From the Manila Times (Jan 1): Army’s 3ID new chief bats for local peace talks
The new commanding general of the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) based in Jamindan, Capiz said he is open to facilitate localized peace talks with the communist rebels.
Brigadier General Dinoh Dolina, who took over the post of Major General Jon Aying on Friday, December 29, said the local government unit should pursue the peace talks with the New People’s Army (NPA), as the Army is willing to help in the negotiation process.
He called on the communist rebels to surrender because soldiers will always be ready to fight if the NPA choose to continue the armed struggle.
“We are here to protect the people and secure the state. There is no need to shed blood in order to attain peace,” he said.
The mountainous town of Jamindan is home to NPA rebels in Western Visayas operating in the provinces of Capiz and Iloilo.
Earlier, President Rodrigo Duterte cancelled the peace negotiations with the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front and Dolina said he will focus on his marching order to neutralize the rebels in his area of responsibility.
He added that a battalion from Mindanao is expected to return to the region this year and an additional battalion will also be organized as part of the force multipliers that greatly helps troops in maintaining peace in the island.
He also urged the cooperation of the civilians and valuable support of all stakeholders to achieve their goal.
Dolina was previously assigned at the Armed Forces of the Philippines headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City and took over the command from Aying in a ceremony held at Camp Macario Peralta in Jamindan.
Aying, who retired on Monday, served as commander of the 3ID for 13 months. He was also commander of both the 61st Infantry Battalion and 303rd Infantry Brigade in Negros Occidental.
http://www.manilatimes.net/armys-3id-new-chief-bats-local-peace-talks/371674/
Tuesday, January 2, 2018
‘Rumblings’ in the Navy over chief’s relief?
From Malaya Business Insight (Jan 3): ‘Rumblings’ in the Navy over chief’s relief?
THE military’s Board of Generals has recommended three senior Navy officers as Navy chief, to replace Vice Adm. Ronald Joseph Mercado who was unceremoniously sacked last month.
The three are led by Rear Adm. Robert Empedrad who is the acting Navy chief in concurrent capacity as the AFP’s deputy chief of staff for retirees and reservists affairs.
A senior military official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the two others recommended by the board were Rear Adm. Giovanni Carlo Bacordo and Rear Adm. Rommel Ong.
Empedrad is a member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1986, whose members include PNP chief Ronald dela Rosa. Bacordo is from PMA Class 1987 and is commander of the Naval Sea Systems Command. Ong, also of PMA Class 1987, is the Navy’s inspector general.
The senior military officer said Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana is pushing for Empedrad who was named acting Navy chief after Mercado was relieved on December 19, but Empedrad “is not the most qualified” among the three.
The officer said there are “questions” about Empedrad’s qualifications “because he did not command any Naval Force (equivalent to Division in the Army).”
“(It should be) either Bacordo or Ong,” said the source. “They are definitely more qualified. Selection should be based on merit and qualification.”
The source said Empedrad “will further divide the Navy” and there are “rumblings” in the Navy over the frigate project and Mercado’s unceremonious relief.
Lorenzana said he recommended to President Duterte Mercado’s relief for ignoring his directives regarding the Navy’s frigate acquisition program. He said Mercado’s acts were tantamount to insubordination. He said Mercado had been pushing for a combat management system (CMS) produced by a French firm for two frigates being built by Hyundai Heavy Industries of Korea for P18 billion, including the weapons system and ammunition.
Lorenzana was against Mercado’s position, saying the installation of the CMS should be left to Hyundai which is reportedly set to install a cheaper and less capable CMS.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/%E2%80%98rumblings%E2%80%99-navy-over-chief%E2%80%99s-relief
THE military’s Board of Generals has recommended three senior Navy officers as Navy chief, to replace Vice Adm. Ronald Joseph Mercado who was unceremoniously sacked last month.
The three are led by Rear Adm. Robert Empedrad who is the acting Navy chief in concurrent capacity as the AFP’s deputy chief of staff for retirees and reservists affairs.
A senior military official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the two others recommended by the board were Rear Adm. Giovanni Carlo Bacordo and Rear Adm. Rommel Ong.
Empedrad is a member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1986, whose members include PNP chief Ronald dela Rosa. Bacordo is from PMA Class 1987 and is commander of the Naval Sea Systems Command. Ong, also of PMA Class 1987, is the Navy’s inspector general.
The senior military officer said Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana is pushing for Empedrad who was named acting Navy chief after Mercado was relieved on December 19, but Empedrad “is not the most qualified” among the three.
The officer said there are “questions” about Empedrad’s qualifications “because he did not command any Naval Force (equivalent to Division in the Army).”
“(It should be) either Bacordo or Ong,” said the source. “They are definitely more qualified. Selection should be based on merit and qualification.”
The source said Empedrad “will further divide the Navy” and there are “rumblings” in the Navy over the frigate project and Mercado’s unceremonious relief.
Lorenzana said he recommended to President Duterte Mercado’s relief for ignoring his directives regarding the Navy’s frigate acquisition program. He said Mercado’s acts were tantamount to insubordination. He said Mercado had been pushing for a combat management system (CMS) produced by a French firm for two frigates being built by Hyundai Heavy Industries of Korea for P18 billion, including the weapons system and ammunition.
