From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Mar 6): TALK ACROSS THE TABLE | 3IB to use “Community-based Approach” in Peace-Building
DAVAO CITY – “Fire the gun only when it is necessary. But keep it quiet when there is a way to peacefully engage them.”
This was the challenge given by Presidential Peace Adviser Jesus G. Dureza to the men and women of the 3rd Infantry “Regardless of What” Battalion, 7th infantry Division, in his remarks during the commemoration of the unit’s 45th Founding Anniversary held at their headquarters here.
In referring to rebels who have expressed their desire to lay down their arms and live peaceful, productive lives, Sec. Dureza advised members of the 3rd ID to give the rebels a chance to reform themselves.
He pointed out that the main objective of the security sector is not to engage the insurgents in armed battles, but “to accept them” and help them make the transition to mainstream society.
Sec. Dureza said he had adopted this mindset after being instructed by President Rodrigo Duterte to “talk across the tables” in order to find a long-lasting solution to the armed conflict in the country.
As the national government’s top peace negotiator, he has told the leadership of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP), “You are only a small table. The bigger table is the general public.”
The Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process has established various “peace tables” which aim to provide a venue for stakeholders to discuss pressing peace-related issues and come up with recommendations on how to best address them.
According to the presidential peace adviser, there is a need to use a “community-based approach” in dealing with the insurgency problem in the country.
During a recent visit he made in Brgy. Gupitan, Kapalong, Davao del Norte to inaugurate a Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) bridge project, he was informed by tribal leaders that the event almost did not push through after they received threats from a rebel group operating there.
But what he found most touching was their assurance that no harm will come to him, as members of the Lumad community had secured the area themselves.
“Don’t worry, we will protect you,” one of the elders told him, as he pointed to village folk who were armed with native weapons.
From his conversations with the village folk, he could sense their strong desire to maintain peace and order and sustain the gains of economic growth in the community.
Sec. Dureza believes in the power of diplomacy in resolving situations of conflict.
He said that through diplomacy, he has been able to effectively carry out talks with the leaders of various rebels groups in the country.
“Use diplomacy,” Sec. Dureza told the members of the 3rd ID, as he urged them to continue being agents of peace and development in the communities they serve. OPAPP/MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/03/06/talk-across-the-table-3ib-to-use-community-based-approach-in-peace-building/
Tuesday, March 6, 2018
DWDD: TALK ACROSS THE TABLE | 3IB to use “Community-based Approach” in Peace-Building
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Mar 6): TALK ACROSS THE TABLE | 3IB to use “Community-based Approach” in Peace-Building
DAVAO CITY – “Fire the gun only when it is necessary. But keep it quiet when there is a way to peacefully engage them.”
This was the challenge given by Presidential Peace Adviser Jesus G. Dureza to the men and women of the 3rd Infantry “Regardless of What” Battalion, 7th infantry Division, in his remarks during the commemoration of the unit’s 45th Founding Anniversary held at their headquarters here.
In referring to rebels who have expressed their desire to lay down their arms and live peaceful, productive lives, Sec. Dureza advised members of the 3rd ID to give the rebels a chance to reform themselves.
He pointed out that the main objective of the security sector is not to engage the insurgents in armed battles, but “to accept them” and help them make the transition to mainstream society.
Sec. Dureza said he had adopted this mindset after being instructed by President Rodrigo Duterte to “talk across the tables” in order to find a long-lasting solution to the armed conflict in the country.
As the national government’s top peace negotiator, he has told the leadership of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP), “You are only a small table. The bigger table is the general public.”
The Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process has established various “peace tables” which aim to provide a venue for stakeholders to discuss pressing peace-related issues and come up with recommendations on how to best address them.
According to the presidential peace adviser, there is a need to use a “community-based approach” in dealing with the insurgency problem in the country.
During a recent visit he made in Brgy. Gupitan, Kapalong, Davao del Norte to inaugurate a Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) bridge project, he was informed by tribal leaders that the event almost did not push through after they received threats from a rebel group operating there.
But what he found most touching was their assurance that no harm will come to him, as members of the Lumad community had secured the area themselves.
“Don’t worry, we will protect you,” one of the elders told him, as he pointed to village folk who were armed with native weapons.
From his conversations with the village folk, he could sense their strong desire to maintain peace and order and sustain the gains of economic growth in the community.
Sec. Dureza believes in the power of diplomacy in resolving situations of conflict.
He said that through diplomacy, he has been able to effectively carry out talks with the leaders of various rebels groups in the country.
“Use diplomacy,” Sec. Dureza told the members of the 3rd ID, as he urged them to continue being agents of peace and development in the communities they serve. OPAPP/MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/03/06/talk-across-the-table-3ib-to-use-community-based-approach-in-peace-building/
DAVAO CITY – “Fire the gun only when it is necessary. But keep it quiet when there is a way to peacefully engage them.”
This was the challenge given by Presidential Peace Adviser Jesus G. Dureza to the men and women of the 3rd Infantry “Regardless of What” Battalion, 7th infantry Division, in his remarks during the commemoration of the unit’s 45th Founding Anniversary held at their headquarters here.
In referring to rebels who have expressed their desire to lay down their arms and live peaceful, productive lives, Sec. Dureza advised members of the 3rd ID to give the rebels a chance to reform themselves.
He pointed out that the main objective of the security sector is not to engage the insurgents in armed battles, but “to accept them” and help them make the transition to mainstream society.
Sec. Dureza said he had adopted this mindset after being instructed by President Rodrigo Duterte to “talk across the tables” in order to find a long-lasting solution to the armed conflict in the country.
As the national government’s top peace negotiator, he has told the leadership of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP), “You are only a small table. The bigger table is the general public.”
The Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process has established various “peace tables” which aim to provide a venue for stakeholders to discuss pressing peace-related issues and come up with recommendations on how to best address them.
According to the presidential peace adviser, there is a need to use a “community-based approach” in dealing with the insurgency problem in the country.
During a recent visit he made in Brgy. Gupitan, Kapalong, Davao del Norte to inaugurate a Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) bridge project, he was informed by tribal leaders that the event almost did not push through after they received threats from a rebel group operating there.
But what he found most touching was their assurance that no harm will come to him, as members of the Lumad community had secured the area themselves.
“Don’t worry, we will protect you,” one of the elders told him, as he pointed to village folk who were armed with native weapons.
From his conversations with the village folk, he could sense their strong desire to maintain peace and order and sustain the gains of economic growth in the community.
Sec. Dureza believes in the power of diplomacy in resolving situations of conflict.
He said that through diplomacy, he has been able to effectively carry out talks with the leaders of various rebels groups in the country.
“Use diplomacy,” Sec. Dureza told the members of the 3rd ID, as he urged them to continue being agents of peace and development in the communities they serve. OPAPP/MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/03/06/talk-across-the-table-3ib-to-use-community-based-approach-in-peace-building/
DWDD: SPEAR TROOPERS | 9ID Welcomes new officers and soldiers
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Mar 6): SPEAR TROOPERS | 9ID Welcomes new officers and soldiers
CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, Camarines Sur (DWDD) – The 9th Infantry (Spear) Division deploys the newly assigned officers and enlisted personnel to its subordinate units through a simple yet meaningful Send Off Ceremony at Camp Elias Angeles, Pili, Camarines Sur on February 27, 2018.
The said personnel are composed of 19 second lieutenants from Philippine Military Academy and Philippine Army Officer Candidate School, and 194 privates who recently graduated from four months of extensive military training at the 9th Division Training School.
The deployment of the new newest members of Spear Division will surely boost the operational capabilities of its line units in confronting various security threats to ensure the safety and security of the Bicolanos and other constituents in Mindanao where some of the organic units of 9ID are based. 9DPAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/03/06/spear-troopers-9id-welcomes-new-officers-and-soldiers/
CAMP ELIAS ANGELES, Pili, Camarines Sur (DWDD) – The 9th Infantry (Spear) Division deploys the newly assigned officers and enlisted personnel to its subordinate units through a simple yet meaningful Send Off Ceremony at Camp Elias Angeles, Pili, Camarines Sur on February 27, 2018.
The said personnel are composed of 19 second lieutenants from Philippine Military Academy and Philippine Army Officer Candidate School, and 194 privates who recently graduated from four months of extensive military training at the 9th Division Training School.
The deployment of the new newest members of Spear Division will surely boost the operational capabilities of its line units in confronting various security threats to ensure the safety and security of the Bicolanos and other constituents in Mindanao where some of the organic units of 9ID are based. 9DPAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/03/06/spear-troopers-9id-welcomes-new-officers-and-soldiers/
DWDD: RECEPTION | 7ID Welcomes new soldiers
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Mar 6): RECEPTION | 7ID Welcomes new soldiers
FORT RAMON MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija (DWDD) – New recruits from 7th Infantry “Kaugnay” Division are received into the military profession as they start their Basic Military Training to become soldiers at Fort Ramon Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija. 7DPAO/ Cpl Javines/ MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/03/06/reception-7id-welcomes-new-soldiers/
FORT RAMON MAGSAYSAY, Nueva Ecija (DWDD) – New recruits from 7th Infantry “Kaugnay” Division are received into the military profession as they start their Basic Military Training to become soldiers at Fort Ramon Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija. 7DPAO/ Cpl Javines/ MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/03/06/reception-7id-welcomes-new-soldiers/
DWDD: SPEARHEAD TROOPERS | 3ID starts processing for qualified Candidate Soldiers
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Mar 6): SPEARHEAD TROOPERS | 3ID starts processing for qualified Candidate Soldiers
CAMP PERALTA, Jamindan Capiz (DWDD) – The 3rd Infantry “Spearhead” Division is conducting a pre-screening/registration to all qualified applicants for Candidate Soldiers in Central and Western Visayas from March 01-15 2018 on the following venues:
Capiz – H3ID, Camp Peralta, Jamindan, Capiz
Iloilo – 301 Bde, Camp Hernandez, Dingle, Iloilo
Bohol – 302 Bde, Camp Raja Sicatuna, Katipunan, Carmen, Bohol
47IB, Camp Governor Lino I Chatto, Macaas, Tubigon, Bohol
Aklan – 12IB, Camp Jesus G Jizmundo, Brgy Libas, Banga, Aklan
Negros Occidental – 303 Bde, Camp Maj Gerona, Brgy Minoyan, Murcia, Negros Occidental
62IB, Brgy Bato, Sagay City, Negros Occidental
Negros Oriental – 79IB, Camp Leon Kilat, Tanjay City, Negros Oriental
Antique – 61IB, Camp Monteclaro, Brgy Igtuba, Miag-ao, Iloilo
Basic criteria/qualifications for CS applicants are as follows:
1) Natural born Filipino citizen;
2) At least 18 to 25 years old and must not be 26 years old or older on the date of appointment as candidate soldier. Age waiver is no longer issued by this command;
3) with 72 units in college or if a high school graduate must possess technical skills/talents needed by the pa.
4) At least 5’0” to 60” inches in height, similarly, height waiver is no longer issued by this command;
5) Single and without child;
6) of good moral character;
7) AFPSAT score of at least 45;
8) Must have passed the pre-qualifying pft and pme;
9) Physically and mentally fit for military training;
10) Be able to comply all necessary documents stated in ref 1b; and
11) Should have no ink tattoo marks.
Interested Candidate Soldier applicants must bring the following supporting documents tabbed in a folder:
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/03/06/spearhead-troopers-3id-starts-processing-for-qualified-candidate-soldiers/
CAMP PERALTA, Jamindan Capiz (DWDD) – The 3rd Infantry “Spearhead” Division is conducting a pre-screening/registration to all qualified applicants for Candidate Soldiers in Central and Western Visayas from March 01-15 2018 on the following venues:
Capiz – H3ID, Camp Peralta, Jamindan, Capiz
Iloilo – 301 Bde, Camp Hernandez, Dingle, Iloilo
Bohol – 302 Bde, Camp Raja Sicatuna, Katipunan, Carmen, Bohol
47IB, Camp Governor Lino I Chatto, Macaas, Tubigon, Bohol
Aklan – 12IB, Camp Jesus G Jizmundo, Brgy Libas, Banga, Aklan
Negros Occidental – 303 Bde, Camp Maj Gerona, Brgy Minoyan, Murcia, Negros Occidental
62IB, Brgy Bato, Sagay City, Negros Occidental
Negros Oriental – 79IB, Camp Leon Kilat, Tanjay City, Negros Oriental
Antique – 61IB, Camp Monteclaro, Brgy Igtuba, Miag-ao, Iloilo
Basic criteria/qualifications for CS applicants are as follows:
1) Natural born Filipino citizen;
2) At least 18 to 25 years old and must not be 26 years old or older on the date of appointment as candidate soldier. Age waiver is no longer issued by this command;
3) with 72 units in college or if a high school graduate must possess technical skills/talents needed by the pa.
4) At least 5’0” to 60” inches in height, similarly, height waiver is no longer issued by this command;
5) Single and without child;
6) of good moral character;
7) AFPSAT score of at least 45;
8) Must have passed the pre-qualifying pft and pme;
9) Physically and mentally fit for military training;
10) Be able to comply all necessary documents stated in ref 1b; and
11) Should have no ink tattoo marks.
