Monday, February 12, 2024

CPP/NPA-Masbate: Bukas na liham para sa mga kagawad ng midya

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Feb 11, 2024): Bukas na liham para sa mga kagawad ng midya (Open letter to members of the media)
 


Luz del Mar
Spokesperson
NPA-Masbate (Jose Rapsing Command)
Bicol Regional Operational Command (Romulo Jallores Command)
New People's Army

February 11, 2024

Mapagpalayang pagbati sa mga kaibigan sa hanay ng midya!

Napakakritikal ng institusyon ng midya sa pagbabago ng lipunan bilang inaasahang instrumento ng katotohanan at pagpapahayag ng mamamayan, laluna sa kasalukuyang yugto ng lipunan kung saan laganap ang disimpormasyon, misimpormasyon at iba pang porma ng kasinungalingan.

Sa kasaysayan, ang karapatan sa malayang pamamahayag ay nagmula sa pakikibaka ng masa. Mula panahon ng lipunang alipin hanggang sa kasalukuyang yugto ng imperyalismo, palagiang kabahagi ng pakikipagtunggali ng uring api at pinagsasamantalahan sa naghaharing-uri ang paglaban sa panunupil at pagpapatahimik.

Nagsisilbi tayo sa masa at utang natin sa kanila ang anumang puwang ng demokrasyang ating tinatamasa. Ito ang dahilan kung bakit naninindigan tayo sa kritikal, mapanuri at malayang pamamahayag.

Kaya, bilang kapwa tagapagtaguyod ng malayang pamamahayag at tagapaglingkod sa masa, tapat na ipinapaabot ng rebolusyonaryong kilusan ang pagkabahalang nagagamit ang ilan sa inyo bilang kasangkapan ng reaksyunaryong estado sa pagpapalaganap ng kasinungalingan at masahol, pagkakait ng katotohanan. Halimbawa nito’y ang mga tendensyang makaisang-panig na paglalabas ng mga pahayag ng militar, laluna kapag pinagtatakpan ang mga pinapatay nilang sibilyan bilang NPA na napatay sa engkwentro (maihahalintulad sa nanlaban-patay sa gera kontra droga).

Sa Masbate, karamihan sa mga pinatay ng militar, iba pang nakaranas ng abuso, at kanilang mga kaanak ay napagkaitan ng katotohanan.

Sa kaso ng mag-asawang Jover at Aimee Villegas na pinatay ng militar sa bayan ng Placer noong Setyembre 21, 2023, nagdulot ng trauma sa pamilya ng mga biktima ang tumatak na naratibong pinalabas ng militar sa midya. Ito ay sa kabila ng pagsusumigaw ng mga kaanak at kababaryo na sibilyan ang mga biktima.

Sa kaso naman ng pinagbabaril na magkaibigan sa Barangay Balantay, Dimasalang na ikinasawi ng menor-de-edad na si Rey Belan, ang pamamayagpag ng naratibong NPA ang mga biktima ay sinamantala ng kaaway upang baligtarin ang mga nakaligtas bilang siyang mga kriminal.

Sa panibagong kaso ng pagpatay sa matandang mag-asawang sina Pedro at Florencia Regala noong Pebrero 5, sa Barangay Tuboran, bayan ng Cawayan, walang ipinalabas ang militar na larawan ng mga bangkay, taliwas sa karaniwang kalakaran ng kaaway na iparada sa publiko ang kanilang mga biktima. Sapat sana itong batayan para magduda at maging kritikal. Sa kabila nito, ipinalaganap ng iba’t ibang istasyon tulad ng Bombo Radyo Legazpi ang balita nang walang kumpirmasyon o imbestigasyon sa veracity ng mga impormasyong ipinresenta ng militar.

Mapanganib ang ganitong tunguhin, mga kaibigan. Hindi niyo man sinasadya, sa makaisang panig na paglalabas ng balita mula sa estado, maaari niyo nang nababalewala ang hirap at kalupitang dinaranas ng masa at masahol, ay napagkakaitan sila ng hustisya. Lalong mapanganib kung mawala na sa inyong hanay ang mga batayang prinsipyo ng dyornalismo tulad ng pagsusuri at pagsisiyasat kapalit ng sensationalismo at dikta ng corporate media.

Ang aming matapat na puna’y hindi naglalayong pigilan kayo sa inyong diskresyon at karapatan sa pamamahayag. Sa halip, nais namin kayong tulungan sa pagpapaalalang maipaglalaban lamang natin ang karapatan sa malayang pamamahayag kung panghahawakan natin ang mga tungkuling kaakibat sa pagsusulong nito. Ibig sabihi’y tapat, may paninindigan at maka-masang pamamahayag na nakabatay sa kongrektong pag-alam at pagsusuri sa kalagayan.

Naiintindihan naming karamihan sa inyo’y nasa mahirap na pusisyon. Hindi maitatangging ang kasalukuyang tradisyunal na midya ay pinaghaharian ng corporate media. Sa sistemang kapitalista kung saan nagiging instrumento ang impormasyon sa pang-aapi at pagsasamantala, maaaring pagkakitaan ang katotohanan o pagkakait nito.

Pinakamasahol ay ang panunupil at pandarahas mismo sa inyong hanay. Marami sa inyo ay biktima ng panghaharas, panggigipit, pambabanta at Red-tagging, laluna nang mabuo ang National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict. May mga pinatay. Nagdudulot ito ng takot at naaapektuhan ang ating responsibilidad na ihatid ang tama at kumpletong impormasyon para ipalaganap ang aral na opinyong publiko o self-censorship. Makabuluhan sa pakikibaka ng midya ang pagdating ni UN Special Rapporteur Irene Khan at ang rekomendasyong buwagin ang NTF – ELCAC.

Hindi kayo masisisi kung mas napauunlakan niyo ang kaaway dahil totoong mas mabilis para sa kanila na makapaglabas ng pahayag laluna’t nasa kanila lahat ng rekurso para kontrolin ang daloy ng impormasyon. Sa katunayan, kailangang harapin ng kilusan at masa ang araw-araw na mga hamon sa seguridad at iba’t ibang paraan ng kaaway upang limitahan ang masa sa paglalantad ng kanilang tunay na kalagayan tulad ng news blackout, censorship, troll campaign at pananakot.

Nais naming ipatanaw sa inyo na ang mga dinaranas ninyong kahirapan ay patunay na hindi kailanman malulubos ang kalayaan sa pamamahayag sa ilalim ng kasalukuyang bulok na sistemang malakolonyal at malapyudal. Malayo pa ang ating dapat pagsikapan upang lubusang matamasa ang karapatan at kalayaan sa pamamahayag. Mangyayari lamang ito kung magtatagumpay ang ilunukunsad nating armadong rebolusyon.

Habang hindi pa ito naaabot, tungkulin natin bilang mga alagad ng katotohanan na hindi tumigil sa pakikibaka para sa kanilang karapatan at kalayaan at labanan ang palagiang pakana ng estado na ipagkait ito. Sa harap ng mga hamon, hinihikayat namin kayong laging manindigan para sa malaya at para sa masang pamamaahayag. Hinihiling namin na sana’y hindi mawala sa inyo ang mga prinsipyo at paninindigan bilang kagawad ng midya, mula kongretong pagsusuri at pagsisiyasat sa kalagayan, pagpapalalim ng pag-unawa at higit sa lahat, ang maka-masang tindig at pananaw.