Lorenzana was against Mercado’s position, saying the installation of the CMS should be left to Hyundai which is reportedly set to install a cheaper and less capable CMS.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/%E2%80%98rumblings%E2%80%99-navy-over-chief%E2%80%99s-relief
Navy receiving missile system, anti-submarine helicopter in 2018
From Update Philippines (Jan 2): Navy receiving missile system, anti-submarine helicopter in 2018
Two more platforms which will help boost the Philippine Navy (PN)’s capabilities to defend the country’s vast maritime domains are expected to be delivered this 2018. This was bared by Defense spokesperson Arsenio Andolong when sought for an update on other deliverable items for the PN this year.
First among the deliverables is the Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd’s Spike ER (extended range) missile systems which will be fitted on three of the Navy’s brand-new multi-purpose assault craft (MPAC) which was activated last May 22.
The weapons are on anti-ship mode meaning it can engage surface vessel targets and is capable of penetrating 1,000 mm (39 inches) of rolled homogeneous armor and has a maximum range of five miles.
And while not giving the exact dates for the delivery of the missiles and its platforms for security purpose, Andolong said the weapons would be delivered to the country “very early in the first quarter of the year.”
The missiles and launchers were supposed to be delivered by December but this did not materialize due to some transportation issues.
Second on the deliverables for the PN are two brand-new AgustaWestland AW-159 “Wildcat” anti-submarine helicopters which are expected to arrive the last quarter of 2018 and early 2019, Andolong added.
He did not further elaborate on what weapons and surveillance systems the AW-159s would be carrying for security reasons.
The above-mentioned helicopters will be based on the two frigates on order from Hyundai Heavy Industries.
The AW-159 (previously called the Future Lynx and Lynx Wildcat) is an improved version of the Westland Super Lynx military helicopter.
It has a crew of two, has a maximum speed of 291 km/h (181 mph), range of 777 km (483 miles), ferry range of 963 km (598 miles) and an endurance of one and a-half hours (fours hours and 30 minutes if fitted with an auxiliary fuel tank).
https://www.update.ph/2018/01/navy-receiving-missile-system-anti-submarine-helicopter-in-2018/23641
Two more platforms which will help boost the Philippine Navy (PN)’s capabilities to defend the country’s vast maritime domains are expected to be delivered this 2018. This was bared by Defense spokesperson Arsenio Andolong when sought for an update on other deliverable items for the PN this year.
First among the deliverables is the Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd’s Spike ER (extended range) missile systems which will be fitted on three of the Navy’s brand-new multi-purpose assault craft (MPAC) which was activated last May 22.
The weapons are on anti-ship mode meaning it can engage surface vessel targets and is capable of penetrating 1,000 mm (39 inches) of rolled homogeneous armor and has a maximum range of five miles.
And while not giving the exact dates for the delivery of the missiles and its platforms for security purpose, Andolong said the weapons would be delivered to the country “very early in the first quarter of the year.”
The missiles and launchers were supposed to be delivered by December but this did not materialize due to some transportation issues.
Second on the deliverables for the PN are two brand-new AgustaWestland AW-159 “Wildcat” anti-submarine helicopters which are expected to arrive the last quarter of 2018 and early 2019, Andolong added.
He did not further elaborate on what weapons and surveillance systems the AW-159s would be carrying for security reasons.
The above-mentioned helicopters will be based on the two frigates on order from Hyundai Heavy Industries.
The AW-159 (previously called the Future Lynx and Lynx Wildcat) is an improved version of the Westland Super Lynx military helicopter.
It has a crew of two, has a maximum speed of 291 km/h (181 mph), range of 777 km (483 miles), ferry range of 963 km (598 miles) and an endurance of one and a-half hours (fours hours and 30 minutes if fitted with an auxiliary fuel tank).
https://www.update.ph/2018/01/navy-receiving-missile-system-anti-submarine-helicopter-in-2018/23641
Military not condoning personnel’s illegal actions
From Update Philippines (Jan 2): Military not condoning personnel’s illegal actions
The Philippine Army (PA) does not tolerate any illegal acts committed by any of its personnel. This was emphasized by Army spokesperson Lt. Col. Ray Tiongson when asked on what the PA plans to do with its personnel caught indiscriminately firing their weapons during the New Year’s festivities.
“The police is now investigating the incident. Corporal Richard John Quijano is an active member of the Philippine Army while Staff Sergeant Jamael Mindalano has already retired from the military service since December 31, 2016. While the Philippine Army has no jurisdiction over the retired personnel, Corporal Quijano may face criminal charges, dishonorable separation from the service and forfeiture of all his privileges and retirement benefits if found guilty,” he added.
Also, Tiongson said the PA has strict regulations against illegal discharge of firearms and other infractions of the Articles of War.
“As we have established in the past, the Philippine Army does not condone nor tolerate misdemeanor committed by its personnel,” he added.
Earlier, Taguig City Police Station operatives arrested Mindalano and Quijano of the Light Reaction Company, Light Reaction Regiment, Special Operations Command for indiscriminate firing, alarm and scandal, illegal possession of firearms and ammunition, physical injury, direct assault, resisting arrest and serious disobedience.
Also recovered from their possession were two .45 caliber pistols, a 9mm pistol, a .38 caliber revolver and assorted ammunition.