Interested Candidate Soldier applicants must bring the following supporting documents tabbed in a folder:
A. Whole Body Picture (White shirt and Maong pants)
B. Biodata with 2×2 Picture
C. Original copy of NSO Birth Certificate with Official Receipt
D. Original copy of Marriage Contract of parents with Official Receipt
E. Certificate of Legal Beneficiaries
F. Original Transcript of Records (College/Vocational Or Form 137 & 138 (High School) with visible cchool Dry Seal (Original Copy)
G. Diploma (with school Dry Seal)
H. AFPSAT Result with dry seal (official result authenticated by the examiner)
I. PME Result (Authenticated and signed by the CO, ASH)
J. PFT RESULT (Authenticated and signed by the PFT Officer)
K. DRUG TEST Result
L. HEPA TEST Result
M. Clearances (Shall be from the place of residence for at least ten (10) years)
- A) BARANGAY
- B) POLICE
- C) MAYOR
- D) RTC
- E) NBI CLEARANCE
N. Affidavit of Being Single (Never been married/no children/have not sired a child should be stated)
O. Affidavit of legal Beneficiaries
P. Original copy of NSO CENOMAR with Official Receipt.
For more information please contact OG1, 3ID, PA, Camp Peralta, Jamindan, Capiz at Cellphone number 0917-557-1590 or visit our Facebook page: Philippine Army Spearhead Troopers. 3DPAO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/03/06/spearhead-troopers-3id-starts-processing-for-qualified-candidate-soldiers/
DWDD: OFFICIAL VISIT | AFP Provost Marshal General at TOW West
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Mar 6): OFFICIAL VISIT | AFP Provost Marshal General at TOW West
PUERTO PRINSESA, Palawan (DWDD) – Brigadier General Jesulito H Calimag AFP, The Provost Marshal General (TPMG) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines visited Headquarters TOW West in Antonio Bautista Air Base, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan on March 5, 2017.
During his visit, he had a short discussion with TOW West Staff and immediately proceeded to a tree planting at Generals Tree Farm. Lastly, he conducted inspection of detention facility of the Wing. TOW West
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/03/06/official-visit-afp-provost-marshal-gerneral-at-tow-west/
During his visit, he had a short discussion with TOW West Staff and immediately proceeded to a tree planting at Generals Tree Farm. Lastly, he conducted inspection of detention facility of the Wing. TOW West
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/03/06/official-visit-afp-provost-marshal-gerneral-at-tow-west/
DWDD: FUTURE AERO WARRIORS | 72 PMA AeroCadets are set to join the PAF
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Mar 6): FUTURE AERO WARRIORS | 72 PMA AeroCadets are set to join the PAF
COL JESUS VILLAMOR AIRBASE, Pasay City (DWDD) – Of the 285 graduating cadets belonging to Philippine Military Academy “Alagad ng Lahing Binigkis ng Tapang at Lakas” or Alab-Tala Class of 2018, 72 will be joining the Philippine Air Force; of whom, 19 are female.
In a simple dinner reception hosted by the Commanding General on March 02, 2018 at the PAF Aerospace Museum, Colonel Jesus Villamor Air Base in Pasay City, Lieutenant General Galileo Gerard R Kintanar Jr AFP welcomed the aerocadets and they were later introduced to the commanders and other HPAF staff.
The PAF gave them service pistol, initial clothing allowance, and first month salary.
The PMA “Alab-Tala” Class of 2018 is scheduled to graduate sometime in March 2018 at Fort Gregorio Del Pilar, Baguio City. PAF PIO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/03/06/future-aero-warriors-72-pma-aerocadets-are-set-to-join-the-paf/
COL JESUS VILLAMOR AIRBASE, Pasay City (DWDD) – Of the 285 graduating cadets belonging to Philippine Military Academy “Alagad ng Lahing Binigkis ng Tapang at Lakas” or Alab-Tala Class of 2018, 72 will be joining the Philippine Air Force; of whom, 19 are female.
In a simple dinner reception hosted by the Commanding General on March 02, 2018 at the PAF Aerospace Museum, Colonel Jesus Villamor Air Base in Pasay City, Lieutenant General Galileo Gerard R Kintanar Jr AFP welcomed the aerocadets and they were later introduced to the commanders and other HPAF staff.
The PAF gave them service pistol, initial clothing allowance, and first month salary.
The PMA “Alab-Tala” Class of 2018 is scheduled to graduate sometime in March 2018 at Fort Gregorio Del Pilar, Baguio City. PAF PIO / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/03/06/future-aero-warriors-72-pma-aerocadets-are-set-to-join-the-paf/
Remove detachments
From the Mindanao Times (Mar 5): Remove detachments
Bato to order cop units out of attack-prone areas
POLICE Director General Ronald Dela Rosa said he will soon order for the immediate pull-out of police detachments in far-flung areas that are at high risk of attacks by Communist rebels.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) chief issued the remark after President Rodrigo Duterte made a verbal instruction to the Armed Forces of the Philippine to conduct mobile checkpoints instead of having traditional detachments along the highways.
“Those detachments, particularly in the far-flung areas that are in danger of attack, will be dismantled so they will not be targeted by the NPA (New People’s Army), dela Rosa said in a media interview on Saturday, the third day of the 1st PNP Chief Swat Challenge held at the Davao Firing Range in Barangay Ma-a.
“We will detail back the personnel to their respective camps,” dela Rosa said. “They will go back to their camps after their operation.”
The PNP chief said that having a fixed detachment only makes the police a live human target of the NPA’s snipers.
Dela Rosa agreed that police can put machine guns in areas that are really prone to NPA attacks.
In separate interview, Chief Supt. Manuel Gaerlan, the director of the Police Regional Office (PRO) XI, said that they are willing to comply with the order once they receive it.
But Gaerlan said the Davao region doesn’t have fixed police detachments anymore.
“Except, of course, our police stations and few sub- stations,” Gaerlan said.
He said detachments or patrol bases in the region are usually manned by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
Gaerlan said PNP conducts regular checkpoints but not on the same place every day.
President Duterte, in his speech during the opening ceremony of PNP Swat Challenge on Thursday, said NPA snipers could make army or police officers in detachment as their targets.
“Detachment soldier just fell down dead,” Duterte said in vernacular. “NPA can now attack soldiers, cops and Cafgu in the detachments at a distance.”
NPAs don’t need to attack the detachments in close range, Duterte said. “They have acquired the skill of sniping.”
POLICE Director General Ronald Dela Rosa said he will soon order for the immediate pull-out of police detachments in far-flung areas that are at high risk of attacks by Communist rebels.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) chief issued the remark after President Rodrigo Duterte made a verbal instruction to the Armed Forces of the Philippine to conduct mobile checkpoints instead of having traditional detachments along the highways.
“Those detachments, particularly in the far-flung areas that are in danger of attack, will be dismantled so they will not be targeted by the NPA (New People’s Army), dela Rosa said in a media interview on Saturday, the third day of the 1st PNP Chief Swat Challenge held at the Davao Firing Range in Barangay Ma-a.
“We will detail back the personnel to their respective camps,” dela Rosa said. “They will go back to their camps after their operation.”
The PNP chief said that having a fixed detachment only makes the police a live human target of the NPA’s snipers.
Dela Rosa agreed that police can put machine guns in areas that are really prone to NPA attacks.
In separate interview, Chief Supt. Manuel Gaerlan, the director of the Police Regional Office (PRO) XI, said that they are willing to comply with the order once they receive it.
But Gaerlan said the Davao region doesn’t have fixed police detachments anymore.
“Except, of course, our police stations and few sub- stations,” Gaerlan said.
He said detachments or patrol bases in the region are usually manned by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
Gaerlan said PNP conducts regular checkpoints but not on the same place every day.
President Duterte, in his speech during the opening ceremony of PNP Swat Challenge on Thursday, said NPA snipers could make army or police officers in detachment as their targets.
“Detachment soldier just fell down dead,” Duterte said in vernacular. “NPA can now attack soldiers, cops and Cafgu in the detachments at a distance.”
NPAs don’t need to attack the detachments in close range, Duterte said. “They have acquired the skill of sniping.”
Alleged members of NPA support group surrender
From the Mindanao Times (Mar 6): Alleged members of NPA support group surrender
THIRTY-SEVEN members of Komiteng Rebolusyonaryo sa Baryo (KRB) of the New People’s Army surrendered to the 71st Infantry Battalion in Mawab on Monday, March 5.
1Lt. Jhocell D. Asis, the civil-military operations (CMO) officer of 71st IB, said the 37 individuals showed up early Monday in the battalion headquarters.
The KRB is the established NPA shadow government in the barangay level to counter and overthrow the legitimate barangay local government unit in Manipongol, Maco.
She said the mass surrender was led by alias Rime, the appointed chairman of the KRB. He also brought along with him one shotgun with three live bullets, along with subversive documents.
Asis also said that the barangay Manipongol is known to be the favorite venue of NPA’s anniversary and meetings in the previous years.
“It is the hidden place of the NPA members who are responsible in the harassment and abduction activities against the personnel of 1001st Brigade in Sitio Quarry, Barangay Mapaang, Maco way back 2014,” report said.
“We are very glad that despite of the black propaganda being thrown to us by the left-leaning organization, still we are winning the trust and support of the masses and this significant number of surrenderees today proves it all,” said Lt. Col. Esteveyn Ducusin, the commander of 71st IB.
In five months, the 71st IB has processed a total of 464 surrenders and apprehended 15 high-profile personalities of the NPA.
“With the never-ending support of the people, the battalion is more motivated to intensify its security operation to protect and secure the people in its area of responsibility,” Ducusin further said.
http://mindanaotimes.net/alleged-members-of-npa-support-group-surrender/
THIRTY-SEVEN members of Komiteng Rebolusyonaryo sa Baryo (KRB) of the New People’s Army surrendered to the 71st Infantry Battalion in Mawab on Monday, March 5.
1Lt. Jhocell D. Asis, the civil-military operations (CMO) officer of 71st IB, said the 37 individuals showed up early Monday in the battalion headquarters.
The KRB is the established NPA shadow government in the barangay level to counter and overthrow the legitimate barangay local government unit in Manipongol, Maco.
She said the mass surrender was led by alias Rime, the appointed chairman of the KRB. He also brought along with him one shotgun with three live bullets, along with subversive documents.
Asis also said that the barangay Manipongol is known to be the favorite venue of NPA’s anniversary and meetings in the previous years.
“It is the hidden place of the NPA members who are responsible in the harassment and abduction activities against the personnel of 1001st Brigade in Sitio Quarry, Barangay Mapaang, Maco way back 2014,” report said.
“We are very glad that despite of the black propaganda being thrown to us by the left-leaning organization, still we are winning the trust and support of the masses and this significant number of surrenderees today proves it all,” said Lt. Col. Esteveyn Ducusin, the commander of 71st IB.
In five months, the 71st IB has processed a total of 464 surrenders and apprehended 15 high-profile personalities of the NPA.
“With the never-ending support of the people, the battalion is more motivated to intensify its security operation to protect and secure the people in its area of responsibility,” Ducusin further said.
http://mindanaotimes.net/alleged-members-of-npa-support-group-surrender/
Soldier wounded in NPA encounter
From the Mindanao Times (Mar 6): Soldier wounded in NPA encounter
A SOLDIER of 102nd Division Recon Company was wounded in an encounter with Communist rebels at the vicinity of Sitio Gurem, Barangay Sibulan, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur on Monday noon.
Meanwhile, troops were able to recover an improvised explosive device (IED) and other belongings owned by the rebels.
Capt. Jerry Lamosao, the spokesperson of 10th Infantry Division, said the encounter transpired at 12:12 p.m. between the company, under the operational control of the 39th Infantry Battalion, and an estimated 50 New People’s Army.
Prior to the clash, Lamosao said they received a tip from a concerned citizen about a large armed group in the hamlet.
“With the ongoing focused military operation, the troops were alerted for combat operation,” he said.
The NPA saw the soldiers when they were still 200 meters away and fired their guns, prompting government forces to retaliate. The clash lasted for almost 45 minutes before the rebels escaped.
The soldiers recovered one modified bomb, detonating cord, one backpack, and subversive documents from the encounter site.
The wounded soldier was brought to the hospital and is now stable.
http://mindanaotimes.net/soldier-wounded-in-npa-encounter/
A SOLDIER of 102nd Division Recon Company was wounded in an encounter with Communist rebels at the vicinity of Sitio Gurem, Barangay Sibulan, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur on Monday noon.
Meanwhile, troops were able to recover an improvised explosive device (IED) and other belongings owned by the rebels.
Capt. Jerry Lamosao, the spokesperson of 10th Infantry Division, said the encounter transpired at 12:12 p.m. between the company, under the operational control of the 39th Infantry Battalion, and an estimated 50 New People’s Army.
Prior to the clash, Lamosao said they received a tip from a concerned citizen about a large armed group in the hamlet.
“With the ongoing focused military operation, the troops were alerted for combat operation,” he said.
The NPA saw the soldiers when they were still 200 meters away and fired their guns, prompting government forces to retaliate. The clash lasted for almost 45 minutes before the rebels escaped.
The soldiers recovered one modified bomb, detonating cord, one backpack, and subversive documents from the encounter site.
The wounded soldier was brought to the hospital and is now stable.
http://mindanaotimes.net/soldier-wounded-in-npa-encounter/
MILF chair Murad: Senate’s proposed Bangsamoro is “generally acceptable”
From MindaNews (Mar 6): MILF chair Murad: Senate’s proposed Bangsamoro is “generally acceptable”
The chair of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) on Monday said Senate Bill 1717, the substitute bill to the four versions of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) earlier filed, is “generally acceptable” to them.
“Generally, SB 1717 is already acceptable to the MILF… it is acceptable to us,” Murad told ANC’s Early Edition host Christian Esguerra.
MILF chair Al Haj Murad Ebrahim in Camp Darapanan, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao. MindaNews file photo by MANMAN DEJETO
Filed on February 28 by the Senate Committee on Local Governments after a series of public hearings, consultations and technical working group meetings, SB 1717 aims to create a Bangsamoro that will be parliamentary in form, with a Chief Minister as head of government, two deputy Chief Ministers, a Cabinet, and a Parliament of at least 80 members.
The bill, now up for plenary debates with the Senate eyeing passage before Congress takes a break from March 24 to May 13, replaced the four proposed Bangsamoro laws earlier filed, including the version submitted by the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC), the body tasked to draft the BBL, composed of 11 representatives nominated by the MILF and 10 by government (GPH).
The Senate proposes fiscal autonomy for the Bangsamoro, a major problem in the past and present autonomous regions in the Moro-dominated areas.
It also provides for an annual block grant which shall be the share of the Bangsamoro in the national internal revenue of the Central Government and will be automatically appropriated to the Bangsamoro Government and reflected in the General Appropriations Act
The bill also adopts the BTC’s proposed PhP 100 billion Special Development Fund (SDF) but instead of allocating it over a period of 20 years as proposed by the BTC, wants the amount spread across 10 years, at 10 billion pesos a year.
