Philippines stops planned terror attacks, 9 women arrested

Posted to the Mindanao Examiner (Feb 23, 2021): Philippines stops planned terror attacks, 9 women arrested

Philippine authorities may have stopped a planned suicide attacks following the arrest of nine women who are related to notorious Abu Sayyaf terrorist leaders in the southern province of Sulu, officials said Tuesday.

The women were arrested separately in operations mounted by soldiers and police commandos that began on February 19.

Army Maj. Gen. William Gonzales, commander of the Joint Task Force Sulu, lauded the troops for “neutralizing the nine potential suicide bombers that are planning to conduct inhumane acts of terrorism in Sulu and possibly in the neighboring provinces as well.”

Gonzales urged other members of the pro-ISIS group to surrender peacefully, otherwise they will be hunted down to protect civilians from terrorists. “May this serve as a clear message to the supporters and remaining members of the Abu Sayyaf group, we are always ready to welcome those who wish to return to the folds of the law, but if you will refuse to do so, we will surely hunt you down and prevent you from inflicting havoc in the communities,” he said.

Army Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, Jr., chief of the Western Mindanao Command, said the simultaneous operations involved different military and police units that led to the arrest of the suspects in the towns of Jolo, Indanan and Patikul. “This (operation) led to the apprehension of nine female potential suicide bombers who are related to some of the notorious leaders and members of the Abu Sayyaf group,” he said.

Vinluan said security forces seized an Abu Sayyaf sketch of its terror plan and components in the manufacture of improvised explosives, including AN/FO or ammonium nitrate/fuel oil, a widely used bulk industrial explosive, 524 pieces of concrete nails, a hand grenade and a booklet entitled “Al-Jihad fi Sabilillah.”

Al-Jihad fi Sabilillah is an Arabic phrase which means “striving or fighting in the path of Allah” and is referred to in the Qur'an. Fundamental to this fight is an underlying just cause. It is a test of devotion and self-sacrifice for the individual.

Vinluan said the arrest of the suspects was the result of “the persistence and hard work of the intelligence units working silently but intensely for successful operational activities to be attained.” He also commended those who took part in the operations. (Mindanao Examiner)

http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2021/02/philippines-stops-planned-terror.html

Is peace deal, BARMM hostage of MILF?

Posted to the Mindanao Examiner (Feb 23, 2021): Is peace deal, BARMM hostage of MILF?

FORMER REBEL chieftain-turned-politician Murad Ebrahim insisted that running the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region is solely vested on the peace agreement his group Moro Islamic Liberation Front signed with the Filipino government eight years ago.

Then President Benigno Aquino and MILF Chieftain Murad Ebrahim.

Ebrahim, now Chief Minister of the Muslim region in southern Philippines, said the 2014 peace accord was the basis for them to continue ruling the BARMM. He and his allies in the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) are pushing and lobbying for the extension of the interim government. It would also extend Ebrahim’s term and BTA members and those holding key positions in the regional government.

But any extension of the interim government would violate the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) which the MILF and the government crafted. Under the BOL, the BTA will be dissolved once the new parliament is formed after the first regular elections in BARMM in 2022 and any extension in the BTA’s term would require congressional approval.

Kusug Tausug Rep. Shernee Tambut

In a recent virtual hearing of the House of Representatives, Kusog Tausug Rep. Shernee Tambut asked this question: “For example, there is an election and then the MILF members who are members of the BTA now do not win, what will happen to the agreement between the MILF and the government? Will the MILF turn away from that agreement, for example you do not win in the election, if you are no longer for example, member of the parliament, will you turn away from that agreement with the government?”

In his reply, Ebrahim suggested the peace agreement may suffer from Manila's failure to ensure the MILF-led BTA to stay in power. He did not say whether the MILF or its members may resort to armed struggle again. “We do not want to speculate, but then you see the implementation of the agreement is a partnership between the MILF and the government and the mechanism is the BTA, and now if the MILF is no longer the BTA then there is no partnership between the national government and the MILF in implementing, so I do not see how,” he said.

Ebrahim also doubted whether the next leaders of the BARMM and new members of the BTA may be able to honor the provisions of the peace accord after Tambut asked him what steps would he take if the MILF is no longer in control of the interim government and the BTA.

“My next question is assuming that there will be an election for the BTA-BARMM on 2022, and then assuming you will not win, and there will be new set of officers are you saying that the newly elected officers will not be able to perform the task you mentioned, that only you can do the things you mentioned meaning people like (House) Deputy Speaker Mujiv Hataman cannot performed the task you have mentioned or seasoned legislators, politicians like Congressman Khalid Dimaporo na napakagaling (at) hindi nila kaya gawin yun mga na-mention mo at ikaw, kayo lang mga BTA ngayon ang may kayang gumawa noon?” asked Tambut.

Ebrahim maintained that BARMM is the result of the peace accord and without the MILF at the helm of power there is no agreement or partnership between his group and the government. “I recognize the capability of our leaders, other leaders but then remember that this is an agreement between two parties and implementation must be a partnership between the two parties, so that is our reason,” he said, adding postponing the BARMM election will give them more time to fully implement the peace deal.

“The challenge now will be the implementation process meaning the agreement will not be fully implemented. So now on our side, we are not postponing this just to be able to hold power, but we are postponing this in order to complete the implementation of the agreement, once it is complemented we are ready to have the election,” he added.

But Tambut posed another question and asked this to Ebrahim: “My question is what are the matters that you need to accomplish that necessitates the cancellation of the first election in 2022 and why would they be a hindrance to the conduct of an election in 2022?”

