From InterAksyon (Nov 13): Government offers P467 million for capture of 235 communist rebels
The bounty set aside by government for the capture of 235 communist rebels now total P467 million. For 14 Abu Sayyaf leaders, the government is offering a total of P176 million. The figures were released as Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas II recently co-signed two joint orders by the Department of National Defense and DILG detailing updated rewards for wanted leaders of the Communist Party of the Philippines, New Peoples Army, and National Democratic Front, as well as the Abu Sayyaf Group. According to the updated DND-DILG Joint Order number 14-2012, the total amount of monetary reward for the 235 wanted communists is now P466.88 million. Leading the list of wanted communist leaders are NPA Chief Benito Tiamzon, “National Finance Commission” head Wilma Tiamzon, NDF Mindanao Spokesperson Jorge Madlos, and NPA Eastern Mindanao leader Leoncio Pitao. On the other hand, DND-DILG Joint Order number 15-2012, pegs the total amount of monetary reward for 14 ASG members to P176.10 million. Prominent in the list are ASG top leader Radulan Sahiron and notorious bomber Usman Ahmad Akmad Batabol alias "Basit Usman".
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/47915/government-offers-p467-million-for-capture-of-235-communist-rebels
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
PNP removes MILF from list of threat groups for 2013 polls
From InterAksyon (Nov 13): PNP removes MILF from list of threat groups for 2013 polls
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has removed the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) from its list of threat groups for the 2013 elections, PNP director general Nicanor Bartolome said Tuesday. Bartolome said authorities are now considering the MILF as among their allies after the latter and Philippine government signed a framework peace agreement that will pave the way for the creation of a Bangsamoro entity in Mindanao. “We just have a signing on the Framework Agreement (FRAG) and so we consider them to be our allies in securing peaceful elections in Mindanao. We take it very positively if they will be our partners,” Bartolome told reporters. Based on recent PNP reports, Mindanao has the highest number of private armed groups and election hot spots. With the removal of the MILF from the list of threat groups, the PNP is now focusing on other groups such as the New People's Army, Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Movement. The PNP is still finalizing its security measures for the 2013 elections....
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/47919/pnp-removes-milf-from-list-of-threat-groups-for-2013-polls
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has removed the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) from its list of threat groups for the 2013 elections, PNP director general Nicanor Bartolome said Tuesday. Bartolome said authorities are now considering the MILF as among their allies after the latter and Philippine government signed a framework peace agreement that will pave the way for the creation of a Bangsamoro entity in Mindanao. “We just have a signing on the Framework Agreement (FRAG) and so we consider them to be our allies in securing peaceful elections in Mindanao. We take it very positively if they will be our partners,” Bartolome told reporters. Based on recent PNP reports, Mindanao has the highest number of private armed groups and election hot spots. With the removal of the MILF from the list of threat groups, the PNP is now focusing on other groups such as the New People's Army, Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Movement. The PNP is still finalizing its security measures for the 2013 elections....
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/47919/pnp-removes-milf-from-list-of-threat-groups-for-2013-polls
5 NPAs with high-powered fire arms surrender
From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 13): 5 NPAs with high-powered fire arms surrender
Five high-powered fire arms were formally surrendered by five (5) members of the New People’s Army to the 75th Infantry (Marauder) Battalion, Philippine Army on Monday. Lt. Jolito Borces, civil military operation officer, said five NPA rebels arrived at 75IB Headquarters around 6:30 on Sunday evening namely: Ricky Banding Yambo alias “Ikoy”, Juan Garapan Intua alias Jamal/Arim”, Julius Suan Casan alias “Jomar”, Julie Licardo Bonifacio alias “Albert”, Elfie Casal Pinaloay alias “Emer” and Giovani Juvilla alias “Bunso”. The said rebels were then led by Alfredo Magadan Asuncion alias “Jack” of Guerrilla Front-3, Southeastern Mindanao Regional Committee operating in the areas of Mongkayo and Laak both of Comval Province and in the Municipality of Sta