Their illegal activities were reported to authorities by their victim, Jolly Moreno, who was hit in his right mid-section by a ricocheting bullet during the festivities.
Meanwhile, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Col. Edgard Arevalo echoed Tiongson’s statement.
“The police is now investigating the incident. If proven guilty, they will be punished accordingly,” Arevalo said.
“As we have established in the past, the AFP does not condone nor tolerate any misdemeanor of military personnel,” the AFP spokesperson stressed.
The Philippine Army (PA) does not tolerate any illegal acts committed by any of its personnel. This was emphasized by Army spokesperson Lt. Col. Ray Tiongson when asked on what the PA plans to do with its personnel caught indiscriminately firing their weapons during the New Year’s festivities.
“The police is now investigating the incident. Corporal Richard John Quijano is an active member of the Philippine Army while Staff Sergeant Jamael Mindalano has already retired from the military service since December 31, 2016. While the Philippine Army has no jurisdiction over the retired personnel, Corporal Quijano may face criminal charges, dishonorable separation from the service and forfeiture of all his privileges and retirement benefits if found guilty,” he added.
Also, Tiongson said the PA has strict regulations against illegal discharge of firearms and other infractions of the Articles of War.
“As we have established in the past, the Philippine Army does not condone nor tolerate misdemeanor committed by its personnel,” he added.
Earlier, Taguig City Police Station operatives arrested Mindalano and Quijano of the Light Reaction Company, Light Reaction Regiment, Special Operations Command for indiscriminate firing, alarm and scandal, illegal possession of firearms and ammunition, physical injury, direct assault, resisting arrest and serious disobedience.
Also recovered from their possession were two .45 caliber pistols, a 9mm pistol, a .38 caliber revolver and assorted ammunition.
Their illegal activities were reported to authorities by their victim, Jolly Moreno, who was hit in his right mid-section by a ricocheting bullet during the festivities.
Meanwhile, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Col. Edgard Arevalo echoed Tiongson’s statement.
“The police is now investigating the incident. If proven guilty, they will be punished accordingly,” Arevalo said.
“As we have established in the past, the AFP does not condone nor tolerate any misdemeanor of military personnel,” the AFP spokesperson stressed.
Scout Rangers receive Kalashnikov rifles
From Update Philippines (Jan 2): Scout Rangers receive Kalashnikov rifles
Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana visited the First Scout Ranger Regiment (FSSR)on December 28, 2017.
FSSR is a Philippine Army Special Operations Command unit specializing in anti-guerrilla jungle warfare, raids, ambushes, close quarters combat, urban warfare and sabotage.
During his visit, Secretary Lorenzana handed over Kalashnikov rifles (AK) to the said unit.
In October 2017, President Rodrigo Duterte personally accepted 5000 units of Kalashnikov rifles from the Russian government.
DND photo
DND photo
The Russian government also turned over one million units of cartridges with steel core bullets for said rifles.
5,000 units of steel helmets and 20 units of Ural-4320 multi-purpose trucks from the Russian government were also turned over.
Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana visited the First Scout Ranger Regiment (FSSR)on December 28, 2017.
FSSR is a Philippine Army Special Operations Command unit specializing in anti-guerrilla jungle warfare, raids, ambushes, close quarters combat, urban warfare and sabotage.
During his visit, Secretary Lorenzana handed over Kalashnikov rifles (AK) to the said unit.
In October 2017, President Rodrigo Duterte personally accepted 5000 units of Kalashnikov rifles from the Russian government.
DND photo
DND photo
The Russian government also turned over one million units of cartridges with steel core bullets for said rifles.
5,000 units of steel helmets and 20 units of Ural-4320 multi-purpose trucks from the Russian government were also turned over.
421 Teduray families displaced by BIFF attacks
From the MindaNews (Jan 2): 421 Teduray families displaced by BIFF attacks
A total of 421 families of Indigenous Peoples in Maguindanao — Tedurays, Lambiangans and Dulangan Manobos — in their claimed ancestral comain that the military has refered to as the “Mt. Firis Complex,” fled their homes following a series of recent attacks by the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) that started shortly before Christmas.
The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao’s Humanitarian Emergency Action Response Team (ARMM-HEART) recorded a total of 421 families — 136 families in Hill 224 and 285 families in Datu Hoffer town.
Jo Henry, ARMM-Heart spokesperson, said Monday morning that they were on their way to distribute relief goods to the 285 displaced families in Datu Hoffer.
Relief distribution of the ARMM’s Humanitarian Emergency Assistance Response team (HEART) at the municipal gym in Datu Hoffer, Maguindanao on New Year’s Day for 285 families displaced during a series of attacks by the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters. Photo courtesy of ARMM-HEART
Timuay Jovel Tenorio told MindaNews on Monday that a total of 347 families have sought refuge in his area in Sitio Bagung, Barangay Kabengi in Datu Saudi Ampatuan.
Tenorio said 16 houses in Sitio Makon, Barangay Limpungo in Datu Hoffer town, were set on fire by the BIFF on Sunday.
In a press statement on December 28, the Army’s 6th Infantry Division said the BIFF attacked civilian communities in Datu Hoffer and Datu Unsay in Maguindanao.
