From ABS-CBN (Apr 15): Eight Abu Sayyaf linked to Australian kidnapping killed
MILF: We were attacked too
MANILA - A military commander in Basilan said at least eight alleged members of the Abu Sayyaf were killed during a firefight with government soldiers in the outskirts of Tipo-tipo in Basilan on Monday.
Col. Carlito Galvez, commander of the Army's 104th Brigade, said they targeted the lair of Abu Sayyaf leaders Furuji Indama and Isnilon Hapilon.
He said the operation began at 5:30 a.m. Three hours later, the Abu Sayyaf’s camp fell in the hands of the soldiers, he said.
"Based on the account of the operating troops, at least eight Abu Sayyaf men died in the fighting but there is no confirmation as to [the exact number]," said Galvez. Three from the government’s side were injured, he said.
Col. Rodrigo Gregorio, spokesman of the military's Western Mindanao Command, said the group may also have been involved in the kidnapping of Australian Warren Richard Rodwell, who was released in Pagadian last month.
"Both ASG leaders and most of their followers presently have several standing warrant of arrest for crimes ranging from kidnapping and serious illegal detention, murder and frustrated murder," he said.
The operation was near the lair of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
Gregorio explained, however, "We would like to emphasize that the operation was conducted and directed only against the ASG terrorists with utmost consideration on the safety of MILF communities in the operational area.”
However, the MILF said on its website that the members of the 18th Infantry Battalion attacked them as well.
Luwaran quoted Abbas Salung, a member of the MILF Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities, as saying that the incident had been relayed to the MILF headquarters in Camp Darapanan in Maguindanao.
They were already ordered to file a complaint for violation of the ceasefire between the MILF and the government.
"The encounter had already ceased but actions must be undertaken by the government to avoid recurrence of the firefight between the government and MILF forces and to prove that the government forces are indeed upholding the policy of the PNoy government for the primacy of the peace process," Salung said.
The MILF members supposedly attacked were under the leadership of Ustaz Hamzah Sapanton, a provincial committee chairman of the MILF.
Quoting Sapanton, Salung said: “Clearly there is a deliberate act to undermine the ceasefire and the peace talks between the government and MILF, which only compounds the increasing doubts of the public over the sincerity of the government in the peace process.”
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/04/15/13/eight-abu-sayyaf-linked-australian-kidnapping-killed
Monday, April 15, 2013
6 pearl farm workers abducted in Palawan
From ABS-CBN (Apr 15): 6 pearl farm workers abducted in Palawan
Armed men kidnapped six workers at a pearl farm in Taytay town, Palawan province Monday.
The Philippine Navy said the kidnapping happened at a pearl farm managed by Jack Branalic on Cagdanao Island.
Navy officials have yet to name the suspects behind the kidnapping.
Officials said the kidnapping could be linked to alleged extortion attempts in the area.
They said an extortion attempt at another pearl farm in San Vicente led to the burning of a boat.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/04/15/13/6-pearl-farm-workers-abducted-palawan
Armed men kidnapped six workers at a pearl farm in Taytay town, Palawan province Monday.
The Philippine Navy said the kidnapping happened at a pearl farm managed by Jack Branalic on Cagdanao Island.
Navy officials have yet to name the suspects behind the kidnapping.
Officials said the kidnapping could be linked to alleged extortion attempts in the area.
They said an extortion attempt at another pearl farm in San Vicente led to the burning of a boat.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/04/15/13/6-pearl-farm-workers-abducted-palawan
6 Abu suspects killed in separate Basilan clashes; 3 soldiers wounded
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Apr 15): 6 Abu suspects killed in separate Basilan clashes; 3 soldiers wounded
Six suspected Abu Sayyaf bandits were killed while three government soldiers were wounded in two separate encounters in Tipo-Tipo, Basilan on Monday morning, the military said.
This as General Rey Ardo, chief of the Western Mindanao Command, said the military launched ground assaults against the Abu Sayyaf group led by Furuji Indama and Isnilon Hapilon in the village Silangkom.
Ardo said the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in the area was informed about the military operation.
“The MILF committed not to move from their present location in case troops clashed with the ASG,” he said.
Col. Carlito Galvez, chief of the 104th Army Brigade, said the first encounter happened at around 5:40 a.m. Monday in Silangkom village, where two bandits were killed and two soldiers were injured.
Four hours later, another clash broke out in Kurellem village, leaving four bandits killed and a soldier wounded.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/391137/6-abu-suspects-killed-in-separate-basilan-clashes-3-soldiers-wounded
Six suspected Abu Sayyaf bandits were killed while three government soldiers were wounded in two separate encounters in Tipo-Tipo, Basilan on Monday morning, the military said.
This as General Rey Ardo, chief of the Western Mindanao Command, said the military launched ground assaults against the Abu Sayyaf group led by Furuji Indama and Isnilon Hapilon in the village Silangkom.
Ardo said the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in the area was informed about the military operation.
“The MILF committed not to move from their present location in case troops clashed with the ASG,” he said.
Col. Carlito Galvez, chief of the 104th Army Brigade, said the first encounter happened at around 5:40 a.m. Monday in Silangkom village, where two bandits were killed and two soldiers were injured.
Four hours later, another clash broke out in Kurellem village, leaving four bandits killed and a soldier wounded.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/391137/6-abu-suspects-killed-in-separate-basilan-clashes-3-soldiers-wounded
Sultan’s men set up guerrilla base
From the Philippine Star (Apr 15): Sultan’s
men set up guerrilla base
After eluding Malaysian authorities for several weeks, the followers of the sultanate of Sulu have set up a guerrilla base in the hinterlands of Sabah, the sultanate’s spokesman said yesterday.