Josefa and Veruela both of Agusan del Sur. The rebels brought along with them the following five high-powered firearms: one (1) M16 rifle, one (1) M653 rifle, two (2) cal. 30 Carbine rifles and one (1) M14 rifle with several live ammunition and magazines. As today, said surrenderees are now at Headquarter of 75IB for some interviews. According to the surrenderees, the misery in life at the mountainous area and uncertainty forced them to return to the folds of law. Lt Colonel Danilo B. Benavides, Commanding Officer of 75thIB expressed his acknowledgement and gratitude to the surrenderees in their decision to return within the government. “I am humbly appealing to their comrades (NPA) not to hesitate to do same, approach the army units especially the 75IB. We in the Philippine Army are always in the manner of strengthening our peace and development but without your cooperation we can’t attain it”, Ltc Benavides said. The Commanding Officer also acknowledged the contribution of those who made the effort possible. (NGBT, PIA-Surigao del Sur with reports from 75IB CMO)
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1741352694915
Five high-powered fire arms were formally surrendered by five (5) members of the New People’s Army to the 75th Infantry (Marauder) Battalion, Philippine Army on Monday. Lt. Jolito Borces, civil military operation officer, said five NPA rebels arrived at 75IB Headquarters around 6:30 on Sunday evening namely: Ricky Banding Yambo alias “Ikoy”, Juan Garapan Intua alias Jamal/Arim”, Julius Suan Casan alias “Jomar”, Julie Licardo Bonifacio alias “Albert”, Elfie Casal Pinaloay alias “Emer” and Giovani Juvilla alias “Bunso”. The said rebels were then led by Alfredo Magadan Asuncion alias “Jack” of Guerrilla Front-3, Southeastern Mindanao Regional Committee operating in the areas of Mongkayo and Laak both of Comval Province and in the Municipality of Sta Josefa and Veruela both of Agusan del Sur. The rebels brought along with them the following five high-powered firearms: one (1) M16 rifle, one (1) M653 rifle, two (2) cal. 30 Carbine rifles and one (1) M14 rifle with several live ammunition and magazines. As today, said surrenderees are now at Headquarter of 75IB for some interviews. According to the surrenderees, the misery in life at the mountainous area and uncertainty forced them to return to the folds of law. Lt Colonel Danilo B. Benavides, Commanding Officer of 75thIB expressed his acknowledgement and gratitude to the surrenderees in their decision to return within the government. “I am humbly appealing to their comrades (NPA) not to hesitate to do same, approach the army units especially the 75IB. We in the Philippine Army are always in the manner of strengthening our peace and development but without your cooperation we can’t attain it”, Ltc Benavides said. The Commanding Officer also acknowledged the contribution of those who made the effort possible. (NGBT, PIA-Surigao del Sur with reports from 75IB CMO)
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1741352694915
Soldiers lead 60KM “Bike for Peace”
From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 13): Soldiers lead 60KM “Bike for Peace”
Around 200 people biked more than 60 kilometers from Lebak, Sultan Kudarat to Cotabato City, Sunday morning in a bid to promote peace. Dubbed “Bike for Peace,” members of the Philippine Marines and biking enthusiasts from the coastal towns of Sultan Kudarat joined the event. 1st Marine Brigade Information Officer Lt. Korina Dela Costa said the activity is in line with the campaign of the Philippine Marines to continue the peace efforts in Mindanao. The event is envisioned to provide an avenue to advocate peace, development, and community participation on providing peace and security. Dela Costa added that they will continue to have these kinds of activity next month and the years to come. The said activity was led by the 1st Marine Battalion together with peace advocates and other sectors.
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=2411352766305
Around 200 people biked more than 60 kilometers from Lebak, Sultan Kudarat to Cotabato City, Sunday morning in a bid to promote peace. Dubbed “Bike for Peace,” members of the Philippine Marines and biking enthusiasts from the coastal towns of Sultan Kudarat joined the event. 1st Marine Brigade Information Officer Lt. Korina Dela Costa said the activity is in line with the campaign of the Philippine Marines to continue the peace efforts in Mindanao. The event is envisioned to provide an avenue to advocate peace, development, and community participation on providing peace and security. Dela Costa added that they will continue to have these kinds of activity next month and the years to come. The said activity was led by the 1st Marine Battalion together with peace advocates and other sectors.