The SDF is intended to “rebuild (the Bangsamoro’s) conflict-affected communities and catch up with the rest of the country.”
SB 1717 provides that the transition period for the establishment of the Bangsamoro shall commence upon ratification of the BBL and its first regular election will be held “three years from the ratification of this Basic Law.”
Under the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) that government and the MILF signed on March 27, 2014 after 17 years of peace negotiations, the now 27-year old Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) is deemed abolished upon the ratification of the BBL.
The BTC draft had proposed that the first regular election be held on the first Monday of April 2022. This proposal was adopted by the House of Representatives’ Committees on Local Government, Muslim Affairs, and Peace, Reconciliation and Unity, in their working draft that consolidated four bills earlier filed in the House, including the BTC draft.
The House committees are conducting four more public hearings on the BBL – on March 8 and 9 in Buluan, Maguindanao and Koronadal, South Cotabato, and 15 and 16 in Tubod, Lanao del Norte and Marawi.
The House earlier gave assurance they would pass the Bangsamoro law before the recess.
Parliamentary
SB 1717 was filed a day after the 20-member Consultative Committee tasked by President Rodrigo Duterte to review the 1987 Constitution, voted for a Presidential form of federal government.
The Senate bill adopted the form of government envisioned under the GPH-MILF peace agreement.
The Bangsamoro “will allow them self-governance that will put an end to their feeling of alienation which for decades have fueled their rebellion,” Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri, chair of the Senate’s Sub-Committee on BBL, said in his sponsorship speech on February 28.
Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri delivers his sponsorship speech on Senate Bill No. 1717 or the Bangsamoro Basic Law during the Senate plenary session, Wednesday, February 28, 2018. Photo by Alex Nuevaespaña, Senate PRIB
“The Parliamentary System of government,” he explained, “is closer to their tradition as the Parliament mirrors their traditional leadership such as the Ruma Bichara (Council) of the Sultanate of Sulu or the Atas (Council) Bichara of the Sultanate of Maguindanao.”
“Everyone will have a voice in the Parliament,” Zubiri said as he noted the “innovative features of party representation, district representation, and reserved seats and sectoral representation ensures that no one is left behind.”
The Senate bill proposes two provisions on the Parliament — anti-dynasty and turncoatism — that were not in the BTC draft.
“No Party Representative should be related within the second civil degree of consanguinity or affinity to a District Representative or another Party Representative in the same Parliament,” the Senate version proposes.
It also says a member of Parliament elected under the proportional representation system shall forfeit his or her seat for any of five grounds listed, among them “transferring to another party during his / her incumbency.”
Zubiri, a Mindanawon from Bukidnon said SB 1717 aims to address the historical injustices committed against the Bangsamoro, “correct the mistakes of the past” and prevent “another Marawi.” (See sponsorship speech)
“Mr. President, I do not want to sound like a warmonger, but if we do not heed this clamor for change in the Bangsamoro, God forbid, restlessness among the armed groups in Mindanao could spiral out of control. The possibility of another Marawi siege would not be far from the horizon. The country can no longer afford more bloodshed. Our generation has suffered long enough from the clutches of poverty, from the evils of war. Let not our children and their future suffer some more. Never Mr. President, never,” Zubiri said.
“On the right side of history”
He called on his colleagues to be “on the right side of history, and certainly, passing the BBL now is on the right side of history” that would pave the way for a “just and dignified peace not only in Mindanao but in the whole of Philippines.”
READ: Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri’s sponsorship speech
Bangsamoro Basic Law: Towards a Just and Dignified Peace
The proposed law, he said, gives “greatest latitude if not full autonomy to the Bangsamoro government that will be established, to assert their political and economic self-determination and pursue development programs for their people according to their peculiar historical, cultural, religious and national identities.”
In his co-sponsorship speech, Senator Sonny Angara, chair of the Senate Committee on Local Government, said passing the BBL is “not only necessary” but “also life-saving, and hopefully life-changing.”
Angara noted that many skeptics say the BBL will just give rise to other breakaway groups and will not lead to peace. “Their position is understandable for one only needs to look at the past for proof of this. But to them I say, let us look to the future with hope and optimism. I say, we should not stop trying to find the solution for peace and prosperity in Muslim Mindanao.”
The BBL, he maintained, “comprises our greatest legal arsenal for achieving peace, which will ultimately help unleash the other positives of the peace process.”
Under the CAB, the passage of the BBL is tied to the normalization process and the decommissioning of weapons and combatants of the MILF.
“Fertile ground, no longer for violence or for terrorism”
“Where our armed forces laid siege on Marawi City to stop terrorist-rebels in their tracks, we need to enact this law so that no other armed group could recruit and amass critical support. Never again should any of our beautiful communities, especially those in Mindanao, ever be at risk of being leveled or destroyed by human hands,” Angara said.
He expressed confidence that the BBL will ensure that the Bangsamoro will “become fertile ground, no longer for violence or for terrorism, but instead for opportunity and active civic engagement.”
READ: Senator Sonny Angara’s co-sponsorship speech
The BBL comprises our greatest legal arsenal for achieving peace
The BBL, he stressed, “could very well be our most effective means of keeping religious extremism and secessionist tendencies at bay—and hence, of achieving long-lasting peace.”
In her co-sponsorhip speech, Senator Risa Hontiveros said the passage of the BBL will “change that narrative” of “violence, oppression, and marginalization” in the Bangsamoro.
READ: Senator Risa Hontiveros’ co-sponsorship speech
Bangsamoro is our commitment to peace
She said passage of the BBL will “renew our commitment to democracy,” will be “an institutional recognition of the justness and legitimacy of the cause of the Bangsamoro people,” and is “our commitment to peace.”
http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2018/03/milf-chair-murad-senates-proposed-bangsamoro-generally-acceptable/
The chair of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) on Monday said Senate Bill 1717, the substitute bill to the four versions of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) earlier filed, is “generally acceptable” to them.
“Generally, SB 1717 is already acceptable to the MILF… it is acceptable to us,” Murad told ANC’s Early Edition host Christian Esguerra.
MILF chair Al Haj Murad Ebrahim in Camp Darapanan, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao. MindaNews file photo by MANMAN DEJETO
Filed on February 28 by the Senate Committee on Local Governments after a series of public hearings, consultations and technical working group meetings, SB 1717 aims to create a Bangsamoro that will be parliamentary in form, with a Chief Minister as head of government, two deputy Chief Ministers, a Cabinet, and a Parliament of at least 80 members.
The bill, now up for plenary debates with the Senate eyeing passage before Congress takes a break from March 24 to May 13, replaced the four proposed Bangsamoro laws earlier filed, including the version submitted by the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC), the body tasked to draft the BBL, composed of 11 representatives nominated by the MILF and 10 by government (GPH).
The Senate proposes fiscal autonomy for the Bangsamoro, a major problem in the past and present autonomous regions in the Moro-dominated areas.
It also provides for an annual block grant which shall be the share of the Bangsamoro in the national internal revenue of the Central Government and will be automatically appropriated to the Bangsamoro Government and reflected in the General Appropriations Act
The bill also adopts the BTC’s proposed PhP 100 billion Special Development Fund (SDF) but instead of allocating it over a period of 20 years as proposed by the BTC, wants the amount spread across 10 years, at 10 billion pesos a year.
The SDF is intended to “rebuild (the Bangsamoro’s) conflict-affected communities and catch up with the rest of the country.”
SB 1717 provides that the transition period for the establishment of the Bangsamoro shall commence upon ratification of the BBL and its first regular election will be held “three years from the ratification of this Basic Law.”
Under the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) that government and the MILF signed on March 27, 2014 after 17 years of peace negotiations, the now 27-year old Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) is deemed abolished upon the ratification of the BBL.
The BTC draft had proposed that the first regular election be held on the first Monday of April 2022. This proposal was adopted by the House of Representatives’ Committees on Local Government, Muslim Affairs, and Peace, Reconciliation and Unity, in their working draft that consolidated four bills earlier filed in the House, including the BTC draft.
The House committees are conducting four more public hearings on the BBL – on March 8 and 9 in Buluan, Maguindanao and Koronadal, South Cotabato, and 15 and 16 in Tubod, Lanao del Norte and Marawi.
The House earlier gave assurance they would pass the Bangsamoro law before the recess.
Parliamentary
SB 1717 was filed a day after the 20-member Consultative Committee tasked by President Rodrigo Duterte to review the 1987 Constitution, voted for a Presidential form of federal government.
The Senate bill adopted the form of government envisioned under the GPH-MILF peace agreement.
The Bangsamoro “will allow them self-governance that will put an end to their feeling of alienation which for decades have fueled their rebellion,” Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri, chair of the Senate’s Sub-Committee on BBL, said in his sponsorship speech on February 28.
Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri delivers his sponsorship speech on Senate Bill No. 1717 or the Bangsamoro Basic Law during the Senate plenary session, Wednesday, February 28, 2018. Photo by Alex Nuevaespaña, Senate PRIB
“The Parliamentary System of government,” he explained, “is closer to their tradition as the Parliament mirrors their traditional leadership such as the Ruma Bichara (Council) of the Sultanate of Sulu or the Atas (Council) Bichara of the Sultanate of Maguindanao.”
“Everyone will have a voice in the Parliament,” Zubiri said as he noted the “innovative features of party representation, district representation, and reserved seats and sectoral representation ensures that no one is left behind.”
The Senate bill proposes two provisions on the Parliament — anti-dynasty and turncoatism — that were not in the BTC draft.
“No Party Representative should be related within the second civil degree of consanguinity or affinity to a District Representative or another Party Representative in the same Parliament,” the Senate version proposes.
It also says a member of Parliament elected under the proportional representation system shall forfeit his or her seat for any of five grounds listed, among them “transferring to another party during his / her incumbency.”
Zubiri, a Mindanawon from Bukidnon said SB 1717 aims to address the historical injustices committed against the Bangsamoro, “correct the mistakes of the past” and prevent “another Marawi.” (See sponsorship speech)
“Mr. President, I do not want to sound like a warmonger, but if we do not heed this clamor for change in the Bangsamoro, God forbid, restlessness among the armed groups in Mindanao could spiral out of control. The possibility of another Marawi siege would not be far from the horizon. The country can no longer afford more bloodshed. Our generation has suffered long enough from the clutches of poverty, from the evils of war. Let not our children and their future suffer some more. Never Mr. President, never,” Zubiri said.
“On the right side of history”
He called on his colleagues to be “on the right side of history, and certainly, passing the BBL now is on the right side of history” that would pave the way for a “just and dignified peace not only in Mindanao but in the whole of Philippines.”
READ: Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri’s sponsorship speech
Bangsamoro Basic Law: Towards a Just and Dignified Peace
The proposed law, he said, gives “greatest latitude if not full autonomy to the Bangsamoro government that will be established, to assert their political and economic self-determination and pursue development programs for their people according to their peculiar historical, cultural, religious and national identities.”
In his co-sponsorship speech, Senator Sonny Angara, chair of the Senate Committee on Local Government, said passing the BBL is “not only necessary” but “also life-saving, and hopefully life-changing.”
Angara noted that many skeptics say the BBL will just give rise to other breakaway groups and will not lead to peace. “Their position is understandable for one only needs to look at the past for proof of this. But to them I say, let us look to the future with hope and optimism. I say, we should not stop trying to find the solution for peace and prosperity in Muslim Mindanao.”
The BBL, he maintained, “comprises our greatest legal arsenal for achieving peace, which will ultimately help unleash the other positives of the peace process.”
Under the CAB, the passage of the BBL is tied to the normalization process and the decommissioning of weapons and combatants of the MILF.
“Fertile ground, no longer for violence or for terrorism”
“Where our armed forces laid siege on Marawi City to stop terrorist-rebels in their tracks, we need to enact this law so that no other armed group could recruit and amass critical support. Never again should any of our beautiful communities, especially those in Mindanao, ever be at risk of being leveled or destroyed by human hands,” Angara said.
He expressed confidence that the BBL will ensure that the Bangsamoro will “become fertile ground, no longer for violence or for terrorism, but instead for opportunity and active civic engagement.”
READ: Senator Sonny Angara’s co-sponsorship speech
The BBL comprises our greatest legal arsenal for achieving peace
The BBL, he stressed, “could very well be our most effective means of keeping religious extremism and secessionist tendencies at bay—and hence, of achieving long-lasting peace.”
In her co-sponsorhip speech, Senator Risa Hontiveros said the passage of the BBL will “change that narrative” of “violence, oppression, and marginalization” in the Bangsamoro.
READ: Senator Risa Hontiveros’ co-sponsorship speech
Bangsamoro is our commitment to peace
She said passage of the BBL will “renew our commitment to democracy,” will be “an institutional recognition of the justness and legitimacy of the cause of the Bangsamoro people,” and is “our commitment to peace.”
http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2018/03/milf-chair-murad-senates-proposed-bangsamoro-generally-acceptable/
Third batch of alleged former rebels sent to Manila
From MindaNews (Mar 6): Third batch of alleged former rebels sent to Manila
One hundred ninety alleged former rebels from Regions 12 and 13 (Caraga) were flown to Manila on Monday for a scheduled dinner with President Rodrigo R. Duterte in Malacañang and a tour around two historical sites, Rizal Park and Intramuros, on Tuesday.
They comprised the third batch of 683 alleged members of the New People’s Army (NPA) who surrendered last year, Major Ezra L. Balagtey, Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) public information office head, said in a statement.
They took two C-130 planes of the Philippine Air Force from the Davao City International Airport and Bancasi Airport in Butuan City.
Balagtey said the activity was part of the government’s effort to reintegrate the alleged surrenderees into the mainstream of society and give them a “better perspective in life.”
