From GMA News (Aug 30): Army soldiers killed in Monday clash with Abu Sayyaf in Sulu rise to 15
Fifteen soldiers, including an officer, died Monday in a clash with Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) members in Patikul, Sulu, the Armed Forces of the Philippines said Tuesday.
The clash occurred at 4:30 p.m. in Sitio Kan Jalul in Brgy. Maligay, said Marine Col. Edgard Arevalo, chief of the Public Affairs Office of the AFP.
The government troops from the Philippine Army's 35th Infantry Battalion and 21st Infantry Battalion faced "more or less 120 heavily armed terrorists" during the gunfight, Arevalo added.
He said the extent of casualty on the ASG side has yet to be determined.
Army soldiers from other areas immediately rushed to the scene to pursue withdrawing terrorists, while others provided blocking forces.
The AFP withheld the names of the soldiers killed in action as well as those wounded in action until their families have been notified.
"As we gaze at the national flag that flies at half mast anew, soldiers knew that one too many hero among them has again offered his life—that others may live," General Ricardo Visaya, AFP Chief of Staff, said.
He added that their campaign against the ASG will continue.
"There may still be casualties along the way as we advance this solemn duty to eradicate these bandits and terrorists of 25 years, but we will not stop until we rid our country of the menace this ASG brings to the world," Visaya said.
An earlier Reuters report quoting Maj. Filemon Tan placed the Monday clash's death toll among government soldiers at 12.
Two other clashes
The AFP said two other armed encounters with the ASG occurred on Monday.
One was at around 1:50 p.m. in Sitio Kugan, Brgy. Bakung in Patikul. The Infantry Battalion led by Lt. Col. Presco Lobos clashed for almost 30 minutes with more or less 30 heavily armed ASG members headed by sub-leader Jamiri Jawong Jauhari.
Two ASG members died in the said clash, including Jauhari. No casualty was reported among government soldiers. Army troops pursued the rebel group.
Almost two hours later, at about 3:42 p.m., Army troops led by Lt. Col. Samuel Manzano clashed with more or less 80 ASG members in Brgy. Kuttong in Talipao, Sulu.
The clash lasted for 30 minutes and led to the death of two ASG members. Two government soldiers, meanwhile, were wounded in action.
Visaya rallied the troops to continue pursuing the ASG. "We have all the time. Keep the pressure on the enemy until they wear out. Just ensure they won't be able to leave the island and we will be triumphant in the end," he said.
President Rodrigo Duterte has already closed the door on peace talks with the ASG.
"I am very sorry to say but there will be no [peace] talks about these things with the Abu Sayyaf," he said on August 1.
"I will not deal with persons with extreme brutality. There is no redeeming factor or reason for me to sit down and talk with criminals," Duterte added.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/579417/news/nation/army-soldiers-killed-in-monday-clash-with-abu-sayyaf-in-sulu-rise-to-15
Monday, August 29, 2016
15 Army soldiers killed in Abu Sayyaf attack
From Rappler (Aug 30): 15 Army soldiers killed in Abu Sayyaf attack
The attack happens after days of military offensives that have killed at least 14 ASG members
(3rd UPDATE) – At least 15 Army soldiers were killed while 5 others were wounded on Monday, August 29, in a gun battle with the Abu Sayyaf group in Patikul, Sulu, initial military and police reports said.
The attack happens after days of military offensives that have killed at least 14 ASG members
(3rd UPDATE) – At least 15 Army soldiers were killed while 5 others were wounded on Monday, August 29, in a gun battle with the Abu Sayyaf group in Patikul, Sulu, initial military and police reports said.
A police report sent to Rappler showed that two Army battalions conducting pursuit operations against the ASG around between 5-6 pm Monday were attacked by local terrorists under the command of ASG leader Radullan Sahiron.
A military source initially said 12 Army soldiers were killed as of 8 pm. A separate situation report sent by the police confirmed the casualties, adding that the encounter in Sitio Kan Jalul, Maligay, Patikul town was still ongoing as of 8pm.
Before midnight Monday, the number of killed had risen to 15, according to both police and military sources.
The troops were under the 35th and 21st infantry battalions.
Last Friday, August 26, at least 11 ASG members were killed in a fierce gun battle with Army troops. On Saturday, the military also claimed to have killed 3 more ASG members in a separate encounter.
Among those killed in the Friday firefight was alleged Abu Sayyaf sub-commander Mohammad Said, alias Ama Maas, who had 5 standing warrants of arrest for murder, the military said.
President Rodrigo Duterte has pledged to crush the Abu Sayyaf. The military has since then focused on wiping them out in Sulu and Basilan, the group's bailiwicks.
Lieutenant General Mayoralgo M. dela Cruz, commanding general of the Western Mindanao Command, earlier said the military is bent on implementing the order of the President.
"He gave a specific order. The mission is clear. Seek and destroy the ASG," Dela Cruz said.
Duterte: Misuari willing to return to peace table with GPH
From the Manila Bulletin (Aug 29): Duterte: Misuari willing to return to peace table with GPH
President Rodrigo R. Duterte said he was elated that Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) chair and founder Nur Misuari is willing to return to the peace table with the government of the Philippines (GPH).