Hinihikayat namin kayong sumama at mag-organisa ng iba’t ibang mga inisyatiba tulad ng fact finding missions, mga treyning sa community journalism, educational discussions at mga kilos protesta at iba pang mobilisasyon upang mapalalim ang pag-unawa sa masa.

Mahalaga rin ang pagkakaisa sa inyong hanay upang sama-samang maipagtanggol ang kanilang karapatan at kalayaan sa pamamahayag. Kapugay-pugay ang pagsisikap laluna ng mga kabataang journalists sa Bikol sa paglulunsad ng mga safety at paralegal trainings, psychological assistance at iba pang solidarity activities laban sa malawakang panggigipit sa kanilang hanay.

Sa darating na paggunita ng ika-38 anibersaryo ng pag-aalsang EDSA, nawa’y alalahanin natin ang pagkamartir ng ating mga kasamahan sa ngalan ng katotohanan para sa masa. Gawin natin silang inspirasyon sa paninindigan at prinsipyo. Bilang mga kagawad ng midya at tagapaglingkod ng masa, hinihikayat namin kayong tahakin ang landas ng rebolusyon para sa malayang pamamahayag, katotohanan at kapakanan ng bayan.

https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/bukas-na-liham-para-sa-mga-kagawad-ng-midya-2/

CPP/NDF-KM-Rizal: Mabuhay si Jose Maria Sison! Dakilang lider at inspirasyon ng Kabataang Pilipino!

Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Philippine Revolution Web Central (PRWC) Website (Feb 11, 2024): Mabuhay si Jose Maria Sison! Dakilang lider at inspirasyon ng Kabataang Pilipino! (Long live Jose Maria Sison! Great leader and inspiration of the Filipino youth!)
 


Kabataang Makabayan-Rizal
NDF-Rizal
NDF-Southern Tagalog
National Democratic Front of the Philippines

February 11, 2024

Matagumpay na nakapaglunsad ng oplan pinta at oplan diki ang Kabataang Makabayan-Rizal upang gunitain at pagpugayan ang ika-85 kaarawan ni Ka Jose Maria Sison, isang dakilang lider at tanglaw ng rebolusyong Pilipino. Inihanda ng mga kabataan ang isang portrait (wheatpaste art) ni Ka JMS at idinikit sa mataong lugar sa Barangay San Juan, Taytay upang maabot ng likha ang malawak na hanay ng masa na dumadaan papuntang Bagong Palengke ng Taytay.

Ipinamalas ng Kabataang Makabayan-Rizal ang taglay nitong pagkamalikhain upang ibalandra ang alay nitong likhang-sining para sa nagdaang kaarawan ni kasamang Jose Maria Sison. Hinding-hindi mapipigilan ng reaksyonaryong pwersa ang kasiglahan ng kabataang isulong ang demokratikong rebolusyong bayan.

Handang-handa ang KM-Rizal na i-alay ang talento at lakas para ipagpatuloy ang nasimulang laban ng Kabataang Makabayan na itinatag ni Jose Maria Sison noong Nobyembre 30, 1964. Mahigpit na pinagkukunan ng inspirasyon ng kabataang RizaleƱo ang kadakilaan ni Ka Joma bilang isang rebolusyonaryo, guro, manunulat, at makabayan.

Tiyak na mas magiging mapangahas ang Kabataang Makabayan-Rizal na gamitin ang sining upang ilantad ang kabulukan ng estado at sa patuloy na lumalalang atake, at pasismo ng rehimeng US-Marcos II-Duterte.









https://philippinerevolution.nu/statements/mabuhay-si-jose-maria-sison-dakilang-lider-at-inspirasyon-ng-kabataang-pilipino/

WESTCOM: Team 101st Infantry Brigade and Moro Islamic Liberation Front Commanders Converge for Peace Dialog in Basilan

 Posted to the Western Mindanao Command (WESTCOM) Facebook Page (Feb 9, 2024): Team 101st Infantry Brigade and Moro Islamic Liberation Front Commanders Converge for Peace Dialog in Basilan

Isabela City, Basilan - On Tuesday, February 06, 2024, the 101st Infantry (Three Red Arrows) Brigade, led by its Commander, Brigadier General Alvin V Luzon, welcomed the commanders of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in Basilan at Headquarters, 45th Infantry (Gallant) Battalion in Barangay Bohe Pahu, Ungakaya Pukan, Basilan Province, purposely to meet with the military commanders for coordination and collaboration.

While awaiting the demobilization and normalization of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, the Local Government Unit of Basilan, in cooperation with the joint Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH), the Moro Islamic Liberation Front leadership, and the 101st Infantry Brigade with its maneuver battalions have been making significant strides in ensuring that the Basilan Province achieves the peace, security, and prosperity it deserves.

In his message, Brigadier General Luzon reiterated the importance of constant dialogue to establish a common understanding in fostering peace in the province of Basilan. He also reaffirmed the 101st Infantry Brigade’s commitment to achieving lasting and peaceful relationships with all the communities in the province. He further emphasized the importance of mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation in achieving this goal.

“Today marks a continuing commitment and sustainment of our shared paths to peace and understanding. We, in the armed forces, are sincere in our partnerships; we are here to serve and protect the people, including the members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and their community,” he added.

Attending the peace dialogue were Hadji Samad Ahaddin, Moro Islamic Liberation Front-CCCH; Commander Huram Malangka of Moro Islamic Liberation Front-BIAF base in Upper Ulitan, Ungkaya Pukan; Commander Katmir Batahang of Moro Islamic Liberation Front-BIAF base in Lower Ulitan, Ungkaya Pukan; Ustadz Hakim Dugmo of Moro Islamic Liberation Front-BIAF base in Ulitan Proper, Ungkaya Pukan; Commander Immamul Mande of Moro Islamic Liberation Front-BIAF base in Bohe Suyak, Ungkaya Pukan; Commander Totong Ausal of PPF base in Baguindan, Tipo-Tipo; Abdulbazar J Amad, Moro Islamic Liberation Front-BIAF Focal in Ungkaya Pukan; Honorable Ahmadin Barahim, Vice Mayor of Ungkaya Pukan; Honorable Ismael Morgan, Chairman of Barangay Amaloy; Honorable Jemar Aslamtu, Chairman of Barangay Bohe Suyak; representative from Joint Peace and Security Team (JPST); Colonel Frederick M Sales, Deputy Brigade Commander, 101st Infantry Brigade; Lieutenant Colonel Abel Potutan, Commanding Officer 64IB; Lieutenant Colonel Michael Colanta, Commanding Officer 45IB, and Company Commanders and its key officers.











https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=122153261270030991&set=pcb.122153262872030991

https://www.facebook.com/westmincomafp2021/

24th Inf Bn: Look// 24IB Philippine Army recovers assorted war materials in Abra.