Ebrahim replied: “Actually, the transition of the BTA is the mechanism that will be an agreed mechanism between the MILF and the GRP (Government of the Republic of the Philippines) in implementing the comprehensive (peace) agreement through the BOL, so the reason why we are asking for an extension, for the postponement or moving in of the 2022 election to 2025 is based on our analysis, considering all the experience we have also, and the challenges we had, so we see that 2022 will not complete the implementation of both the political aspects and normalization aspects of the agreement.”

“So basically, if it will not be implemented then the (peace) agreement is not in place, so we are not sure whether the next government, because the BTA as a mechanism to implement, is already out of the picture so we cannot be assured that the other provisions which needed to be implemented both in the political aspect and the normalization aspect will be implemented.”

At this point, Tambut, citing Ebrahim's frequent referral to peace in the troubled region, asked the MILF chieftain why did he refused, even up to now, to surrender members of the MILF who massacred 44 Special Action Force commandos in the town of Mamasapano in Maguindanao province.

Tambut was referring to the January 2015 police operation to capture Malaysian bomber Zulkifli bin Hir, who was eventually killed in the operation in deep inside MILF territory in Tukanalipao village. Police commandos were on their way to re-join their more than 300 SAF members after killing Zulkifli and cutting off his finger for DNA analysis when MILF forces, aided by Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), attacked them and sparking daylong clashes.

“With regard to the issue on peace, I am sorry but there is already this agreement between the MILF and the government. I am sorry to say, but still there is the BIFF and then still there is this issue about the SAF 44 if you are going to talk about peace. Now my second point is regarding the unfinished tasks, well it would be arrogant to say that only the MILF can function, can perform this unfinished tasks besides you were given an ample amount of time to do everything you needed to do, in fact it is stated in the (Bangsamoro) Organic Law that by 2022 we will have BARMM election and yet you did not perform so basically that is your fault,” Tambut said.

“Now, if we will allow the extension of the BTA-BARMM because BTA was not able to finish their tasks, well who knows they might just delay and delay and use their lack of performance as an excuse so as not to hold an election in the point that I intend to introduce an amendment to all the house bills filed that there shall be a referendum to submit this amendment to a referendum so we can hear the voice of the people, anyway we submitted the Organic Law to a plebiscite and now that we are making an important amendment it is important that we consult again the people whether they want to extend the election or not through a referendum,” she added.

But in previous media interview, Ebrahim admitted that should election in BARMM pushes through next year, they may not be able to win because they have accomplished so little. “We’re very concerned kasi ang tingin namin, nag-i-start pa lang kami. And then parang wala pa kaming tangible na accomplishment talaga na maipakita namin. So ‘yun ang challenge sa amin, na kung mag-eleksyon, baka sabihin ng mga tao, wala naman ginawa ito,” he said.

Ebrahim said new transition schedule might not be enough to complete systemic and structural changes in the region, including the crucial decommissioning of combatants under the peace deal’s normalization process. “Kasi nga nakita natin na kailangan talaga na meron. Halimbawa, mabuti kung talagang siguradong manalo kami (in 2022 election). Pero walang assurance ‘yun kasi anybody’s game na pagka-eleksyon na. Pag hindi, ano mangyayari dun sa other aspects ng negotiation? So sana matapos yung term ng transition, ma-implement na rin lahat nung sa normalization process para mag-coincide. Kailangan i-push namin na before the election talagang yung normalization track ay ma-complete natin,” he told journalist Christian Esguerra.

BARMM's block grant is worth P65.3 billion on top of a P10 billion special development fund. (Mindanao Examiner)
http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2021/02/is-peace-deal-barmm-hostage-of-milf.html

Peace agreement, BARMM hostage?

Posted to the Mindanao Examiner (Feb 23, 2021): Peace agreement, BARMM hostage?

IPINAGPIPILITAN NI former rebel chieftain at ngayon Chief Minister Murad Ebrahim na tanging sila lamang ang dapat na mamuno sa Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) dahil bahagi umano ito ng kasunduan ng Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) sa pamahalaan at kung hindi ay posibleng mabalewala ang peace agreement.

‘Kami lang dapat mamuno sa BARMM: Murad’

(Dating) Pangulong Benigno Aquino at MILF Chieftain Murad Ebrahim.

Matatandaang lumagda ng peace agreement noong 2014 si Pangulong Benigno Aquino sa rebeldeng grupo na MILF na pinamumunuan ni Ebrahim.

Sa isang virtual hearing ng House of Representatives kamakailan lamang, tinanong ni Kusog Tausug Rep. Shernee Tambut si Ebrahim kung ano ang gagawin nito sakaling matalo sa 2022 BARMM election ang MILF-led members ng Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA). “For example, there is an election and then the MILF members who are members of the BTA now do not win, what will happen to the agreement between the MILF and the government? Will the MILF turn away from that agreement, for example you do not win in the election, if you are no longer for example, member of the parliament, will you turn away from that agreement with the government?” tanong pa ni Tambut.

Kusug Tausug Rep. Shernee Tambut

Iginiit ni Ebrahim na may kasunduan ang MILF at pamahalaan at kung sila ay matatalo ay tahasan nitong sinabi na mababalewala na ang (peace) agreement. Hindi naman sinabi ni Ebrahim kung babalik ang MILF sa pakikibaka o hindi. “We do not want to speculate, but then you see the implementation of the agreement is a partnership between the MILF and the government and the mechanism is the BTA, and now if the MILF is no longer the BTA then there is no partnership between the national government and the MILF in implementing, so I do not see how,” sagot pa ni Ebrahim kay Tambut.