Abraham Idjirani told reporters that the Malaysian military and police knew about the base but could not pinpoint the exact location because the jungle in the area is vast.
Idjirani said the new stronghold is in a strategic location with enough sources of food and water, and with adequate shelter for nearly 500 men.
The base was reported to Idjirani during a conversation the other day with Agbimuddin Kiram, the sultanate-appointed “administrator” of Sabah.
A source from the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) said the base was their former camp where a cache of high-powered weapons was kept at the height of the Mindanao uprising in the early ‘70s.
The source said the base was established by MNLF fighters who joined the group in Lahad Datu to press their proprietary claim over Sabah.
Idjirani clarified the sultan’s fighters would continue to adopt defensive position and would not initiate any attack on the Malaysian forces.
The Malaysian military and police have stopped the operation against the armed group. The last encounter took place last April 9.
Aside from the 400 new arrivals from Sulu, Basilan and Tawi-Tawi, Tausugs based in Lahad Datu and Semporna have also joined the sultanate army at the stronghold.
Idjirani said 80 percent of the army is now fully armed and ready to repeal any attack on the base by Malaysian authorities.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) continues to provide transport for Filipinos evacuating Sabah.
Last Saturday, the BRP Nueva Vizcaya evacuated 79 Filipinos to Bongao, Tawi-Tawi; 17 others, including 12 children and five adults were brought to Jolo, and 62 to Zamboanga City.
http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2013/04/15/930811/sultans-men-set-guerrilla-base
After eluding Malaysian authorities for several weeks, the followers of the sultanate of Sulu have set up a guerrilla base in the hinterlands of Sabah, the sultanate’s spokesman said yesterday.
Abraham Idjirani told reporters that the Malaysian military and police knew about the base but could not pinpoint the exact location because the jungle in the area is vast.
Idjirani said the new stronghold is in a strategic location with enough sources of food and water, and with adequate shelter for nearly 500 men.
The base was reported to Idjirani during a conversation the other day with Agbimuddin Kiram, the sultanate-appointed “administrator” of Sabah.
A source from the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) said the base was their former camp where a cache of high-powered weapons was kept at the height of the Mindanao uprising in the early ‘70s.
The source said the base was established by MNLF fighters who joined the group in Lahad Datu to press their proprietary claim over Sabah.
Idjirani clarified the sultan’s fighters would continue to adopt defensive position and would not initiate any attack on the Malaysian forces.
The Malaysian military and police have stopped the operation against the armed group. The last encounter took place last April 9.
Aside from the 400 new arrivals from Sulu, Basilan and Tawi-Tawi, Tausugs based in Lahad Datu and Semporna have also joined the sultanate army at the stronghold.
Idjirani said 80 percent of the army is now fully armed and ready to repeal any attack on the base by Malaysian authorities.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) continues to provide transport for Filipinos evacuating Sabah.
Last Saturday, the BRP Nueva Vizcaya evacuated 79 Filipinos to Bongao, Tawi-Tawi; 17 others, including 12 children and five adults were brought to Jolo, and 62 to Zamboanga City.
http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2013/04/15/930811/sultans-men-set-guerrilla-base
MILF accuses AFP of violating ceasefire deal
From the Philippine Star (Apr 15): MILF
accuses AFP of violating ceasefire deal
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) on Monday accused the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) of violating the ceasefire agreement, days after the conclusion of its 37th round of formal talks with the government.
In a statement, the MILF said about 40 Army soldiers had attacked its forces this morning in Sitio Badja Maluha, Barangay Baguindan, in Tipo-Tipo, Basilan.
“Firefight ensued for nearly 30 minutes between the MILF forces under Ustaz Hamzah Sapanton, Provincial Committee Chairman, and the raiding government forces numbering to more or less 40 men,” said Abbas Salung, member of the MILF ceasefire committee.
“The encounter had already ceased but actions must be undertaken by the government to avoid recurrence of the firefight between the government and MILF forces,” he added.
Sapanton, leader of the troops that allegedly attacked by the Army, said the incident clouds the government’s sincerity in the peace talks.
“Clearly there is a deliberate act to undermine the ceasefire and the peace talks between the government and MILF, which only compounds the increasing doubts of the public over the sincerity of the government in the peace process,” Sapanton was quoted by the statement as saying.
The incident has been reported to the MILF headquarters at camp Darapanan in Maguindanao. The MILF leadership has asked its ceasefire panel to file the necessary complaint for ceasefire violations.
The incident occurred four days after the government and MILF completed the 37th formal exploratory talks in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Both panels agreed to settle the remaining issues on power-sharing, wealth sharing and normalization during the meeting. Both sides also approved the terms of reference for the Sajahatra Bangsamoro, a program that seeks to promote development in Mindanao.
Earlier, the MILF and the government reported that there were no encounters between their forces last year due to the effective implementation of the ceasefire.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2013/04/15/930964/milf-accuses-afp-violating-ceasefire-deal
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) on Monday accused the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) of violating the ceasefire agreement, days after the conclusion of its 37th round of formal talks with the government.
In a statement, the MILF said about 40 Army soldiers had attacked its forces this morning in Sitio Badja Maluha, Barangay Baguindan, in Tipo-Tipo, Basilan.