It said the BIFF burned houses made of light materials in a Teduray Community at Sitio Makon, Brgy Iginampong, Datu Unsay; emplacing and blasting of improvised explosive device (IED) at Sitio Perez, Brgy Maitumaig, Datu Unsay killed an innocent civilian and kidnapping and killing of two indigenous people (IPs), Alex Mintos and Hector Mintos, who are residents of Brgy Limpongo, Datu Hoffer.
The Joint Task Force Central vehemently condemned the “acts of terror” against the civilian populace.
The 6th ID press statement said an air strike was launched at Datu Unsay on Christmas Day, December 25, following the burning of houses that resulted to the killing of four BIFF members and wounding of five others.
The BIFF, founded by Ustadz Amiril Umra Kato, broke away from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in March 2010 and has since broken into three factions.
Kato suffered a stroke in November 2011 and passed away on April 14, 2015.
http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2018/01/421-teduray-families-displaced-by-biff-attacks/
A total of 421 families of Indigenous Peoples in Maguindanao — Tedurays, Lambiangans and Dulangan Manobos — in their claimed ancestral comain that the military has refered to as the “Mt. Firis Complex,” fled their homes following a series of recent attacks by the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) that started shortly before Christmas.
The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao’s Humanitarian Emergency Action Response Team (ARMM-HEART) recorded a total of 421 families — 136 families in Hill 224 and 285 families in Datu Hoffer town.
Jo Henry, ARMM-Heart spokesperson, said Monday morning that they were on their way to distribute relief goods to the 285 displaced families in Datu Hoffer.
Relief distribution of the ARMM’s Humanitarian Emergency Assistance Response team (HEART) at the municipal gym in Datu Hoffer, Maguindanao on New Year’s Day for 285 families displaced during a series of attacks by the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters. Photo courtesy of ARMM-HEART
Timuay Jovel Tenorio told MindaNews on Monday that a total of 347 families have sought refuge in his area in Sitio Bagung, Barangay Kabengi in Datu Saudi Ampatuan.
Tenorio said 16 houses in Sitio Makon, Barangay Limpungo in Datu Hoffer town, were set on fire by the BIFF on Sunday.
In a press statement on December 28, the Army’s 6th Infantry Division said the BIFF attacked civilian communities in Datu Hoffer and Datu Unsay in Maguindanao.
It said the BIFF burned houses made of light materials in a Teduray Community at Sitio Makon, Brgy Iginampong, Datu Unsay; emplacing and blasting of improvised explosive device (IED) at Sitio Perez, Brgy Maitumaig, Datu Unsay killed an innocent civilian and kidnapping and killing of two indigenous people (IPs), Alex Mintos and Hector Mintos, who are residents of Brgy Limpongo, Datu Hoffer.
The Joint Task Force Central vehemently condemned the “acts of terror” against the civilian populace.
The 6th ID press statement said an air strike was launched at Datu Unsay on Christmas Day, December 25, following the burning of houses that resulted to the killing of four BIFF members and wounding of five others.
The BIFF, founded by Ustadz Amiril Umra Kato, broke away from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in March 2010 and has since broken into three factions.
Kato suffered a stroke in November 2011 and passed away on April 14, 2015.
http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2018/01/421-teduray-families-displaced-by-biff-attacks/
Cop killed, 7 others injured in roadside blast in Maguindanao
From the MindaNews (Jan 2): Cop killed, 7 others injured in roadside blast in Maguindanao
SHARIFF AGUAK, Maguindanao -- A police officer was killed while five others were injured when a bomb exploded as the police patrol’s vehicle passed some 400 meters away from the headquarters of the Philippine National Police’s Provincial Police Office in the poblacion at around 8:10 p.m. Sunday, New Year’s eve.
Two soldiers from the 57th IB were injured when another improvised explosive device (IED) went off some 50 meters from the provincial hospital Monday morning, less than a kilometer away from Sunday night’s blast.
Sr. Supt. Agustin Tello, chief of the Provincial Police Office (PPO) of Maguindanao, said the driver of the police vehicle lost control, swerving towards the cornfield on the right side of the road.
SPO4 Max Kaibat of the Police Provincial Office in Maguindanao did not make it to New Year 2018. He was killed when an improvised explosive went off as their vehicle passed the road near their headquarters in Shariff Aguak town at 8:10 p.m. on December 31. Five others were injured. Less than 12 hours later, another roadside blast was reported less than a kilometer away, injuring two soldiers. MindaNews photo by FERDINANDH B. CABRERA
Tello said the police has been patrolling the area following security threats from the Bangsamoro Islamic Liberation Front (BIFF) since Christmas and immediately after a brownout struck the town Sunday night.
Police blamed the blast on an improvised explosive device (IED) allegedly planted by the BIFF.
Killed was SPO4 Max Kaibat, leader of the patrol team.
On New Year’s day, another IED went off along the highway, less than a kilometer away in Barangay Limongo in neighboring Datu Hoffer town at 7:34 a.m. injuring two soldiers from the 57th IB who were then conducting road security for those delivering humanitarian assistance for Indigenous Peoples (IPs) who fled their villages following a series of attacks by the BIFF.