President Rodrigo R. Duterte said he was elated that Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) chair and founder Nur Misuari is willing to return to the peace table with the government of the Philippines (GPH).
In his message during the commemoration of the National Heroes’ Day at the Libingan ng mga Bayani, Taguig City on Monday, Duterte thanked Misuari “for expressing his intention to join us, maybe in one place or different settings, whatever it is, it is good for me for as long as we talk.”
Duterte earlier said that he does not want the MNLF leader detained for his age and physical condition, as the country may lose its chance to talk peace with the Moro group if anything happens to Misuari while under government custody.
The president is also hopeful that a long-lasting peace can be finally achieved in Mindanao now that the government is in talks with the rebel groups – New People’s Army, Moro Islamic Liberation Front, and MNLF.
“So now we have a lull in the three fronts that we really have been fighting ever since. We’re talking with the Communists now, maybe establish a modus vivendi somewhere with the MI and MN and let’s begin to talk about peace,” he said.
http://www.mb.com.ph/duterte-misuari-willing-to-return-to-peace-table-with-gph/
Duterte earlier said that he does not want the MNLF leader detained for his age and physical condition, as the country may lose its chance to talk peace with the Moro group if anything happens to Misuari while under government custody.
The president is also hopeful that a long-lasting peace can be finally achieved in Mindanao now that the government is in talks with the rebel groups – New People’s Army, Moro Islamic Liberation Front, and MNLF.
“So now we have a lull in the three fronts that we really have been fighting ever since. We’re talking with the Communists now, maybe establish a modus vivendi somewhere with the MI and MN and let’s begin to talk about peace,” he said.
http://www.mb.com.ph/duterte-misuari-willing-to-return-to-peace-table-with-gph/
4 NPA rebels yield in Abra
From the Manila Bulletin (Aug 28): 4 NPA rebels yield in Abra
Bangued, Abra – Four New People’s Army (NPA) rebels surrendered to Philippine Army troopers in the mountainous areas of the Ilocos and Cordillera regions.
Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Dominic Baluga, commander of the Philippine Army’s 24th Infantry Battalion based in Langangilang, Abra, said Sunday that the four NPA rebels belonged to the Kilusang Larangang Guerilya (KLG) – Montes, a group of NPA rebels operating in the provinces of Abra, Mountain Province and Ilocos Sur.
“The surrender of these NPA rebels was successfully initiated after their relatives relayed to us their planned return to the folds of the national government,” Baluga said.
The four NPA rebels have also surrendered their high-powered firearms.
“When the surrendered NPA rebels were presented to Abra Governor Joy Bernos, they were given cash assistance to start small livelihood enterprises while their children were assured of scholarship grants once they enter college,” Baluga said.
http://www.mb.com.ph/4-npa-rebels-yield-in-abra/
Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Dominic Baluga, commander of the Philippine Army’s 24th Infantry Battalion based in Langangilang, Abra, said Sunday that the four NPA rebels belonged to the Kilusang Larangang Guerilya (KLG) – Montes, a group of NPA rebels operating in the provinces of Abra, Mountain Province and Ilocos Sur.
“The surrender of these NPA rebels was successfully initiated after their relatives relayed to us their planned return to the folds of the national government,” Baluga said.
The four NPA rebels have also surrendered their high-powered firearms.
“When the surrendered NPA rebels were presented to Abra Governor Joy Bernos, they were given cash assistance to start small livelihood enterprises while their children were assured of scholarship grants once they enter college,” Baluga said.
http://www.mb.com.ph/4-npa-rebels-yield-in-abra/
Abu Sayyaf threat can only be contained with international cooperation, says Hishammuddin
From the Malay Mail Online (Aug 28): Abu Sayyaf threat can only be contained with international cooperation, says Hishammuddin
The threat of the Abu Sayyaf militant group in the Sulu Sea can only be contained with close cooperation between Malaysia, the Philippines and Indonesia.
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein said the three countries could coordinate in terms of troops and military assets to establish a more effective system to face, and eventually eliminate the threat.
In facing a common enemy, the three countries need a standard operating procedure and joint planning that would allow them to deploy troops and military assets collectively.
“We should think of how (to handle) the Sulu Sea as it has become a hot spot where we know Abu Sayyaf supports Daesh (militant group) and there are plans to establish an Islamic territory involving areas in the three countries.
“We are exploring it (methods of cooperation) involving the foreign ministries, home ministries and the approval and mandate from the top leaders of the countries involved,” he said at a press conference here, today.
Earlier, he opened the Bukit Katil Umno division delegates meeting which was also attended by Malacca Chief Minister Datuk Seri Idris Haron, Senator Tan Sri Mohd Ali Rustam (Bukit Katil Umno division chief) and over 2,000 members.
He said this when asked to comment on the aggressive action by the Philippines government of President Rodrigo Duterte to combat the Abu Sayyaf militant group in the country.
Hishammuddin said Malaysia had taken proactive measures by placing military and defence assets at strategic locations to curb the threat of the group.
“Our fighter aircraft have been moved to Labuan, we have also created a forward base primarily for our helicopters, where thinking outside the box, we used a decommissioned oil rig in the middle of the sea.
“Gempita (armoured vehicles) have been placed in Tawau, and a decision has been made to place a (military) battalion there, so since the Lahad Datu incident, we have not stood still.”