“Firefight ensued for nearly 30 minutes between the MILF forces under Ustaz Hamzah Sapanton, Provincial Committee Chairman, and the raiding government forces numbering to more or less 40 men,” said Abbas Salung, member of the MILF ceasefire committee.
“The encounter had already ceased but actions must be undertaken by the government to avoid recurrence of the firefight between the government and MILF forces,” he added.
Sapanton, leader of the troops that allegedly attacked by the Army, said the incident clouds the government’s sincerity in the peace talks.
“Clearly there is a deliberate act to undermine the ceasefire and the peace talks between the government and MILF, which only compounds the increasing doubts of the public over the sincerity of the government in the peace process,” Sapanton was quoted by the statement as saying.
The incident has been reported to the MILF headquarters at camp Darapanan in Maguindanao. The MILF leadership has asked its ceasefire panel to file the necessary complaint for ceasefire violations.
The incident occurred four days after the government and MILF completed the 37th formal exploratory talks in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Both panels agreed to settle the remaining issues on power-sharing, wealth sharing and normalization during the meeting. Both sides also approved the terms of reference for the Sajahatra Bangsamoro, a program that seeks to promote development in Mindanao.
Earlier, the MILF and the government reported that there were no encounters between their forces last year due to the effective implementation of the ceasefire.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2013/04/15/930964/milf-accuses-afp-violating-ceasefire-deal
Sunday, April 14, 2013
Military belittle rebels’ warning vs. vote-buying
From the Leyte Samar Daily Express (Apr 15): Military belittle rebels’ warning vs. vote-buying
The declaration of the communist group based on the region assailing possible vote-buying by candidates relative to the conduct of the May 13, 2013 elections is nothing but phoney talks.
So said the acting spokesperson of the 8th Infantry Division based in Catbalogan City, Captain Amado Gutierrez.
According to Gutierrez, the declaration was only made to cover up the activities of the communist group demanding money from candidates, especially in areas still considered under their “influence.
“Probably, it’s part of their propaganda to offset the issue that they are demanding permit to campaign fee and permit to win fees from candidates as can be confirmed from recently recovered documents,” Gutierrez said in a phone interview.
Earlier, Santiago Salas, spokesperson of the National Democratic Front based here in the region, issued a warning for candidates not to resort to vote-buying and coercion.
He said that those caught resorting to vote buying and coercion would be dealt with accordingly and that any money taken from the candidates intended to buy votes would be confiscated from them.
Gutierrez added that they have been issuing appeals to the candidates not to resort to vote-buying or succumb to the demands of the rebel group for them on permit to campaign or win fees.
The military in the region has appealed to the candidates to report to them if they are being asked by the local communist group on their permit to campaign or win fees.
“This guidance was already downloaded to our unit commands in the front line,” Gutierrez said.
According to the military, candidates were being asked to pay P50, 000 up to P5 million by the rebel group, depending on the position being sought by the candidates.
Salas himself made a strong denial on this in a previous statement.
Gutierrez said that the military in the region support fair, clean and honest elections adding that they do not meddle relative to the conduct of the elections.
“We do not delve on endorsing any candidate as it is against the policy of the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” he said.
He also said that in coordination with the Commission on Elections and the Philippine National Police, they have established checkpoints and combat operations to deter any acts by any armed groups, particularly the New People’s Army, that could affect the peaceful outcome of the balloting on May 13, 2013.
http://leytesamardaily.net/2013/04/military-belittle-rebels-warning-vs-vote-buying/
The declaration of the communist group based on the region assailing possible vote-buying by candidates relative to the conduct of the May 13, 2013 elections is nothing but phoney talks.
So said the acting spokesperson of the 8th Infantry Division based in Catbalogan City, Captain Amado Gutierrez.
According to Gutierrez, the declaration was only made to cover up the activities of the communist group demanding money from candidates, especially in areas still considered under their “influence.
“Probably, it’s part of their propaganda to offset the issue that they are demanding permit to campaign fee and permit to win fees from candidates as can be confirmed from recently recovered documents,” Gutierrez said in a phone interview.
Earlier, Santiago Salas, spokesperson of the National Democratic Front based here in the region, issued a warning for candidates not to resort to vote-buying and coercion.
He said that those caught resorting to vote buying and coercion would be dealt with accordingly and that any money taken from the candidates intended to buy votes would be confiscated from them.
Gutierrez added that they have been issuing appeals to the candidates not to resort to vote-buying or succumb to the demands of the rebel group for them on permit to campaign or win fees.
The military in the region has appealed to the candidates to report to them if they are being asked by the local communist group on their permit to campaign or win fees.
“This guidance was already downloaded to our unit commands in the front line,” Gutierrez said.
According to the military, candidates were being asked to pay P50, 000 up to P5 million by the rebel group, depending on the position being sought by the candidates.
Salas himself made a strong denial on this in a previous statement.
Gutierrez said that the military in the region support fair, clean and honest elections adding that they do not meddle relative to the conduct of the elections.
“We do not delve on endorsing any candidate as it is against the policy of the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” he said.
He also said that in coordination with the Commission on Elections and the Philippine National Police, they have established checkpoints and combat operations to deter any acts by any armed groups, particularly the New People’s Army, that could affect the peaceful outcome of the balloting on May 13, 2013.
http://leytesamardaily.net/2013/04/military-belittle-rebels-warning-vs-vote-buying/
PDEA, DND join forces vs rebs-drug traders alliance
From the Leyte Samar Daily Express (Apr 15): PDEA, DND join forces vs rebs-drug traders alliance
The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the Department of National Defense (DND) will collaborate to contain the reported protection of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) of illegal drugs activities aimed at beefing up their logistical resources to bring down the government.