DINING WITH DIGONG. Two hundred seventeen NPA surrenderers board the C-130 aircraft for Manila on Tuesday, February 6, 2018 for an “educational tour” and dinner with President Rodrigo Duterte in Malacanang on February 7, Photo courtesy of EastMinCom
Armed Force of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Rey Leonardo Guerrero is expected to welcome the surrenderees in Camp Aguinaldo before their tour around Manila and dinner with Duterte on Tuesday.
Guerrero was Eastmincom chief before he was named AFP Chief of Staff in October last year.
The alleged former rebels will return home on Wednesday.
The first batch of alleged surrenderees numbering 217 were flown to Manila on February 6 and the second batch composed of 241 individuals on February 20. All of them dined with the President in Malacañang and were taken on a tour around Manila.
Balagtey added the government is processing the documents of the former female returnees for a special travel to Hong Kong as promised to them by Duterte.
On November 23 last year, Duterte issued Proclamation 360 calling off the peace talks with the National Democratic Front (NDF), two days before the supposed fifth round of formal peace negotiations on November 25 to 27 in Oslo, Norway. The NDF represents the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and the NPA in the talks.
On December 5, Duterte issued Proclamation 374 declaring the NPA and the CPP as terrorist organizations pursuant to Republic Act No. 10168, also known as the Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2002.
Duterte has yet to disband his peace panel.
On January 22, Duterte ordered his troops to “destroy the NPA, destroy the organization.”
“Just like drugs, dito sa giyerang ito (in this war), destroy the NPA. Destroy the organization,” he told his troops in Camp Manuel Yan in Mawab, Compostela Valley, as he called on the NPA guerrillas to surrender.
“Mag-surrender na lang kayo, bigyan ko kayo ng trabaho, automatic may pera pa kayo” (Just surrender and I will give you employment and money), he said.
The NPA, which is waging the longest running communist insurgency in Asia, was formed on March 28, 1969.
http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2018/03/third-batch-alleged-former-rebels-sent-manila/
One hundred ninety alleged former rebels from Regions 12 and 13 (Caraga) were flown to Manila on Monday for a scheduled dinner with President Rodrigo R. Duterte in Malacañang and a tour around two historical sites, Rizal Park and Intramuros, on Tuesday.
They comprised the third batch of 683 alleged members of the New People’s Army (NPA) who surrendered last year, Major Ezra L. Balagtey, Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) public information office head, said in a statement.
They took two C-130 planes of the Philippine Air Force from the Davao City International Airport and Bancasi Airport in Butuan City.
Balagtey said the activity was part of the government’s effort to reintegrate the alleged surrenderees into the mainstream of society and give them a “better perspective in life.”
DINING WITH DIGONG. Two hundred seventeen NPA surrenderers board the C-130 aircraft for Manila on Tuesday, February 6, 2018 for an “educational tour” and dinner with President Rodrigo Duterte in Malacanang on February 7, Photo courtesy of EastMinCom
Armed Force of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Rey Leonardo Guerrero is expected to welcome the surrenderees in Camp Aguinaldo before their tour around Manila and dinner with Duterte on Tuesday.
Guerrero was Eastmincom chief before he was named AFP Chief of Staff in October last year.
The alleged former rebels will return home on Wednesday.
The first batch of alleged surrenderees numbering 217 were flown to Manila on February 6 and the second batch composed of 241 individuals on February 20. All of them dined with the President in Malacañang and were taken on a tour around Manila.
Balagtey added the government is processing the documents of the former female returnees for a special travel to Hong Kong as promised to them by Duterte.
On November 23 last year, Duterte issued Proclamation 360 calling off the peace talks with the National Democratic Front (NDF), two days before the supposed fifth round of formal peace negotiations on November 25 to 27 in Oslo, Norway. The NDF represents the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and the NPA in the talks.
On December 5, Duterte issued Proclamation 374 declaring the NPA and the CPP as terrorist organizations pursuant to Republic Act No. 10168, also known as the Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2002.
Duterte has yet to disband his peace panel.
On January 22, Duterte ordered his troops to “destroy the NPA, destroy the organization.”
“Just like drugs, dito sa giyerang ito (in this war), destroy the NPA. Destroy the organization,” he told his troops in Camp Manuel Yan in Mawab, Compostela Valley, as he called on the NPA guerrillas to surrender.
“Mag-surrender na lang kayo, bigyan ko kayo ng trabaho, automatic may pera pa kayo” (Just surrender and I will give you employment and money), he said.
The NPA, which is waging the longest running communist insurgency in Asia, was formed on March 28, 1969.
http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2018/03/third-batch-alleged-former-rebels-sent-manila/
Raps filed vs. 6 'NPA' members
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 6): Raps filed vs. 6 'NPA' members
The Negros Oriental Police filed criminal charges against six alleged members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) before the Provincial Prosecutor’s Office on Sunday.
The six suspects were arrested by government troops in Barangay Luyang, Mabinay town in an alleged encounter early Saturday, during which a number of high-powered firearms were seized from them.
They were charged with violation of Republic Act (RA) No. 9516 (An Act Further Amending the Provisions of Presidential Decree No. 1866, As Amended) and RA 10591 (An Act Providing for a Comprehensive Law on Firearms and Ammunition and Providing Penalties Thereof) for alleged illegal possession of firearms and explosives.
The six, who are currently detained at the Negros Oriental Detention and Rehabilitation Center here, were identified as Myles Albasin y Cantal, 21, single, from Cagayan de Oro, reportedly a Mass Communication graduate of the University of the Philippines-Cebu; Jomar Indico y Garlet, 29, a resident of Barangay Buenavista, Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental and the alleged squad leader who was in possession of an M203 rifle with four ammunition;
Joey Vailoces y Amaro, 18, of Luyang, Mabinay; Bernardo Guillen, Jr. y Elbalsardo alias Tigas, who claimed to be 17, of Sitio Amyan, Barangay Tanawan, Kabankalan, Negros Occidental;
Randel Hermino y Balasabas, 19, of Barangay Buenavista, Himamaylan City; and Carlo Ybanez y Villamor, who also claimed to be 17, of Barangay Labogon in Mandaue City, Cebu.
Confiscated from them were M16 and M4 rifles during an alleged encounter with Army troopers of the 62nd Infantry Battalion in Sitio Tomonon, Barangay Luyang, Mabinay, Negros Oriental at about 2:30 a.m. last Saturday.
The six have requested for a preliminary investigation in executing a waiver for their detention.
The Philippine Army’s 303rd brigade commander, Brig. Gen. Eleazer Losañes, said the presence of “NPA rebels” in that barangay, numbering about 20, were reported by civilians, prompting the 62nd IB to deploy one company and another contingent from the police to conduct joint operations.
A brief exchange of gunfire ensued but sensing they were outnumbered, the alleged insurgents immediately surrendered while others managed to flee. There was no casualty on both sides.
According to Losañes, sometime in the middle of last year, they had already monitored the movement of the Regional Security Force (RSF) of Komiteng Rehiyun Negros (KRN) of the CPP-NPA in trying to expand their mass base to the Bindoy, Ayungon, Tayasan and Manjuyod areas or the so-called BATMAN areas in the province.
The RSF was supposed to secure the secretary of the KRN, which, according to the Army commander, is no longer ex-priest, Frank Fernandez.
In an interview while being booked at Camp Leon Kilat in Tanjay City, Negros Oriental on Saturday afternoon, the alleged squad leader said there were about 27 in their group, but they split into three groups.
He said the firearms recovered from them were left behind by persons unknown to them.
Meanwhile, the human rights group, Karapatan-Central Visayas, has denounced the arrest of the six individuals and the filing of charges against them.
At the same time, the Apolinario Gatmaitan Command (AGC) of the CPP-NPA based in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental, also issued a separate statement regarding the arrest and detention of the six.
Fritzy Pamulleno, who claimed to represent Karapatan-Central Visayas, said in an interview Monday that the six were in the area to organize children of farmers, especially the youth, to apprise them of the present situation, as part of their rights to know what is going on with the present leadership to include developments of the tax reform law, charter change, high cost of living, and federalism, among others.
Pamulleno said Myles Albasin, along with the rest of the youths, were volunteers who had to seek shelter after long hours of organizing the farmers, only to be awakened at dawn surrounded by soldiers.
On the other hand, Juan Malaya, who claimed to be the spokesperson of AGC, in a signed statement, alleged that government troops are the ones entering the homes of poor farmers in the hinterland barangays without asking permission, and allegedly harassing them to admit they are members and supporters of the NPA.
The statement, however, did not say whether the persons arrested are members of the CPP-NPA.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1027502
The Negros Oriental Police filed criminal charges against six alleged members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) before the Provincial Prosecutor’s Office on Sunday.
The six suspects were arrested by government troops in Barangay Luyang, Mabinay town in an alleged encounter early Saturday, during which a number of high-powered firearms were seized from them.
They were charged with violation of Republic Act (RA) No. 9516 (An Act Further Amending the Provisions of Presidential Decree No. 1866, As Amended) and RA 10591 (An Act Providing for a Comprehensive Law on Firearms and Ammunition and Providing Penalties Thereof) for alleged illegal possession of firearms and explosives.
The six, who are currently detained at the Negros Oriental Detention and Rehabilitation Center here, were identified as Myles Albasin y Cantal, 21, single, from Cagayan de Oro, reportedly a Mass Communication graduate of the University of the Philippines-Cebu; Jomar Indico y Garlet, 29, a resident of Barangay Buenavista, Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental and the alleged squad leader who was in possession of an M203 rifle with four ammunition;
Joey Vailoces y Amaro, 18, of Luyang, Mabinay; Bernardo Guillen, Jr. y Elbalsardo alias Tigas, who claimed to be 17, of Sitio Amyan, Barangay Tanawan, Kabankalan, Negros Occidental;
Randel Hermino y Balasabas, 19, of Barangay Buenavista, Himamaylan City; and Carlo Ybanez y Villamor, who also claimed to be 17, of Barangay Labogon in Mandaue City, Cebu.
Confiscated from them were M16 and M4 rifles during an alleged encounter with Army troopers of the 62nd Infantry Battalion in Sitio Tomonon, Barangay Luyang, Mabinay, Negros Oriental at about 2:30 a.m. last Saturday.
The six have requested for a preliminary investigation in executing a waiver for their detention.
The Philippine Army’s 303rd brigade commander, Brig. Gen. Eleazer Losañes, said the presence of “NPA rebels” in that barangay, numbering about 20, were reported by civilians, prompting the 62nd IB to deploy one company and another contingent from the police to conduct joint operations.
A brief exchange of gunfire ensued but sensing they were outnumbered, the alleged insurgents immediately surrendered while others managed to flee. There was no casualty on both sides.
According to Losañes, sometime in the middle of last year, they had already monitored the movement of the Regional Security Force (RSF) of Komiteng Rehiyun Negros (KRN) of the CPP-NPA in trying to expand their mass base to the Bindoy, Ayungon, Tayasan and Manjuyod areas or the so-called BATMAN areas in the province.
The RSF was supposed to secure the secretary of the KRN, which, according to the Army commander, is no longer ex-priest, Frank Fernandez.
In an interview while being booked at Camp Leon Kilat in Tanjay City, Negros Oriental on Saturday afternoon, the alleged squad leader said there were about 27 in their group, but they split into three groups.
He said the firearms recovered from them were left behind by persons unknown to them.
Meanwhile, the human rights group, Karapatan-Central Visayas, has denounced the arrest of the six individuals and the filing of charges against them.
At the same time, the Apolinario Gatmaitan Command (AGC) of the CPP-NPA based in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental, also issued a separate statement regarding the arrest and detention of the six.
Fritzy Pamulleno, who claimed to represent Karapatan-Central Visayas, said in an interview Monday that the six were in the area to organize children of farmers, especially the youth, to apprise them of the present situation, as part of their rights to know what is going on with the present leadership to include developments of the tax reform law, charter change, high cost of living, and federalism, among others.
Pamulleno said Myles Albasin, along with the rest of the youths, were volunteers who had to seek shelter after long hours of organizing the farmers, only to be awakened at dawn surrounded by soldiers.
On the other hand, Juan Malaya, who claimed to be the spokesperson of AGC, in a signed statement, alleged that government troops are the ones entering the homes of poor farmers in the hinterland barangays without asking permission, and allegedly harassing them to admit they are members and supporters of the NPA.
The statement, however, did not say whether the persons arrested are members of the CPP-NPA.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1027502
Army unveils activities for 121st anniversary
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 6): Army unveils activities for 121st anniversary
The Philippine Army (PA) has lined up several activities to celebrate its 121st founding anniversary on March 20.
Lt. Col. Louie Villanueva, PA spokesperson, said these events would focus on the Army’s commitment to its core purpose to serve the people, and secure the land.
These activities, which are open to the public, include:
*Tienda or Night Market (March 10-11, and March 17-18): A weekend mini-bazaar offices at the Philippine Army Officers Clubhouse parking area, with Army stakeholders and Army units as merchandisers;
*Info Caravan (March 10-11): An information caravan that showcases the Army’s various capabilities at Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Taguig;
*Musikapayapaan 2018 (March 10 - 11): Bands from the Philippine Army Major Units will showcase their talent in music in a battle of the band. The event is part of the Army Info Caravan in BGC;
*Regional Annual Administrative Tactical Inspection (March 11): A yearly activity of the Army Reserve Command where cadets from the National Capital Region Reserve Officer Training Corps will demonstrate their skills and training through a series of challenges, such as obstacle course, field stripping, map reading, firearms identification, and first aid;
*Commemoration of the Tejeros Convention (March 15): A wreath-laying ceremony in Kawit, Cavite to remember the Tejeros Convention, which is an important historical event related to the PA;
*Anniversary Mass and Wreath-Laying Ceremony (March 19): A wreath-laying ceremony followed by a Thanksgiving Mass at the Libingan ng mga Bayani to honor fallen heroes;
*Philippine Army Museum Open House (March 19 -22): The Philippine Army Museum located at the Army headquarters will open its doors to spectators for free to give them a glimpse of the organization’s past;
*Senior Leaders Conference (March 20 - 21): An annual event that aims to keep senior leaders of the Army abreast of the programs and other relevant developments affecting the Army held at its headquarters;
*PA Anniversary Ceremony (March 20): A showcase of Army troops and capabilities and the presentation of awards to deserving personnel;
*PA Fellowship Dinner (March 21): A fellowship dinner at the Philippine Army Officers' Club House where one of the event highlights is the ceremonial cutting of the Army Day cake;
*Simultaneous Flag Raising and Reaffirmation of Allegiance (March 22): A simultaneous flag raising ceremony and reaffirmation of allegiance held at the PA major units nationwide; and
*Testimonial Review in Honor of Army stakeholders and former Commanding Generals of the Philippine Army (March 22): A recognition ceremony to Army stakeholders and the former Commanding Generals at the Army headquarters.