He regretted the Opposition ignoring the country’s need to deal with such threats, so much so they were willing to accuse the government of fabricating the Lahad Datu incident.
In February 2013, a group of Sulu militants invaded Lahad Datu, causing over a month-long standoff between the group and Malaysian Armed Forces, which resulted in the death of over 60 people, including armed forces personnel and civilians. — Bernama
http://www.themalaymailonline.com/malaysia/article/abu-sayyaf-threat-can-only-be-contained-with-international-cooperation-says
The threat of the Abu Sayyaf militant group in the Sulu Sea can only be contained with close cooperation between Malaysia, the Philippines and Indonesia.
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein said the three countries could coordinate in terms of troops and military assets to establish a more effective system to face, and eventually eliminate the threat.
In facing a common enemy, the three countries need a standard operating procedure and joint planning that would allow them to deploy troops and military assets collectively.
“We should think of how (to handle) the Sulu Sea as it has become a hot spot where we know Abu Sayyaf supports Daesh (militant group) and there are plans to establish an Islamic territory involving areas in the three countries.
“We are exploring it (methods of cooperation) involving the foreign ministries, home ministries and the approval and mandate from the top leaders of the countries involved,” he said at a press conference here, today.
Earlier, he opened the Bukit Katil Umno division delegates meeting which was also attended by Malacca Chief Minister Datuk Seri Idris Haron, Senator Tan Sri Mohd Ali Rustam (Bukit Katil Umno division chief) and over 2,000 members.
He said this when asked to comment on the aggressive action by the Philippines government of President Rodrigo Duterte to combat the Abu Sayyaf militant group in the country.
Hishammuddin said Malaysia had taken proactive measures by placing military and defence assets at strategic locations to curb the threat of the group.
“Our fighter aircraft have been moved to Labuan, we have also created a forward base primarily for our helicopters, where thinking outside the box, we used a decommissioned oil rig in the middle of the sea.
“Gempita (armoured vehicles) have been placed in Tawau, and a decision has been made to place a (military) battalion there, so since the Lahad Datu incident, we have not stood still.”
He regretted the Opposition ignoring the country’s need to deal with such threats, so much so they were willing to accuse the government of fabricating the Lahad Datu incident.
In February 2013, a group of Sulu militants invaded Lahad Datu, causing over a month-long standoff between the group and Malaysian Armed Forces, which resulted in the death of over 60 people, including armed forces personnel and civilians. — Bernama
http://www.themalaymailonline.com/malaysia/article/abu-sayyaf-threat-can-only-be-contained-with-international-cooperation-says
Philippines: 21 Abu Sayyaf killed in past five days
From the Anadolu Agency (Aug 28): Philippines: 21 Abu Sayyaf killed in past five days
Presidential order repeated to destroy Daesh-linked group after Aug. 24 beheading of 18-year-old Filipino hostage
Presidential order repeated to destroy Daesh-linked group after Aug. 24 beheading of 18-year-old Filipino hostage
More than 20 Abu Sayyaf militants have been killed in the past five days as the military continues to try to purge the southern Philippines of the Daesh-linked group.
On Sunday, Military sources at Western Mindanao Command confirmed that 21 of the militants had been killed since fighting began in Patikul town in the predominantly Muslim province of Sulu since Wednesday, following the group's beheading of an 18-year-old Filipino hostage.
President Rodrigo Duterte subsequently earlier ordered troops to destroy the Abu Sayyaf.
Lt. Gen. Mayoralgo dela Cruz told reporters Sunday that sporadic fighting continues with the recovery of ten more bodies at several encounter sites.
He added that no government troops had been injured during the latest skirmishes, after 17 were wounded in clashes Friday.
Among the fatalities, are reported to be three group sub-leaders, including the high-ranking Mohammad Said, alias Ama Maas, who has five standing murder warrants out for his arrest.
However Abu Sayyaf spokesperson Abu Rami has denied that Said was among the fatalities.
The Abu Sayyaf continues to hold a number of hostages in Sulu, including Indonesian sailors, Norwegian Kjartan Sekkingstad, and Dutchman Ewold Horn who was abducted off Panglima Sugala, Tawi-Tawi in February 2012.
Said had been tagged as involved in the kidnapping of three foreigners from the luxurious Samal Island resort off Davao City in September last year.
Two of the foreigners -- Canadians -- were subsequently beheaded after a ransom failed to be paid while the Norwegian -- Sekkingstad -- remains in captivity.
Maj. Filemon Tan Jr., WesMinCom spokesman, underlined that the offensives continue in an effort to secure their release.
"We expect more troops from the national headquarters will be deployed in Sulu in the next days," said Tan.
He added that rescuing the captives remains a priority amid the intensified military operations.
Since 1991, the Abu Sayyaf -- armed with mostly improvised explosive devices, mortars and automatic rifles -- has carried out bombings, kidnappings, assassinations and extortion in a self-determined fight for an independent province in the Philippines.
It is among two militant groups in the south who have pledged allegiance to Daesh, prompting fears during the stalling of a peace process between the government and the country's biggest Moro group that it could make inroads in a region torn by decades of armed conflict.