Posted to the Philippine Army 24th Infantry Battalion Facebook Page (Feb 11, 2024): Look// 24IB Philippine Army recovers assorted war materials in Abra.

Through the help and information given by an informant, a Joint Intel Operation was immediately conducted by the 24IB,7ID, PA together with the 50IB, 5ID, PA , NICA, PNP Abra and other law enforcement agency at the hinterland of Brgy Tabacda, Tubo, Abra on 07 February 2023.

This resulted to the discovery of communists’ terrorist armed cache belong to ROC with 6 hand grenades, 2 upper receivers of M16 rifles, 22 blasting caps and voluminous assorted war materials for IED productions which was then brought to RCP, 24IB, Sitio Barbarit, Brgy Tagodtod, Lagangilang, Abra for proper disposition.

With this recovery, it shows that CPP-NPA-NDF members suffered hardship due to the relentless operations conducted by the units under 501st Bde, 5ID that they cached their arms and had already abandoned the arm struggles. This also manifest that the people/masses no longer support the communist terrorist and has regained trust in the government.











https://www.facebook.com/onguard.wildcat/posts/pfbid025vfpas2zRPrhCUAMz5zfsjsiiWcuGZHdUCKFgTFser8msL5bi4ozTeEwajiTgMTzl?fbclid=IwAR2RFGz_KmgxBKFcgjQrxlDv6cSodPYXnR5cIzrBKLonRSei6ecw9x8rU_I

https://www.facebook.com/onguard.wildcat

AFP: DI Amir among casualties in January ops

From the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Facebook Page (Feb 11, 2024): DI Amir among casualties in January ops

CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City--The Armed Forces of the Philippines through its 103rd Infantry Brigade, Philippine Army confirmed the death of Khadafi Mimbesa, also known as “Engineer," in the military operation in January in Lanao del Sur.

The efforts of the 103rd Brigade, under the leadership of their Commander, BGen Yegor Rey Barroquillo Jr, resulted in the neutralization of local terrorists and armed members of the Dawlah Islamiyah in Lanao del Sur on January 25-26, 2024, who were identified as perpetrators of the fatal bombing at Mindanao State University (MSU) on December 3, 2023.

Statements from a surrendered terrorist, identified as KHATAB, a high-value individual in the DI-Maute Group who surrendered to the 2nd Mechanized Brigade on February 11, have corroborated the initial information on demise of the DI-Maute Group Amir and the mastermind behind the MSU bombing.
The decisive military operations also resulted in the recovery of nine high-powered firearms, one bandolier, four Baofeng radios, and one smartphone.
 
In his message, General Romeo Brawner Jr, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, lauded the troops in successfully pursuing those responsible for the MSU bombing and called on remnants of the group to surrender.

"Our troops will be relentless in the pursuit of those who will seek to disturb the peace. Take this as an invitation and a call to surrender now and avoid the same fate as your dead comrades," General Brawner Jr.

"The Armed Forces of the Philippines will always be a catalyst for peace and assures the public of the military's unwavering commitment to safeguarding peace and security in Mindanao and across the country," the CSAFP added. ///





https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=765865882242491&set=pcb.765866125575800

https://www.facebook.com/armedforcesofthephilippines

AFP: Two US aircraft deliver aid to Davao City

From the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Facebook Page (Feb 12, 2024): Two US aircraft deliver aid to Davao City

CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City--Two C-130 aircraft of the United States Marine Corps delivered to Davao City 4,800 boxes of family food packs of the Department of Social Welfare and Development on February 12.

The goods were delivered in two sorties each and will be vital in providing aid to residents affected by recent flooding and landslides in the Davao and Caraga regions.

A total of 12 sorties were planned for the two aircraft in order to deliver up to 15,000 family food packs in the operation that will last until February 14.
 
The joint effort highlights the shared commitment of the two countries to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, as also emphasized in the recently concluded US-PH Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA).

The AFP and the US Armed Forces are continuously working hand-in-hand to provide efficient support to the troops during the entirety of the said operations.///









https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=766115332217546&set=pcb.766116255550787

https://www.facebook.com/armedforcesofthephilippines

Nueva Vizcaya province is insurgency-free – AFP

From the Manila Standard (Feb 11, 2024): Nueva Vizcaya province is insurgency-free – AFP (By Jessica M. Bacud)



BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya – Governor Jose V. Gambito led officials in receiving the recognition by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that declared Nueva Vizcaya as the second ‘Insurgency-Free’ province in Cagayan Valley on Jan. 22.

Philippine Air Force Lt. Gen. Fernyl Buca, commander of the Northern Luzon Command, presented the plaque to Governor Gambito in acknowledgement of the province’s role in achieving peace and continuing growth.

Gov. Gambito expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the AFP and Philippine National Police for their sacrifices to make the province strong, clean, and peaceful, and to Novo Vizcayanos for contributing to the attainment of peace and order in the province.



“In more than 50 years, many lives have been wasted, which has become a major obstacle to the development of our country due to the problem of insurgency. Until the insurgency problem is suppressed, the livelihood of the people of Nueva Vizcaya will not improve,” the governor said.

With the insurgency-free state of the province, this will further spur economic growth and development, Gambito said.

Duca added: “For a long time, insurgency has been a cancer in society that takes advantage of the weakness of the people. All this was achieved and overcome because of the cooperation of everyone, including the LGU, NGO, PNP, and AFP.



This remarkable achievement is the result of the collaborative efforts of many parties who are committed to ensuring regional peace and order, the general said.

The event also featured dedicated individuals from both national and local government agencies, as well as collaborative partners actively working to maintain peace in the region.

The DILG Nueva Vizcaya, represented by Provincial Director Catherine G. Allam-Miranda, CESE, got a Certificate of Recognition for her efforts in aiding Nueva Vizcaya in successfully implementing comprehensive policies to establish a safe and secure environment for its citizens.

In the joint resolution signed by the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (PTC ELCAC), the 502nd Brigade and the Police Provincial Office recommended Nueva Vizcaya as an “Insurgency-Free Province” on Oct. 10, 2023, during the 4th quarter joint PPOC, PADAC, and PTF-ELCAC regular meeting.

Meanwhile, the 86IB, which occupies the province of Nueva Vizcaya, along with the police, will continue patrolling to prevent the NPA from returning to the province, Buca said.

“This will strengthen the relationship with all government agencies in order to provide aid to the people and maintain peace and development,” he added.

Present during the event were Vice Governor Eufemia Dacayo, Police Brig. Gen. Christopher C. Birung, Regional Director, Police Regional Office 2; officers of the Nueva Vizcaya Police Provincial Office under Provincial Director Police Col. Camlon Nasdoman; and the Peace, Law Enforcement and Development Support led by Lt. Gen. Buca.