"We would like to celebrate our anniversary with our stakeholders. This is not only an opportunity for us to introduce the organization to the public, but also to give a simple thank you for their overwhelming support for the past months,” Villanueva added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1027539
The Philippine Army (PA) has lined up several activities to celebrate its 121st founding anniversary on March 20.
Lt. Col. Louie Villanueva, PA spokesperson, said these events would focus on the Army’s commitment to its core purpose to serve the people, and secure the land.
These activities, which are open to the public, include:
*Tienda or Night Market (March 10-11, and March 17-18): A weekend mini-bazaar offices at the Philippine Army Officers Clubhouse parking area, with Army stakeholders and Army units as merchandisers;
*Info Caravan (March 10-11): An information caravan that showcases the Army’s various capabilities at Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Taguig;
*Musikapayapaan 2018 (March 10 - 11): Bands from the Philippine Army Major Units will showcase their talent in music in a battle of the band. The event is part of the Army Info Caravan in BGC;
*Regional Annual Administrative Tactical Inspection (March 11): A yearly activity of the Army Reserve Command where cadets from the National Capital Region Reserve Officer Training Corps will demonstrate their skills and training through a series of challenges, such as obstacle course, field stripping, map reading, firearms identification, and first aid;
*Commemoration of the Tejeros Convention (March 15): A wreath-laying ceremony in Kawit, Cavite to remember the Tejeros Convention, which is an important historical event related to the PA;
*Anniversary Mass and Wreath-Laying Ceremony (March 19): A wreath-laying ceremony followed by a Thanksgiving Mass at the Libingan ng mga Bayani to honor fallen heroes;
*Philippine Army Museum Open House (March 19 -22): The Philippine Army Museum located at the Army headquarters will open its doors to spectators for free to give them a glimpse of the organization’s past;
*Senior Leaders Conference (March 20 - 21): An annual event that aims to keep senior leaders of the Army abreast of the programs and other relevant developments affecting the Army held at its headquarters;
*PA Anniversary Ceremony (March 20): A showcase of Army troops and capabilities and the presentation of awards to deserving personnel;
*PA Fellowship Dinner (March 21): A fellowship dinner at the Philippine Army Officers' Club House where one of the event highlights is the ceremonial cutting of the Army Day cake;
*Simultaneous Flag Raising and Reaffirmation of Allegiance (March 22): A simultaneous flag raising ceremony and reaffirmation of allegiance held at the PA major units nationwide; and
*Testimonial Review in Honor of Army stakeholders and former Commanding Generals of the Philippine Army (March 22): A recognition ceremony to Army stakeholders and the former Commanding Generals at the Army headquarters.
"We would like to celebrate our anniversary with our stakeholders. This is not only an opportunity for us to introduce the organization to the public, but also to give a simple thank you for their overwhelming support for the past months,” Villanueva added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1027539
AFP not dismissing terror plots amid reports of new ISIS leader
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 6): AFP not dismissing terror plots amid reports of new ISIS leader
The military is not dismissing the possibility of increased terrorist activity in Mindanao following reports that Maute Group sub-leader Abu Dar has taken over the leadership of the Islamic State in Southeast Asia.
This was disclosed by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Brig. Gen. Bienvenido Datuin during a press briefing in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City Tuesday.
"It may be possible, but we are, as I said, we are closely guarding, monitoring all the metropolis, the urban areas to make sure na hindi sila makakaporma (that they cannot penetrate) in so far as 'yung mga (the) terrorist activities (and) plans are concerned," he added.
Dar is said to have assumed command of the terror group in Southeast Asia following the death of Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon last Oct. 16 during military efforts to retake Marawi City from the hands of the Maute Group terrorists.
The Marawi siege started when the terrorists and their allies made a series of attacks against military, police, and civilian targets in Marawi last May 23.
But while the terrorists may have the resources and inclination to do so, Datuin said the AFP has the numbers to curb their activities.
"They have the resources and malaki rin talaga yung lugar natin (our area is huge) but we have the numbers in so far as the security sector is concerned so we try to contain that," he added.
And when asked on whether Dar is more violent than Hapilon, Datuin said that they are still trying to get more information about the former.
He added that Dar was one of the Maute Group members who managed to escape the military dragnet in Marawi City and is the one reportedly handling the organization's finances and recruitment.
As this develops, the AFP spokesperson said the military is keeping close and tight watch of all metropolis and urban areas following reports that terrorist groups are planning to stage attacks against four cities.
"Actually iba-iba eh ang lumalabas eh (the information coming out is varied), (may) four, six but these are all metropolis, urban areas so all the urban areas are under close watch from us right now so hindi lang yung apat siguro (maybe it's not just four)," he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1027562
The military is not dismissing the possibility of increased terrorist activity in Mindanao following reports that Maute Group sub-leader Abu Dar has taken over the leadership of the Islamic State in Southeast Asia.
This was disclosed by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Brig. Gen. Bienvenido Datuin during a press briefing in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City Tuesday.
"It may be possible, but we are, as I said, we are closely guarding, monitoring all the metropolis, the urban areas to make sure na hindi sila makakaporma (that they cannot penetrate) in so far as 'yung mga (the) terrorist activities (and) plans are concerned," he added.
Dar is said to have assumed command of the terror group in Southeast Asia following the death of Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon last Oct. 16 during military efforts to retake Marawi City from the hands of the Maute Group terrorists.
The Marawi siege started when the terrorists and their allies made a series of attacks against military, police, and civilian targets in Marawi last May 23.
But while the terrorists may have the resources and inclination to do so, Datuin said the AFP has the numbers to curb their activities.
"They have the resources and malaki rin talaga yung lugar natin (our area is huge) but we have the numbers in so far as the security sector is concerned so we try to contain that," he added.
And when asked on whether Dar is more violent than Hapilon, Datuin said that they are still trying to get more information about the former.
He added that Dar was one of the Maute Group members who managed to escape the military dragnet in Marawi City and is the one reportedly handling the organization's finances and recruitment.
As this develops, the AFP spokesperson said the military is keeping close and tight watch of all metropolis and urban areas following reports that terrorist groups are planning to stage attacks against four cities.
"Actually iba-iba eh ang lumalabas eh (the information coming out is varied), (may) four, six but these are all metropolis, urban areas so all the urban areas are under close watch from us right now so hindi lang yung apat siguro (maybe it's not just four)," he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1027562
AFP welcomes new batch of NPA surrenderers
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 6): AFP welcomes new batch of NPA surrenderers
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has welcomed 188 members of the New People’s Army (NPA) and their supporters who have surrendered, prior to their meeting with President Rodrigo R. Duterte and other ranking military leaders in Malacañang Tuesday.
All of them came from Mindanao, AFP public affairs office chief, Lt. Col. Emmanuel Garcia, said in a statement.
The welcome ceremony was led by AFP vice chief-of-staff, Lt. Gen. Salvador Melchor Mison Jr.
These surrenderers are part of the 683 former rebels who met the Chief Executive in Panacan, Davao City on Dec. 21, 2017 and the last of three batches to visit Metro Manila.
"The FRs (former rebels) were earlier toured to Luneta Park and Intramuros for their historical and heritage trip. The FRs will also get a chance to interact with other former NPA members who now work as advocates of peace and development," Garcia added.
The tour is expected to conclude on Wednesday as the FRs return to Davao City and Butuan City via a C-130 aircraft.
Garcia said the rebels consist of 537 males and 93 females who are regular NPA members, Militia ng Bayan, underground mass organizations members, and mass supporters from Compostela Valley, Davao del Sur, Davao del Norte, Agusan, Surigao, and nearby provinces.
"The most notable FR in the group is Noel Legaspi alias 'Ka Efren', who is the deputy secretary and spokesman of the Far South Mindanao Region (FSMR) of the NPA.
He surrendered with his wife, a medical staff of FSMR, on 15 January 2018," he added. Ka Efren became a leader of the leftist youth organization League of Filipino Students in 1992 and became a regular member of the NPA six years later.
The AFP Eastern Mindanao Command also reported that females who are part of the 683 FRs will be having a special tour of Hong Kong on a date yet to be determined as their papers are being processed.
The tour is part of the AFP and the government’s commitment to give the former rebels a feel of a peaceful way of life, which is different from the armed hostilities advocated by the NPAs and their leaders.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1027576
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has welcomed 188 members of the New People’s Army (NPA) and their supporters who have surrendered, prior to their meeting with President Rodrigo R. Duterte and other ranking military leaders in Malacañang Tuesday.
All of them came from Mindanao, AFP public affairs office chief, Lt. Col. Emmanuel Garcia, said in a statement.
The welcome ceremony was led by AFP vice chief-of-staff, Lt. Gen. Salvador Melchor Mison Jr.
These surrenderers are part of the 683 former rebels who met the Chief Executive in Panacan, Davao City on Dec. 21, 2017 and the last of three batches to visit Metro Manila.
"The FRs (former rebels) were earlier toured to Luneta Park and Intramuros for their historical and heritage trip. The FRs will also get a chance to interact with other former NPA members who now work as advocates of peace and development," Garcia added.
The tour is expected to conclude on Wednesday as the FRs return to Davao City and Butuan City via a C-130 aircraft.
Garcia said the rebels consist of 537 males and 93 females who are regular NPA members, Militia ng Bayan, underground mass organizations members, and mass supporters from Compostela Valley, Davao del Sur, Davao del Norte, Agusan, Surigao, and nearby provinces.
"The most notable FR in the group is Noel Legaspi alias 'Ka Efren', who is the deputy secretary and spokesman of the Far South Mindanao Region (FSMR) of the NPA.
He surrendered with his wife, a medical staff of FSMR, on 15 January 2018," he added. Ka Efren became a leader of the leftist youth organization League of Filipino Students in 1992 and became a regular member of the NPA six years later.
The AFP Eastern Mindanao Command also reported that females who are part of the 683 FRs will be having a special tour of Hong Kong on a date yet to be determined as their papers are being processed.
The tour is part of the AFP and the government’s commitment to give the former rebels a feel of a peaceful way of life, which is different from the armed hostilities advocated by the NPAs and their leaders.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1027576
Every nation has right to beef up its defense capabilities
From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 6): Every nation has right to beef up its defense capabilities
Every nation has the right to beef or ramp up its defense spending.
This was the response of Department of National Defense (DND) spokesperson Arsenio Andolong when sought for a comment on China's plan to boost up its defense spending this year by USD175 billion.
"Defense spending is a legitimate undertaking of any sovereign country. It is the right of all nations to strengthen their national defense capabilities within the bounds of international law," he added.
Some nations even include defense spending in their topmost priorities, Andolong pointed out.
However, the Philippines is not among these countries as attested by the fact that the country's defense budget is still less than 1 percent.
"In the Philippines, however, the defense budget remains at less than one percent (0.9 percent) of our gross domestic product. Needless to say, this is not enough to fund defense infrastructures and facilities. This is the reason why we are urging our legislators to increase our defense budget in order to support the Armed Forces of the Philippines' modernization and boost our defense capability," Andolong noted.
The DND spokesperson also stressed the need to increase the country's defense spending in order for it to be at par with other ASEAN countries.
"Ang hinihingi ni SND (Secretary of National Defense Delfin Lorenzana) eh, i-increase, kasi ang average budget ng ating ASEAN neighbors is 1.5 percent of their gross domestic product (What SND wants is to increase it, because the average budget of our ASEAN neighbor is 1.5 percent of their gross domestic product)," Andolong noted.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1027550
Every nation has the right to beef or ramp up its defense spending.
This was the response of Department of National Defense (DND) spokesperson Arsenio Andolong when sought for a comment on China's plan to boost up its defense spending this year by USD175 billion.
"Defense spending is a legitimate undertaking of any sovereign country. It is the right of all nations to strengthen their national defense capabilities within the bounds of international law," he added.
Some nations even include defense spending in their topmost priorities, Andolong pointed out.
However, the Philippines is not among these countries as attested by the fact that the country's defense budget is still less than 1 percent.
"In the Philippines, however, the defense budget remains at less than one percent (0.9 percent) of our gross domestic product. Needless to say, this is not enough to fund defense infrastructures and facilities. This is the reason why we are urging our legislators to increase our defense budget in order to support the Armed Forces of the Philippines' modernization and boost our defense capability," Andolong noted.
The DND spokesperson also stressed the need to increase the country's defense spending in order for it to be at par with other ASEAN countries.
"Ang hinihingi ni SND (Secretary of National Defense Delfin Lorenzana) eh, i-increase, kasi ang average budget ng ating ASEAN neighbors is 1.5 percent of their gross domestic product (What SND wants is to increase it, because the average budget of our ASEAN neighbor is 1.5 percent of their gross domestic product)," Andolong noted.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1027550
Pass BBL first, then let Supreme Court study constitutionality - MILF chair
From ABS-CBN (Mar 5): Pass BBL first, then let Supreme Court study constitutionality - MILF chair
Moro Islamic Liberation Front Chairman Murad Ebrahim on Monday said Congress should first pass the Bangsamoro Basic Law and then have the Supreme Court scrutinize the law for unconstitutional provisions.
"Many are trying to articulate that there are unconstitutional provision, but they cannot particularly point out what are the unconstitutional provisions...Let the Supreme Court decide, 'yun ang position namin," he told ANC's Early Edition.
He said the Supreme Court previously declined to comment on cases questioning the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro and Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro because they were not yet laws.
