of coal and precious minerals.



Lumad from hinterland communities of Lianga, Surigao del Sur begin evacuating their homes to avoid military operations. (photo from Higala: Friends of the Lumad in Caraga)

Booc, who was away from ALCADEV to help prepare for a regional assembly of lumad supporters when the evacuations started, said he joined three attempts by various groups, including the Catholic churc h and the Lianga local government, to deliver assistance to the displaced tribal folk between November 28 and December 1.

All attempts, including the last one, which was accompanied by Lianga Councilos Sammy Dollano and Merenciano Martiza, were turned back by soldiers of the 75th Infantry Battalion.

This prompted Dollano to issue a message, re-posted by ALCADEV on its social media page, saying: “Food assistance from humanitarian aid workers could hardly get to the area as the AFP imposed food blockade of that sort. Thank you for any valuable assistance you could possibly extend us.

This should be seriously investigated as massive violations of HR (human rights) re: IHL (international humanitarian law) have been committed despite our repeated request for possible and orderly pull out of troops and entry of material assistance from NGO/CSO partners.”

Booc said the councilors agreed to accompany them after the LGU initially turned down their offer to join an earlier aid delivery on November 29 after the military talked to the team from the town.

The December 1 delivery attempt also saw some 70 visitors, including children, who had hoped to attend the Interschool Festival of TRIFPSS, even if several of them were from the displaced communities.

Gabriela calls for CHR probe of Nasugbu clashes

From Rappler (Dec 3): Gabriela calls for CHR probe of Nasugbu clashes

Gabriela also says the photo of Josephine Lapira's dead body that was released on Facebook belies the AFP's claim that she was brought to a hospital for treatment



PROTEST. In this file photo, members and supporters of women rights group Gabriela hold a protest during the International Women's Human Rights Defenders Day on November 29. Photo from Gabriela Facebook page

Women's rights group Gabriela called on the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) to conduct an independent probe surrounding the two separate clashes between suspected members of the rebel New People's Army (NPA) and combined military and police forces on Tuesday evening, November 28.

Gabriela in a statement Sunday, December 3, said the "haphazard handling" of the crime scene investigations shows that the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) are covering up the truth behind the supposed clash.

"Such handling casts doubt on the manner and conduct of the operation, especially since the PNP and AFP are notorious in planting and concocting so-called evidence in order to file trumped-up charges against their numerous victims in their counterinsurgency operations," the statement read.

A total of 6 alleged members of NPA were killed in the reported 20-minute gun battle at the Sitio Pinamintasan, in Barangay Aya, Nasugbu. One of them died at the hospital.

In the clash at Sitio Batulao, 9 alleged NPA members died.

The two clashes yielded no deaths from the side of the military and police.

According to Gabriela, "results of the investigation can be instrumental in filing cases of violations of human rights (HR) and international humanitarian law (IHL) against culpable PNP and AFP units."

The clashes came just before President Rodrigo Duterte instructed military and police on Wednesday, November 28 to shoot any armed NPA member or terrorist they see. The orders are part of his new approach to dealing with communist rebels after he formally terminated peace talks with the National Democratic Front (NDF).

The NPA rebels, Duterte said, deserve the shoot order.

In its statement, Gabriela is holding the President accountable in the deaths of suspected NPA rebels which they claim violates human rights and international humanitarian law.

"Through his public shoot-to-kill orders against perceived enemies of the State, he directly provided police, military and paramilitary operations blanket authority to use naked armed attacks against all persons deemed as part of groups opposed to his rule," the group added.

The women's rights group also slammed the military for revealing the name of former UP student Josephine Lapira without the family's consent and releasing the lifeless photo of Lapira in a Facebook page. (READ: To friends, Jo Lapira was a tiny activist with big dreams)

According to them, the photo belies AFP's claim that Lapira was brought to a hospital for a treatment.