Liza Baoy, PDEA-8 information officer, said the agency and DND have received reports that the NPA is turning to the illegal drugs trade as a major source of funds to procure weapons and sustain their more than three-decades old uprising against the government.
“There were confirmed reports that leaders of some local drug syndicates have forged ‘unholy alliances’ with rebel groups for protection and self-preservation,” Baoy said.
Alleged involvement of NPA rebels in the maintenance and cultivation of marijuana plantation sites in the countryside, particularly in Cordillera region, had been exposed since the early 80s. In some cases, government troops raiding secret cannabis plantation have come under heavy fire from suspected NPA guerrillas guarding these sites.
“Illicit production, trafficking, sale, distribution and use of illegal drugs are potential dangers enough to unsettle our domestic stability and tranquility. There were several heinous crimes committed by perpetrators who are under the influence of illicit substances,” Baoy added.
The findings, according to Baoy are reasons enough for the PDEA and DND to launch a massive campaign against illegal drug trafficking and abuse.
This is by way of providing PDEA with much-needed intelligence and manpower and logistical resources.
“The two bastions of law enforcement and peace likewise vowed to combine their forces and resources in order to keep the citizenry safe and free from drug-related harms,” Baoy said.
“While the PDEA’s foremost mission is to suppress the supply of illegal drugs in the country, DND’s mandate is to guard against external and internal threats to national peace and security,” she added.
http://leytesamardaily.net/2013/04/pdea-dnd-join-forces-vs-rebs-drug-traders-alliance/
The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the Department of National Defense (DND) will collaborate to contain the reported protection of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) of illegal drugs activities aimed at beefing up their logistical resources to bring down the government.
Liza Baoy, PDEA-8 information officer, said the agency and DND have received reports that the NPA is turning to the illegal drugs trade as a major source of funds to procure weapons and sustain their more than three-decades old uprising against the government.
“There were confirmed reports that leaders of some local drug syndicates have forged ‘unholy alliances’ with rebel groups for protection and self-preservation,” Baoy said.
Alleged involvement of NPA rebels in the maintenance and cultivation of marijuana plantation sites in the countryside, particularly in Cordillera region, had been exposed since the early 80s. In some cases, government troops raiding secret cannabis plantation have come under heavy fire from suspected NPA guerrillas guarding these sites.
“Illicit production, trafficking, sale, distribution and use of illegal drugs are potential dangers enough to unsettle our domestic stability and tranquility. There were several heinous crimes committed by perpetrators who are under the influence of illicit substances,” Baoy added.
The findings, according to Baoy are reasons enough for the PDEA and DND to launch a massive campaign against illegal drug trafficking and abuse.
This is by way of providing PDEA with much-needed intelligence and manpower and logistical resources.
“The two bastions of law enforcement and peace likewise vowed to combine their forces and resources in order to keep the citizenry safe and free from drug-related harms,” Baoy said.
“While the PDEA’s foremost mission is to suppress the supply of illegal drugs in the country, DND’s mandate is to guard against external and internal threats to national peace and security,” she added.
http://leytesamardaily.net/2013/04/pdea-dnd-join-forces-vs-rebs-drug-traders-alliance/
'Army to stay non-partisan’
From the Visayan Daily Star (Apr 15): 'Army to stay non-partisan’
Maj. Gen. Jose Mabanta, 3rd Infantry Division commander, yesterday vowed to ensure that the Philippine Army in Negros and Panay will be apolitical and non-partisan in the May 13 elections.
“We are carrying a big responsibility in this electoral process and that is our commitment to ensure that our troops strictly observe the conduct of honest, orderly and peaceful elections and remain apolitical and non-partisan at all times,” Mabanta said.
He also said the 3rd Infantry Division remains committed in its mandate to support the police and the COMELEC in the implementation of election laws.
The holding of joint Comelec checkpoints by the Philippine National Police and Army in Negros and Panay recently led to the arrest of three ranking rebel leaders in Ilog, Negros Occidental in Jaro, Iloilo City, that also yielded several high-powered firearms, explosives and ammunition.
Mabanta supervises the internal peace and security operations of the 302nd and 303rd Infantry Brigades in Negros island, and 301st Infantry Brigade in Panay.
He reminded troops that the only political exercise they are allowed is to vote.
The Regional Joint Peace and Coordinating Center composed of the Comelec, AFP and PNP, will meet this week, on election-related issues and concerns, and their preparations for the election next month.
Mabanta said the Philippine Army in Negros and Panay is fully committed, and well prepared to address any armed threats. “Thus, we also fully support the campaign for a truthful, peaceful and free elections,” he added.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2013/April/15/topstory4.htm
Maj. Gen. Jose Mabanta, 3rd Infantry Division commander, yesterday vowed to ensure that the Philippine Army in Negros and Panay will be apolitical and non-partisan in the May 13 elections.
“We are carrying a big responsibility in this electoral process and that is our commitment to ensure that our troops strictly observe the conduct of honest, orderly and peaceful elections and remain apolitical and non-partisan at all times,” Mabanta said.
He also said the 3rd Infantry Division remains committed in its mandate to support the police and the COMELEC in the implementation of election laws.
The holding of joint Comelec checkpoints by the Philippine National Police and Army in Negros and Panay recently led to the arrest of three ranking rebel leaders in Ilog, Negros Occidental in Jaro, Iloilo City, that also yielded several high-powered firearms, explosives and ammunition.