"Ang sabi namin, we pass the BBL and then if it is passed then let the Supreme Court scrutinize if (it is) unconstitutional. As agreed upon, we are willing to park it, whatever is pointed out as unconstitutional and work out an amendment to the Constitution," he said.
Murad said they have received assurance from Senator Miguel Zubiri, chair of the Senate subcommittee on the BBL, that there will be no watering down of the current version pending in their chamber.
"We are hoping that if Senate can pass their version, it will encourage the House to follow," he said.
Anti-dynasty provision difficult for Bangsamoro, says Zubiri
The BBL aims to finalize the peace compact signed by the Philippine government and the MILF in 2014. A version of the bill under the previous administration failed to pass because of provisions viewed to be unconstitutional.
http://news.abs-cbn.com/video/news/03/05/18/pass-bbl-first-then-let-supreme-court-study-constitutionality-milf-chair
Moro Islamic Liberation Front Chairman Murad Ebrahim on Monday said Congress should first pass the Bangsamoro Basic Law and then have the Supreme Court scrutinize the law for unconstitutional provisions.
"Many are trying to articulate that there are unconstitutional provision, but they cannot particularly point out what are the unconstitutional provisions...Let the Supreme Court decide, 'yun ang position namin," he told ANC's Early Edition.
He said the Supreme Court previously declined to comment on cases questioning the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro and Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro because they were not yet laws.
"Ang sabi namin, we pass the BBL and then if it is passed then let the Supreme Court scrutinize if (it is) unconstitutional. As agreed upon, we are willing to park it, whatever is pointed out as unconstitutional and work out an amendment to the Constitution," he said.
Murad said they have received assurance from Senator Miguel Zubiri, chair of the Senate subcommittee on the BBL, that there will be no watering down of the current version pending in their chamber.
"We are hoping that if Senate can pass their version, it will encourage the House to follow," he said.
Anti-dynasty provision difficult for Bangsamoro, says Zubiri
The BBL aims to finalize the peace compact signed by the Philippine government and the MILF in 2014. A version of the bill under the previous administration failed to pass because of provisions viewed to be unconstitutional.
http://news.abs-cbn.com/video/news/03/05/18/pass-bbl-first-then-let-supreme-court-study-constitutionality-milf-chair
Philippine military identifies new leader of ISIS in South-east Asia
From The Straits Times (Mar 6): Philippine military identifies new leader of ISIS in South-east Asia
Filipino government troops patrolling on a reclaimed former Maute stronghold in Marawi City, Mindanao Island, southern Philippines, on May 30, 2017.PHOTO: EPA-EFE
The Philippine military has identified the new leader or "emir" of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) in South-east Asia.
Major Ronald Suscano, spokesman for the army's 1st Infantry Division, said one of those who plotted the Marawi siege, identified only as "Abu Dar", replaced Isnilon Hapilon who was killed last year (2017).
Dar was described as less radical and having less combat experience than Hapilon, who was leader of the small but brutal Abu Sayyaf group.
"Isnilon is more radical because he is older and he has a lot of training and experience. Abu Dar, during the time of Isnilon Hapilon, was just a sub-leader," Suscano said on Monday (March 5), according to Philippine media reports.
Dar, a native of the southern Philippine province of Lanao del Sur, has connections to militants outside the Philippines.
"He has the money, the resources, the connections. He has the capability to lead," said the military spokesman, Brigadier-General Bienvenido Datuin.
A security official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the military estimates that Dar's group was able to bring around 500 million pesos (S$12.7 million) out of Marawi during the early stage of the siege, Malaya Business Insight reported.
ISIS-inspired militants from the Maute and Abu Sayyaf groups attacked Marawi city in May last year following a botched military operation to serve a warrant of arrest against Hapilon.
Fighting resulted in the deaths of more than 1,100 people. The siege prompted President Rodrigo Duterte to declare martial law in the southern island of Mindanao.
http://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/philippine-military-identifies-new-leader-of-isis-in-south-east-asia
Filipino government troops patrolling on a reclaimed former Maute stronghold in Marawi City, Mindanao Island, southern Philippines, on May 30, 2017.PHOTO: EPA-EFE
The Philippine military has identified the new leader or "emir" of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) in South-east Asia.
Major Ronald Suscano, spokesman for the army's 1st Infantry Division, said one of those who plotted the Marawi siege, identified only as "Abu Dar", replaced Isnilon Hapilon who was killed last year (2017).
Dar was described as less radical and having less combat experience than Hapilon, who was leader of the small but brutal Abu Sayyaf group.
"Isnilon is more radical because he is older and he has a lot of training and experience. Abu Dar, during the time of Isnilon Hapilon, was just a sub-leader," Suscano said on Monday (March 5), according to Philippine media reports.
Dar, a native of the southern Philippine province of Lanao del Sur, has connections to militants outside the Philippines.
"He has the money, the resources, the connections. He has the capability to lead," said the military spokesman, Brigadier-General Bienvenido Datuin.
A security official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the military estimates that Dar's group was able to bring around 500 million pesos (S$12.7 million) out of Marawi during the early stage of the siege, Malaya Business Insight reported.
ISIS-inspired militants from the Maute and Abu Sayyaf groups attacked Marawi city in May last year following a botched military operation to serve a warrant of arrest against Hapilon.
Fighting resulted in the deaths of more than 1,100 people. The siege prompted President Rodrigo Duterte to declare martial law in the southern island of Mindanao.
http://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/philippine-military-identifies-new-leader-of-isis-in-south-east-asia
NPA claims tractor burning in La Castellana
From the Sun Star-Bacolod (Mar 5): NPA claims tractor burning in La Castellana
THE New People's Army (NPA) admitted they perpetrated the burning of a tractor in La Castellana, Negros Occidental on February 26.
In a press statement, JB Regalado, spokesperson of the NPA’s Leonardo Panaligan Command, said the burning of a tractor owned by Jorge Vargas in Barangay Sag-ang, came after they received complaints about abuse from the latter's workers.
Two weeks ago, four unidentified Cebuano-speaking men flagged down the tractor driven by Manuel Jamandre Jr., 60, of Barangay Robles, in the middle of a sugarcane plantation and torched it, damaging a portion of the vehicle and leaving an estimated damage of P20,000.
The perpetrators, armed with .45 caliber pistols and a KG9, fired twice and threw a grenade near the tractor. The driver was unharmed.
Regalado said the workers are not being well-compensated despite their hard work. He also said the group tried to reach out to Vargas to settle the conflict between him and his workers but the latter was not receptive.
On February 22, the rebels also torched a sugarcane truck in Canlaon City, Negros Oriental.
Meanwhile, La Castellana Mayor Rhumyla Manguilimutan said insurgency in town is “not a major problem” authorities are helping each other to establish peace and order.
The mayor said the police continuously maintain their full alert status.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/bacolod/local-news/2018/03/05/npa-claims-tractor-burning-la-castellana-591978
THE New People's Army (NPA) admitted they perpetrated the burning of a tractor in La Castellana, Negros Occidental on February 26.
In a press statement, JB Regalado, spokesperson of the NPA’s Leonardo Panaligan Command, said the burning of a tractor owned by Jorge Vargas in Barangay Sag-ang, came after they received complaints about abuse from the latter's workers.
Two weeks ago, four unidentified Cebuano-speaking men flagged down the tractor driven by Manuel Jamandre Jr., 60, of Barangay Robles, in the middle of a sugarcane plantation and torched it, damaging a portion of the vehicle and leaving an estimated damage of P20,000.
The perpetrators, armed with .45 caliber pistols and a KG9, fired twice and threw a grenade near the tractor. The driver was unharmed.
Regalado said the workers are not being well-compensated despite their hard work. He also said the group tried to reach out to Vargas to settle the conflict between him and his workers but the latter was not receptive.
On February 22, the rebels also torched a sugarcane truck in Canlaon City, Negros Oriental.
Meanwhile, La Castellana Mayor Rhumyla Manguilimutan said insurgency in town is “not a major problem” authorities are helping each other to establish peace and order.
The mayor said the police continuously maintain their full alert status.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/bacolod/local-news/2018/03/05/npa-claims-tractor-burning-la-castellana-591978
Central command alarmed over NPA recruitment of young people
From the Manila Bulletin (Mar 5): Central command alarmed over NPA recruitment of young people
The arrest of the six members of the New People’s Army — who turned up to be minors — at Mabinay,Negros Oriental, yesterday has stirred deep alarm in the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Central Command (CentCom).
Col. Medel Aguilar, Assistant Chief of the Unified Staff for Civil Military operations of the AFP-CentCom, said that it should cause an alarm but not just among them but among all concerned individuals.
New People’s Army (NPA) fighters (AFP/ MANILA BULLETIN)
“It should cause an alarm to all of us. Protecting children and minors from unlawful acts is our obligation. Knowing our role and doing it is a test to our nationalism, ”Aguilar said.
Aguilar said he is calling on everyone to help in protecting children and minors from exploitation, especially through recruitment of young people to become terrorists.
Lt. Gen. Paul Talytay Atal, CENTCOM Commander, , said that everyone should participate and act against what CPP-NPA is doing to minors and to young individuals.
“We have to decisively act on this issue because the future of our youth is at stake. We have to protect the youth from the CPP-NPA exploitation of their young minds and idealism,” Atal said.
Meanwhile, the Promotion of Church People’s Response (PCPR)-Cebu on its FB post deeply bemoaned that what had happened to the arrested young individuals was a “publicity stunt to demonize individuals and groups committed to the cause of social justice and genuine peace.”
Anakbayan also express its disappointments on what had happened to the six arrested young individuals. JoisaCesista, chairperson of Anakbayan said that “they can’t blame young individuals to be part of the CPP-NPA because of what is happening in the society under the presidency of President Rodrigo Duterte.”
“PCPR calls on the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP), and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) to immediately resume the peace talks in order to address the root-causes of the armed conflict.
“The peace talks should address the socio-economic conditions of landlessness, depressed wages, inaccessible social services, burdensome taxes, and state repression among others as these are the material problems that propel the cause for an armed struggle.”part of PCPR statement said.
https://news.mb.com.ph/2018/03/05/central-command-alarmed-over-npa-recruitment-of-young-people/
The arrest of the six members of the New People’s Army — who turned up to be minors — at Mabinay,Negros Oriental, yesterday has stirred deep alarm in the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Central Command (CentCom).
Col. Medel Aguilar, Assistant Chief of the Unified Staff for Civil Military operations of the AFP-CentCom, said that it should cause an alarm but not just among them but among all concerned individuals.
New People’s Army (NPA) fighters (AFP/ MANILA BULLETIN)
“It should cause an alarm to all of us. Protecting children and minors from unlawful acts is our obligation. Knowing our role and doing it is a test to our nationalism, ”Aguilar said.
Aguilar said he is calling on everyone to help in protecting children and minors from exploitation, especially through recruitment of young people to become terrorists.
Lt. Gen. Paul Talytay Atal, CENTCOM Commander, , said that everyone should participate and act against what CPP-NPA is doing to minors and to young individuals.
“We have to decisively act on this issue because the future of our youth is at stake. We have to protect the youth from the CPP-NPA exploitation of their young minds and idealism,” Atal said.
Meanwhile, the Promotion of Church People’s Response (PCPR)-Cebu on its FB post deeply bemoaned that what had happened to the arrested young individuals was a “publicity stunt to demonize individuals and groups committed to the cause of social justice and genuine peace.”
Anakbayan also express its disappointments on what had happened to the six arrested young individuals. JoisaCesista, chairperson of Anakbayan said that “they can’t blame young individuals to be part of the CPP-NPA because of what is happening in the society under the presidency of President Rodrigo Duterte.”
“PCPR calls on the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP), and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) to immediately resume the peace talks in order to address the root-causes of the armed conflict.
“The peace talks should address the socio-economic conditions of landlessness, depressed wages, inaccessible social services, burdensome taxes, and state repression among others as these are the material problems that propel the cause for an armed struggle.”part of PCPR statement said.
https://news.mb.com.ph/2018/03/05/central-command-alarmed-over-npa-recruitment-of-young-people/
Sison says AFP claim of thousands of surrenderees ‘ridiculous’
From the often pro-Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) online publication the Davao Today (Mar 6): Sison says AFP claim of thousands of surrenderees ‘ridiculous’
The National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) Chief Political Consultant Jose Maria Sison said on Monday, that the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte “looks ridiculous” by staging fake surrenders of New People’s Army (NPA) fighters and their supporters.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines had repeatedly released reports claiming thousands of NPA combatants and supporters had continuously surrendered to them in the wake of the foiled peace talks between the government and the NDFP.
In a statement, Sison reiterated that these reports are mere “propaganda.”
“Duterte and his military minions claim that they are getting surrenderers not only from the NPA but also from the people´s militia, the underground mass organizations, the self-defense units and the organs of political power,” he said.
“They continue to make the absurd claim that thousands of NPA fighters and their supporters are poised to surrender and disappear soon because they are bored with or tired of fighting oppression and exploitation and are eager to enjoy the new paradise that Duterte has brought about in the Philippines,” he added.
But the NDFP consultant, and founder of the Communist Party of the Philippines, said this drive to produce fake surrenderers had perpetrated violations of civil and political rights by Duterte and the military.
“Barangay officials are being persuaded or coerced to call people to meetings. Those attending are made to sign attendance sheets, at the back of which is the text of surrender. They are photographed and videographed and misrepresented as taking the oath of surrender and renewing their allegiance to the neocolonial republic,” he said.
The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Information Bureau had already issued exposés of the increasing number of fake surrenders and murders of revolutionary suspects in various regions.
Sison said the revolutionary forces and people are strengthening their ranks and sharpening their methods for frustrating and defeating their enemy in his dastardly scheme to commit mass murders.
“They draw lessons from a long and rich history of revolutionary resistance. All previous campaign plans of the reactionary government have tried to terrorize the people with the abduction, torture and murder of revolutionary suspects and social activists,” he said.
Sison also said Duterte is “daydreaming” if he thinks he can entice the NPA commanders and fighters to go home and thus break up the NPA with his offer of money, housing and skills training.