"We condemn in the strongest possible terms the brutal manner of their deaths and the desecration of their remains based on first-hand information gathered by our group. All their belongings, even the clothes on their bodies, were taken away by the military and denied their families," the activist group added.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/190227-gabriela-probe-nasugbu-batangas-clash

4 cops hurt in suspected NPA attack in Misamis Oriental

From Rappler (Dec 3): 4 cops hurt in suspected NPA attack in Misamis Oriental

Alleged New People's Army members launch an assault on a police station in Binuangan, Misamis Oriental, then eventually retreat



Around 100 suspected members of the New People's Army (NPA) attacked a police station in Binuangan, Misamis Oriental early Sunday, December 3.

At least 4 policemen from the Binuangan Municipal Police Station were wounded due to shrapnel from a grenade thrown by the alleged communist rebels. The number of injured from the enemy side is undetermined.
The suspected NPA members eventually retreated, according to police.
 
Philippine National Police (PNP) Northern Mindanao Regional Director Chief Superintendent Timoteo Pacleb "expressed profound gratitude" to the cops, hailing their "will to fight" to defend their station "at all costs."
 
The Binuangan clash is the latest between the government and communist rebels after President Rodrigo Duterte labeled the NPA as a terrorist group.
 
Last Tuesday, November 28, 15 alleged communist rebels were killed in two separate encounters with government troops in Nasugbu, Batangas.
 
PNP Calabarzon Regional Director Chief Superintendent Mao Aplasca described the clashes as a "big blow to the NPA."
 

2 NPA rebels killed in Alabel

From the Mindanao Times (Dec 2): 2 NPA rebels killed in Alabel

TWO MEMBERS of the New People’s Army (NPA) were killed in the intensified operations conducted by members of Philippine Army’s 10th Infantry Division in Alabel, Sarangani around 6 a.m. yesterday.

Five high-powered firearms and other war materials were recovered during the operation in Sitio Balataan, Barangay Pag-asa.

Col. Roberto Ancan, the 1002nd Infantry Brigade commander, told TIMES that the 10th ID’s 73rd Infantry (Neutralizer) Battalion encountered about 15 NPAs.

Ancan said the gunfight happened after the residents in the area reported to the authorities the presence of the armed group who were extorting and intimidating the locals.

He said 73rd IB soldiers immediately conducted security patrol in the area to verify the report.

Upon reaching the place, armed men opened fire on them. This prompted the troopers to return fire.

No casualty was reported on the government side, as two bodies of suspected rebels were found.

The identity of the fatalities is still unknown.

Ancan said blood stains in the withdrawal route indicated that there were other wounded NPA members.

Maj. Gen. Noel Clement, the 10th ID commander, is saddened that two more victims of the wrong propaganda have to die.

“Thus, we are calling on to the members of the NPAs to lay down their arms, surrender and avail the Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP),” Clement said.
 

PEACETALK: We push for the enactment of the Basic Law because we firmly believe, it is the right thing to do (By Al Haj Murad Ebrahim)

Posted to MindaNews (Dec 3): PEACETALK: We push for the enactment of the Basic Law because we firmly believe, it is the right thing to do (By Al Haj Murad Ebrahim)

(Welcome address of Al Haj Murad Ebrahim, chair of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front at the Bangsamoro Assembly on November 27, 2017 at the old Capitol building, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao)

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, Excellencies of the Diplomatic Corps; Government Officials; Distinguished Guests; Fellow Mujahideens; Representatives from various sectors; Dear friends, ladies and gentlemen, Assalamu Alaykum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh. Good Afternoon.

Foremost, allow me to thank all of you who came all the way from the different parts of the homeland. I am fully aware of the difficulties you endured in your effort in traversing complex routes from as far as the island provinces and the remote areas of mainland Mindanao to honor this gathering with your presence.

We are here once more to heed the command of Allah Subhanahu Wataala enshrined in the Glorious Qur’an putting premium on consultation or Shura as we reach another critical juncture in our search for peace and justice.

Perhaps, many of you can still recall that we also gathered here to consult with you when we embarked on the path of negotiation two decades ago. On this hallowed ground, you conveyed to us your assent for the Moro Islamic Liberation Front to engage in negotiations with the Government of the Republic of the Philippines. That negotiation has led us to many milestones. From the signing of the Ceasefire Agreement, to the forging of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro and the drafting of the Bangsamoro Basic Law, we have indeed gone a long way in our journey to peace and our search for justice.