Two soldiers were injured in a roadside blast at 7:34 a.m. in Shariff Aguak town, Maguindanao, less than a kilometer from the site of the roadside blast at 8:10 p.m. on December 31, 2017, which killed a police officer and injured five others. The soldiers were providing road security for humanitarian assistance to reach Indigenous Peoples who fled their villages when the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) attacked their villages. The improvised bombs were allegedly planted by the BIFF. MindaNews photo by FERDINANDH B. CABRERA
BIFF elements were reported to have set on fire at least 16 houses of the Tedurays, Lambiangans and Dulangan Manobos on Sunday.
http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2018/01/cop-killed-7-others-injured-in-roadside-blast-in-maguindanao/
SHARIFF AGUAK, Maguindanao -- A police officer was killed while five others were injured when a bomb exploded as the police patrol’s vehicle passed some 400 meters away from the headquarters of the Philippine National Police’s Provincial Police Office in the poblacion at around 8:10 p.m. Sunday, New Year’s eve.
Two soldiers from the 57th IB were injured when another improvised explosive device (IED) went off some 50 meters from the provincial hospital Monday morning, less than a kilometer away from Sunday night’s blast.
Sr. Supt. Agustin Tello, chief of the Provincial Police Office (PPO) of Maguindanao, said the driver of the police vehicle lost control, swerving towards the cornfield on the right side of the road.
SPO4 Max Kaibat of the Police Provincial Office in Maguindanao did not make it to New Year 2018. He was killed when an improvised explosive went off as their vehicle passed the road near their headquarters in Shariff Aguak town at 8:10 p.m. on December 31. Five others were injured. Less than 12 hours later, another roadside blast was reported less than a kilometer away, injuring two soldiers. MindaNews photo by FERDINANDH B. CABRERA
Tello said the police has been patrolling the area following security threats from the Bangsamoro Islamic Liberation Front (BIFF) since Christmas and immediately after a brownout struck the town Sunday night.
Police blamed the blast on an improvised explosive device (IED) allegedly planted by the BIFF.
Killed was SPO4 Max Kaibat, leader of the patrol team.
On New Year’s day, another IED went off along the highway, less than a kilometer away in Barangay Limongo in neighboring Datu Hoffer town at 7:34 a.m. injuring two soldiers from the 57th IB who were then conducting road security for those delivering humanitarian assistance for Indigenous Peoples (IPs) who fled their villages following a series of attacks by the BIFF.
Two soldiers were injured in a roadside blast at 7:34 a.m. in Shariff Aguak town, Maguindanao, less than a kilometer from the site of the roadside blast at 8:10 p.m. on December 31, 2017, which killed a police officer and injured five others. The soldiers were providing road security for humanitarian assistance to reach Indigenous Peoples who fled their villages when the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) attacked their villages. The improvised bombs were allegedly planted by the BIFF. MindaNews photo by FERDINANDH B. CABRERA
BIFF elements were reported to have set on fire at least 16 houses of the Tedurays, Lambiangans and Dulangan Manobos on Sunday.
http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2018/01/cop-killed-7-others-injured-in-roadside-blast-in-maguindanao/
4 injured in Maguindanao ambush
From the Mindanao Examiner (Jan 2): 4 injured in Maguindanao ambush
Four people were injured when unidentified gunmen ambushed a truck carrying picnickers in the troubled province of Maguindanao in southern Philippines, police said Tuesday.
Police said the truck was carrying over 2 dozen people and heading to Digos City in Davao del Sur province when ambushed early Monday morning in the town of Pagalungan. The victims came from North Cotabato’s Midsayap town and among the wounded was a nine-year child and the driver, Jully Pacquira, 31.
Two others wounded in the attack have been identified as Roland Custodio, 30, and Carol Samaranos, 29. Police said the driver did not stop even though he was shot and drove until they reached the safe zone and sought help from authorities.
No individual or group claimed responsibility for the ambush, but the province is known lair of rebel groups. Maguindanao Governor Esmael Mangudadatu did not give any statement on the attack or the violence in Maguindanao, one of 5 provinces under the Muslim autonomous region.
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/4-injured-in-maguindanao-ambush/
Four people were injured when unidentified gunmen ambushed a truck carrying picnickers in the troubled province of Maguindanao in southern Philippines, police said Tuesday.
Police said the truck was carrying over 2 dozen people and heading to Digos City in Davao del Sur province when ambushed early Monday morning in the town of Pagalungan. The victims came from North Cotabato’s Midsayap town and among the wounded was a nine-year child and the driver, Jully Pacquira, 31.
Two others wounded in the attack have been identified as Roland Custodio, 30, and Carol Samaranos, 29. Police said the driver did not stop even though he was shot and drove until they reached the safe zone and sought help from authorities.
No individual or group claimed responsibility for the ambush, but the province is known lair of rebel groups. Maguindanao Governor Esmael Mangudadatu did not give any statement on the attack or the violence in Maguindanao, one of 5 provinces under the Muslim autonomous region.
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/4-injured-in-maguindanao-ambush/
Alert auxiliary cop foils Cotabato bomb attack
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 2): Alert auxiliary cop foils Cotabato bomb attack
COTABATO CITY -- An alert police deputy prevented what could have been a bloody New Year for families spending the holidays at the Rizal Park here after he alerted police of his discovery – an improvised bomb.
Senior Supt. Rolly Octavio, city police director, did not name the police auxiliary but lauded him for his alertness.