“Revolutionaries do not join the revolution to get handouts from their enemy.. And they are perfectly well at home with the people in the guerrilla fronts to which they are assigned,” he said.
Sison likewise renewed his call for Duterte to reconsider his termination of the peace negotiations with the NDFP, “if he truly wants to have a just and lasting peace in the Philippines.”
“Through the peace negotiations, the necessary social, economic and political reforms can be negotiated and agreed upon by the GRP and the NDFP,” he said.
Late last year, Duterte signed a proclamation declaring the CPP and NPA as terrorist organizations following the foiled peace talks with the NDFP in November 2017.
http://davaotoday.com/main/politics/sison-says-afp-claim-of-thousands-of-surrenderees-ridiculous/
The National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) Chief Political Consultant Jose Maria Sison said on Monday, that the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte “looks ridiculous” by staging fake surrenders of New People’s Army (NPA) fighters and their supporters.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines had repeatedly released reports claiming thousands of NPA combatants and supporters had continuously surrendered to them in the wake of the foiled peace talks between the government and the NDFP.
In a statement, Sison reiterated that these reports are mere “propaganda.”
“Duterte and his military minions claim that they are getting surrenderers not only from the NPA but also from the people´s militia, the underground mass organizations, the self-defense units and the organs of political power,” he said.
“They continue to make the absurd claim that thousands of NPA fighters and their supporters are poised to surrender and disappear soon because they are bored with or tired of fighting oppression and exploitation and are eager to enjoy the new paradise that Duterte has brought about in the Philippines,” he added.
But the NDFP consultant, and founder of the Communist Party of the Philippines, said this drive to produce fake surrenderers had perpetrated violations of civil and political rights by Duterte and the military.
“Barangay officials are being persuaded or coerced to call people to meetings. Those attending are made to sign attendance sheets, at the back of which is the text of surrender. They are photographed and videographed and misrepresented as taking the oath of surrender and renewing their allegiance to the neocolonial republic,” he said.
The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Information Bureau had already issued exposés of the increasing number of fake surrenders and murders of revolutionary suspects in various regions.
Sison said the revolutionary forces and people are strengthening their ranks and sharpening their methods for frustrating and defeating their enemy in his dastardly scheme to commit mass murders.
“They draw lessons from a long and rich history of revolutionary resistance. All previous campaign plans of the reactionary government have tried to terrorize the people with the abduction, torture and murder of revolutionary suspects and social activists,” he said.
Sison also said Duterte is “daydreaming” if he thinks he can entice the NPA commanders and fighters to go home and thus break up the NPA with his offer of money, housing and skills training.
“Revolutionaries do not join the revolution to get handouts from their enemy.. And they are perfectly well at home with the people in the guerrilla fronts to which they are assigned,” he said.
Sison likewise renewed his call for Duterte to reconsider his termination of the peace negotiations with the NDFP, “if he truly wants to have a just and lasting peace in the Philippines.”
“Through the peace negotiations, the necessary social, economic and political reforms can be negotiated and agreed upon by the GRP and the NDFP,” he said.
Late last year, Duterte signed a proclamation declaring the CPP and NPA as terrorist organizations following the foiled peace talks with the NDFP in November 2017.
http://davaotoday.com/main/politics/sison-says-afp-claim-of-thousands-of-surrenderees-ridiculous/
Lumad, farmers file complaints against army's 8th, 88th infantry battalions
From Rappler (Mar 6): Lumad, farmers file complaints against army's 8th, 88th infantry battalions
The 10 complaints are lodged against the military because of harassment against the communities there
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Philippines – Indigenous people from Bukidnon filed a number of harassment complaints against the 88th and 8th Infantry battalions (IB) on Tuesday morning, March 6, at the regional office of the Commission on Human Rights regional office here.
Ireneo Udarbe of Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas – Northern Mindanao Region said that the 10 complaints were lodged today against the military because of harassment against the communities.
Ronilo Menente, a member of landless farmer group Buffalo-Tamaraw-Limus (BTL) in Musuan, Maramag, Bukidnon, said army soldiers from the 88th IB have become a constant presence in their communities and have accused members of BTL as supporters of the New People’s Army.
BTL has been asking the government to give them the land that is owned by Central Mindanao University. The Supreme Court however granted ownership to the CMU, a state university.
“They are asking for our leaders, the names and their whereabouts, that made us worry for our safety,” Menente said.
Menente added that on January 12, 2018, during the BTL day, the army joined their celebration without invitation.
Federico Padilla, also a member of BTL said that they are afraid for their lives because the military might create a scenario against them.
Udarbe said that the IPs have no recourse but to file their complaint because of the worsening harassment by the military.
“Others are forced to surrender and accused of being a rebels,” Udarbe said.
Udarbe also said the army are conducting house to house visits, asking residents to surrender.
Red-tagging
Father Rolando Abejo of the Aglipayan Church Promotion of Church People’s Response (PCPR) said the harassment of the people is a direct result of President Rodrigo Duterte’s crackdown against people and people’s organization who he perceived as against him.
“There is a crackdown and red-tagging (accusing people as communists) against those against his government,” Abejo said.
“There is a legitimate people’s concern on land and human rights and the rights of the indigenous people, Lumad who are calling for their ancestral domains, and they are the ones the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the government is running after,” Abejo said.
Abejo said that the government accuses people’s organization calling out for government support as legal fronts for the rebels, “the government should run after the rebels because they are the enemy, not the farmers, the IPs,” Abejo said.
The 4th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army, however, denies the claim against the soldiers.
1st Lieutenant Tere Ingente, 4th ID spokesperson said that the military did not arrest anybody nor visited houses in the conduct of their duty.
Ingente said that the military merely “invited” 10 people from Kitaotao, Bukidnon to the headquarters of the 88th IB.
Ingente added the people were invited for questioning and were release within 36 hours after the invitation.
As for the other complaints, Ingente said that these could be propaganda against the army.
Reymundo Cajes, Special Investigator of the CHR said that their office will look and investigate this complaints and if merited, “We will file administrative or criminal cases against the soldiers,” Cajes said.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/197560-ip-complaints-army-8th-88th-infantry-battalions
The 10 complaints are lodged against the military because of harassment against the communities there
COMPLAINT. Commission on Human Rights special Investigator Reymundo Cajes assisted complainants against the military on Tuesday, March 6, for Harassment. Photo by Bobby Lagsa/Rappler
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Philippines – Indigenous people from Bukidnon filed a number of harassment complaints against the 88th and 8th Infantry battalions (IB) on Tuesday morning, March 6, at the regional office of the Commission on Human Rights regional office here.
Ireneo Udarbe of Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas – Northern Mindanao Region said that the 10 complaints were lodged today against the military because of harassment against the communities.
Ronilo Menente, a member of landless farmer group Buffalo-Tamaraw-Limus (BTL) in Musuan, Maramag, Bukidnon, said army soldiers from the 88th IB have become a constant presence in their communities and have accused members of BTL as supporters of the New People’s Army.
BTL has been asking the government to give them the land that is owned by Central Mindanao University. The Supreme Court however granted ownership to the CMU, a state university.
“They are asking for our leaders, the names and their whereabouts, that made us worry for our safety,” Menente said.
Menente added that on January 12, 2018, during the BTL day, the army joined their celebration without invitation.
Federico Padilla, also a member of BTL said that they are afraid for their lives because the military might create a scenario against them.
Udarbe said that the IPs have no recourse but to file their complaint because of the worsening harassment by the military.
“Others are forced to surrender and accused of being a rebels,” Udarbe said.
Udarbe also said the army are conducting house to house visits, asking residents to surrender.
Red-tagging
Father Rolando Abejo of the Aglipayan Church Promotion of Church People’s Response (PCPR) said the harassment of the people is a direct result of President Rodrigo Duterte’s crackdown against people and people’s organization who he perceived as against him.
“There is a crackdown and red-tagging (accusing people as communists) against those against his government,” Abejo said.
“There is a legitimate people’s concern on land and human rights and the rights of the indigenous people, Lumad who are calling for their ancestral domains, and they are the ones the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the government is running after,” Abejo said.
Abejo said that the government accuses people’s organization calling out for government support as legal fronts for the rebels, “the government should run after the rebels because they are the enemy, not the farmers, the IPs,” Abejo said.
The 4th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army, however, denies the claim against the soldiers.
1st Lieutenant Tere Ingente, 4th ID spokesperson said that the military did not arrest anybody nor visited houses in the conduct of their duty.
Ingente said that the military merely “invited” 10 people from Kitaotao, Bukidnon to the headquarters of the 88th IB.
Ingente added the people were invited for questioning and were release within 36 hours after the invitation.
As for the other complaints, Ingente said that these could be propaganda against the army.
Reymundo Cajes, Special Investigator of the CHR said that their office will look and investigate this complaints and if merited, “We will file administrative or criminal cases against the soldiers,” Cajes said.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/197560-ip-complaints-army-8th-88th-infantry-battalions
WATCH | Analysis: Post-Marawi Fallout – Portents of further radicalization
From InterAksyon/News 5 (Mar 6): WATCH | Analysis: Post-Marawi Fallout – Portents of further radicalization (By Jasminder Singh, RSIS Commentary | News5)
[Video report]
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Monday disclosed the possibility that some 300 followers and supporters of the outlawed Maute armed group could be preparing to mount attacks at diverse parts of the country.
Remnants of Maute who figured in the Battle of Marawi City are believed to be regrouping for the purpose, according to Maj. Ronald Suscano, Spokesman of the Philippine Army 1st Infantry Division.
These elements, he said, could have dispersed to various pockets of holdout cells in Mindanao and elsewhere, and it’s not farfetched that they are continuing their recruitment drive to beef up their ranks under their leader Abu Dhar and preparing for offensive action, such as terrorist bombings.
Meanwhile, in an analysis published online at RSIS Commentary, Post-Marawi Fallout: Further Radicalization, author Jasminder Singh echoed the belief that, “while the battle for Marawi may have ended, many developments suggest that the danger of violent extremism and terrorism is far from over. Post-Marawi Philippines is seeing the re-emergence of IS-affiliated groups, raising the possibility of another Marawi-type threat in the near future.”
Jasminder Singh wrote:
Since the recapture of Marawi City by government forces in October 2017, militants affiliated with the self-proclaimed Islamic State (IS) have been pushed back into a strategic retreat. On 24 January 2018, Colonel Romeo Brawner, deputy commander of the Joint Task Force Marawi, stressed that even though hundreds of militants were killed in the battle, there are still IS-affiliated supporters and sympathizers who continue to pursue the goal of establishing an IS-styled regime in Southeast Asia.
On 20 January 2018, members of the IS-affiliated Maute Group disembarked on the southwest of Lake Lanao, less than 40 kilometers from Marawi City, the capital of Lanao del Sur. They attacked troops from Joint Task Force Ranao, injuring six before escaping by boat. The attack was the first clash since the Marawi battle and may foreshadow more trouble in the Philippines.
More to Come
Videos of the Marawi attacks continue to be circulated online and the Maute brothers have been glorified as heroes by Filipino IS supporters. Up till their current strategic retreat, IS-affiliated militants continued to claim victory. In real terms, the Maute Group and their allies failed to capture Marawi and convert it into an outpost of Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi’s so-called caliphate.
However, they managed to turn the narrative into a rallying call and a model for regional militants to emulate. For instance, they now know how infiltrating cities and setting up defenses in advance will give them the tactical advantage. Having held the military off for months, the Maute Group captured the attention of global IS-affiliated militants who were then directed to migrate to the Philippines.
Two days later, on 22 January, a Spanish national Abdelhakim Labidi Adib was arrested in Basilan, adding to the foreign terrorist numbers in southern Philippines. In the drawn-out battle, the Maute Group also systematically looted millions of dollars from homes, banks and shops, which they used for recruitment and replenishment of their capabilities.
According to estimates by the military, they could be expected to conduct renewed attacks. This is probably the reason why a former Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) member considers the Marawi battle an ostensible success for IS-affiliated militants in the Philippines.
The Marawi Counter-Narrative
The so-called success claims of the militants need not ring true, however. Having witnessed the destruction of one of many important cities in the island group of Mindanao, local government officials and residents are supportive of military operations to wipe out the remaining IS-affiliated militants.
The manner in which the Maute Group and its allies conducted their failed attempt to capture Marawi clearly showed that they were never interested in the needs of a people who have been yearning for proper governance and economic development for decades. The aftermath of giving such groups the space to operate is unbearable – social disintegration among groups who have lived together peaceably, destruction of critical infrastructure, loss of property and business, hunger, disease and death.
With peaceful Mindanao residents supporting intensified military offensives against the militants, the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) claim that they are making great strides in diminishing the capabilities of IS-affiliated ASG in Sulu, Basilan and Tawi-Tawi provinces.
Since the operations began last year, 128 ASG members were killed, 80 were arrested and 150 others have surrendered. Notably, Westmincom has managed to achieve strategic control of the Sulu and Tawi-Tawi waters within the Tri-Border Area (TBA) of the Philippines, Malaysia and Indonesia, preventing high-profile kidnappings-for-ransom that have plagued the TBA since 2000 and was the source of funding for ASG.
The regional government of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) has also been working with local Islamic scholars to rehabilitate militants who have surrendered, and funded infrastructure and economic development to encourage them to give up their firearms. Together with military pressure, these programs are expected to be the beginning of the end of the ASG.Such programs – as well as the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) that is expected to be passed this year – are, however, also propaganda fodder for radicalization. These peace initiatives have been framed as anti-Islam and Muslims who are supportive of peace are labeled as traitors and could be targeted by terrorists to garner support through fear. There is also the possibility of peace programs falling apart and leading to violence if they are seen to benefit certain ethnic groups or families more than others.