It is our distinct privilege to have with us today a proud Mindanaoan, in whose veins run the blood of a Moro and whose election into the highest office of the land a year and a half ago, mirrors the struggle between our forebears here in the south and the privileged colonialists of the north. Today, we are witnesses to how all the four highest ranking officials of the country, who are from Mindanao – the President of the Republic, the Senate President, the Speaker of the House, and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court — are given the unique privilege to preside over the fate of their compatriots in Mindanao and for that matter, the fate of the whole country.

We also express our warmest welcome to our friends and partners from the international community, non-governmental organizations, the civil society organizations, schools, universities and colleges, religious groups, media, peace advocates and supporters, who have relentlessly journeyed with us in the path to peace and justice.

Across the world and now in our homeland, new enemies are emerging. A perverted ideology devoid of a national agenda that concerns itself only with the destruction of its perceived enemies, without regard to the rules of war and the welfare of the people, has been sowing fear and leaving a trail of destruction and death across the Middle East. Here at home, it has reached our shores and had shown its ugly head in Marawi that has left what was once a thriving Muslim City into ruins and its people in diaspora. I ask that we pause for a moment of silence to honor and respect the victims of this tragedy.

As we lay the foundation for the new era in the Bangsmoro through the implementation of our Peace Agreements with the Philippine Government, we call on our people to summon their strength and courage to stand together as one people aspiring for one goal, that of peace and justice for all. We must forge a new partnership with government as one people if we are to confront the new challenges we face such as poverty, poor education, lack of development and insecurity.

The MILF must transition into a social movement, with service delivery at its core. From fortification of camps with arms, we venture into the development of our communities with new sets of learned skills and prepare the leadership from a revolutionary mindset into transformative leaders and managers. Through the times, we have learned that there is nothing impossible if we carry on the struggle in the pursuit of the common good.

The strides we have taken from the Ceasefire Agreement of 1997, the FAB and the CAB, and the submission of the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law by the Bangsamoro Transition Commission are our shared victories as one people. While we await the action of Congress to enact the Basic Law, any feeling of uncertainty is surely dwarfed by our trust and confidence in the promise and commitment of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and the leaders of Congress to enact into law the BBL without delay. We hold on to those promises and commitment.

If majority in the Bangsamoro approves of the enacted Basic Law in a plebiscite to be conducted for such purpose, then the Bangsamoro Transition Authority will be inaugurated.

Thus, we doubly urge our partners in government to act with dispatch both in the enactment of the BBL and in the setting up of the fund mechanism that will give a push to the socio-economic component of the normalization process.

As your leaders in the field, we carry the burden, far heavier than the burden of many of us – the burden of leadership. We do not only concern ourselves with our personal destinies, but also the destiny and the future of the people. So, we must take the more difficult path – the path of personal sacrifice and the burden of ensuring the future of our people.

We cannot help but remember the vivid memories of the past – youthful memories spent not in the cafes of the metropolis but in the ever-changing rugged fields, mountains and marshlands from Camp Darapanan all the way to the vastness of the great Ligawasan Marsh and the mountains of Abubakar, not to mention dangerous trenches or fox holes that served as appurtenant of our homes. I am sure my fellow mujahideens who have spent a lifetime of struggle share this personal battle.

We are proud heirs to a history of freedom and of the zealous struggle of our forebears for liberty, justice and peace for centuries amidst the onslaught of colonialism and conquest. We have produced some of the great-hearted fighters in this part of the world and the great revolutionaries of our century, the most recent of them, the late Sheikh Salamat Hashim, Alim Abduladzis Mimbantas and many others.

However, we also stand as a people facing a future – some say, an uncertain future. I say, let us work and contribute in determining our future with security and succor, a future of peace and plenty that harnesses the potentials of our people whose new skills and talents will be needed for a new age and era in the Bangsamoro. While we shall remain faithful and grateful to our brothers and sisters in struggle, let us tap into the vital energy of our youth and women, whose skills and enthusiasm in pursuing the Bangsamoro dream have kept my confidence in a more secure and certain future for our people.