MILF Lang

Tila wala rin tiwala si Ebrahim sa kung sino man ang susunod na mamumuno sa BARMM at miyembro ng BTA, at muling ipinagpilitan ang agreement nito sa pamahalaan. Ito ay matapos na tanungin muli ni Tambut ang dating lider ng rebeldeng grupo. Ito ang tanong ng mambabatas: “My next question is assuming that there will be an election for the BTA-BARMM on 2022, and then assuming you will not win, and there will be new set of officers are you saying that the newly elected officers will not be able to perform the task you mentioned, that only you can do the things you mentioned meaning people like (House) Deputy Speaker Mujiv Hataman cannot performed the task you have mentioned or seasoned legislators, politicians like Congressman Khalid Dimaporo na napakagaling (at) hindi nila kaya gawin yun mga na-mention mo at ikaw, kayo lang mga BTA ngayon ang may kayang gumawa noon?”

Mabilis ang tugon ni Ebrahim. “I recognize the capability of our leaders, other leaders but then remember that this is an agreement between two parties and implementation must be a partnership between the two parties, so that is our reason.”

Naninigurado rin si Ebrahim na sila pa rin ang mamumuno sa BARMM at BTA kung sakali kung kaya’t dapat umanong habaan pa ng 3 taon ang kanilang termino. Tila nalimutan ni Ebrahim ang mga probisyon ng Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) sa kanyang pagsusumilit na dapat walang election sa 2022 at habaan na lamang ang kanilang mga termino.

Sa ilalim ng BOL ng MILF ay nakasaad doon na dapat magkaroon ng halalan sa BTA sa susunod na taon upang mabigyan ng pagkakataon ang mga Bangsamoro na makapili ng kanilang mga opisyal sa BTA at sa interim Bangsamoro government.
“The challenge now will be the implementation process meaning the agreement will not be fully implemented. So now on our side, we are not postponing this just to be able to hold power, but we are postponing this in order to complete the implementation of the agreement, once it is complemented we are ready to have the election,” dagdag pa ni Ebrahim.

Agreement

Sa muling pagtatanong ni Tambut kay Ebrahim: “My question is what are the matters that you need to accomplish that necessitates the cancellation of the first election in 2022 and why would they be a hindrance to the conduct of an election in 2022?”
Sa kanyang sagot, sinabi ni Ebrahim: “Actually, the transition of the BTA is the mechanism that will be an agreed mechanism between the MILF and the GRP (Government of the Republic of the Philippines) in implementing the comprehensive (peace) agreement through the BOL, so the reason why we are asking for an extension, for the postponement or moving in of the 2022 election to 2025 is based on our analysis, considering all the experience we have also, and the challenges we had, so we see that 2022 will not complete the implementation of both the political aspects and normalization aspects of the agreement.”

“So basically, if it will not be implemented then the (peace) agreement is not in place, so we are not sure whether the next government, because the BTA as a mechanism to implement, is already out of the picture so we cannot be assured that the other provisions which needed to be implemented both in the political aspect and the normalization aspect will be implemented,” ayon pa kay Ebrahim na tila hirap na hirap sa kanyang paliwanag.

MILF-BIFF

Lumutang rin sa congressional hearing ang isyu ng Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) at ng mga rebeldeng MILF na siyang nasa likod ng masaker sa 44 na miyembro ng Special Action Force ng Philippine National Police na hanggang ngayon ay wala pa rin hustisyang nakakamit ang mga naulilang pamilya nito. Naganap ito isang taon matapos na magkaroon ng peace agreement ang MILF sa pamahalaan.

Matatandaang pinasok ng mga SAF ang kuta ng Malaysian terrorist na si Zulkifli bin Hir sa loob mismo ng teritoryo ng MILF sa Barangay Tukanalipao sa bayan ng Mamasapano sa Maguindanao province noong Enero 25, 2015. Napatay ng mga ito ang dayuhang bomber, ngunit sa paglabas ng SAF commandos sa nasabing lugar ay pinutakte sila ng mga rebeldeng MILF at BIFF hanggang sa napaslang ang 44 na mga miyembro ng pulisya.

Pinagnakawan pa ng mga rebelde ang mga bangkay ng SAF 44 – mula wallet at armas ultimo uniporme at combat shoes. Tumanggi rin si Ebrahim na isuko ang mga sangkot na rebelde sa masaker at tanging 16 na armas lamang ang ibinalik ng MILF sa pamahalaan at karamihan sa mga ito ay tinanggalan pa ng mga piyesa.

Dahil sa masaker, naudlot ang Bangasamoro Basic Law (BBL) at sa panahon na lamang ni Pangulong Duterte ito na-aprubahan. Ito rin ang inilitaw ni Tambut sa congressional hearing dahil sa pamimilit ni Ebrahim na gamitin ang peace agreement at ang Covid-19 pandemic upang hindi matuloy ang election sa BTA-BARMM.

“With regard to the issue on peace, I am sorry but there is already this agreement between the MILF and the government. I am sorry to say, but still there is the BIFF and then still there is this issue about the SAF 44 if you are going to talk about peace. Now my second point is regarding the unfinished tasks, well it would be arrogant to say that only the MILF can function, can perform this unfinished tasks besides you were given an ample amount of time to do everything you needed to do, in fact it is stated in the (Bangsamoro) Organic Law that by 2022 we will have BARMM election and yet you did not perform so basically that is your fault.”