AFP worries about possible exploitation of ceasefire
From the Daily Tribune (Aug 29): AFP worries about possible exploitation of ceasefire
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is hopeful that mechanisms are formulated to address possible exploitation of the indefinite ceasefire.
Col. Edgard Arevalo, AFP-Public Affairs Office chief, maintained that the 150,000-strong military could only hope that the communist group is sincere in talking peace with the government.
Arevalo said the military is hopeful that mechanism and safety nets would be covered by the joint statement to be crafted by the peace panels to ensure that the ceasefire would not be taken advantage.
“Hopefully, safety nets… mechanisms will be contained therein. Somehow we are hopeful to all of these, that they are sincere and those things will be threshed out or be part of the joint ceasefire document or mechanism,” Arevalo said.
He added that while the military suspended operations against the NPA, troops could still monitor situation on the ground. He said that ceasefire mechanisms could address complaints arising from both sides during the truce.
“There could be mechanism that would allow us to, for example, complain if we are monitoring any such kind of actions (recruitment) on their part,” the AFP official said.
For the military, Arevalo said that it can take advantage of the “silencing of the guns” by conducting retraining.
“We are also taking advantage, good advantage of this lull,” Arevalo said.
In fact, the military now enjoys redeployment of troops in Sulu and Basilan to finish off the terrorist Abu Sayyaf Group due to the ceasefire with the NPA.
Tribune sources in the military have noted that previous ceasefire agreements with the CPP-NPA were only exploited by the communist group — taking advantage of the suspension of offensive military operations by consolidating its forces and recruiting new fighters.
The sources said the troops would be demoralized if nothing happened with the ongoing peace negotiations, noting the release of several top-ranking NPA rebels named as consultants by the NDF in the peace process.
A senior AFP official stressed that the military invested too much resources in capturing these NPA leaders, including couple Benito and Wilma Tiamzon, chairman and secretary general, respectively, of the CPP-Central Committee, and Tirso Alcantara.
But the AFP stressed that it fully supports peace initiatives of the Duterte administration.
President Duterte has declared an indefinite ceasefire with the CPP-NPA to pave the way for the formal peace negotiations between the government of the Philippines and the National Democratic Front, the political wing of the CPP-NPA.
The CPP-NPA reciprocated Duterte’s ceasefire with its own interim ceasefire — extending the seven-day truce declared last Aug. 21 to 27 or during the first round of formal talks in Oslo, Norway.
Meanwhile, Malacañang said yesterday that it cannot touch the communist rebels from collecting their so-called “revolutionary taxes.”
Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar said, in a radio interview, that it’s up to the leadership of the CPP-NPA-NDF if they will still pursue in collecting funds that are considered to be “extortion money.”
“With respect to the other activities, purportedly done by the CPP-NPA-NDF, it’s up to their ranks to manage their illgal activities,” Andanar said as a response to the query if the government will lift a finger to stop the rebel’s extortion activities.
As if boosting their moral, it is apparent that President Duterte is the first Chief Executive of the country to recognize the de facto governance of the CPP-NPA in guerilla zones in the countryside as a “revolutionary government.”
Duterte earlier had revealed that he’s willing to share the state’s power to the communist movement.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/nation/afp-worries-about-possible-exploitation-of-ceasefire
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is hopeful that mechanisms are formulated to address possible exploitation of the indefinite ceasefire.
Col. Edgard Arevalo, AFP-Public Affairs Office chief, maintained that the 150,000-strong military could only hope that the communist group is sincere in talking peace with the government.
Arevalo said the military is hopeful that mechanism and safety nets would be covered by the joint statement to be crafted by the peace panels to ensure that the ceasefire would not be taken advantage.
“Hopefully, safety nets… mechanisms will be contained therein. Somehow we are hopeful to all of these, that they are sincere and those things will be threshed out or be part of the joint ceasefire document or mechanism,” Arevalo said.
He added that while the military suspended operations against the NPA, troops could still monitor situation on the ground. He said that ceasefire mechanisms could address complaints arising from both sides during the truce.
“There could be mechanism that would allow us to, for example, complain if we are monitoring any such kind of actions (recruitment) on their part,” the AFP official said.
For the military, Arevalo said that it can take advantage of the “silencing of the guns” by conducting retraining.
“We are also taking advantage, good advantage of this lull,” Arevalo said.
In fact, the military now enjoys redeployment of troops in Sulu and Basilan to finish off the terrorist Abu Sayyaf Group due to the ceasefire with the NPA.
Tribune sources in the military have noted that previous ceasefire agreements with the CPP-NPA were only exploited by the communist group — taking advantage of the suspension of offensive military operations by consolidating its forces and recruiting new fighters.
The sources said the troops would be demoralized if nothing happened with the ongoing peace negotiations, noting the release of several top-ranking NPA rebels named as consultants by the NDF in the peace process.
A senior AFP official stressed that the military invested too much resources in capturing these NPA leaders, including couple Benito and Wilma Tiamzon, chairman and secretary general, respectively, of the CPP-Central Committee, and Tirso Alcantara.
But the AFP stressed that it fully supports peace initiatives of the Duterte administration.
President Duterte has declared an indefinite ceasefire with the CPP-NPA to pave the way for the formal peace negotiations between the government of the Philippines and the National Democratic Front, the political wing of the CPP-NPA.