Nueva Vizcaya is looking forward to building on this accomplishment and continuing to work constructively for a brighter and more secure future, Gov. Gambito said.

https://manilastandard.net/lgu/luzon/314415875/nueva-vizcaya-province-is-insurgency-free-afp.html?fbclid=IwAR1dYok7suJvid9udotYziDLpL1vX7XKct0qFJGH0EEtu3Qh93V7qpAu3XM

U.S. to help AFP in aiding Mindanao landslide victims

 From Palawan News (Feb 12, 2024): U.S. to help AFP in aiding Mindanao landslide victims

Troops prepare for the loading of relief packs on the U.S. Marine Corps KC-130J Hercules aircraft for the affected communities of the Masara Landslide in Mindanao. (Photo by 1Lt Oscar Franquez/JUSMAG)

The United States Armed Forces, in collaboration with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), will deploy two U.S. Marine Corps KC-130J Hercules aircraft to deliver assistance to the communities affected by the Masara Landslide in Mindanao.

At present, the two USMC KC-130 aircraft are based at Villamor Air Base. Processing, weighing, and loading of supplies for transport today, February 12, are underway. The plan is to conduct four daily deliveries (two per plane) to ensure a continuous supply to the affected areas.

The U.S. Marines from the III Marine Expeditionary Force will assist with the ongoing disaster relief mission with troops from the Marine Air Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing delivering essential supplies for distribution.

The joint effort highlights the shared commitment of the two countries to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, as also emphasized in the recently concluded US-PH Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA).

The AFP and the US Armed Forces are continuously working hand-in-hand to provide efficient support to the troops during the entirety of the said operations.

https://palawan-news.com/u-s-to-help-afp-in-aiding-mindanao-landslide-victims/

NBI to probe bomb threats vs gov’t offices

 From Rappler (Feb 12, 2024): NBI to probe bomb threats vs gov’t offices (By IYA GOZUM)



'This alarming pattern emphasizes the need for immediate and decisive action,' the NBI says in a statement

MANILA, Philippines – Following the bomb threats targeting government offices, Justice Secretary Boying Remulla ordered the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to conduct an investigation in collaboration with the Japan police attachĆ© and other concerned law enforcement agencies.

The office of the Department of Education (DepEd) in Bataan received a bomb threat via email on Monday morning, prompting the agency to suspend office work and instruct schools to hold asynchronous classes instead.

Meanwhile, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) said in a statement that it received a similar threat at around 10 am. DENR employees were immediately evacuated.

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST), too, was disrupted by the threats.

Other Stories

House on ‘heightened alert’ after congressmen receive bomb threats, says secretary-general
Velasco did not name House members who supposedly received messages regarding an alleged bombing planned against the institution, but he says House Speaker Martin Romualdez was not among those threatened

San Beda-Manila suspends classes after bomb threat
The Office of the Rector President makes the announcement past 10 am Saturday, October 11

Philippine airports under heightened security alert over bomb threats – CAAP
AP spokesperson Eric Apolonio says the heightened alert was issued following a string of threats against the country’s airports

The sender of the bomb threats used the name Takahiro Karasawa, the same Japanese handle used by those who threatened the MRT-3 system last September 2023.

The NBI noted that the name Karasawa was also associated with bomb threats in different countries.

“This alarming pattern emphasizes the need for immediate and decisive action,” the NBI said in a statement.

The justice department and the NBI said they were taking the matter “extremely seriously and will be dealt with accordingly, in full compliance with the law.”

“The NBI is committed to conducting a thorough and impartial investigation, leaving no stone unturned in the pursuit of justice,” said NBI director Medardo de Lemos.

It’s been exactly a week when some members of the House of Representatives reportedly received bomb threats. This raised security measures at the Batasang Pambansa complex.
Hoaxes

The PNP later described the threats at DepEd and DENR as hoaxes.

“Upon thorough investigation in cooperation with the Philippine National Police, the information being circulated has been verified to be a hoax,” the DENR said in a statement.

“The DENR calls for vigilant sobriety and advises everyone to immediately report suspicious activity to local authorities.”

The Quezon City Police Department said there were “no signs of any bombs or any improvised explosive device” in the DENR central office.

Bataan Governor Joet Garcia told the public to be vigilant of content they see online.

“Pinabubulaanan din po ng mga awtoridad ang kumakalat na video sa social media na may natagpuang bomba sa Culis, Hermosa,” Garcia said in a post on Monday.

(Authorities refuted that the video of the retrieval of a bomb circulating in social media was from Culis, Hermosa.)

https://www.rappler.com/philippines/nbi-investigation-bomb-threats-government-offices-february-2024/

Philippine Marine Corps Began Rapid Deployment Exercise in Northern Luzon

From Atlas News (Feb 12, 2024): Philippine Marine Corps Began Rapid Deployment Exercise in Northern Luzon (By:Joaquin Camarena)

Exercise Irugi

The Philippine Marine Corps’ (PMC) 4th Marine Brigade began Exercise Irugi 02-24 on February 11th, its first exercise of 2024 in Batanes, Cagayan, and Ilocos Norte provinces. The exercise is designed to test the brigade’s and its attached unit’s operational control and capabilities as a “Readily Deployable Force” for contingencies in its Area of Operations (AO). Irugi will also test the brigade’s ability to be ready to deploy to any location in the Philippines within one hour.


Philippine Marine Corps Battalion Landing Team 10 during rapid deployment exercise to airport during Irugi (Photo: Philippine Marine Corps Battalion Landing Team 10)

The contingencies range from Humanitarian Disaster and Relief (HADR) to conducting counter-landing operations and “force-oriented reconnaissance.” The exercise will also consist of live-fire exercises using various small-arms, crew-served weapons, and mortar systems.

The brigade’s associated battalions, Marine Battalion Landing Teams 8 and 10, will also conduct rapid deployment exercises to the nearest airports. Specifically, the exercise will consist of two rifle companies and element of the battalion’s command element moving to the airports.

The exercise also includes PMC reservists to test the reserve unit’s ability to integrate and operate with the PMC’s active-duty component.

Analysis

The exercise comes as China made statements against the Armed Forces of the Philippines’s planned troop and facility expansion in nearby Batanes province. The exercise’s emphasis on the unit’s ability to rapidly deploy illustrates that the APF understands how strategically valuable the AO is in any conflict with China.

The PMC is likely preparing for the possibility that the 4th Marine Brigade would defend Northern Luzon from a possible incursion from China to occupy Batanes province. That is why the units are practicing how to conduct counter-landing operations in addition to testing their ability to rapidly deploy on short notice. However, the brigade also understands that it must also include HADR exercises because it will be more likely to be tasked with helping in those kinds of scenarios than with conventional operations.

https://theatlasnews.co/breakingnews/2024/02/12/philippine-marine-corps-began-rapid-deployment-exercise-in-northern-luzon/

Wescom to enhance security at Malampaya platform

Posted to the Mindanao Examiner (Feb 12, 2024): Wescom to enhance security at Malampaya platform

THE WESTERN Command (Wescom) is beefing up security at the Malampaya natural gas platform located off the coast of this province to ensure its continued operation in case of any unforeseen threats.

In a press briefing Saturday, Vice Admiral Alberto Carlos, commander of Wescom, said securing the "energy crown jewel” is paramount, necessitating elevated security measures that include training the facility’s security personnel to collaborate with the military.