“Now, do not use the pandemic as an excuse, because the members of the House of Representatives were able to perform (their mandate) despite the pandemic. President Duterte himself was able to perform his functions despite the pandemic so stop using the pandemic as an excuse,” wika pa ni Tambut.

Sa kanyang pagtatapos, sinabi ng maimpluwensyang mambabatas na maghahain ito ng batas na magpapatawag ng referendum sa BARMM upang itanong sa mga Muslim kung payag ba silang i-urong ang election sa 2022 at habaan na lamang ang termino ni Ebrahim at mga opisyal nito at gayun rin sa BTA.

“Now, if we will allow the extension of the BTA-BARMM because BTA was not able to finish their tasks, well who knows they might just delay and delay and use their lack of performance as an excuse so as not to hold an election in the point that I intend to introduce an amendment to all the house bills filed that there shall be a referendum to submit this amendment to a referendum so we can hear the voice of the people, anyway we submitted the Organic Law to a plebiscite and now that we are making an important amendment it is important that we consult again the people whether they want to extend the election or not through a referendum,” ani Tambut.

Pangamba

Naunang inamin ni Ebrahim sa interview sa kanya ng journalist na si Christian Esguerra sa “Press One” noong Nobyembre na ito ay natatakot na matalo sa 2022 BTA-BARMM election kung kaya’t dapat ay habaan na lamang ang kanilang termino.

“We are very concerned kasi ang tingin namin, nag-i-start pa lang kami. And then parang wala pa kaming tangible na accomplishment talaga na maipakita namin. So ‘yun ang challenge sa amin, na kung mag-eleksyon, baka sabihin ng mga tao, wala naman ginawa ito,” ani Ebrahim.

Sinabi ni Ebrahim na hindi sapat ang panahon nila sa pagpapatakbo sa BARMM at wala pa silang maipakitang sa publiko na konkretong nagawa. “Kasi nga nakita natin na kailangan talaga na meron. Halimbawa, mabuti kung talagang siguradong manalo kami (sa 2022 election). Pero walang assurance ‘yun kasi anybody’s game na pagka-eleksyon na. Pag hindi, ano mangyayari dun sa other aspects ng negotiation?” paliwanag pa ni Ebrahim kay Esguerra.

Ang BARMM ay may allocation na block grant sa halagang P65.3 bilyon mula sa national government at bukod pa ito sa P10 bilyon Special Development Fund. (Mindanao Examiner)

http://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2021/02/peace-agreement-barmm-hostage.html

DILG-Lanao Norte initiates peace, dev't, governance talks with key stakeholders

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 23, 2021): DILG-Lanao Norte initiates peace, dev't, governance talks with key stakeholders (By DILG Lanao del Norte)

LANAO DEL NORTE, Feb. 23 – Aimed towards meaningful and sustainable peace and development in the province, the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Lanao del Norte initiated the Peace, Development and Governance Conversations on February 17 at Tangcal, this province.

The activity was participated by Pakigdait, Inc., the 125th MILF Base Camp, the Philippines Army 5th Mechanized Battalion, Provincial Police Office, and respective officials and functionaries of the municipality of Tangcal, Punong Barangays, and religious sectors.

During the activity, 18 Punong Barangays took oath in the presence of Congressman Abdullah Dimaporo and Mayor Fatima M. Tomawis, and pledged to deny entry and suppress any attempt or activity from extremist groups. This is in support of the government’s program in maintaining peace and order and sustainable development.

On the other hand, DILG- Lanao del Norte Cluster Head Mary Jean Y. Quibranza led the Governance Conversations on the national government’s priorities and DILG plans and programs with the local officials and department heads.

Meanwhile, Congressman Dimaporo positively responded to support LGU Tangcal with their endeavors.

Pakigdait, Inc., MILF, military, police, and religious leaders also vowed to support and sustain peace and development. (DILG-LDN)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1067749

Army Support Command facilities to transfer in Tarlac

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 23, 2021): Army Support Command facilities to transfer in Tarlac (By Trixie Joy B. Manalili)

TARLAC CITY, Feb. 23 (PIA) -- Army Support Command (ASCOM) facilities in Fort Bonifacio will transfer to a 29.8-hectare lot in Camp Servilliano Aquino in Tarlac by next year.

In today’s groundbreaking of the PhP 1.5 billion development project, Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) President and Chief Executive Officer Vince Dizon highlighted the collaboration of the state-owned firm, Department of National Defense (DND) and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to realize the vision of modern ASCOM logistical facilities.

“We feel that this is a sound investment which not only puts ASCOM in a better position to serve the military, but opens up new opportunities for the national government to generate much-needed revenues by developing the soon-to-be-vacated Army areas in Fort Bonifacio,” Dizon said.

DND and AFP identified the relocation site in Camp Aquino while BCDA is responsible for the construction of structures and facilities, and the engagement of consulting services for engineering design and construction management.

Based on the four-phase development plan, a total of 44 structures will be constructed in the project site which include multiple headquarters facilities, officers' quarters, barracks, a warehouse, student classrooms and transportation and maintenance battalion areas.

In behalf of AFP Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Cirilito Sobejana, Northern Luzon Command Commander Lieutenant General Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos Jr. cited the role of BCDA in transforming former military bases in premier centers of economic growth, paving the way for national development.

Officials from Bases Conversion and Development Authority, Department of National Defense and Armed Forces of the Philippines hold a groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of Army Support Command facilities in Camp Servilliano Aquino, Tarlac. (BCDA)

“The transfer of ASCOM here at Camp Aquino is very timely as it will not only boost the unit’s capabilities to carry out its mission and functions but it also reinforces its thrust to sustain personal readiness and enhancement of its operations and even gain momentum towards modernization,” Burgos said.