At about 1:30 p.m. on Monday, a suspected improvised bomb was found beside the city plaza stage where people mingled to celebrate the New Year.
Army and police bomb experts quickly responded and deactivated the explosive. No one has claimed responsibility for the attempt.
Octavio said the explosive device was made from black powder in a mineral water container with two kilos of size 2 nails, blasting cap, timer and detonating cord.
Police said it was meant to kill and maim people considering the powerful device was planted in a place filled with merry makers. The local police force remained on full alert following the incident.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1020262
COTABATO CITY -- An alert police deputy prevented what could have been a bloody New Year for families spending the holidays at the Rizal Park here after he alerted police of his discovery – an improvised bomb.
Senior Supt. Rolly Octavio, city police director, did not name the police auxiliary but lauded him for his alertness.
At about 1:30 p.m. on Monday, a suspected improvised bomb was found beside the city plaza stage where people mingled to celebrate the New Year.
Army and police bomb experts quickly responded and deactivated the explosive. No one has claimed responsibility for the attempt.
Octavio said the explosive device was made from black powder in a mineral water container with two kilos of size 2 nails, blasting cap, timer and detonating cord.
Police said it was meant to kill and maim people considering the powerful device was planted in a place filled with merry makers. The local police force remained on full alert following the incident.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1020262
Cops hunt North Cotabato bombers
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 2): Cops hunt North Cotabato bombers
PIKIT, North Cotabato -- Police have launched massive manhunt against a riding-in-tandem involved in the grenade attack here Saturday night that left one dead and another wounded.
Supt. Bernard Tayong, provincial police spokersman, said Pikit police are following a lead provided by several witness to the 7 p.m. grenade attack in front of a roadside variety store, near the public market here.
Chief Insp. Rommy Castanares, Pikit town police chief, said the explosion in front of roadside Pacalna Variety Store on Apollo Street in Barangay Poblacion injured store helper Jamil Umraan and owner Norodin Pacalna, 35.
The victims were brought to Cruzado Medical Clinic but Umraan was pronounced dead upon arrival due to fatal shrapnel injuries.
“Pacalna was closing his store with Umraan when unidentified men on motorbike lobbed a hand grenade then sped away,” Castanares told PNA. Motive of the attack remained unknown as of posting.
Saturday’s grenade attack came a day after a villager was injured in an explosion that ripped through a residential area here before dawn Friday.
The victim, Esmael Guialel, sustained shrapnel wounds after a grenade landed in front of his home at 5 a.m., according to police.
The suspects were riding on a motorbike and fled toward the national highway.
Police investigators have yet to determine if the twin grenade attacks were perpetrated by same aggressors for still unknown motive.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1020199
PIKIT, North Cotabato -- Police have launched massive manhunt against a riding-in-tandem involved in the grenade attack here Saturday night that left one dead and another wounded.
Supt. Bernard Tayong, provincial police spokersman, said Pikit police are following a lead provided by several witness to the 7 p.m. grenade attack in front of a roadside variety store, near the public market here.
Chief Insp. Rommy Castanares, Pikit town police chief, said the explosion in front of roadside Pacalna Variety Store on Apollo Street in Barangay Poblacion injured store helper Jamil Umraan and owner Norodin Pacalna, 35.
The victims were brought to Cruzado Medical Clinic but Umraan was pronounced dead upon arrival due to fatal shrapnel injuries.
“Pacalna was closing his store with Umraan when unidentified men on motorbike lobbed a hand grenade then sped away,” Castanares told PNA. Motive of the attack remained unknown as of posting.
Saturday’s grenade attack came a day after a villager was injured in an explosion that ripped through a residential area here before dawn Friday.
The victim, Esmael Guialel, sustained shrapnel wounds after a grenade landed in front of his home at 5 a.m., according to police.
The suspects were riding on a motorbike and fled toward the national highway.
Police investigators have yet to determine if the twin grenade attacks were perpetrated by same aggressors for still unknown motive.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1020199
Indonesian foreign minister on 2-day visit in Davao City
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 2): Indonesian foreign minister on 2-day visit in Davao City
Indonesia’s Foreign Affairs Minister H.E. Mrs. Retino L.P. Marsudi will be arriving in Davao City for a two-day visit and to formally announce the joint education program between the Philippines and Indonesia.
According to the Consul for Information, Socio-Culture Affairs of the Indonesian Consul6ate in Davao City Endah Yuliarti Farry said the program marks the opening of the Indonesian-Philippines Islamic Cooperation.
A ceremony will be held at the Al-Munawwara Islamic School in Matina on Wednesday.
She said the joint education program is a follow up of the discussion between President Rodrigo Duterte and Indonesian President Joko Widodo and the Trilateral Meeting of Foreign Ministers during the 50th ASEAN Summit in Manila on November 12, 2017.
Also during the two-day visit on January 3 and 4, Marsudi will confer passports for Indonesian living in Mindanao.
Earlier reports showed that Persons of Indonesian Descents (PIDs) can be found in seven provinces and two cities in Mindanao.
They are now residing in Davao del Sur, Davao del Norte, Davao Oriental, Sarangani, Sultan Kudarat, North Cotabato, South Cotabato and the cities of General Santos and Davao.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1020293
Indonesia’s Foreign Affairs Minister H.E. Mrs. Retino L.P. Marsudi will be arriving in Davao City for a two-day visit and to formally announce the joint education program between the Philippines and Indonesia.