Far from Over
If Westmincom’s strategy in Mindanao is not followed through, there is still the possibility that another Marawi-esque battle may happen. Intelligence reports have maintained that leaders of the IS-affiliated militants – Amin Baco, Muawiyah, and Abu Turaifie – are still alive, despite earlier suggestions that Amin Baco could be dead. With millions of dollars in loot still unrecovered and being used for recruitment, the IS-affiliated militants are reorganizing their next move. New IS-affiliated cells reportedly continue to emerge in Jolo, Cotabato and Basilan.
In addition, it was recently revealed on social media that there is a female unit comprising local women and those from other parts of the Philippines who have been radicalized online. The unit is said to have been fighting alongside the male IS-affiliated counterparts, led by a female, possibly from Manila.
The militant scene in Mindanao has historically been observed to be male-dominant. If IS has been including females in the frontlines, the military should reconsider the roles that females may have been playing and factor it into their strategy.
The above revelation is part of the trend of online radicalization of Filipino Muslims in other parts of the Philippines as well as the larger diaspora. In the past few months, new social media groups have emerged, bringing together radicalized Filipino Muslims who live in Manila, Basilan and Mindanao, as well as Morocco, the Netherlands, Germany, South Korea, China and the United States.
Individuals from the diaspora who have been radicalized online should not be taken for granted. Marawi veterans who have managed to survive would likely be in contact with this vast network for recruitment and funding purposes.
[Jasminder Singh is a Senior Analyst with the International Centre for Political Violence and Terrorism Research (ICPVTR), a constituent unit of the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS), Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. | www.rsis.edu.sg]
[Video report]
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Monday disclosed the possibility that some 300 followers and supporters of the outlawed Maute armed group could be preparing to mount attacks at diverse parts of the country.
Remnants of Maute who figured in the Battle of Marawi City are believed to be regrouping for the purpose, according to Maj. Ronald Suscano, Spokesman of the Philippine Army 1st Infantry Division.
These elements, he said, could have dispersed to various pockets of holdout cells in Mindanao and elsewhere, and it’s not farfetched that they are continuing their recruitment drive to beef up their ranks under their leader Abu Dhar and preparing for offensive action, such as terrorist bombings.
Meanwhile, in an analysis published online at RSIS Commentary, Post-Marawi Fallout: Further Radicalization, author Jasminder Singh echoed the belief that, “while the battle for Marawi may have ended, many developments suggest that the danger of violent extremism and terrorism is far from over. Post-Marawi Philippines is seeing the re-emergence of IS-affiliated groups, raising the possibility of another Marawi-type threat in the near future.”
Jasminder Singh wrote:
Since the recapture of Marawi City by government forces in October 2017, militants affiliated with the self-proclaimed Islamic State (IS) have been pushed back into a strategic retreat. On 24 January 2018, Colonel Romeo Brawner, deputy commander of the Joint Task Force Marawi, stressed that even though hundreds of militants were killed in the battle, there are still IS-affiliated supporters and sympathizers who continue to pursue the goal of establishing an IS-styled regime in Southeast Asia.
On 20 January 2018, members of the IS-affiliated Maute Group disembarked on the southwest of Lake Lanao, less than 40 kilometers from Marawi City, the capital of Lanao del Sur. They attacked troops from Joint Task Force Ranao, injuring six before escaping by boat. The attack was the first clash since the Marawi battle and may foreshadow more trouble in the Philippines.
More to Come
Videos of the Marawi attacks continue to be circulated online and the Maute brothers have been glorified as heroes by Filipino IS supporters. Up till their current strategic retreat, IS-affiliated militants continued to claim victory. In real terms, the Maute Group and their allies failed to capture Marawi and convert it into an outpost of Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi’s so-called caliphate.
However, they managed to turn the narrative into a rallying call and a model for regional militants to emulate. For instance, they now know how infiltrating cities and setting up defenses in advance will give them the tactical advantage. Having held the military off for months, the Maute Group captured the attention of global IS-affiliated militants who were then directed to migrate to the Philippines.
Two days later, on 22 January, a Spanish national Abdelhakim Labidi Adib was arrested in Basilan, adding to the foreign terrorist numbers in southern Philippines. In the drawn-out battle, the Maute Group also systematically looted millions of dollars from homes, banks and shops, which they used for recruitment and replenishment of their capabilities.
According to estimates by the military, they could be expected to conduct renewed attacks. This is probably the reason why a former Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) member considers the Marawi battle an ostensible success for IS-affiliated militants in the Philippines.
The Marawi Counter-Narrative
The so-called success claims of the militants need not ring true, however. Having witnessed the destruction of one of many important cities in the island group of Mindanao, local government officials and residents are supportive of military operations to wipe out the remaining IS-affiliated militants.
The manner in which the Maute Group and its allies conducted their failed attempt to capture Marawi clearly showed that they were never interested in the needs of a people who have been yearning for proper governance and economic development for decades. The aftermath of giving such groups the space to operate is unbearable – social disintegration among groups who have lived together peaceably, destruction of critical infrastructure, loss of property and business, hunger, disease and death.
With peaceful Mindanao residents supporting intensified military offensives against the militants, the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) claim that they are making great strides in diminishing the capabilities of IS-affiliated ASG in Sulu, Basilan and Tawi-Tawi provinces.
Since the operations began last year, 128 ASG members were killed, 80 were arrested and 150 others have surrendered. Notably, Westmincom has managed to achieve strategic control of the Sulu and Tawi-Tawi waters within the Tri-Border Area (TBA) of the Philippines, Malaysia and Indonesia, preventing high-profile kidnappings-for-ransom that have plagued the TBA since 2000 and was the source of funding for ASG.
The regional government of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) has also been working with local Islamic scholars to rehabilitate militants who have surrendered, and funded infrastructure and economic development to encourage them to give up their firearms. Together with military pressure, these programs are expected to be the beginning of the end of the ASG.Such programs – as well as the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) that is expected to be passed this year – are, however, also propaganda fodder for radicalization. These peace initiatives have been framed as anti-Islam and Muslims who are supportive of peace are labeled as traitors and could be targeted by terrorists to garner support through fear. There is also the possibility of peace programs falling apart and leading to violence if they are seen to benefit certain ethnic groups or families more than others.
Far from Over
If Westmincom’s strategy in Mindanao is not followed through, there is still the possibility that another Marawi-esque battle may happen. Intelligence reports have maintained that leaders of the IS-affiliated militants – Amin Baco, Muawiyah, and Abu Turaifie – are still alive, despite earlier suggestions that Amin Baco could be dead. With millions of dollars in loot still unrecovered and being used for recruitment, the IS-affiliated militants are reorganizing their next move. New IS-affiliated cells reportedly continue to emerge in Jolo, Cotabato and Basilan.
In addition, it was recently revealed on social media that there is a female unit comprising local women and those from other parts of the Philippines who have been radicalized online. The unit is said to have been fighting alongside the male IS-affiliated counterparts, led by a female, possibly from Manila.
The militant scene in Mindanao has historically been observed to be male-dominant. If IS has been including females in the frontlines, the military should reconsider the roles that females may have been playing and factor it into their strategy.
The above revelation is part of the trend of online radicalization of Filipino Muslims in other parts of the Philippines as well as the larger diaspora. In the past few months, new social media groups have emerged, bringing together radicalized Filipino Muslims who live in Manila, Basilan and Mindanao, as well as Morocco, the Netherlands, Germany, South Korea, China and the United States.
Individuals from the diaspora who have been radicalized online should not be taken for granted. Marawi veterans who have managed to survive would likely be in contact with this vast network for recruitment and funding purposes.
[Jasminder Singh is a Senior Analyst with the International Centre for Political Violence and Terrorism Research (ICPVTR), a constituent unit of the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS), Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. | www.rsis.edu.sg]
IN PHOTOS//Australia, PH armies grow closer after Marawi
From Rappler (Mar 6): IN PHOTOS//Australia, PH armies grow closer after Marawi
The two armies hold the 3rd iteration of the Philippines-Australia Army to Army Exercise (PAAAE) at the 10th Infantry Division headquarters in Compostela Valley from February 15 to March 1, the latest of a series of joint drills showing growing ties between the two defense treaty allies.
[Photos courtesy of Philippine Army 10th Infantry Division]
The two armies hold the 3rd iteration of the Philippines-Australia Army to Army Exercise at the 10th Infantry Division headquarters in Compostela Valley
The armies of the Philippines and Australia concluded a two-week-long training on urban warfare in Compostela Valley in Mindanao, the latest of a series of joint drills showing growing ties between the two defense treaty allies.
"Our Marawi experience showed us the importance of preparedness in urban warfare so we agreed to train together," said Lieutenant General Benjamin Madrigal, chief of the Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom), in an interview in Camp Aguinaldo in Manila on Tuesday, March 6.
Australia, like the United States, has a visiting forces agreement with the Philippines. It assisted the Armed Forces of the Philippines during the 2017 Marawi siege. It flew surveillance planes to locate enemies inside the battle area and helped give crash course on urban warfare to Filipino troops used to fighting in the jungles.
The two armies agreed to continue joint drills after the war. The series was launched in November 2017, a month after the battle in Marawi, with Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull in attendance. (WATCH: Turnbull visits Camp Aguinaldo; witnesses PH-Australia war game)
From February 15 to March 1, the 3rd iteration of the Philippines-Australia Army to Army Exercise (PAAAE) was held at the 10th Infantry Division headquarters in Compostela Valley. The closing ceremony on March 1 was attended by Australian ambassador to the Philippines Amanda Gorely.
“The PAAAE is a clear display of the long standing partnership between Australian Defense Force and Armed Forces of the Philippines.... Terrorism is not only a threat to the Philippines and our region but indeed to other parts of the world. It knows no borders and so we must all remain ready for another incident elsewhere," Gorely said.
Six officers and 52 enlisted personnel of the Australian Army led by Lieutenant Colonel Judd Finger trained with 257 Filipino soldiers at the 10th Infantry Division headquarters from February 15 to March 1.
The two-week-long exercises included training on the following skills:
Urban close combat
Search and breach operation
Managing combat trauma
Communication operation
Command and control in urban operation
Sniping and counter-sniping
Joint fires and airspace deconfliction
"It's mutually beneficial because our men also share their experiences in Marawi," said Madrigal. The general said he is looking forward to more specialized training exercises with the Australian Army.
Major General Noel Clement, chief of the Army's 10th ID, underscored the benefits of the joint training. His unit is responsible for the security of Metro Davao, the hometown of President Rodrigo Duterte.
"The skills acquired by our troops in urban warfare and related trainings are very useful specially that this Command is securing a number of urban areas in its area of responsibility to include Metro Davao, which is the Malacañang of the South or the alternate seat of government,” Clement said in his speech during the closing ceremony.
Madrigal said it's important to train troops in major cities in the country because they are the "first responders" in an event of a terrorist attack.
Philippine security officials have warned about the possibility of local armed groups attempting a repeat of the Marawi siege. (READ: Maute-ISIS remnants scatter into 10 subgroups – PH military)
https://www.rappler.com/nation/197567-robredo-angat-buhay-village-marawi-residents
The two armies hold the 3rd iteration of the Philippines-Australia Army to Army Exercise (PAAAE) at the 10th Infantry Division headquarters in Compostela Valley from February 15 to March 1, the latest of a series of joint drills showing growing ties between the two defense treaty allies.
[Photos courtesy of Philippine Army 10th Infantry Division]
The two armies hold the 3rd iteration of the Philippines-Australia Army to Army Exercise at the 10th Infantry Division headquarters in Compostela Valley
The armies of the Philippines and Australia concluded a two-week-long training on urban warfare in Compostela Valley in Mindanao, the latest of a series of joint drills showing growing ties between the two defense treaty allies.
"Our Marawi experience showed us the importance of preparedness in urban warfare so we agreed to train together," said Lieutenant General Benjamin Madrigal, chief of the Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom), in an interview in Camp Aguinaldo in Manila on Tuesday, March 6.
Australia, like the United States, has a visiting forces agreement with the Philippines. It assisted the Armed Forces of the Philippines during the 2017 Marawi siege. It flew surveillance planes to locate enemies inside the battle area and helped give crash course on urban warfare to Filipino troops used to fighting in the jungles.
The two armies agreed to continue joint drills after the war. The series was launched in November 2017, a month after the battle in Marawi, with Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull in attendance. (WATCH: Turnbull visits Camp Aguinaldo; witnesses PH-Australia war game)
From February 15 to March 1, the 3rd iteration of the Philippines-Australia Army to Army Exercise (PAAAE) was held at the 10th Infantry Division headquarters in Compostela Valley. The closing ceremony on March 1 was attended by Australian ambassador to the Philippines Amanda Gorely.
“The PAAAE is a clear display of the long standing partnership between Australian Defense Force and Armed Forces of the Philippines.... Terrorism is not only a threat to the Philippines and our region but indeed to other parts of the world. It knows no borders and so we must all remain ready for another incident elsewhere," Gorely said.
Six officers and 52 enlisted personnel of the Australian Army led by Lieutenant Colonel Judd Finger trained with 257 Filipino soldiers at the 10th Infantry Division headquarters from February 15 to March 1.
The two-week-long exercises included training on the following skills:
Urban close combat
Search and breach operation
Managing combat trauma
Communication operation
Command and control in urban operation
Sniping and counter-sniping
Joint fires and airspace deconfliction
"It's mutually beneficial because our men also share their experiences in Marawi," said Madrigal. The general said he is looking forward to more specialized training exercises with the Australian Army.
Major General Noel Clement, chief of the Army's 10th ID, underscored the benefits of the joint training. His unit is responsible for the security of Metro Davao, the hometown of President Rodrigo Duterte.
"The skills acquired by our troops in urban warfare and related trainings are very useful specially that this Command is securing a number of urban areas in its area of responsibility to include Metro Davao, which is the Malacañang of the South or the alternate seat of government,” Clement said in his speech during the closing ceremony.
Madrigal said it's important to train troops in major cities in the country because they are the "first responders" in an event of a terrorist attack.
Philippine security officials have warned about the possibility of local armed groups attempting a repeat of the Marawi siege. (READ: Maute-ISIS remnants scatter into 10 subgroups – PH military)
https://www.rappler.com/nation/197567-robredo-angat-buhay-village-marawi-residents
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