“ASCOM plays a very significant role in the AFP and the Philippine Army because they provide the logistical support to all the Army units not only in Luzon but also in Visayas and Mindanao. This is why ASCOM should be situated in a strategic location, like here in Camp Aquino,” he furthered.

For his part, ASCOM Commander Major General Glenn Cruz affirmed that the strategic location of Camp Aquino is advantageous in the logistics support and the deployment of support services.

“Considering the congestion in Metro Manila, the ease of our movement and security of our access from one place to another has already been affected. The new ASCOM area provides us with easier and more efficient logistics operations,” Cruz said.

ASCOM's mission is "to provide proactive, integrated and sustained quality logistics support services to Philippine Army units." (CLJD/TJBM-PIA 3)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1067752

Tagalog News: Site survey sa pabahay para sa mga sumukong rebelde, isinagawa na

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 23, 2021): Tagalog News: Site survey sa pabahay para sa mga sumukong rebelde, isinagawa na (By Merlito G. Edale, Jr.)

LUNGSOD NG ILAGAN, Isabela, Pebrero 23 (PIA) - Nagsagawa kamakailan ng site survey ang National Housing Authority (NHA) at LGU Jones katuwang ang 86th Infantry Battalion para sa ipapatayong pabahay na handog ng pamahalaan sa mga dating rebelde.

Ani Jones Mayor Leticia Sebastian, ang isinagawang site survey ay upang matiyak ang kaligtasan ng lugar na pagtatayuan ng kanilang mga bahay.

Sinabi ng alkalde na palaging sumusuporta ang lokal na pamahalaan sa mga programa ng national governement upang mahikayat ang mga rebelde na sumuko na at mamuhay ng normal.

Ayon pa sa kanya, ang libreng pabahay ay ipagkakaloob sa ilalim ng Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) ng pamahalaan.

Dadaan sa masusing eksamin ang mga posibleng mabigyan ng pabahay upang malaman kung pasok ang mga ito sa kondisyon ng NHA ayon pa kay Sebastian. (MDCT/BME/MGE/PIA 2-Isabela)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1067684

3 daughters of ex-ASG leader, 6 others nabbed in Sulu

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 23, 2021): 3 daughters of ex-ASG leader, 6 others nabbed in Sulu (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

ARRESTED. Three of the nine women nabbed Friday last week by the Joint Task Force (JTF)-Sulu and police forces. Maj. Gen. William Gonzales, JTF-Sulu commander, on Tuesday (Feb. 23, 2021) said the women have strong ties with sub-leaders and members of the Abu Sayyaf Group. (Photo courtesy of JTF-Sulu)

Operatives from the police and Joint Task Force-Sulu have arrested nine women with strong ties to Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) leaders and members in simultaneous joint law enforcement operations in the said province.

Maj. Gen. William Gonzales, JTF-Sulu commander, announced this only on Tuesday although the suspects were arrested Friday during intelligence-driven law enforcement operations by way of service of warrants of arrest in the towns of Jolo and Patikul.

Gonzales said three of the nine arrested suspects are daughters of the late ASG leader Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan. They were identified as Isara Jalmaani Abduhajan, 36; Jedah Abduhajan Amin, 28; and, Elena Tasum Sawadjaan-Abun, 40.

He said the troops recovered several improvised explosive device (IED) components when they arrested Isara and Jedah in Barangay Bangkal, Patikul.

Gonzales said Elena, who is the widow of ASG sub-leader Walid Abun, was arrested together with Firdauzia Said also known as Firdausia Salvin, in Kalimayahan Village, Barangay Latih, Patikul. Firdauzia is the widow of ASG sub-leader Mannul Said.

In another law enforcement operation in Barangay Tulay, Jolo, Sulu, the troops also arrested Nudsza Ismanu Aslun -- widow of ASG member Alias Abu Jabar, and Nurshahada Isnain -- wife of ASG member Alias Abu Akram, one of the trusted followers of ASG sub-leader Mundi Sawadjaan.

“Our combined forces recovered IED components such as switches, batteries, pipes, concrete nails, blasting caps, suspected ammonium nitrate fuel oil (ANFO), and detonating cord. These are now at PNP's (Philippine National Police) crime lab,” Gonzales said.

He disclosed that the intelligence unit of the police reported that they also found a backpack containing a list of people tasked to deploy IEDs.

Gonzales also said the other suspects placed under the custody of government operatives are Linda Darun Maruji, Risa Jhalil, and Sharifa Rajani all residents of Kalimayahan village, Barangay Latih, Patikul.

He said they were arrested for violation of Republic Act 9516, the law against illegal manufacture, sales, possession of firearms and explosives.

“This is how desperate the remaining terrorists are, willing to sacrifice their families just to get back at government forces. JTF-Sulu will continue to exhaust all our options to put an end to terrorism here in this province. Thus, we will constantly collaborate with the police to press legal charges towards ASG members, supporters, and sympathizers,” Gonzales said.

The military noted that the twin bombings in August in Jolo last year were perpetrated by ASG female suicide bombers.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1131560

Access roads seen to end NPA in Borongan City

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 23, 2021): Access roads seen to end NPA in Borongan City (By Sarwell Meniano)

FIGHTING NPA. Borongan City Mayor Jose Ivan Dayan Agda. The official said on Tuesday (Feb. 23, 2021) improved access to far-flung villages in Borongan City, Eastern Samar is the key to wipe out the local communist terrorist group that has been threatening communities in the past five decades. (Photo courtesy of Borongan city government)

Improved access to far-flung villages in Borongan City, Eastern Samar is the key to wiping out the local communist terrorist group that has been threatening communities in the past five decades, Mayor Jose Ivan Dayan Agda said on Tuesday.