The CPP-NPA reciprocated Duterte’s ceasefire with its own interim ceasefire — extending the seven-day truce declared last Aug. 21 to 27 or during the first round of formal talks in Oslo, Norway.
Meanwhile, Malacañang said yesterday that it cannot touch the communist rebels from collecting their so-called “revolutionary taxes.”
Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar said, in a radio interview, that it’s up to the leadership of the CPP-NPA-NDF if they will still pursue in collecting funds that are considered to be “extortion money.”
“With respect to the other activities, purportedly done by the CPP-NPA-NDF, it’s up to their ranks to manage their illgal activities,” Andanar said as a response to the query if the government will lift a finger to stop the rebel’s extortion activities.
As if boosting their moral, it is apparent that President Duterte is the first Chief Executive of the country to recognize the de facto governance of the CPP-NPA in guerilla zones in the countryside as a “revolutionary government.”
Duterte earlier had revealed that he’s willing to share the state’s power to the communist movement.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/nation/afp-worries-about-possible-exploitation-of-ceasefire
MILF: New compilation of agreements off the press
Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Aug 28): New compilation of agreements off the press
The sequel to the previous collection of agreements between the Government of the Philippines and Moro Islamic Liberation Front was launched August 26 at EM Manor Hotel in Cotabato City.
Published by the MILF Peace Panel, the book’s title is GPH-MILF Peace Process: A Compilation of Signed Agreements and Other Related Documents (2010-2016) Volume II.
As with the previous work, the new book contains the agreements, joint statements, communiqués, implementing guidelines and procedural rules and pertinent communications made through in the course of the 17 years of formal negotiations between the GPH and MILF.
In his message, MILF Peace Panel Chairman Mohagher Iqbal said the new book is for “the education and ready reference of everyone.”
“This compilation may be quite a heavy reading but it is a must for us, especially those directly engaged in the peace process and the various mechanisms spawned by it,” Iqbal told the more-than-a-hundred participants most of whom have major or minor involvements in the peace process.
Ms. Irene Santiago, chairperson of the GPH Peace Implementing Panel, congratulated her counterpart and even described Iqbal as a “giant” for his thirteen years of uninterrupted work as MILF Chief Negotiator.
Dr. Steven Rood, Country Representative of The Asia Foundation (TAF), also graced the occasion.
TAF extended assistance in the publication of the two volumes, the first one of which was printed on May 2010.
http://www.luwaran.com/home/index.php/news/20-central-mindanao/864-new-compilation-of-agreements-off-the-press
The sequel to the previous collection of agreements between the Government of the Philippines and Moro Islamic Liberation Front was launched August 26 at EM Manor Hotel in Cotabato City.
As with the previous work, the new book contains the agreements, joint statements, communiqués, implementing guidelines and procedural rules and pertinent communications made through in the course of the 17 years of formal negotiations between the GPH and MILF.
In his message, MILF Peace Panel Chairman Mohagher Iqbal said the new book is for “the education and ready reference of everyone.”
“This compilation may be quite a heavy reading but it is a must for us, especially those directly engaged in the peace process and the various mechanisms spawned by it,” Iqbal told the more-than-a-hundred participants most of whom have major or minor involvements in the peace process.
Ms. Irene Santiago, chairperson of the GPH Peace Implementing Panel, congratulated her counterpart and even described Iqbal as a “giant” for his thirteen years of uninterrupted work as MILF Chief Negotiator.
Dr. Steven Rood, Country Representative of The Asia Foundation (TAF), also graced the occasion.
TAF extended assistance in the publication of the two volumes, the first one of which was printed on May 2010.
http://www.luwaran.com/home/index.php/news/20-central-mindanao/864-new-compilation-of-agreements-off-the-press
MILF: Australian Embassy official visits MILF leadership at Camp Darapanan
Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Aug 28): Australian Embassy official visits MILF leadership at Camp Darapanan
First Secretary Timothy Smith of the Australian Embassy in the Philippines reiterated his country’s support to peace and stability in the Bangsamoro while on a courtesy call to MILF Chairman Alhaj Murad Ebrahim on August 27 at the latter’s office in Camp Darapanan.
Australia, along with four other partners, is a leading donor-country supporting peace programs in Muslim Mindanao.
Smith informed the MILF chair and other members of the Front’s Central Committee that a strategic review of programs will be conducted beginning next month of September. The review will focus on what has already been done and to ensure if they are doing the right thing. Considering a new administration is in the helm of power, the Australian government is very positive for the passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law.
Chairman Ebrahim expressed gladness and gratitude for the Australian government’s manifestation of strong commitment of support in the peace process. He said that although there maybe some changes in the road map of the peace process, they are optimistic that the peace process will start where it had ended with the previous administration.
He further added that an enlarged composition of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission is at hand inorder to accommodate other players in the peace process,.
He also expressed hope that the convergence of stakeholders will lead the BTC in coming up with an enabling law that is acceptable to all.
Other matters that were taken up in the meeting that lasted almost an hour are programs for the youth, the normalization process and support for education which shall also include how to correct misconceptions on the history of the Bangsamoro.