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=2411352766305
Army renews support to agricultural production in Davao Oriental
From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 13): Army renews support to agricultural production in Davao Oriental
The military has affirmed its support to the establishment of the Cateel Agricultural Production Center in Barangay San Alfonso. Lt. Colonel Krishna Murti Mortela, commanding officer of the 67th Infantry Battalion said making the CAPC operational manifests the commitment of the soldiers to peace where members of the military contingent strengthen partnership with the farmers. “The soldiers of the 67th IB will be the solid partners of the farmers,” he said. The CAPC is equipped with activity hall, wormbin house, farm equipment and vegetable nursery. Corazon Losentes, officer-in-charge of the Municipal Agriculture Office said the CAPC serves as a techno demo farm, learning site, research and development extension area and a point of convergence where various agricultural projects on crops, livestock, fisheries and recommended technologies will be showcased. Vice Mayor Isidro Castro thanked the interventions of major stakeholders and committed to sustain this LGU-owned facility that will cater to farmer needs from the different barangays and even the whole province of Davao Oriental. Josefe Madanlu said he was able to send his children to college by engaging in vegetable production with the help of his wife. He encouraged his fellow farmers to follow his lead in diverse agricultural production. (PIA XI, 1Lt. Raable Ymas, community development officer, 67th IB/ JSGD)
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=2381352789016
The military has affirmed its support to the establishment of the Cateel Agricultural Production Center in Barangay San Alfonso. Lt. Colonel Krishna Murti Mortela, commanding officer of the 67th Infantry Battalion said making the CAPC operational manifests the commitment of the soldiers to peace where members of the military contingent strengthen partnership with the farmers. “The soldiers of the 67th IB will be the solid partners of the farmers,” he said. The CAPC is equipped with activity hall, wormbin house, farm equipment and vegetable nursery. Corazon Losentes, officer-in-charge of the Municipal Agriculture Office said the CAPC serves as a techno demo farm, learning site, research and development extension area and a point of convergence where various agricultural projects on crops, livestock, fisheries and recommended technologies will be showcased. Vice Mayor Isidro Castro thanked the interventions of major stakeholders and committed to sustain this LGU-owned facility that will cater to farmer needs from the different barangays and even the whole province of Davao Oriental. Josefe Madanlu said he was able to send his children to college by engaging in vegetable production with the help of his wife. He encouraged his fellow farmers to follow his lead in diverse agricultural production. (PIA XI, 1Lt. Raable Ymas, community development officer, 67th IB/ JSGD)
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=2381352789016
Verify first complaints against the soldiers in Paquibato - City Mayor
From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 13): Verify first complaints against the soldiers in Paquibato - City Mayor
Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio cited the need for city councilors to verify first the information about soldiers encamped at a government infrastructure in the countryside before approving a resolution driving away the soldiers from the establishment to that effect. She said it is very important to establish first the veracity of this type of information whether it is either hearsay or propaganda from progressive groups supporting the cause of the rebels. Duterte-Carpio said it would be better if the city councilors really have a good grasp of the barangays where soldiers occupy public buildings. She said that though it must be stressed that the soldiers must not be allowed to stay in the barangay halls, barangay chairs can assert and tell the immediate officer of the soldiers to vacate the building if they are indeed using the facility as their shelter. Duterte-Carpio said based on her own verification, the soldiers are not really confined in the barangay hall, but only on the general area of the barangay office. She said the soldiers cannot be driven away since they are not actually occupying the building as their shelter. “I sent personnel to Barangay Lumiad, Barangay Mapula and in Barangay Malabog to verify complaints about the soldiers either occupying government buildings or encamped beside a school,” Duterte-Carpio. She reiterated that every peace and development team in the countryside is welcomed by the barangay officials who agree with the soldiers on the kind of living arrangement in the area. Duterte-Carpio said propaganda from the progressive groups about the situation in Paquibato is not taken as the general sentiment of the residents in the area. “If the information is left-leaning, we validate and it has no basis, only propaganda, then we discard,” she said. Duterte-Carpio explained that more than the issues happening in Paquibato, the conflict between the soldiers and the rebels is also a propaganda war. She said accusations must be validated and if found to be true, clear solutions must be imposed favoring the local government functionaries like the barangay captain so that he can perform his responsibilities effectively to the community. Duterte-Carpio said the city has allocated a P150-Million worth of road network in Paquibato that will link 13 of its barangays to the city.