Speaking to members of the provincial task force to end the local communist armed conflict (ELCAC), Agda said terrorist activities of the New People’s Army (NPA) will continue for as long as some upland communities are hard to reach.

“People from remote barangays need us, people in the government. They need interventions, but all our planned interventions will be limited to none if we can hardly reach them, and if their needs remain unabated, resentment, division could prevail,” he said.

He cited the city’s Pinanag-an village with more than a thousand families.

This remotest village is about a three-hour motorboat ride from the city’s wharf passing through five villages. The long river is the only access to the village, about 23 kilometers away from the city.

It was in Pinanag-an village where six soldiers died and 20 other government troops were critically injured when NPA rebels detonated a landmine during an ambush on Nov. 11, 2019.

On Dec. 13, 2019, a junior police officer and two civilians were also killed while four other policemen and 11 civilians, including three minors, were injured during an explosion followed by a burst of gunfires along a section of the main highway in Borongan.

At least nine upland villages have been identified as NPA-influenced with Pinanag-an as the farthest.

The mayor said in a phone interview that about 7,000 residents dwell in these communities.

“Government has been in a constant battle with the NPA insurgents and hundreds of peace talks had been made while innocent and helpless civilians are sometimes involved. Apparently, some issues have yet to be addressed, particularly the problem of the inaccessibility to government service,” Agda told the Philippine News Agency.

As a counter-insurgency measure, the Borongan local government will soon launch “Dukwag Agrikultura” (improving agriculture), which was approved recently by the city council, with program components aimed to improve the economic standing of poor farmers.

However, he said many of the identified agricultural farms are located in insurgency-laden communities.

“With the construction of needed roads and bridges, perhaps, some peace and order issues can be addressed eventually,” he said.

Agda has also lined up several road opening projects to improve the living condition of villagers by providing better access to basic skills training and livelihood, medical, and other social services, including education.

For 2021, now awaiting budget appropriations are the road linking the villages of Canyupay-Hebacong-Benowang-Baras-Pinanag-an (phase 2); Surok-San Matero road (phase2); concreting of Cabalagnan-Canyupay (phase 2); road opening in Surok-San Mateo (phase 4); road widening of Amantacop road; road opening in Sta. Fe; road opening of Balacdas-San Pablo; road construction in Sabang South-Sitio Lipgutan, and road opening in San Gabriel to Kaputian Falls, a tourism area.

The mayor is eyeing to complete all these road projects between 2021 to 2024.

Borongan, the capital of Eastern Samar is located 190 kilometers northeast of this city, the regional capital, which has a population of nearly 70,000 in 61 villages.

The NPA, which has been waging a five-decade armed struggle against the government, is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1131574

118 rebels, supporters heed Samar town surrender ultimatum

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 23, 2021): 118 rebels, supporters heed Samar town surrender ultimatum (By Roel Amazona)

LEAVING NPA. Some of the 118 former rebels and loyal supporters recite their pledge of allegiance to the government during a ceremony on Feb. 21, 2021 in Matuguinao, Samar. They heeded the call of the mayor to surrender or face legal consequences. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army)

At least 118 former members of the New People’s Army (NPA) and their staunch supporters formally yielded to the Philippine Army and the local government of Matuguinao, Samar, a military official said on Tuesday.

All, including nine village officials, joined the mass surrender ceremony at the town hall on Feb. 19, four days after the ultimatum set by Mayor Aran Boller.

Last January, the mayor gave NPA members and die-hard supporters until Feb. 15 to submit themselves to the authorities. Those who failed to surrender will be declared persona non-grata or face charges of supporting a terrorist group.

Some 353 town residents were identified by the local government and the military as NPA members and supporters.

Among them, only 195 have been subjected to tactical interrogation, said Lt. Col. Jasper Pecson, commander of the 19th Infantry Battalion.

Of the 195, only 118 attended the mass surrender ceremony.

“The campaign is still a success because those who surrendered are officials in their respective villages who have influences,” Pecson said in a phone interview.

Boller encouraged the surrenderers to totally reject the influences of the communist group.

“You need to have a peaceful life, free from worries and troubles. Focus on how you will improve the life of your family and the community,” he said.

The intensified campaign to encourage rebels to surrender is part of their effort to make Matuguinao a rebel-free town.

Boller added that of the 12 villages identified as NPA-influenced, five have been cleared last year. These are Deit, Libertad, Sta Cruz, San Isidro, and Nagpapacao villages.

Still affected by NPAs are Del Rosario, Ligaya, Carolina, San Roque, Inubod, Rizal, and Mahayag. NPA members operating in the area are from Northern Samar province.

The NPA, which has been waging a five-decade armed struggle against the government, is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

Matuguinao is a fifth-class town in Samar province with a population of 7,288 people. The town is 105 kilometers from Tacloban City, the regional capital.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1131582

Security measures in place for 35th Edsa anniversary

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 23, 2021): Security measures in place for 35th Edsa anniversary (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Edsa People Power Monument (File photo)

Security preparations are set for the upcoming 35th anniversary of the Edsa People Power revolt on Feb. 25, a ranking police official said Tuesday.

National Capital Region Police Office chief Maj. Gen. Vicente Danao Jr. has reminded police officers to maximize their presence and strictly implement minimum health standards and protocols during the event.