Mabanta supervises the internal peace and security operations of the 302nd and 303rd Infantry Brigades in Negros island, and 301st Infantry Brigade in Panay.
He reminded troops that the only political exercise they are allowed is to vote.
The Regional Joint Peace and Coordinating Center composed of the Comelec, AFP and PNP, will meet this week, on election-related issues and concerns, and their preparations for the election next month.
Mabanta said the Philippine Army in Negros and Panay is fully committed, and well prepared to address any armed threats. “Thus, we also fully support the campaign for a truthful, peaceful and free elections,” he added.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2013/April/15/topstory4.htm
Photo: Balikatan constructs footbridge in San Pascual, Zambales
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 14): Photo: Balikatan constructs footbridge in San Pascual, Zambales
A Philippine Seabee high-fives a U.S. Navy engineer after mixing a batch of cement for the construction of a footbridge in San Pascual, Zambales. The footbridge is being built as part of this year’s Balikatan Exercise. Barangay residents were previously cut off from their community, and had to make a 40-minute detour around the San Pascual River to reach schools and markets. During Balikatan 2013, Philippines and U.S. military service members are working together on construction projects to help communities in need. (PNA photo courtesy U.S. Navy)
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?nid=21
A Philippine Seabee high-fives a U.S. Navy engineer after mixing a batch of cement for the construction of a footbridge in San Pascual, Zambales. The footbridge is being built as part of this year’s Balikatan Exercise. Barangay residents were previously cut off from their community, and had to make a 40-minute detour around the San Pascual River to reach schools and markets. During Balikatan 2013, Philippines and U.S. military service members are working together on construction projects to help communities in need. (PNA photo courtesy U.S. Navy)
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?nid=21
Roadside bomb explodes in Cotabato town
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 15): Roadside bomb explodes in Cotabato
town
Residents of a remote village in Makilala town,North
Cotabato were roused from sleep when a powerful bomb went off
around 9:00 p.m. Sunday, a military spokesman said.
Lt. Nasrullah Sema, chief civil military operations officer of the 57th Infantry Battalion, said the roadside bomb was planted at Purok-Dos, Barangay Malasila, Makilala, which was at least 50 meters away from the community proper.
Sema said no one was hurt in the bombing incident. "It, however, caused panic and alarm among the villagers," he said.
The explosion took place when the military vehicle of the 57th IB was about to pass through the barangay road.
Sema believed the communist guerrillas operating in the hinterlands of Makilala town were behind the latest roadside bombing.
Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Haron Akas, commander of Task Force Cotabato, disclosed that several business establishments and politicians inNorth
Cotabato have received extortion threats from the New People's
Army (NPA). Akas said traders have admitted having received such letters from
the NPAs demanding from them particular amount.
Sema added some politicians were also prevented by the NPAs from campaigning in areas in the hinterlands ofNorth Cotabato
because of their failure to secure permit to campaign, which, he said was
tantamount to asking money.
"The election is a democratic process. The NPAs have no right to ask money from the politicians who would want to campaign," Sema said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=516390
Residents of a remote village in Makilala town,
Lt. Nasrullah Sema, chief civil military operations officer of the 57th Infantry Battalion, said the roadside bomb was planted at Purok-Dos, Barangay Malasila, Makilala, which was at least 50 meters away from the community proper.
Sema said no one was hurt in the bombing incident. "It, however, caused panic and alarm among the villagers," he said.
The explosion took place when the military vehicle of the 57th IB was about to pass through the barangay road.
Sema believed the communist guerrillas operating in the hinterlands of Makilala town were behind the latest roadside bombing.
Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Haron Akas, commander of Task Force Cotabato, disclosed that several business establishments and politicians in
Sema added some politicians were also prevented by the NPAs from campaigning in areas in the hinterlands of
"The election is a democratic process. The NPAs have no right to ask money from the politicians who would want to campaign," Sema said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=516390
Breakaway Moro rebel group vows not to disrupt Maguindanao polls
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 15): Breakaway Moro rebel group vows not
to disrupt Maguindanao polls
The breakaway faction of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) on Monday said it will not interfere with the national and local elections next month in Maguindanao and will not prevent its followers from voting.
Abu Misry Mama, speaking for the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Movement (BIFM), also assured candidates that they are free and safe to campaign in their areas.
"As long as the candidates promised to work for the benefit of the Bangsamoro people, we will not oppose it," Mama said, adding that they will help the government conduct a peaceful election in the province.
He said as an organization, the BIFM does not participate in electoral process or do things that will disrupt the peaceful conduct of elections.
"As in the past, we did not participate and we did not disturb the election because that is not our business," Mama said.
Mama stressed that the BIFM will not endorse, campaign for or against a particular candidate.
"Candidates are free to visit our territories in Maguindanao if they want to campaign," he added.
The BIFM, under former MILF brigade commander Ustadz Ameril Umbra Kato, broke away from the mainstream MILF due to ideological differences.
It has been pushing for independence of Mindanao while the MILF agreed to settle for genuine autonomy in Muslim dominated areas inMindanao .
Mama also said that a lot of candidates have so far conducted campaign sortie in BIFM identified areas in Maguindanao's first and second districts.
He also stressed that the BIFM does not collect any campaign fee unlike the New Peoples Army (NPA).