Smith was accompanied by Ms. Dwan Mei Dumas, Program Officer – Political at the Australian embassy.
http://www.luwaran.com/home/index.php/news/20-central-mindanao/865-australian-embassy-official-visits-milf-leadership-at-camp-darapanan
First Secretary Timothy Smith of the Australian Embassy in the Philippines reiterated his country’s support to peace and stability in the Bangsamoro while on a courtesy call to MILF Chairman Alhaj Murad Ebrahim on August 27 at the latter’s office in Camp Darapanan.
Smith informed the MILF chair and other members of the Front’s Central Committee that a strategic review of programs will be conducted beginning next month of September. The review will focus on what has already been done and to ensure if they are doing the right thing. Considering a new administration is in the helm of power, the Australian government is very positive for the passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law.
Chairman Ebrahim expressed gladness and gratitude for the Australian government’s manifestation of strong commitment of support in the peace process. He said that although there maybe some changes in the road map of the peace process, they are optimistic that the peace process will start where it had ended with the previous administration.
He further added that an enlarged composition of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission is at hand inorder to accommodate other players in the peace process,.
He also expressed hope that the convergence of stakeholders will lead the BTC in coming up with an enabling law that is acceptable to all.
Other matters that were taken up in the meeting that lasted almost an hour are programs for the youth, the normalization process and support for education which shall also include how to correct misconceptions on the history of the Bangsamoro.
Smith was accompanied by Ms. Dwan Mei Dumas, Program Officer – Political at the Australian embassy.
http://www.luwaran.com/home/index.php/news/20-central-mindanao/865-australian-embassy-official-visits-milf-leadership-at-camp-darapanan
Photo: PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte receives a memorabilia from Eastern Mindanao Command commander Lt. Gen. Leonardo Rey Guerrero
From the Mindanao Times (Aug 29): Photo: PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte receives a memorabilia from Eastern Mindanao Command commander Lt. Gen. Leonardo Rey Guerrero
PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte receives a memorabilia from Eastern Mindanao Command commander Lt. Gen. Leonardo Rey Guerrero during the EastMinCom 10th anniversary held at Camp Felix Apolinario in Panacan on Friday. Looking on are Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and Armed Forces Chief of Staff Gen. Ricardo Visaya. BING GONZALES
Photo: SOLDIERS from the 69th infantry battalion prepare to board the military aircraft fpr Sulu
From the Mindanao Times (Aug 29): Photo: SOLDIERS from the 69th infantry battalion prepare to board the military aircraft for Sulu
SOLDIERS from the 69th infantry battalion prepare to board the military aircraft at the Tactical Operations Group as they report for their new assignment in Jolo, Sulu to crush the Abu Sayyaf. BING GONZALES
‘I will be first’
From the Mindanao Times (Aug 29): ‘I will be first’
Duterte vows to join troops if war breaks out
Duterte vows to join troops if war breaks out
PRESIDENT Rodrigo R. Duterte has vowed to be in the frontlines if he could not prevent the country from going to war with China.
President Duterte made the bold statement amid tensions affecting the country’s sovereignty. The Chinese military’s continued encroachment on the waters of the South China Sea is a strong point of discussion in the Philippines diplomatic relationship with the world superpower.
While the Philippines has repeatedly reached out to China to adhere to international treaties such as the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, China has insisted on its own arbitrary nine-dash line.
The Philippines, meanwhile, is only one of many parties in conflict with Chinese claims of territorial waters.
At the same time, Mr. Duterte said the Philippines intends to pursue a path of peace, agreeing this early that the country cannot afford to go to war.
“I swear to God, I will be first,” he told soldiers during the 10th anniversary of the Eastern Mindanao Command, adding in jest that he can just be given dress fatigues that he can wear to war.
The President was the guest of honor at the event. The Eastmincom has operational jurisdiction in most areas of Regions 10, 11, 12, and 13.
“When the time comes. I will be there to join you,” he said. “You lead, because you know more (about warfare) than I do. But I will be there to share with you. We all go together.”
The much-needed morale boost from the Philippine head of state comes amid a time when the AFP is asking for more allocation to finally pursue modernization.
For example, President Duterte has criticized the purchase of the previous administration of Korean fighter jets, while advocating for high-tech equipment such as state-of-the-art weapons and night vision goggles, to name a few.
Mr. Duterte even said that he was not a fan of the bidding process, which would cost the lives of his men and women in the armed forces because of their low quality.
During the event, he warned that the country is going to “experience another spasm.”
“When? I do not know. Is that sure? That’s certain. So we prepare within our limited talent, our capacity,” he said. “It will come, maybe sooner than later. But we have to prepare.”
He explained that this is the reason why the government must resolve the “small wars” here, referring to the communist New People’s Army and the Moro groups such as the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Moro National Liberation Front “because you have to focus on a new (war).”
Duterte did not specify against whom the preparations would be. He repeatedly said the country must avoid trouble with China.
“We still cannot afford it,” Duterte said.
But he told the audience that he met with the Chinese Ambassador – he did not say when – and told him that during the bilateral talks with their head of state, “I would state my case… I have this arbitral judgment. We will not go out of the four corners of this paper. Then, let us talk. But not now. It’s not the right time to talk about it,” he said.
He said Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana had asked for additional 20,000 forces in the army but “I can only give you 10(,000) this year. I will give it – 10,000 more. Then I would like .. preferably younger ones, because if does not happen, then let’s thank God.”