"Security preparations, coordinations and necessary deployments were set in place as the nation commemorates the unity of Filipino people who have shown the world of the true spirit of a 'non-violent demonstration'," Danao said.

Police are also instructed to activate security control points for the occasion.

He reminded police to carry "yantok" while patrolling to remind the public about physical distancing in places of convergence such as terminals, churches, malls, and markets. (with Lloyd Caliwan/PNA)

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1131542

20 senior Navy officers promoted

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 23, 2021): 20 senior Navy officers promoted (By Priam Nepomuceno)

Promoted Philippine Navy officers (Photo courtesy of Philippine Navy Public Affairs Office)

Twenty Philippine Navy senior officers were promoted to the ranks of Navy captain and Marine colonel during a donning of ranks ceremony Monday.

In a statement Tuesday, Navy Vice Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo said the promotion of the 20 officers was a testament to their commitment to service, knowledge in their specialization, and leadership.

"In exchange for this promotion to a higher rank, expect greater responsibility and accountability. Display mastery of skills and facilitate the much-needed systemic changes in the PN as we modernize into a multi-capable naval force," he said.

Promoted to the next ranks are Capt. Elmer Toriado, Capt. Remuel Jardinero, Capt. Junmar Sales, Capt. Nerelito Martinez, Capt. Santiago Pacis Jr., Capt. Ariel Halasan, Capt. Leo Dimoc, Capt. Jonathan Salvilla, Capt. Edilberto Balduman, Capt. Lemar Dela Calzada, Capt. Reynaldo Lopez, Capt. Jude Joseph Sumpay, Capt. Jim Razo, Capt. Oliver Fernandez, and Capt. Venus Gualdaquever.

The following Philippine Marine Corps lieutenant colonel were also promoted to the next rank: Col. Danilo Facundo, Col. Ronald Virtudazo, Col. Jose Marie Santos, Col. Dante Robert Grasparil, and Col. Esperanza Casiao.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1131546

Duterte OKs task force for rebel returnees’ relocation

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 23, 2021): Duterte OKs task force for rebel returnees’ relocation (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)

REBEL RETURNEES. President Rodrigo Roa Duterte interacts with some of his Cabinet members and Senator Christopher “Bong” Go prior to the start of the 52nd Cabinet meeting at the Malacañan Palace on Monday (Feb. 22, 2021). Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles on Tuesday said Duterte has given his nod to the proposed creation of inter-agency task force for the resettlement of rebel returnees. (Presidential photo by King Rodriguez)

President Rodrigo Duterte has given his nod to the proposed creation of inter-agency task force for the resettlement of rebel returnees, Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles said on Tuesday.

During a meeting with his Cabinet on Monday, Duterte approved the Department of Agrarian Reform’s (DAR) proposal to create a task force for the relocation of rebel returnees to places with idle government lands, Nograles said.

“Gusto po natin mapabilis ang pag-distribute nito dahil alam po natin na napakalaki ng role nito para sa ating peace efforts (We want to fast-track the distribution of lands because we know its big role in our peace efforts),” he said in a virtual presser.

The government, Nograles said, has so far distributed a total of 6,406.6 hectares of land located in Cagayan Valley, Bicol Region, Eastern Visayas, and Davao Region.

Nograles noted that the distributed lands are “larger than the size of the City of Manila,” which has an area of 4,288 hectares.

Apart from the creation of task force, Duterte has also approved the DAR’s proposal to direct the military and the police to provide security measures in the government-owned land (GOL) areas which are found to be “critical in nature,” Nograles said.

Nograles said Duterte has also approved the recommendation to instruct government agencies to identify idle GOLs that are ideal for distribution to rebel returnees.

The implementation of the “whole-of-nation approach” for the enhancement of livelihood support projects to rebel returnees has also been approved, Nograles said.

On Feb. 5, Duterte signed four proclamations granting amnesty to members of the communist movement, the Moro National Liberation Front, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, and the Rebolusyonaryong Partido ng Manggagawa ng Pilipinas/Revolutionary Proletarian Army/Alex Boncayao Brigade.

The granting of amnesty, according to the presidential proclamations, is in line with the government’s peace policy to nurture a climate conducive for peace and implement programs for reconciliation and reintegration of rebels into mainstream society.

On May 29, 2018, the Department of National Defense issued the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) directing the Task Force “Balik Loob” to enforce the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), the government’s program for former rebels.

Under E-CLIP, former rebels can avail of PHP15,000 worth of immediate assistance, PHP21,000 to defray the subsistence or meals cost, support to relocate and secure their family, PHP50,000 livelihood assistance, temporary shelter, PhilHealth enrolment, medical assistance, housing assistance, modified conditional cash transfer, legal assistance, and livelihood assistance.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1131567

DND inoculation drive to start with delivery of Chinese vaccines

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 23, 2021): DND inoculation drive to start with delivery of Chinese vaccines (By Priam Nepomuceno)  

PNA file photo

The Department of National Defense (DND) on Tuesday said it will soon start with its inoculation drive once the donated Sinovac Biotech coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) vaccines are delivered.

The vaccines were donated to the DND by China through Chinese Defense Minister Wei Fenghe, according to Defense spokesperson Arsenio Arsenio Andolong in a statement.

"With the emergency use authorization (EUA) granted to Sinovac Biotech's Covid-19 vaccine, the DND is set to begin its inoculation drive for its employees upon the delivery of the 100,000 doses," he said.

Andolong said the vaccines will be administered to all employees and military personnel assigned to the DND and its civilian bureaus, namely: the Office of Civil Defense, Government Arsenal, National Defense College of the Philippines, the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office, as well as the civilian employees of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

Family members of DND employees are also eligible to receive the vaccines.