I say with confidence, that the future will be determined by the actions we take today. If we are to chart a better future for the Bangsamoro and the Philippine Republic, we must build the foundation today on the steady soil of peace and justice and not on the shifting sands of politics and of convenience.

We push for the enactment of the Basic Law because we firmly believe, it is the right thing to do. It sprung from a negotiated political settlement that is bound to be delivered. We feel the obligation to assert for the enactment of the Basic Law, not because it will win us votes, but because it presents us the rare opportunity to be part of the noble endeavor of peace making. We urge the enactment of the Basic Law, not because the Constitution allocated that power to Congress but because we are afforded by history to be co-authors of peace and prosperity in the Bangsamoro and the country as a whole.

Like many of you here today, we took the path of revolutionary struggle more than four decades ago because we were convinced of the justness and legitimacy of the Bangsamoro Cause. We may have strides that appear to be inconsistent with the laws, but, we trust that justice, more than plain legalism, shall be the measure by which we judge our actions of the revolutionaries.

I therefore look more hopefully to a just and peaceful future not only in the Bangsamoro but for the whole republic as well.

In conclusion, I ask you to recall with me that great verse in the Glorious Qur’an:

“So verily, with every difficulty, there is relief;
Verily, with every difficulty there is relief.
Therefore, when you are free (from your immediate task) still labor hard.
And Your Lord turn (all) your attention.”

Lastly, with hope in our hearts, resolve in our spirit, we must forge ahead; we shall overcome and victory shall be achieved.

Brothers and sisters, let me once again welcome all of you to the Bangsamoro Assembly.THANK YOU AND WASSALAM.

4 injured in NPA attack on police station in Binuangan, MisOr

From  MindaNews (Dec 3): 4 injured in NPA attack on police station in Binuangan, MisOr

Suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA) attacked a police station in Binuangan town in Misamis Oriental at around 2 a.m. Sunday, injuring four police officers, including the police chief.

The rebels also set up checkpoints along the highway of Binuangan, 72 kilometers east of Cagayan de Oro.

Vinoya said the attack lasted for two hours as the policemen put up a stiff resistance.

“The rebels failed in their attack on the police station and failed to get the firearms of the policemen which was their target,” Superintindent Lemuel Gonda, PNP spokesperson for Northern Mindanao, said.



A platoon of NPA guerrillas belonging to Front 4B render a salute during the 48th founding anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines in barangay Mananom-Bago, Medina town, Misamis Oriental on Dec. 28, 2016. MindaNews file photo by FROILAN GALLARDO

Police chief Senior Inspector Dante Hallazgo, SPO1 Ramonito Zambas, PO3 Alberto Bernades and PO1 Joshua Satur were wounded when an M203 grenade exploded inside the station.

Gonda said the rebels also set up checkpoints along the highway linking the cities of Cagayan de Oro and Butuan.

Bus passenger Kimbo Velez said he saw three rebels armed with AK47 rifles and bandoliers of ammunition stopped their bus at around 2:30 a.m.

Velez said the checkpoint set up by the rebels were made of rows of plastic chairs placed in the middle of highway.

“One of the rebels who carried a flashlight identified himself to us as NPA rebel and warned our driver not to proceed,” Velez said.

He said the rebels also commandeered two Isuzu trucks which they later used in their escape.

Nicholas Marino, spokesperson of the National Democratic Front in Northern Mindanao said guerillas from NPA Front 4B staged the attack and the unit did not suffer any casualties

“The attack is a warning to the police and military that the NPA do not fear the threats of all-out war and Martial Law by the Duterte regime,” Marino said.

http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2017/12/4-injured-in-npa-attack-on-police-station-in-binuangan-misor/

Cagayan de Oro university president killed

From the Mindanao Examiner (Dec 2): Cagayan de Oro university president killed

Gunmen shot dead a local university president in an attack before dawn Saturday, police said.

At least 2 gunmen were reportedly involved in the murder of the 48-year old Ricardo Rotoras, who was shot repeatedly outside his house at Golden Glow North Subdivision in the village of Carmen.