"In our pursuit of heightened security and preparedness, Wescom remains steadfast in its important role of safeguarding the energy infrastructure crucial for our nation's sustenance," he said.

Carlos disclosed that a joint exercise between platform security personnel and Wescom troops is being organized to better prepare the Malampaya facility for future security challenges.

The joint exercise, called Gas Oil Platform Takedown and Recovery Training (GOPLAT), is scheduled in the second quarter of the year, he added.

On Thursday, Wescom’s top officer visited the Malampaya offshore platform to assess existing security protocols and coordinate with on-site security personnel on the upcoming GOPLAT exercise.

The platform is located about 80 km. off the northwest coast of the Palawan mainland.


Carlos added that securing Malampaya is “of utmost significance” because it produces approximately 20 percent of the Philippines’ daily electricity requirements.

He explained that Wescom, operating through the Joint Task Force Malampaya, performs a substantial role in ensuring the uninterrupted and secure operations of the vital facility through close collaboration with key security and production personnel from the Malampaya Deepwater Gas-to-Power Project.

Meanwhile, the third iteration of the maritime cooperative activity between Philippine and US allied forces in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) came to an end on Friday.

Carlos noted that the Maritime Cooperative Activity was conducted without any issues arising in contested waters during the war games.

He noted that the latest exercise reaffirmed the shared commitment of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the United States Indo-Pacific Command to bolster security and stability across the Indo-Pacific Region, while also showcasing their enduring friendship.

"These cooperative ventures serve not just as training for our forces at sea but as a clear signal of our shared resolve to maintain regional peace and security," he added.

US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson, meanwhile, emphasized the importance of collaborative maritime endeavors and joint patrols in the WPS, pointing out their broad implications that extend beyond national boundaries.

“We have to continue the exercise and to make sure that we can work together. I have no doubt that there will be many maritime cooperative activities coming up on the horizon, not just bilaterally; I would also expect multilaterally. There are other countries that are very interested in cooperating with the Philippines," she said during a visit to Palawan on Tuesday. (Izza Reynoso)

https://mindanaoexaminernewspaper.blogspot.com/2024/02/wescom-to-enhance-security-at-malampaya.html

Batanes eyed for Balikatan military drills

From the Manila Standard (Feb 13, 2024): Batanes eyed for Balikatan military drills (By Vince Lopez)

Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro

Organizers of this year’s “Balikatan” military exercises are considering parts of Northern Luzon including Mavulis Island in Batanes provinces to serve as a venue of the annual drills.

“Our exercises rotate to different parts of the Philippines. Right now, our outlying areas are being considered as we are now externally oriented. So this means our exercises also are geared at such. One of the areas being considered is Northern Luzon. It is still being considered and there is no final decision yet,” Philippine Navy spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Commodore Roy Vincent Trinidad said in an interview with dzRH.


This developed as the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) launched a program to bring livelihood assistance to Filipino fishermen in the West Philippine Sea, an official announced Monday.

The program, called Livelihood Activities to Enhance Fisheries Yields and Economic Gains from the West Philippine Sea (LAYAG WPS), aims to support the estimated 385,300 Filipino fishermen in the West Philippine Sea and provinces facing the waterway.

BFAR spokesman Nazario Briguera added in a televised briefing that the BFAR is planning to add more floating assets to help them reach more Filipino fishermen in the WPS.

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. earlier ordered the military to expand its presence in Batanes – a plan that elicited an immediate warning from China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin who said the Philippines should “tread carefully and don’t play with fire” by putting troops near Taiwan.

The Department of National Defense, however, was also quick to rebuff Beijing: “Batanes is Philippine territory and China has no business warning the Philippines about what it does within its own territory.”


US maritime security expert Ray Powell, for his part, said boosting military presence in Batanes could complicate China’s problems, which eventually could be beneficial for the Philippines.

“By strengthening Philippine national defense overall and particularly in the maritime area, we want to see China have to think about more things,” he said in an interview with ANC.

“Any day that Xi Jinping wakes up in the morning and thinks this is a bad day to cause problems for the Philippines is a good day for the Philippines and so to the extent that he looks out and sees this is too complicated,” Powell added.

Plans to build more structures in Batanes are part of the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept to address gaps in the country’s defenses.

https://manilastandard.net/news/314416156/batanes-eyed-for-balikatan-military-drills.html

Remembering the ‘Jolo-caust’: 50 years since the burning of Jolo

From Rappler (Feb12, 2024): Remembering the ‘Jolo-caust’: 50 years since the burning of Jolo (By HERBIE GOMEZ)



Five decades later, what lingers is a sense of nostalgia, with many survivors still longing to witness the return of Jolo's former glory

CAGAYAN DE ORO, Philippines – Amroussi “Cheng” Rasul, a grandson of the late Hadji Butu, the first Muslim Filipino senator, vividly recalled the haunting scenes from 50 years ago in Jolo, Sulu province when dogs scavenging for food sniffed on bloated corpses on the streets.

Rasul recounted three near-death experiences, the first occurring when soldiers mistakenly accused him of being a rebel. His life was spared only because his female companion, a relative, intervened and vouched for him.

It was martial law, and soldiers shot and killed many young Tausug men in Jolo on mere suspicion of being rebels, Rasul recalled. Among them, he said, was his classmate, Alfred Chang.

He also recounted narrowly escaping a bullet and nearly stepping on a land mine.

Days after the fighting broke out, he found himself scavenging for food and joining looters who raided stores for sustenance.

“I was scavenging for food,” he said.

Rasul’s grim memory harked back to the government’s military crackdown on the historic town, as it sought to suppress the uprising of the Nur Misuari-led Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), then a new group that emerged to challenge the martial law imposed by the late strongman Ferdinand E. Marcos more than a year earlier and started the struggle for Moro independence.

Dorothy Lim Gokioko, a former bank executive and survivor of the siege, recalled her family’s harrowing escape from Jolo under the cover of darkness. Packed tightly aboard an overcrowded ferry, they navigated through rough waters without any light.

“It was pitch black, around midnight. We were floating on rough water, and there was no light. I was terrified. I will never forget that night,” Gokioko said.

Five decades later, the events of the February 4-11, 1974 siege in Jolo remain largely forgotten, and neither the local governments nor the National Commission for Muslim Filipinos (MCMF) has arranged commemorative activities for what has been dubbed the “Jolo-caust.”

The Battle of Jolo, also called The Burning of Jolo, was a significant but often overlooked event in the country’s history in that it was the strongest resistance against the martial regime of Marcos at that time, said retired judge Soliman Santos Jr. during the live-streamed “The Siege of Jolo 1974” forum at the University of the Philippines in Quezon City on Monday, February 12.

At the same time, the event signaled the beginning of a growing movement for Mindanao independence, according to Santos, author of the book The Moro Islamic Challenge: Constitutional Rethinking for the Mindanao Peace Process.

The intense fighting devastated Jolo, with thousands of civilian deaths and most of its residents forced to flee.

As the military fought against MNLF forces, intense battles spread throughout the city. Military ships bombarded the pier, a gas station exploded, and napalm bombs were used. After days of fighting, the military regained control, but about two-thirds of the Jolo burned to the ground and lay in ruins.