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=2381352706642
Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio cited the need for city councilors to verify first the information about soldiers encamped at a government infrastructure in the countryside before approving a resolution driving away the soldiers from the establishment to that effect. She said it is very important to establish first the veracity of this type of information whether it is either hearsay or propaganda from progressive groups supporting the cause of the rebels. Duterte-Carpio said it would be better if the city councilors really have a good grasp of the barangays where soldiers occupy public buildings. She said that though it must be stressed that the soldiers must not be allowed to stay in the barangay halls, barangay chairs can assert and tell the immediate officer of the soldiers to vacate the building if they are indeed using the facility as their shelter. Duterte-Carpio said based on her own verification, the soldiers are not really confined in the barangay hall, but only on the general area of the barangay office. She said the soldiers cannot be driven away since they are not actually occupying the building as their shelter. “I sent personnel to Barangay Lumiad, Barangay Mapula and in Barangay Malabog to verify complaints about the soldiers either occupying government buildings or encamped beside a school,” Duterte-Carpio. She reiterated that every peace and development team in the countryside is welcomed by the barangay officials who agree with the soldiers on the kind of living arrangement in the area. Duterte-Carpio said propaganda from the progressive groups about the situation in Paquibato is not taken as the general sentiment of the residents in the area. “If the information is left-leaning, we validate and it has no basis, only propaganda, then we discard,” she said. Duterte-Carpio explained that more than the issues happening in Paquibato, the conflict between the soldiers and the rebels is also a propaganda war. She said accusations must be validated and if found to be true, clear solutions must be imposed favoring the local government functionaries like the barangay captain so that he can perform his responsibilities effectively to the community. Duterte-Carpio said the city has allocated a P150-Million worth of road network in Paquibato that will link 13 of its barangays to the city.
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=2381352706642
Peace and Devt Agreement signed in DavOr town
From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 13): Peace and Devt Agreement signed in DavOr town
The Armed Forces and the municipal government inked formally Monday the memorandum of agreement citing the lead role of the San Isidro Municipal Peace and Order Council in the internal security operation in the area. San Isidro Mayor Edgar Flor Saulon signed the agreement as chair of the MPOC with Lt. Colonel Francisco Lorenzo, Jr., commanding officer of the 28th Infantry Battalion in behalf of the military. The local chief executive said it is high time that the local government needs to address the dissent that causes insurgency. “I understand that we can address insurgency not only through the military option but through the local government taking a lead role. Eventually, we can attain peace and development in our community,” Saulon said. Colonel Rey Leonardo Guerrero, commander of the 701st Infantry Brigade declared that the San Isidro town is already cleared from the presence of the rebels. He said that for the past two years, no insurgency-related harassment happened in the area. “In this ceremony, we will tell everyone that we are open for business. This place has been peaceful for two years now. This is the direction that the Davao Oriental Provincial government wants, to finish the clearing operation this year and in January 2013, development will go full blast,” Guerrero said....
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=2381352769007
The Armed Forces and the municipal government inked formally Monday the memorandum of agreement citing the lead role of the San Isidro Municipal Peace and Order Council in the internal security operation in the area. San Isidro Mayor Edgar Flor Saulon signed the agreement as chair of the MPOC with Lt. Colonel Francisco Lorenzo, Jr., commanding officer of the 28th Infantry Battalion in behalf of the military. The local chief executive said it is high time that the local government needs to address the dissent that causes insurgency. “I understand that we can address insurgency not only through the military option but through the local government taking a lead role. Eventually, we can attain peace and development in our community,” Saulon said. Colonel Rey Leonardo Guerrero, commander of the 701st Infantry Brigade declared that the San Isidro town is already cleared from the presence of the rebels. He said that for the past two years, no insurgency-related harassment happened in the area. “In this ceremony, we will tell everyone that we are open for business. This place has been peaceful for two years now. This is the direction that the Davao Oriental Provincial government wants, to finish the clearing operation this year and in January 2013, development will go full blast,” Guerrero said....