According to the Consul for Information, Socio-Culture Affairs of the Indonesian Consul6ate in Davao City Endah Yuliarti Farry said the program marks the opening of the Indonesian-Philippines Islamic Cooperation.
A ceremony will be held at the Al-Munawwara Islamic School in Matina on Wednesday.
She said the joint education program is a follow up of the discussion between President Rodrigo Duterte and Indonesian President Joko Widodo and the Trilateral Meeting of Foreign Ministers during the 50th ASEAN Summit in Manila on November 12, 2017.
Also during the two-day visit on January 3 and 4, Marsudi will confer passports for Indonesian living in Mindanao.
Earlier reports showed that Persons of Indonesian Descents (PIDs) can be found in seven provinces and two cities in Mindanao.
They are now residing in Davao del Sur, Davao del Norte, Davao Oriental, Sarangani, Sultan Kudarat, North Cotabato, South Cotabato and the cities of General Santos and Davao.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1020293
Military not condoning personnel's illegal actions
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 2): Military not condoning personnel's illegal actions
The Philippine Army (PA) does not tolerate any illegal acts committed by any of its personnel.
This was emphasized by Army spokesperson Lt. Col. Ray Tiongson when asked on what the PA plans to do with its personnel caught indiscriminately firing their weapons during the New Year's festivities.
"The police is now investigating the incident. Corporal Richard John Quijano is an active member of the Philippine Army while Staff Sergeant Jamael Mindalano has already retired from the military service since December 31, 2016. While the Philippine Army has no jurisdiction over the retired personnel, Corporal Quijano may face criminal charges, dishonorable separation from the service and forfeiture of all his privileges and retirement benefits if found guilty," he added.
Also, Tiongson said the PA has strict regulations against illegal discharge of firearms and other infractions of the Articles of War.
"As we have established in the past, the Philippine Army does not condone nor tolerate misdemeanor committed by its personnel," he added.
Earlier, Taguig City Police Station operatives arrested Mindalano and Quijano of the Light Reaction Company, Light Reaction Regiment, Special Operations Command for indiscriminate firing, alarm and scandal, illegal possession of firearms and ammunition, physical injury, direct assault, resisting arrest and serious disobedience.
Also recovered from their possession were two .45 caliber pistols, a 9mm pistol, a .38 caliber revolver and assorted ammunition.
Their illegal activities were reported to authorities by their victim, Jolly Moreno, who was hit in his right mid-section by a ricocheting bullet during the festivities.
Meanwhile, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Col. Edgard Arevalo echoed Tiongson's statement.
"The police is now investigating the incident. If proven guilty, they will be punished accordingly," Arevalo said.
"As we have established in the past, the AFP does not condone nor tolerate any misdemeanor of military personnel," the AFP spokesperson stressed.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1020255
The Philippine Army (PA) does not tolerate any illegal acts committed by any of its personnel.
This was emphasized by Army spokesperson Lt. Col. Ray Tiongson when asked on what the PA plans to do with its personnel caught indiscriminately firing their weapons during the New Year's festivities.
"The police is now investigating the incident. Corporal Richard John Quijano is an active member of the Philippine Army while Staff Sergeant Jamael Mindalano has already retired from the military service since December 31, 2016. While the Philippine Army has no jurisdiction over the retired personnel, Corporal Quijano may face criminal charges, dishonorable separation from the service and forfeiture of all his privileges and retirement benefits if found guilty," he added.
Also, Tiongson said the PA has strict regulations against illegal discharge of firearms and other infractions of the Articles of War.
"As we have established in the past, the Philippine Army does not condone nor tolerate misdemeanor committed by its personnel," he added.
Earlier, Taguig City Police Station operatives arrested Mindalano and Quijano of the Light Reaction Company, Light Reaction Regiment, Special Operations Command for indiscriminate firing, alarm and scandal, illegal possession of firearms and ammunition, physical injury, direct assault, resisting arrest and serious disobedience.
Also recovered from their possession were two .45 caliber pistols, a 9mm pistol, a .38 caliber revolver and assorted ammunition.
Their illegal activities were reported to authorities by their victim, Jolly Moreno, who was hit in his right mid-section by a ricocheting bullet during the festivities.
Meanwhile, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Col. Edgard Arevalo echoed Tiongson's statement.
"The police is now investigating the incident. If proven guilty, they will be punished accordingly," Arevalo said.
"As we have established in the past, the AFP does not condone nor tolerate any misdemeanor of military personnel," the AFP spokesperson stressed.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1020255
2 deliveries in 2018 to beef up Navy's capability
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 2): 2 deliveries in 2018 to beef up Navy's capability
Two more platforms which will help boost the Philippine Navy (PN)'s capabilities to defend the country's vast maritime domains are expected to be delivered this 2018.
This was bared by Defense spokesperson Arsenio Andolong when sought for an update on other deliverable items for the PN this year.
First among the deliverables is the Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd's Spike ER (extended range) missile systems which will be fitted on three of the Navy's brand-new multi-purpose assault craft (MPAC) which was activated last May 22.