The gunmen escaped after the shooting and were said to have been picked up by a truck waiting not far from the house of Rotoras, president of the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines.

Rotoras just came from a party and was about to enter his house when the attack occurred. Police said it is investigating the killing and the motive of the murder.

No individual or group claimed responsibility for the killing, but it could have been carried out by hired killers. Police investigators recovered bullet casings of .45-caliber pistol in the area.

Police were trying to gather pieces of evidence, including footage from security cameras around the subdivision to help them investigate the murder.

http://mindanaoexaminer.com/cagayan-de-oro-university-president-killed/

‘Amin Baco’ could be in Basilan, may recruit more Malaysians

From the Mindanao Examiner (Dec 2): ‘Amin Baco’ could be in Basilan, may recruit more Malaysians

Amin Baco may be hiding in Basilan and could recruit more Malaysians for attacks in other parts of southern Philippines if he is still alive, a former hostage says.

The Philippine authorities were earlier divided on whether Sabahan Amin was still alive and emir of the Islamic State (IS) in Southeast Asia, as claimed by an Indonesian militant captured in the besieged city of Marawi. But the latest statements by the Philippine military indicate that the seasoned terrorist may still be alive and is one of 10 militants who could be the new leader of the terror group’s regional arm.

“Amin was definitely one of the leaders during the siege on Marawi,” college teacher Lordvin Acopio, who spent four months in captivity by the pro-IS groups which attacked Marawi, told FMT. “I can’t say how many groups were in Marawi. Amin led one of the groups. “Each group had 10-15 fighters, but the number depended on the size of the area they were guarding.

“If Amin is still alive, it’s possible he’ll recruit more Malaysians to join in attack plots in other parts of southern Philippines.” Amin and others were said to be potential candidates to succeed IS’ Southeast Asia emir designate Isnilon Hapilon, who was killed last month in Marawi. Amin, who was from Tawau, was also reported to be an expert bomb-maker, recruiter and facilitator of weapons movement between southern Philippines and the east coast of Sabah. Malaysian counter-terrorism chief Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay last week revealed Amin was Isnilon’s son-in-law, which caught analysts and experts by surprise. Some analysts said Amin’s family relationship with Isnilon, as well as his leadership position, vast experience and network, could set him apart from the other candidates for the top post.

“If Amin is Isnilon’s son-in-law, most probably the IS’ regional leadership position was given to him after Isnilon was killed. The possibility is high,” Lordvin said.

In October, FMT broke the news about a Malaysian teenager whom Lordvin had seen fighting troops alongside his militant father in Marawi. FMT withheld the identity of the militant and his son, but last week, Ayob Khan revealed the boy’s name, adding that he was Amin’s son. Lordvin, who was kidnapped on May 23, the first day of the Marawi war, said Amin and his son had access to siege leader Isnilon.

“The boy was always at Isnilon’s place if he was not at the frontline fighting with his father,” Lordvin told FMT. “All of us hostages kept getting moved around, but wherever we were held, Isnilon was always in a building nearby and we weren’t allowed to go there.

“Not everyone could see Isnilon at his place or command centre unless they were high-ranking militants. “I believe Amin’s son always visited his step-grandfather Isnilon at the command centre to collect firearms or to give situational reports.” Ayob Khan had said last week that Amin’s son was still alive and probably in Basilan, the base of the Abu Sayyaf group led by Isnilon.

“If the boy is now in Basilan, then most probably Amin is also there because the duo never left each other’s side in Marawi,” Lordvin said. “In fact, intelligence reported by the Philippine media says militants are planning attacks there and elsewhere as revenge for the loss of their caliphate in Marawi. “Many relatives of those militants killed in Marawi are said to be doing recruitments now.”

More than 1,000 people, mostly militants, were killed in the five-month clashes between the authorities and militants who wanted to set up a so-called IS caliphate in the lake city.

http://mindanaoexaminer.com/amin-baco-could-be-in-basilan-may-recruit-more-malaysians/

US gov't convenes Mindanao business leaders to spur investment in Marawi City

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 3): US gov't convenes Mindanao business leaders to spur investment in Marawi City



USAID Mission Director Lawrence Hardy II speaks about development prospects for Marawi at a business forum in General Santos City. (USEM)

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) convened a one-day forum on November 28 in General Santos City for more than 100 business leaders and government officials to identify ways to promote investment and help rehabilitate Marawi City.