The siege forced around 40,000 people to flee, with civilian deaths estimated between 1,000 to 10,000. The government also suffered losses, including 250 soldiers, a fighter jet, and four helicopters. Diseases like cholera and acute gastroenteritis added to the crisis after the siege ended, according to the forum’s organizers quoting various sources.

From rich to poor

Amina Rasul, lead convenor of the Philippine Center for Islam and Democracy (PCID), said it was a “devastating blow to the fabric of Tausug and Jolo society resulting in immeasurable human suffering, economic hardships, and destruction of our political structure… and represented a very painful part of our history.”

Amina said Jolo island was a relatively rich town due to its barter trade and was a promising growth center in the Sulu archipelago until the 1974 destruction.

“People in Manila think we were always poor. No, we were very well off even though we were neglected by the government,” she said.


IMPACT. Philippine Center for Islam and Democracy (PCID) head Amina Rasul says Sulu was a relatively rich province and was a promising growth area until its destruction in February 1974, making it among the “poorest areas” in the country.

Amina said the event derailed Jolo because of the destruction of its infrastructure, capital flight, and brain-drain, making it among the “poorest of the poor” areas in the country.

“Because of the complete destruction… the money that made Jolo relatively rich went to enrich Zamboanga, General Santos, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Manila… And because there was capital flight and the destruction of infrastructure, the best and brightest had to leave because there were no opportunities and they had to support their families,” she said.

Amroussi Rasul said, “We had everything before.”

He said Jolo, the seat of the Sultanate of Sulu, was doing well in international trade before the 1974 siege.

1974 disinformation

The Marcos administration then, concerned about possible consequences from oil-producing Muslim nations, took steps to address the humanitarian impact in the predominantly Muslim province. It established a government task force to lead Jolo’s recovery, which included actions like stopping loan repayments to banks, providing significant loans to residents, and pausing tax collection temporarily.

Days before the fighting, rumors circulated in Jolo that communist rebels were planning to take the town under siege, recalled Gokioko.

Elgin Salomon, an assistant history professor at UP-Visayas in Iloilo, said the government then initially concealed the situation in Jolo and later framed the narrative that it was fighting “Maoist rebels” in Jolo through its controlled media.

According to Salomon, the Marcos administration accused Misuari of being the right-hand man of the late Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founder Jose Maria Sison, and the rebels were also labeled as communist guerrillas, a government narrative that aligned with the reason for the declaration of martial law in 1972.

Salomon said the government even asked Kuwait and Saudi Arabia to withdraw their support for the “Maoist elements” who supposedly initiated the armed conflict in Jolo.

He said Misuari had a role in founding the communist rebellion-linked Kabataang Makabayan (KM) but eventually left the group, and then organized a secessionist movement in Mindanao.

“The MNLF [was] not a Maoist organization; it [was] a Muslim secessionist movement,” Salomon said.

The MNLF subsequently abandoned its pursuit of independence and forged a peace agreement with the Ramos administration in the 1990s. The accord led to the establishment of the now-defunct Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), the precursor to the current and expanded Bangsamoro region.

Five decades later, what lingers is a sense of nostalgia, with many survivors still longing to witness the return of Jolo’s former glory, said Agnes Shari Tan Aliman, a survivor and author of the book The Siege of Jolo, 1974.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/mindanao/remembering-jolocaust-burning-jolo-february-12-2024/

NTF-ELCAC effective vs CPP-NPA – Army

From the Visayan Daily Star (Feb 12, 2024): NTF-ELCAC effective vs CPP-NPA – Army (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines Visayas Command attributed much of what they have accomplished in the campaign against the Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) in Visayas, to the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).

In a statement, VISCOM chief Lt. Gen. Benedict Arevalo said “the Task Force ELCAC Task Force does wonders in our efforts to end the local communist armed conflict in the Visayas region.”

“Much of what we have accomplished is attributed to the Task Force through its peace dialogue mechanism, community development initiatives, and local government empowerment endeavors,” Arevalo stressed.

He made the statement following the recent conduct of the VISCOM Campaign Briefing to all its subordinate units in Visayas, which was held at Camp Lapu Lapu in Cebu City.


The engagement aims to apprise all commanders of AFP units in the Visayas region on the adjustments of VISCOM’s campaign against the CPP-NPA, as well as its current thrust and programs, which will serve as the basis and reference of these units in the conduct of internal security operations.

VISCOM records indicated that a total of 218 former rebels have returned to the folds of law, as a result of the localized peace dialogue mechanism of NTF-ELCAC. At the same time, 196 firearms were also surrendered by former rebels.

It also reported the completion of 562 community development projects in former NPA infested communities, including those in Negros Island.


Arevalo said the completion of these projects led to the permanent closure and complete resolution of the issues being exploited by the CPP-NPA to recruit and deceive the people to go against the government, as well as the collapse of NPA political structures.

He also reported that all NPA-infested communities in the Visayas region have already been cleared and the community engagement efforts of the AFP are now geared towards preventing the resurgence of the CPP-NPA in the region.

A total of 9,215 local government units (LGUs) in the Visayas region, from the provincial down to the barangays, have already denounced the CPP-NPA and declared the terrorist group ‘persona non grata’, VISCOM reports further said.

“Our people did not turn a blind eye to our efforts and sacrifices. As a matter of fact, they recognized and openly expressed their satisfaction to our efforts with the NTF-ELCAC. This is the first time a satisfaction survey was conducted for the AFP, where we achieved the highest satisfaction rating in the Visayas. It is usually in Mindanao. This is a clear manifestation of the gratitude and appreciation of our people.” Arevalo said.

“May the voice of our people be a driving force for us to never waver in our efforts to pursue the remnants of the CPP-NPA. With the continued support and intervention of NTF-ELCAC, let us do more and accomplish more for the attainment of lasting peace and stability in the Visayas region and for our people whom we have sworn to serve and protect”, he further said.

https://visayandailystar.com/ntf-elcac-effective-vs-cpp-npa-army/

MSU bombing ‘brains’ killed in encounter–AFP

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Feb 13, 2024): MSU bombing ‘brains’ killed in encounter–AFP (By: Frances Mangosing)



ARMSCACHE SEIZED Military troops inspect the war materiel recovered from members of the Dawlah Islamiyah-Maute terrorist group on Jan. 25 to Jan. 26 in Lanao del Sur. —AFP

The alleged mastermind behind December’s deadly bombing at Mindanao State University (MSU) was killed during an operation conducted by the military in Lanao del Sur last month, the Armed Forces of the Philippines said on Monday. The AFP identified the suspect as Khadafi Mimbesa, also known as “Engineer,” the amir or leader of the Dawlah Islamiyah–Maute Group, a local affiliate of the terrorist network Islamic State.

The MSU bomb attack, which happened at the university’s gymnasium during a Catholic mass on Dec. 3, 2023, left four people killed and 50 others injured.

Khatab, “a high-value individual” in the DI-Maute group who surrendered to the 2nd Mechanized Brigade on Feb. 11, confirmed the death of Mimbesa.