The BIFM operates in the hinterlands of the towns of Mamasapano, Shariff Aguak, Datu Piang, Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Datu Hofer, Sultan sa Barongis, Kabuntalan and SK Pendatun.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=516400
The breakaway faction of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) on Monday said it will not interfere with the national and local elections next month in Maguindanao and will not prevent its followers from voting.
Abu Misry Mama, speaking for the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Movement (BIFM), also assured candidates that they are free and safe to campaign in their areas.
"As long as the candidates promised to work for the benefit of the Bangsamoro people, we will not oppose it," Mama said, adding that they will help the government conduct a peaceful election in the province.
He said as an organization, the BIFM does not participate in electoral process or do things that will disrupt the peaceful conduct of elections.
"As in the past, we did not participate and we did not disturb the election because that is not our business," Mama said.
Mama stressed that the BIFM will not endorse, campaign for or against a particular candidate.
"Candidates are free to visit our territories in Maguindanao if they want to campaign," he added.
The BIFM, under former MILF brigade commander Ustadz Ameril Umbra Kato, broke away from the mainstream MILF due to ideological differences.
It has been pushing for independence of Mindanao while the MILF agreed to settle for genuine autonomy in Muslim dominated areas in
Mama also said that a lot of candidates have so far conducted campaign sortie in BIFM identified areas in Maguindanao's first and second districts.
He also stressed that the BIFM does not collect any campaign fee unlike the New Peoples Army (NPA).
The BIFM operates in the hinterlands of the towns of Mamasapano, Shariff Aguak, Datu Piang, Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Datu Hofer, Sultan sa Barongis, Kabuntalan and SK Pendatun.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=516400
Hundreds of frozen anteaters found on Chinese vessel stuck on Tubbataha
From InterAksyon (Apr 15): Hundreds of frozen anteaters found on Chinese vessel stuck on Tubbataha
The Philippine Coast Guard said Monday it had found hundreds of frozen scaly anteaters, or pangolins, in the cargo hold of a Chinese boat that ran aground at Tubbatah Reef last week.
Wildlife officials have been informed of the surprising discovery, which could lead to more charges against the 12 crewmen of the Chinese vessel, who have been arrested.
"We found 400 boxes containing anteaters aboard the vessel, and we are now determining where these came from," PCG spokesman Lieutenant Commander Armand Balilo told AFP.
He could not say whether the pangolins were frozen alive or had already been butchered as meat.
A protected species, pangolins are widely hunted in parts of Asia for their meat, skin and scales.
In China, they are known as a delicacy and are purported to have medicinal qualities.
According to the International Union of Conservation of Nature, all eight species of the insect-eating mammals are protected by international laws around the world.
Two -- the Malaysian and Chinese pangolins -- are in its "red list" of endangered species.
Pangolins are also found roaming in the wild in Palawan.
Balilo said the vessel remained stuck in Tubbataha, while the PCG awaited arrival of a salvage ship to tow it away.
Prosecutors charged the 12 Chinese fishermen last week with illegal poaching and with corruption for attempting to bribe Filipinos officials, and if convicted they could face long jail terms.
It was not immediately clear however what additional charges, if any, are to be filed against them with the discovery of the pangolins, Balilo said.
The grounding of the 48-meter boat came amid deep tensions between the Philippines and China over competing territorial claims in the South China Sea, which Manila calls the West Philippine Sea.
China claims virtually all of the South China Sea on historical grounds, including waters close to the shores of its neighbors.
The Philippines, as well as Vietnam, have accused China of bullying other claimants as it aggressively stakes out its claims.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/59455/hundreds-of-frozen-anteaters-found-on-chinese-vessel-stuck-on-tubbataha
The Philippine Coast Guard said Monday it had found hundreds of frozen scaly anteaters, or pangolins, in the cargo hold of a Chinese boat that ran aground at Tubbatah Reef last week.
Wildlife officials have been informed of the surprising discovery, which could lead to more charges against the 12 crewmen of the Chinese vessel, who have been arrested.
"We found 400 boxes containing anteaters aboard the vessel, and we are now determining where these came from," PCG spokesman Lieutenant Commander Armand Balilo told AFP.
He could not say whether the pangolins were frozen alive or had already been butchered as meat.
A protected species, pangolins are widely hunted in parts of Asia for their meat, skin and scales.
In China, they are known as a delicacy and are purported to have medicinal qualities.
According to the International Union of Conservation of Nature, all eight species of the insect-eating mammals are protected by international laws around the world.
Two -- the Malaysian and Chinese pangolins -- are in its "red list" of endangered species.
Pangolins are also found roaming in the wild in Palawan.
Balilo said the vessel remained stuck in Tubbataha, while the PCG awaited arrival of a salvage ship to tow it away.
Prosecutors charged the 12 Chinese fishermen last week with illegal poaching and with corruption for attempting to bribe Filipinos officials, and if convicted they could face long jail terms.
It was not immediately clear however what additional charges, if any, are to be filed against them with the discovery of the pangolins, Balilo said.
The grounding of the 48-meter boat came amid deep tensions between the Philippines and China over competing territorial claims in the South China Sea, which Manila calls the West Philippine Sea.
China claims virtually all of the South China Sea on historical grounds, including waters close to the shores of its neighbors.
The Philippines, as well as Vietnam, have accused China of bullying other claimants as it aggressively stakes out its claims.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/59455/hundreds-of-frozen-anteaters-found-on-chinese-vessel-stuck-on-tubbataha
Moro splinter group takes non-partisan stance in polls, but welcomes poll candidates
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Apr 14): Moro splinter group takes non-partisan stance in polls, but welcomes poll candidates
The Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Movement (BIFM) has assured election candidates that it is safe to campaign in rebel territories.