“There’s always the standing army to protect us. Never mind how many, even if it really causes an imbalance in the budget. It is always good to have men there ready to fight and die, rather than having them at all and just surrender just like a meek lamb there,” he said.
MILF, MNLF move to reunite for peace
From the Mindanao Times (Aug 29): MILF, MNLF move to reunite for peace
ABOUT a thousand individuals, including top officials of both the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and the Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), expressed their desire to unite for peace in Mindanao in a gathering in Lupon, Davao Oriental.
The gathering, initiated by the two revolutionary organizations, was an initial attempt for the two sides to solidify as part of their response to the initiative of the Philippine government in resolving the decades-old Bangsamoro conflict.
In his message during the event, Gadzali Jaafar, MILF Central Committee first vice president, agreed with President that pursuing peace at this moment both for the government and the Moro groups is crucial and the best time.
“This (conflict) can be resolved,” said Jaafar as he acknowledged the move of the Duterte administration to discuss with the two fronts on how to implement the peace agreements that the government has signed since1975 when then President Ferdinand E. Marcos, through the intercession of Libya and the Organization of Islamic Conference, signed the so-called Tripoli Agreement.
The 1975 agreement was signed when it was only the MNLF as the negotiating entity for the Bangsamoro people as a few years later, the late Hashim Salamat and his group left the Nur Misuari-led group to form the MILF.
Jaafar said the task in resolving the problem is with the government as the revolutionary organizations have also been pushing for the right to self-determination.
He added the previous governments only initiated the signing of agreements, but never been determined to implement these agreements.
The difference between the previous Presidents and Mr. Duterte, he added, is that the latter has studied the history of Mindanao and has been from Mindanao as he has acknowledged the injustices committed on the Moro people.
He also acknowledged the presence of the police, military and members of the International Monitoring Team, the body monitoring the implementation of the ceasefire between the government and the MILF in the meeting.
“We (MILF and MNLF) are not your enemy,” Jaafar told the police and the military, explaining that historically the whole of what has become the Philippine archipelago was once a Moro nation before invaders colonized Luzon and the Visayas.
For his part, Jimmy Labawan, MNLF vice chair, urged the two groups to unite “because it is unity and solidarity that we will be able to achieve peace.
“We are tired as thousands of lives have been sacrificed,” said Labawan, as he took note of the revolution which started about 40 years ago.
Labawan added that he hopes the Philippine government can complete its initiatives of bringing peace to Mindanao as he added that the Moro people will always respect other inhabitants of Mindanao.
Early this month, the government side headed by Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus G. Dureza went to Malaysia to meet with the MILF side to start the discussions on how to implement the agreements.
Before leaving for Kuala Lumpur, Dureza said that the government will also include in the implementation the MNLF and other Moro groups, particularly the Sultanate of Sulu.
Martial law unlikely as AFP loyal to flag, Duterte says
From the Mindanao Times (Aug 29): Martial law unlikely as AFP loyal to flag, Duterte says
DECLARING martial law in the country won’t happen because the soldiers are loyal to the flag and not to him, President Rodrigo Duterte said.
Speaking to troops of the Eastern Mindanao Command, this city, President Duterte said that the Supreme Court could rest assured that the country was not headed into a state of anarchy.
“Would the military and police agree that I would do something that would create anarchy?” he said.
Mr. Duterte, addressing Chief Justice Lourdes Sereno, said that the military only had the interest of the country and not the sitting president in their minds as they defend the country’s peace and safety.
“I will be the first they will kill, ma’am,” the President said, addressing the Chief Justice.
“If I have the tendency to go ahead with anarchy and go be a dictator, I know they will execute me.”
Earlier, Chief Justice Sereno referred to Mr. Duterte’s approach in fighting illegal drugs as a step towards chaos.
According to Sereno, it was the role of the judiciary to “keep the social fabric intact, address people’s cry for justice, and thereby prevent society’s descent to anarchy.”
At the Malacanang Palace, Duterte spokesperson Ernesto Abella told clarified that the palace was aware of the context of Chief Justice Sereno’s statements.
“Regarding a newspaper headline that says courts are out to stop slide into anarchy, I’d just like to say that the actual statement of Chief Justice Ma. Lourdes Sereno was actually a statement of the court ideal that the judiciary’s role is to keep the social fabric intact to address people’s cry for justice, and thereby prevent society’s descent into anarchy,” Abella said.
“The statement is very clear that it was a simple explanation, and not a statement on the state of things.”
MERCY MISSION GONE WRONG | Air Force buddies remember Sumag's unsung hero Capt. Mike Logronio
From InterAksyon (Aug 29): MERCY MISSION GONE WRONG | Air Force buddies remember Sumag's unsung hero Capt. Mike Logronio
Images of Captain "Mike" Logronio and a replica of the Huey helicopter that he was proficient at flying, contributed by Col Egay Mendoza.
The pain etches deep into the hearts of the families of the two-man helicopter flight crew.
The remains of Capt. Miguel C. Logronio and his Aircraft Mechanic Eng. Jay Gregorio, found at the wreckage in Heneral Nakar two days ago, remained marooned at the crash site for the past two days due to inclement weather, awaiting airlift after retrieval operations get underway.