The weapons are on anti-ship mode meaning it can engage surface vessel targets and is capable of penetrating 1,000 mm (39 inches) of rolled homogeneous armor and has a maximum range of five miles.
And while not giving the exact dates for the delivery of the missiles and its platforms for security purpose, Andolong said the weapons would be delivered to the country "very early in the first quarter of the year."
The missiles and launchers were supposed to be delivered by December but this did not materialize due to some transportation issues.
Second on the deliverables for the PN are two brand-new AgustaWestland AW-159 "Wildcat" anti-submarine helicopters which are expected to arrive the last quarter of 2018 and early 2019, Andolong added.
He did not further elaborate on what weapons and surveillance systems the AW-159s would be carrying for security reasons.
The above-mentioned helicopters will be based on the two frigates on order from Hyundai Heavy Industries.
The AW-159 (previously called the Future Lynx and Lynx Wildcat) is an improved version of the Westland Super Lynx military helicopter.
It has a crew of two, has a maximum speed of 291 km/h (181 mph), range of 777 km (483 miles), ferry range of 963 km (598 miles) and an endurance of one and a-half hours (fours hours and 30 minutes if fitted with an auxiliary fuel tank).
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1020257
Two more platforms which will help boost the Philippine Navy (PN)'s capabilities to defend the country's vast maritime domains are expected to be delivered this 2018.
This was bared by Defense spokesperson Arsenio Andolong when sought for an update on other deliverable items for the PN this year.
First among the deliverables is the Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd's Spike ER (extended range) missile systems which will be fitted on three of the Navy's brand-new multi-purpose assault craft (MPAC) which was activated last May 22.
The weapons are on anti-ship mode meaning it can engage surface vessel targets and is capable of penetrating 1,000 mm (39 inches) of rolled homogeneous armor and has a maximum range of five miles.
And while not giving the exact dates for the delivery of the missiles and its platforms for security purpose, Andolong said the weapons would be delivered to the country "very early in the first quarter of the year."
The missiles and launchers were supposed to be delivered by December but this did not materialize due to some transportation issues.
Second on the deliverables for the PN are two brand-new AgustaWestland AW-159 "Wildcat" anti-submarine helicopters which are expected to arrive the last quarter of 2018 and early 2019, Andolong added.
He did not further elaborate on what weapons and surveillance systems the AW-159s would be carrying for security reasons.
The above-mentioned helicopters will be based on the two frigates on order from Hyundai Heavy Industries.
The AW-159 (previously called the Future Lynx and Lynx Wildcat) is an improved version of the Westland Super Lynx military helicopter.
It has a crew of two, has a maximum speed of 291 km/h (181 mph), range of 777 km (483 miles), ferry range of 963 km (598 miles) and an endurance of one and a-half hours (fours hours and 30 minutes if fitted with an auxiliary fuel tank).
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1020257
Military ops vs. NPA resumes with end of holiday truce
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 2): Military ops vs. NPA resumes with end of holiday truce
Military operations against New People's Army (NPA) are set to resume unless President Rodrigo Duterte orders otherwise.
This was stressed by Department of National Defense (DND) spokesperson Arsenio Andolong when asked on whether government forces can go on the offensive with the conclusion of the Yuletide truce effective midnight Wednesday.
"As far as the rules of engagements are concerned, when the ceasefire lapses tonight (Tuesday) at 11:59 p.m. then that automatically means that we will resume offensive combat operations unless the Commander-in-Chief orders otherwise," he added.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) implemented a unilateral ceasefire during the Yuletide Season which started 6 p.m. of December 23 to 6 p.m. of December 26 and 6 p.m. December 30 up to 6 p.m. until 11:59 p.m. this January 2.
Andolong added that the government is determined to resolve the insurgency threat as its solution is critical for national development.
"It is really a national priority, our peace and order situation is critical to achieving national development, we have areas (where) local economies are not prospering because of the activities of the terrorists, especially those engaged in kidnapping, arson, extortion and it is of paramount importance and in fact as far as DND is concerned, it is part of the policy guidance of the SND (Secretary of National Defense Delfin Lorenzana) to conduct focused operations so that this may be achieved," he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1020306
Military operations against New People's Army (NPA) are set to resume unless President Rodrigo Duterte orders otherwise.
This was stressed by Department of National Defense (DND) spokesperson Arsenio Andolong when asked on whether government forces can go on the offensive with the conclusion of the Yuletide truce effective midnight Wednesday.
"As far as the rules of engagements are concerned, when the ceasefire lapses tonight (Tuesday) at 11:59 p.m. then that automatically means that we will resume offensive combat operations unless the Commander-in-Chief orders otherwise," he added.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) implemented a unilateral ceasefire during the Yuletide Season which started 6 p.m. of December 23 to 6 p.m. of December 26 and 6 p.m. December 30 up to 6 p.m. until 11:59 p.m. this January 2.
Andolong added that the government is determined to resolve the insurgency threat as its solution is critical for national development.
"It is really a national priority, our peace and order situation is critical to achieving national development, we have areas (where) local economies are not prospering because of the activities of the terrorists, especially those engaged in kidnapping, arson, extortion and it is of paramount importance and in fact as far as DND is concerned, it is part of the policy guidance of the SND (Secretary of National Defense Delfin Lorenzana) to conduct focused operations so that this may be achieved," he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1020306
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