Abu Misry Mama, spokesperson of the BIFM, said in a phone interview on Friday that candidates must not fear the Moro rebel group.
“We are friends of the people. The politicians must not fear us. They are welcome if they want to go inside our communities and talk with us,” Mama said.
Mama, however, stressed that leaders and fighters of the BIFM have been forbidden from participating and voting in the upcoming elections.
“We will not endorse and support any candidates,” he said.
Mama said they have lost faith in the present electoral system wherein most of the elected leaders have consistently neglected the Moro people.
“But our families and the civilians in our territories have the option to vote,” Mama said.
The BIFM, led by former Moro Islamic Liberation Front commander Ustadz Ameril Umra Kato, is claiming to have at least a thousand heavily armed fighters.
The group splintered from the MILF after serious disagreements in the conduct of the peace negotiations.
For the past elections, the MILF has also enforced a policy barring fighters and leaders from participating in the elections.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/390803/moro-splinter-group-takes-non-partisan-stance-in-polls-but-welcomes-poll-candidates
The Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Movement (BIFM) has assured election candidates that it is safe to campaign in rebel territories.
Abu Misry Mama, spokesperson of the BIFM, said in a phone interview on Friday that candidates must not fear the Moro rebel group.
“We are friends of the people. The politicians must not fear us. They are welcome if they want to go inside our communities and talk with us,” Mama said.
Mama, however, stressed that leaders and fighters of the BIFM have been forbidden from participating and voting in the upcoming elections.
“We will not endorse and support any candidates,” he said.
Mama said they have lost faith in the present electoral system wherein most of the elected leaders have consistently neglected the Moro people.
“But our families and the civilians in our territories have the option to vote,” Mama said.
The BIFM, led by former Moro Islamic Liberation Front commander Ustadz Ameril Umra Kato, is claiming to have at least a thousand heavily armed fighters.
The group splintered from the MILF after serious disagreements in the conduct of the peace negotiations.
For the past elections, the MILF has also enforced a policy barring fighters and leaders from participating in the elections.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/390803/moro-splinter-group-takes-non-partisan-stance-in-polls-but-welcomes-poll-candidates
DVIDS: Senior enlisted gather for bilateral professional military education
From DVIDS (Apr 14): Senior enlisted gather for bilateral professional military education
CAMP EMILIO AGUINALDO, Philippines – U.S. Marine Sgt Maj. Howard L. Kreamer asks a question on the Armed Forces of the Philippines slide during the Philippine-U.S. Senior Enlisted Seminar and Team Building Event 2013 April 6 at the Commissioned Officers’ Club at Camp Emilio Aguinaldo. The seminar is part of Balikatan 2013, an annual bilateral exercise in its 29th iteration which provides a venue for AFP and U.S. military forces to develop and continue to enhance interoperability across a wide range of military actions. The focus of the seminar will be the sharing of knowledge by senior enlisted from both nations on how to adapt and improve enlisted training, develop an understanding of the differences in career progression and continue to strengthen military-to-military relations. Howard is the command sergeant major for III Marine Headquarters Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Courtney G. White/Released)
CAMP EMILIO AGUINALDO, Philippines – Senior enlisted members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and U.S. service members gathered for the Philippine-U.S. Senior Enlisted Seminar and Team Building Event 2013 at the Commissioned Officers’ Club at Camp Emilio Aguinaldo April 6.
The seminar is part of Balikatan 2013, an annual bilateral exercise in its 29th iteration that provides a venue for AFP and U.S. military forces to develop and continue to enhance interoperability across a wide range of military actions.
The three-day seminar offers senior enlisted from the AFP and U.S. military an opportunity to share the wealth of knowledge they have acquired through years of unique military experiences with their counterparts.
“There are 11 senior enlisted service members from AFP and about eight from the U.S. military,” said Philippine Army Sgt. Maj. Guillermo P. Francisco, the sergeant major of AFP. “During the seminar, they will partake in guided discussions on leadership, training, education and senior enlisted empowerment.”
The focus of the seminar will be the sharing of knowledge by senior enlisted from both nations on how to adapt and improve enlisted training, develop an understanding of the differences in career progression and continue to strengthen military-to-military relations.
During the exercise’s planning conference, specific guided discussion topics were chosen to foster a great deal of participation from both sides, said U.S. Marine Master Gunnery Sgt. John J. Elliott, the operations chief for 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, III Marine Expeditionary Force.
“Both nations will discuss their roles and responsibilities, assignments and training,” said Elliott. “The topics which were selected allow each service present to have input and the ability to share their views.”
The seminar marks the first time the AFP Air Force and Navy senior enlisted have joined with their U.S. counterparts to discuss the issues facing each military in an academic setting, according to Francisco.
“Prior to this seminar, only our Army has been able to meet with our senior enlisted counterparts,” said Francisco. “This is a good experience for all those involved to get a better understanding for each other’s organizations.”
In addition to the guided discussions, the senior enlisted service members involved will visit training sites at Camp O’Donnell and Crow Valley to view the bilateral training of the exercise, said Philippine Army Master Sgt. Rogelio P. Caacbay, the director of AFP professional military education for enlisted personnel.
“Events like this seminar allow those involved to develop friendships and have a better undertraining of each other,” said Elliott. “This is important as we may work together on future operations.”