The two, who were on a mercy mission to evacuate trapped workers at a construction site of the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System days before, met their untimely death flying to the Sumag diversion tunnel project in General Nakar Quezon province.
The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) identified the ill-fated aircraft as an AS350B2 type helicopter operated by Macroasia Air Taxi Services, with registry number RP-C2688.
Efforts to locate the missing chopper took several days because of the bad weather in the area, and it was only on Saturday that an Air Force search helicopter piloted by Capt. Jojo Consuji was able to ascertain the crash site location and drop two rescuers onsite.
They were hailed as heroes by the stranded rescue personnel who witnessed the efforts of the two; they said that Captain Logronio and Engr. Gregorio worked vigorously against time airlifting marooned workers out of a flash flood situation last August 15, 2016.
Fondly called Mike by his friends and batch mates at the Philippine Air Force, Logronio was a retired Air Force Colonel.
Among his illustrious batch mates from PAF flying school Hinirang Class 1978 are (Ret.) Maj. Gen. Artemio Orozco and Col. Egay C. Mendoza, who provided photos and anecdotes of Mike during his stints at the PAF.
Orozco, then a young Lieutenant, was part of the air force pilots who saw action in the 1986 People Power Revolution, while Mendoza, who still flies and manages a flying school based in Poro Point, San Fernando La Union, recalled that Capt. Mike was proficient in flying the Bell 214, 205 and UH-1H helicopters, and was assigned at the 505th strike wing, where he also piloted the P28 so-called "Tora Tora" aircraft for three years before his retirement.
They remembered an incident in the late 1980s when Col. Mike almost met his creator after his Bell 214 rotor got detached while flying, but he managed to maneuver toward a safe emergency landing.
Mendoza said that Mike was what they fondly called a "batang Nichols", a term used by PAF personnel for kids who grew up and studied flying inside the former Nichols air base, now Villamor Air Base.
The late Captain Mike Logronio is married to his wife Mel and blessed with three children: His eldest, Miguel Logronio Jr., a 2nd Lt. at the Philippine Army and member of PMA Class 2009, was a casualty in an ambush by NPAs in Bicol sometime May 2010. Another son Ony, the youngest, became a pilot with a Masters degree and is now with Asian Aerospace. The second child, a daughter, is a registered nurse named Kat.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/131897/mercy-mission-gone-wrong--air-force-buddies-remember-sumags-unsung-hero-capt--mike-logronio
Images of Captain "Mike" Logronio and a replica of the Huey helicopter that he was proficient at flying, contributed by Col Egay Mendoza.
The pain etches deep into the hearts of the families of the two-man helicopter flight crew.
The remains of Capt. Miguel C. Logronio and his Aircraft Mechanic Eng. Jay Gregorio, found at the wreckage in Heneral Nakar two days ago, remained marooned at the crash site for the past two days due to inclement weather, awaiting airlift after retrieval operations get underway.
The two, who were on a mercy mission to evacuate trapped workers at a construction site of the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System days before, met their untimely death flying to the Sumag diversion tunnel project in General Nakar Quezon province.
The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) identified the ill-fated aircraft as an AS350B2 type helicopter operated by Macroasia Air Taxi Services, with registry number RP-C2688.
Efforts to locate the missing chopper took several days because of the bad weather in the area, and it was only on Saturday that an Air Force search helicopter piloted by Capt. Jojo Consuji was able to ascertain the crash site location and drop two rescuers onsite.
They were hailed as heroes by the stranded rescue personnel who witnessed the efforts of the two; they said that Captain Logronio and Engr. Gregorio worked vigorously against time airlifting marooned workers out of a flash flood situation last August 15, 2016.
Fondly called Mike by his friends and batch mates at the Philippine Air Force, Logronio was a retired Air Force Colonel.
Among his illustrious batch mates from PAF flying school Hinirang Class 1978 are (Ret.) Maj. Gen. Artemio Orozco and Col. Egay C. Mendoza, who provided photos and anecdotes of Mike during his stints at the PAF.
Orozco, then a young Lieutenant, was part of the air force pilots who saw action in the 1986 People Power Revolution, while Mendoza, who still flies and manages a flying school based in Poro Point, San Fernando La Union, recalled that Capt. Mike was proficient in flying the Bell 214, 205 and UH-1H helicopters, and was assigned at the 505th strike wing, where he also piloted the P28 so-called "Tora Tora" aircraft for three years before his retirement.
They remembered an incident in the late 1980s when Col. Mike almost met his creator after his Bell 214 rotor got detached while flying, but he managed to maneuver toward a safe emergency landing.
Mendoza said that Mike was what they fondly called a "batang Nichols", a term used by PAF personnel for kids who grew up and studied flying inside the former Nichols air base, now Villamor Air Base.
The late Captain Mike Logronio is married to his wife Mel and blessed with three children: His eldest, Miguel Logronio Jr., a 2nd Lt. at the Philippine Army and member of PMA Class 2009, was a casualty in an ambush by NPAs in Bicol sometime May 2010. Another son Ony, the youngest, became a pilot with a Masters degree and is now with Asian Aerospace. The second child, a daughter, is a registered nurse named Kat.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/131897/mercy-mission-gone-wrong--air-force-buddies-remember-sumags-unsung-hero-capt--mike-logronio
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