The forum was organized in partnership with the business chambers of Cagayan de Oro, General Santos, South Cotabato, and Marawi; the Muslim Business Forum; the League of Cities of the Philippines; and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

 Participants discussed development prospects and challenges, as well as business opportunities, in Marawi City and Lanao del Sur, with the objective of organizing a private sector response to support the restoration of the local economy.

At the forum, Marawi City Mayor Majul Usman Gandamra presented the proposed Marawi City Rehabilitation Plan. Forum participants responded with interest in developing real estate, agriculture, manufacturing, and energy in the region.

“The local business community should be the leaders in investing in and advancing sustainable economic development,” said USAID Mission Director Lawrence Hardy II, who attended the forum. “The U.S. government remains a committed partner with the Philippine government and the private sector in achieving inclusive economic prosperity in Marawi City and the entire province of Lanao del Sur,” he added.

USAID’s Strengthening Urban Resilience for Growth with Equity (SURGE) project spearheaded the coordination of the forum. Through the more than P2.4 billion SURGE project, USAID has been helping cities in the Philippines plan effectively, attract investments, and promote competition for more sustainable and inclusive growth.

In addition to the business forum, the U.S. government, through USAID, has been a key partner with the Philippine government in the early recovery, stabilization, and rehabilitation of Marawi City. On September 5, the U.S. government announced a commitment of nearly P750 million in emergency relief and recovery assistance to support communities affected by the conflict in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur, and the surrounding areas. (US Embassy Manila)

http://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1002765

PNP Bicol on heightened alert after ambush of police convoy

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 3): PNP Bicol on heightened alert after ambush of police convoy

A cop was killed while six others were hurt early Saturday in an attack by a group of suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels that fired at two-vehicle police convoy in Barangay Daguit, Labo town in Camarines Norte.

The first volley of gunfire killed Police Officer 2 Richard Abad, a member of Camarines Norte Police Mobile Force, according to Senior Inspector Maria Luisa Calubaquib, spokesperson for the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Bicol.

While PO2 Ronald Gutierrez, PO2 Ericson De Vera, PO1 Jeffrey Tarrobago, PO1 Pedro Valeros, PO1 Romar Umandap, and PO1 Johnson Espaṅa were hurt during the attack.

Calubaquib said the victims were among the nine policemen on board two police mobile service vehicles when attacked at around 1 a.m. Saturday by a band of NPAs while their vehicles were negotiating a road along Sitio Binuang, Barangay Daguit, Labo town.

The police convoy was on its way to the Police Mobile Force command station after holding internal security operation (ISO) in villages in Labo town.

Responding police and Army soldiers are now scouring the neighboring hinterland villages where the band of communist rebels is believed to have fled.

Calubaquib when asked on security measures taken with regards to the threat of Jose Marie Sison, founder of the Communist Party of the Philippines, that New People’s Army (NPA) rebels would launch an intensified attack against government forces, she said the PNP in Bicol had been placed on “heightened” alert status -- especially in areas considered as insurgency affected villages.

She said Chief Superintendent Antonio Gardiola, Bicol regional director, had issued a directive to all PNP stations across the region to be on “high alert” status under the agency’s intensified internal security operations.

Under the directive, police units were advised to stay on guard for a possible rebel attack on a 24/7 basis.

Police checkpoints would be intensified in known rebel-infested areas and they would also step up community partnership and police patrolling in communities.

The directive also calls for a closely-coordinated operation with the Armed Forces of the Philippines in securing vital installations such as roads, bridges, communication towers in key areas in Bicol.

She said the PNP is assuring the public that police and other government forces are on top of the situation.

However, Calubaquib said, “we are calling for the public to provide additional information and location of the fleeing perpetrators. Let’s not allow terror to reign in our community.”