While the 19 senior enlisted participating in the seminar are an important piece of Balikatan, nearly 8,000 Philippine and U.S. service members are simultaneously participating in training centered around humanitarian civic assistance projects; a bilateral typhoon-based disaster relief scenario command post exercise; and knowledge sharing and interoperability field training exercises.
These wide array of events are scheduled to take place at several locations throughout Luzon including Camp Aguinaldo, Camp O’Donnell, Crow Valley, Fort Magsaysay, Clark Field, Subic Bay and the Zambales area. The exercise is scheduled to conclude April 17.
http://www.dvidshub.net/news/105157/senior-enlisted-gather-bilateral-professional-military-education
CAMP EMILIO AGUINALDO, Philippines – U.S. Marine Sgt Maj. Howard L. Kreamer asks a question on the Armed Forces of the Philippines slide during the Philippine-U.S. Senior Enlisted Seminar and Team Building Event 2013 April 6 at the Commissioned Officers’ Club at Camp Emilio Aguinaldo. The seminar is part of Balikatan 2013, an annual bilateral exercise in its 29th iteration which provides a venue for AFP and U.S. military forces to develop and continue to enhance interoperability across a wide range of military actions. The focus of the seminar will be the sharing of knowledge by senior enlisted from both nations on how to adapt and improve enlisted training, develop an understanding of the differences in career progression and continue to strengthen military-to-military relations. Howard is the command sergeant major for III Marine Headquarters Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Courtney G. White/Released)
CAMP EMILIO AGUINALDO, Philippines – Senior enlisted members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and U.S. service members gathered for the Philippine-U.S. Senior Enlisted Seminar and Team Building Event 2013 at the Commissioned Officers’ Club at Camp Emilio Aguinaldo April 6.
The seminar is part of Balikatan 2013, an annual bilateral exercise in its 29th iteration that provides a venue for AFP and U.S. military forces to develop and continue to enhance interoperability across a wide range of military actions.
The three-day seminar offers senior enlisted from the AFP and U.S. military an opportunity to share the wealth of knowledge they have acquired through years of unique military experiences with their counterparts.
“There are 11 senior enlisted service members from AFP and about eight from the U.S. military,” said Philippine Army Sgt. Maj. Guillermo P. Francisco, the sergeant major of AFP. “During the seminar, they will partake in guided discussions on leadership, training, education and senior enlisted empowerment.”
The focus of the seminar will be the sharing of knowledge by senior enlisted from both nations on how to adapt and improve enlisted training, develop an understanding of the differences in career progression and continue to strengthen military-to-military relations.
During the exercise’s planning conference, specific guided discussion topics were chosen to foster a great deal of participation from both sides, said U.S. Marine Master Gunnery Sgt. John J. Elliott, the operations chief for 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, III Marine Expeditionary Force.
“Both nations will discuss their roles and responsibilities, assignments and training,” said Elliott. “The topics which were selected allow each service present to have input and the ability to share their views.”
The seminar marks the first time the AFP Air Force and Navy senior enlisted have joined with their U.S. counterparts to discuss the issues facing each military in an academic setting, according to Francisco.
“Prior to this seminar, only our Army has been able to meet with our senior enlisted counterparts,” said Francisco. “This is a good experience for all those involved to get a better understanding for each other’s organizations.”
In addition to the guided discussions, the senior enlisted service members involved will visit training sites at Camp O’Donnell and Crow Valley to view the bilateral training of the exercise, said Philippine Army Master Sgt. Rogelio P. Caacbay, the director of AFP professional military education for enlisted personnel.
“Events like this seminar allow those involved to develop friendships and have a better undertraining of each other,” said Elliott. “This is important as we may work together on future operations.”
While the 19 senior enlisted participating in the seminar are an important piece of Balikatan, nearly 8,000 Philippine and U.S. service members are simultaneously participating in training centered around humanitarian civic assistance projects; a bilateral typhoon-based disaster relief scenario command post exercise; and knowledge sharing and interoperability field training exercises.
These wide array of events are scheduled to take place at several locations throughout Luzon including Camp Aguinaldo, Camp O’Donnell, Crow Valley, Fort Magsaysay, Clark Field, Subic Bay and the Zambales area. The exercise is scheduled to conclude April 17.
http://www.dvidshub.net/news/105157/senior-enlisted-gather-bilateral-professional-military-education
Photos: III Marine Expeditionary Force Flikr Photo File--Exercise Balikatan 2013
III Marine Expeditionary Force Flikr Photo File: Exercise Balikatan 2013
Balikatan means "shoulder-to-shoulder," and characterizes the spirit of this bilateral Philippines-U.S. exercise. Exercise Balikatan 2013 (BK '13), will take place April 4-18, in various locations throughout the Philippines. Combined staff exercises and field training will take place at Camp O’Donnell and Crow Valley in Tarlac, Subic Bay, and Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija. (75 photos/203 views/ items are from between 21 Mar 2013 & 10 Apr 2013)
[Click on URL below]
http://www.flickr.com/photos/3mefpao/sets/72157633103784767
Balikatan means "shoulder-to-shoulder," and characterizes the spirit of this bilateral Philippines-U.S. exercise. Exercise Balikatan 2013 (BK '13), will take place April 4-18, in various locations throughout the Philippines. Combined staff exercises and field training will take place at Camp O’Donnell and Crow Valley in Tarlac, Subic Bay, and Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija. (75 photos/203 views/ items are from between 21 Mar 2013 & 10 Apr 2013)
[Click on URL below]
http://www.flickr.com/photos/3mefpao/sets/72157633103784767
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