"The intent is to vaccinate everyone who is in the same working environment and those living in the same households as our employees. It is crucial that all must be vaccinated to allow us to create a 'bubble' of an immunized workforce," Andolong said,

Meanwhile, he said uniformed personnel under the AFP will be inoculated under a different vaccine rollout plan.

The Food and Drug Administration on Monday granted EUA to Sinovac Biotech's Covid-19 vaccine after a thorough review by the country's medical and regulatory experts.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1131609

150 former rebels in Cagayan burn CPP-NPA flag

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 23, 2021): 150 former rebels in Cagayan burn CPP-NPA flag (By Marita Moaje)

BURNING OF CPP-NPA FLAG. Some 150 former rebels in the province of Cagayan burn the flag of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army in Lal-lo, Cagayan on Feb. 19, 2021. Local governments of Cagayan welcomed the decision of the NPA members to return to the fold of the law. (Contributed photo)

As proof of their sincerity to turn their back on the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army, some 150 former rebels from the province of Cagayan burned the CPP-NPA flag as they returned to the fold of the law.

Maj. Jekyll Julian Dulawan, officer-in-charge of the Division Public Affairs Office (DPAO) of the 5th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army, said the event took place on Feb. 19 in Lal-lo, Cagayan.

He said 52 of the returnees were former members of the Militia ng Bayan (MB) from Barangay Masi, two from Barangay Bural, 18 from Barangay San Juan in Rizal, 16 from Barangay Balagan, and 21 from Barangay Calassitan, Sto. Niño.

A total of 19 rebel returnees were former members of the Pambansang Katipunan ng Magbubukid (PKM), nine were former MAKIBAKA members, and 13 were from Kabataang Makabayan (KM).

“Bilang patunay ng kanilang pagbalik loob sa pamahalaan ay kanilang sinunog ang bandila ng teroristang CPP-NPA (As proof of their willingness to return to the fold of the law, they burned the flag of the terrorist group CPP-NPA),” Dulawan said.

A certain “Ka Fred”, a member of the Indigenous Peoples group “Agta” and one of the rebel returnees from Barangay San Juan, Rizal also called on the communist terrorist group (CTG) to stop harassing and using them and their community and just let them live in peace.

Ka Fred said they are peace-loving IP tribes and they want to be left alone, far from any threat of the CPP-NPA terrorists.

Meanwhile, the provincial government of Cagayan, led by Cagayan Governor Manuel Mamba, also expressed support to its residents for openly denouncing the terrorist group CPP-NPA and not welcoming them in their barangays and the whole province.

The former rebels decided to break away from the CTG through the help of the 501st Infantry Brigade, the provincial government of Cagayan, and the Philippine National Police.

Government officials and agencies patiently do rounds of the barangays to explain to the residents the deceptive strategies of the CPP-NPA listed as a terrorist group by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

During the information drive, some residents started sharing their personal experiences under the hands of the terrorist group.

They said the CPP-NPA has not helped them in any way and instead, the CTG just used and exploited them.

Col. Steve Crespillo, commander of the 501st Infantry Brigade, said the decision of the 150 former rebels to return to the fold of the law was a big help in addressing insurgency in the area.

“Sa tulong ng mga programa ng pamahalaan, sama-sama nating isulong ang pag-unlad sa inyong mga lugar. Tulong-tulong tayo sa pagkamit ng ating pangarap na maayos na pamumuhay at itaboy ang teroristang CPP-NPA papalayo mula sa ang inyong lugar (With the help of different government programs, together, let us push the development of your areas. Let us realize our dreams of a better life and denounce the CPP-NPA),” Crespillo said.

Meanwhile, the PNP assured that they will continue to give protection to those who have decided to leave the CPP-NPA and returned to the fold of the law.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1131623

Manhunt on vs. Reds in Sorsogon clash: PNP

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 23, 2021): Manhunt on vs. Reds in Sorsogon clash: PNP (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

PNP chief Gen. Debold Sinas (File photo)

A manhunt is underway against the communist terrorists who clashed with police commandos along the national highway in Barangay Putiao, Pilar town in Sorsogon province, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Debold Sinas said on Tuesday.

Sinas has mobilized maneuver forces of Police Regional Office-5 to link-up with the 9th Special Action Battalion of PNP-Special Action Force (SAF) that is now engaged in tactical operations against the fleeing terrorists.

Sinas said 11 police commandos from the 92nd Special Action Company on board a troop carrier truck on an administrative mission to undergo swab testing were informed by some civilians that the New People’s Army (NPA) terrorist were conducting extortion activities on Visayas-bound rolling cargoes that were stranded on the road due to Tropical Storm Auring.

As the Special Action Force (SAF) troopers approached to validate the information, the NPA terrorists opened fire at the police team and detonated two improvised explosive devices (IED) triggering an encounter that lasted for 20 minutes.

Two civilians -- a truck driver and a local resident, and four PNP-SAF troopers suffered minor shrapnel wounds and were evacuated to the Sorsogon Provincial Hospital for treatment.

Sinas said the police bomb squad recovered an unexploded EID, 50 meters of electrical wire, and a 40mm fired cartridge case from the scene of encounter.

In a statement, Brig. Gen. Bartolome Bustamante, PRO-5 regional director, condemned the latest atrocity perpetrated by the communist terrorist group (CTG), whose true objective is to sow chaos and disorder in the community.

He called on the public to "resist CTGs and cooperate with authorities to help end the threat of insurgency in Bicol".

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1131596