The two were identified by survivors of the bombing and with the help of footage taken by police investigators from a security camera.

According to the police, Mimbesa and Khatab were seen arriving in the area on a motorcycle before the explosion. They then left before the bomb went off.

Mimbesa, tagged as the terrorist group’s “IED (improvised explosive device) expert,” was identified by police investigators as the person carrying a bag that contained a 60-millimeter mortar coupled with a rocket-propelled grenade. He reportedly triggered the IED through a cell phone.

The encounter in Piagapo, Lanao del Sur, on Jan. 25 and Jan. 26 left nine suspected members of the group dead, three of them suspects in the MSU bombing.

Call to surrender

AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. called on the “remnants” of the terrorist group to surrender. “Our troops will be relentless in the pursuit of those who will seek to disturb the peace. Take this as an invitation and a call to surrender now and avoid the same fate as your dead comrades,” he said.

Four soldiers who were wounded in the Lanao del Sur operation were honored on Monday by the government with combat medals.

President Marcos, who was accompanied by Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., Brawner and Army chief Lt. Gen. Roy Galido, awarded the Gold Cross Medal to Staff Sgt. Jhonny Batican and Private First Class Mark John Culaway at the Army General Hospital in Taguig City.

READ: One of suspects in MSU bombing arrested in Marawi City — AFP

Batican “strategically aimed” an M203 grenade launcher at the suspected terrorists’ position, significantly reducing their numbers, according to the AFP. Culaway, on the other hand, ensured the safety of the maneuvering team but suffered injuries as a result.

The Gold Cross Medal is the fourth highest military award, which is given in recognition of a soldier’s gallantry in action.

Mr. Marcos also awarded the Military Merit Medal with Bronze Spearhead Device to Privates First Class Vincent Salvani and Jheremy Addatu for risking their lives “to take critical points and prevent the enemy from escaping.”

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1903260/msu-bombing-brains-killed-in-encounter-afp

Military says MSU bombing ‘mastermind’ killed in January operation

From Rappler (Feb 12, 2024): Military says MSU bombing ‘mastermind’ killed in January operation (By BEA CUPIN)



Weeks after the operation took place, the AFP says it killed a leader of the Dawlah Islamiyah in an operation

MANILA, Philippines – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said Monday, February 12, that military personnel killed during a January 2024 operation in Lanao del Sur Khadafi Mimbesa, the alleged mastermind of a deadly blast in Marawi City.

In a statement, the AFP said Mimbesa was a “perpetrator” of the bombing at the Marawi State University (MSU) campus which killed at least four and injured scores more.

Mimbesa, as well as “local terrorists and armed members of the Dawlah Islamiyah,” was killed during an operation from January 25 to 26 in Lanao del Sur led by the 103rd Brigade of the Philippine Army.

The AFP said Mimbesa’s identity was confirmed through a “surrendered terrorist” identified as “Khatab” who had yielded to the 2nd Mechanized Brigade only on February 11. The military said Khatab’s statements “corroborated the initial information on the demise of the DI-Maute Group Amir and the mastermind behind the MSU bombing.”

Other Stories

Remembering the ‘Jolo-caust’: 50 years since the burning of Jolo
Five decades later, what lingers is a sense of nostalgia, with many survivors still longing to witness the return of Jolo's former glory

MSU bombing brains not among those killed in Lanao del Sur clashes – military
The military says a manhunt is ongoing for six other terrorists, including the mastermind of the December 3, 2023 bombing in Marawi, who managed to escape


It was in early December 2023 that an explosion occurred at the MSU campus in Marawi City, just as Mass was being held in its gymnasium. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said “foreign terrorists” were behind the attack.

Islamic State militants eventually claimed responsibility for the bombing. Days after the blast, military and police said a man believed to be an accomplice in the deadly blast had been arrested.

Philippine security and defense officials earlier pointed to recent government campaigns against the ISIS-inspired terrorist Dawlah Islamiyah in different parts of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao as a motive for bombing the MSU Marawi campus.

https://www.rappler.com/philippines/military-says-msu-bombing-mastermind-killed-january-2024/

Philippines confirms death of senior militant blamed for December bombing in Marawi

Posted to BenarNews (Feb 12, 2024): Philippines confirms death of senior militant blamed for December bombing in Marawi (BenarNews staff)


A soldier stands guard at the entrance of a Mindanao State University gymnasium while police investigators look for evidence after a bomb attack during a Catholic Mass, in Marawi, southern Philippines, Dec. 3, 2023.  Merlyn Manos/AFP

The Philippine military on Monday confirmed the killing of a suspected senior Islamic State-affiliated militant whom it accused as the mastermind of a deadly bombing during a Catholic Mass in the southern city of Marawi in December.

Military chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said the Daulah Islamiyah (DI) emir had been identified as among nine militants killed in military operations on Jan. 25 and 26 in a remote part of Lanao del Sur, a province in the southern Philippines.

The military’s 103rd Infantry Army “confirmed the death of
Khadafi Mimbesa, also known as Engineer, in the military operation in January,” Brawner’s office said in a statement.

Several sources, including one militant identified only as
Khatab who had surrendered to the military on Sunday, confirmed to investigators the identities of those who died, a senior military official who asked to be kept anonymous told BenarNews.

Khatab is a known “high-value individual in the DI-Maute group”
and he corroborated intelligence reports earlier gathered by troops, the military said.


However, one military source told BenarNews that troops in the field had yet to recover the body of Mimbesa even as he insisted that their intelligence information was beyond reproach.

The Dec. 3 bombing killed four people occurred during a Mass at the Mindanao State University gymnasium in Marawi, a city that came under siege from Islamic State-linked militants in 2017.

That siege lasted for five months and led to the destruction of much of Marawi and the deaths of at least 1,200 militants, soldiers, police and civilians before the military, backed by American and Australian intelligence support, defeated the militants.

It was spearheaded by Filipino Islamic State leader Isnilon Hapilon of the Abu Sayyaf group as well as Maute family members in Marawi, who controlled their own fighters. Hapilon and the Maute leaders were among those killed, although other militants have taken over their leadership roles.

“Daulah Islamiyah” means “Islamic State” in the local language. Its membership includes fighters from several Filipino militant factions, including the Maute group, which had provided fighters and logistics during the siege of Marawi.

Brawner lauded the troops in successfully pursuing those responsible for the university bombing and called on other militants to surrender.

“Our troops will be relentless in the pursuit of those who will seek to disturb the peace. Take this as an invitation and a call to surrender now and avoid the same fate as your dead comrades,” he said.

“The Armed Forces of the Philippines will always be a catalyst for peace and assure the public of the military’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding peace and security in Mindanao and across the country,” he said.

The bombing occurred after security forces killed 11 Muslim militants identified as members of a local Daulah Islamiyah cell in the southern province of Maguindanao, including two Islamic militants it identified as Mundi Sawadjaan and Jalandoni Lucsadato, in coordinated actions.

Authorities identified Mundi as a sub-leader of IS-linked Abu Sayyaf and the nephew of the late Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan, who was thought to be the group’s leader before his death in 2020.

Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan was identified as the mastermind of a January 2019 bombing at a Catholic cathedral in Jolo, killing 23 people including an Indonesian couple blamed for the suicide attack, according to Philippine authorities.


Roel PareƱo in Zamboanga, Philippines, contributed to this report.

https://www.benarnews.org/english/news/philippine/militant-killed-02122024151006.html

2 US Marine Corps planes to help relief efforts in Davao Oro

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 12, 2024): 2 US Marine Corps planes to help relief efforts in Davao Oro (By Priam Nepomuceno)



READY TO HELP. A US Marine Corps KC-130J "Hercules" aircraft stationed at the Villamor Airbase, Pasay City in this undated photo. The AFP on Monday (Feb. 12, 2024) said the US Marine Corps would deploy two "Hercules" aircraft for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations for landslide-hit areas in Barangay Masara, Maco, Davao de Oro province. (Photo courtesy of the AFP/JUSMAG)

MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Monday announced that two United States Marine Corps KC-130 "Hercules" cargo aircraft would join the relief efforts in Barangay Masara, Maco, Davao de Oro province by delivering supplies to residents affected by a landslide in the area.

"In a collaborative effort between the United States Armed Forces and the AFP, two US Marine Corps KC-130J Hercules aircraft will be providing assistance in delivering supplies to the affected communities of the Masara landslide in Mindanao," AFP public affairs office chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad said in a statement.

The two aircraft are stationed at Villamor Air Base, Pasay City while the processing, weighing and loading of supplies are ongoing.

Trinidad said the plan is to make "four deliveries daily (two per plane) to maintain a steady supply to the affected areas."

"The US Marines from the III Marine Expeditionary Force will assist with the ongoing disaster relief mission with troops from the Marine Air Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing delivering essential supplies for distribution," he added.


Trinidad said this joint effort highlights the shared commitment of the two countries to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief as shown in the US-Philippines "maritime cooperative activity" (MCA) in the West Philippine Sea on Feb. 9 to 10.

Sustain relief efforts

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., meanwhile, directed the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) to ensure that relief efforts in the Caraga region are in full swing.

As of Sunday, a total of 113,463 families in the region have so far been affected by bad weather caused by the northeast monsoon and the trough of a low pressure area, according to the OCD.

The region has so far received nearly PHP72 million worth of relief assistance, which came from various government agencies including the OCD, Department of Social Welfare and Development, and Department of Health, local government units of different provinces, and several non-government organizations.

“The local government units and various government agencies are ensuring that all needed assistance is provided to aid the affected families. We thank those several non-governmental organizations that have also extended assistance,” OCD administrator Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno said in a statement.

More assistance

Meanwhile, the US government will also provide nearly PHP70 million (USD1.25 million) in humanitarian aid to Mindanao.

In a news release on Monday, the US Embassy in the Philippines said the new funding would provide emergency food, shelter, water, sanitation, and essential hygiene items to support disaster-affected communities in Davao de Oro, Davao del Norte, and Davao City.

Last week, the US Agency for International Development (USAID) partnered with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development and the International Organization for Migration to provide emergency shelter for more than 5,000 affected individuals.

The USAID also supported the World Food Programme to transport Department of Social Welfare and Development food packs to 65,000 families.

“We are proud to partner with the Philippine government to support the immediate needs of Mindanaoans in the areas hardest hit by the flooding and landslides,” USAID mission director Ryan Washburn said.

“This support will help ensure that food and other life-saving supplies reach communities most in need.” (with Ma. Teresa Montemayor/PNA)
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1218653

Northern Luzon areas eyed as venue for 'Balikatan' 2024

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 12, 2024): Northern Luzon areas eyed as venue for 'Balikatan' 2024 (By Priam Nepomuceno)



Philippine Navy spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Commodore Roy Vincent Trinidad (PNA file photo by Priam F. Nepomuceno)

MANILA – Organizers of this year's "Balikatan" exercises are considering parts of Northern Luzon including Mavulis Island in Batanes provinces to serve as a venue of the annual drills, a military official said Sunday.

"Ang ating exercises ay iniikot natin sa ibat ibang parte ng Pilipinas. Right now, kino-consider ang mga outlying areas natin kasi nga sabi ko nga kanina, externally-oriented na tayo. So pati sa ating exercises. One of the areas being considered is Northern Luzon. Kino-consider pa lamang at wala pang final na desisyon (Our exercises rotate to different parts of the Philippines. Right now, our outlying areas are being considered as we are now externally oriented. So this means our exercises also are geared at such. One of the areas being considered is Northern Luzon. It is still being considered and there is no final decision yet)," Philippine Navy spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, Commodore Roy Vincent Trinidad said in an interview with DZRH.


Asked about Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr.’s instructions to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to expand its presence in Batanes, Trinidad said this is due to the waning threats posed by the communist insurgency.

With this development, the AFP is now shifting its focus from being "internally oriented to externally oriented", he added.

"We could now focus on the greater task of defense and security na palabas ang (with an outward) orientation," Trinidad said.

Trinidad, meanwhile, echoed the DND's position that China has no business with how the Philippines would plan its defense and security posture, saying this move is "all part and parcel of securing what is ours."

This is in response to Beijing's warning for Manila "not to play with fire" over the issue of Taiwan, which is near Batanes, the country's northernmost province.

"China’s pronouncements and acts are the main reasons for its low credibility with the Filipino people. China should refrain from engaging in provocative rhetoric and activities if it truly wants to earn the widespread trust and respect that it is trying so hard to gain but has, so far, been unable to," the DND said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1218655

AFP: MSU bombing 'mastermind' killed in Lanao Sur ops

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 12, 2024): AFP: MSU bombing 'mastermind' killed in Lanao Sur ops (By Priam Nepomuceno)



MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Monday announced that its troops have neutralized the alleged mastermind in the December 2023 bombing of the Mindanao State University (MSU) gymnasium in Marawi City.

In a statement, AFP public affairs office chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad said
Khadafi Mimbesa alias 'Engineer', a reported amir of the Dawlah Islamiyah terror group, was killed in military operations in Lanao del Sur province last month.

"The efforts of the (Philippine Army) 103rd Brigade, under the leadership of their commander, Brig. Gen. Yegor Rey Barroquillo Jr., resulted in the neutralization of local terrorists and armed members of the Dawlah Islamiyah in Lanao del Sur on Jan. 25-26, 2024, who were identified as perpetrators of the fatal bombing at Mindanao State University (MSU) on December 3, 2023," Trinidad said.

He added that Mimbesa's death was confirmed through a statement of a surrendered terrorist identified only as
"Khatab", a high-value individual of the DI-Maute Group who surrendered to the 2nd Mechanized Brigade on Sunday.


The decisive military operations also resulted in the recovery of nine high-powered firearms, a bandolier, four Baofeng radios, and a smartphone, Trinidad said.

Meanwhile, AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. lauded the troops in successfully pursuing those responsible for the MSU bombing and called on remnants of the group to surrender.

"Our troops will be relentless in the pursuit of those who will seek to disturb the peace. Take this as an invitation and a call to surrender now and avoid the same fate as your dead comrades," he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1218656