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1017757

Cagayan guv condemns killing of Baggao councilor

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 3): Cagayan guv condemns killing of Baggao councilor

Cagayan Governor Manuel N. Mamba on Sunday condemned the killing of Sangguniang Bayan (SB) member Angelo “Buridek” Luis of the municipality of Baggao by New People's Army (NPA) rebels.

Mamba said the killing was disguised as an act of patriotism pursuant to communist ideologies and is nothing but plain and simple terrorism.

"Our leaders should not cower in fear or be coerced to submit to the whimsical and capricious demands of these insurgent groups," Mamba said in a statement.

"We share the grief of the family of SB Buridik, offering them our condolences and prayers for the eternal repose of his soul and for comfort in their bereavement," he added.

The governor called on authorities to conduct a thorough and speedy investigation to bring the perpetrators to justiice.

He also urged Cagayanos to support the government’s efforts to fight insurgency in the province.

Luis was killed by the NPA's Henry Abraham Command in East Cagayan in his home at Barangay Awallan, Baggao at 7 a.m. Saturday.

Investigation is still ongoing to determine the motive of the killing.

Lt. Col. Isagani Nato, Northern Luzon Command spokesperson, said the suspects, whom witnesses said are 30 in number, reportedly belong to the NPA's Abraham Command operating in Eastern Cagayan.

Reports said four of the rebels forcibly made their way inside Luis' house and shot him dead while the others positioned themselves strategically to avoid being surprised by security troops.

The NPA members also carted away four firearms belonging to the Luis family before fleeing towards the direction of Sitio Kagurongan where they scattered propaganda leaflets.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1017736

PAF looking for Cessna plane spare parts

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 3): PAF looking for Cessna plane spare parts

The Philippine Air Force (PAF), through its Bids and Awards Committee, is looking for bidders and manufacturers capable of supplying spare parts needed for the maintenance of its Cessna LC-210 aircraft.

According to a bid bulletin posted at the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System.Budget, the budget for the project is placed at PHP2,991,000.

Submission and opening of bids is slated 9 a.m. Dec. 7 at the PAF Procurement Center Conference Room, Villamor Air Base, Pasay City.

The LC-210 is operated and maintained by the 900th Air Force Weather Group based in Villamor Air Base, Pasay City.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1017737

Surrender or suffer the consequences, AFP urges Reds

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 3): Surrender or suffer the consequences, AFP urges Reds

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Sunday urged New People’s Army (NPA) rebels to surrender or suffer the same fate of their cohorts who were killed in military operations.

“While we are hopeful that more NPAs will surrender in the coming days, our troops on the ground will continue with our relentless operations against them who remain active in their violent and destructive criminal activities against our people in the communities,” AFP public affairs chief Col. Edgard Arevalo said in a statement.

This comes after the death of 14 NPA members in a clash with police and troops from the Philippine Air Force’s 730th Combat Group in Nasugbu, Batangas on Tuesday.

Among those killed were the secretary of NPA Guerilla Unit 3 and one platoon leader while two other fighters were wounded.

Government troops also seized 12 high-powered firearms from the encounter site.

Five soldiers, meanwhile. suffered minor injuries but are now in stable condition.

Last November 23, President Rodrigo Duterte signed Proclamation No. 360 which scrapped peace negotiations between the government and the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).

“Prior to the President’s proclamation, we have been actively conducting counterinsurgency operations against the NPA since the peace negotiations broke down in February 4,” Arevalo said.

In November alone, the military was able to neutralize 119 NPAs. Of this, 21 were killed in operations, 29 were apprehended, and 69 voluntarily surrendered.

Government troops also gained 62 high-powered and low-powered firearms from the rebels in the past month.

With this, the AFP said it is bracing for more NPA atrocities, primarily in the nature of economic sabotage.

“These violent activities by the NPA seek to falsely project that they are still a force to reckon. There is an ostensible leadership vacuum caused by the death of ranking NPA members in the past months resulting to the decreasing capability of the rebel group,” Arevalo said.

As of November, the AFP recorded 47 NPA-initiated atrocities that include harassment and ambush of military troops, and kidnapping of civilians.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1017748