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=2381352769007
4ID Early Christmas celebration kicks-off with a Sports Fest
From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 13): 4ID Early Christmas celebration kicks-off with a Sports Fest
The 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division has opened the Christmas Sports Fest at the Division Grandstand at 6 a.m. here today. Personnel from the Post and Tenant units, plus the General and Special Staffs of the division participated in the sports fest. During the opening ceremony Colonel Victor A. Gealan, 4ID Assistant Chief of Staff for Personnel, G1, presented the seven participating teams wearing their respective color: green, white, red, black, orange, grey, and blue. Lieutenant Colonel Alvin M. Caga, 4ID Acting Chief of Staff, subsequently declared the opening of the sportfest. The Diamond Troopers also swore their Oath of Sportsmanship which was administered by Major Yacob M. Usman, the Chief of the Division Special Service Office. The formal program concluded with Colonel Jupiter D. Ando, Commanding Officer of Headquarters and Headquarters Service Battalion, giving his message stressing that the sports fest is a way of strengthening the confidence of the Diamond soldiers, testing their physical fitness and enhancing their team player attitude since every game requires team work, strong body and presence of mind to win and at the same time enjoy every game. After the program, the sports fest started with fun games and other team building activities which included sack race, tug of war, filling the bottle with water, maria went to town, calamansi relay, eggplant pushing and longest line. Aside from the fun games played, there will also be ball games and racket games such as basketball, volleyball, table tennis, and badminton which will be played every afternoon of Tuesday and Thursday. A marathon will also be played on top of all these indoor games. Major General Nestor A. Añonuevo, Commander, 4ID said, “Activities like these are not mere games, it endeavors to develop the team player attitude to every diamond trooper. This also drives to make every soldier to be physically fit which is necessary for them to maintain even as they age in the service.” “I believe that every sports has discipline to be adhered to in the same manner that every soldier adheres to rules, regulations and standard operating procedures of soldiery, a lighter activity to enhance discipline among soldiers of the Division,” Añonuevo added. (4CMO/4ID/PIA10)
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1461352788495
The 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division has opened the Christmas Sports Fest at the Division Grandstand at 6 a.m. here today. Personnel from the Post and Tenant units, plus the General and Special Staffs of the division participated in the sports fest. During the opening ceremony Colonel Victor A. Gealan, 4ID Assistant Chief of Staff for Personnel, G1, presented the seven participating teams wearing their respective color: green, white, red, black, orange, grey, and blue. Lieutenant Colonel Alvin M. Caga, 4ID Acting Chief of Staff, subsequently declared the opening of the sportfest. The Diamond Troopers also swore their Oath of Sportsmanship which was administered by Major Yacob M. Usman, the Chief of the Division Special Service Office. The formal program concluded with Colonel Jupiter D. Ando, Commanding Officer of Headquarters and Headquarters Service Battalion, giving his message stressing that the sports fest is a way of strengthening the confidence of the Diamond soldiers, testing their physical fitness and enhancing their team player attitude since every game requires team work, strong body and presence of mind to win and at the same time enjoy every game. After the program, the sports fest started with fun games and other team building activities which included sack race, tug of war, filling the bottle with water, maria went to town, calamansi relay, eggplant pushing and longest line. Aside from the fun games played, there will also be ball games and racket games such as basketball, volleyball, table tennis, and badminton which will be played every afternoon of Tuesday and Thursday. A marathon will also be played on top of all these indoor games. Major General Nestor A. Añonuevo, Commander, 4ID said, “Activities like these are not mere games, it endeavors to develop the team player attitude to every diamond trooper. This also drives to make every soldier to be physically fit which is necessary for them to maintain even as they age in the service.” “I believe that every sports has discipline to be adhered to in the same manner that every soldier adheres to rules, regulations and standard operating procedures of soldiery, a lighter activity to enhance discipline among soldiers of the Division,” Añonuevo added. (4CMO/4ID/PIA10)
http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=1461352788495
Farmer slain in grenade blast
From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 13): Farmer slain in grenade
blast
A farmer died when a grenade exploded inside his house at a remote village in Columbio town in Sultan Kudarat on Monday, a police official said. Chief Inspector Celestino Daniel, chief of the Columbio Police, identified the victim as Tuanci Payot Dilangalen, 60, a farmer from Sitio Bantong at Barangay Sinapulan, Columbio. Bakal said the victim was still asleep when the grenade went off, around 7 a.m. It was the victim’s son-in-law identified as Sammy Obtang that saw the victim's bloodied body minutes after the blast. The victim, who was hit on his chest and lower abdomen, died on-the-spot, reports said. Police hinted land conflict as one of the motives behind the blast as the victim occupied a land at Brgy. Sinapulan without permission from the tribal leaders of the B'laan natives, reports said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=470807
A farmer died when a grenade exploded inside his house at a remote village in Columbio town in Sultan Kudarat on Monday, a police official said. Chief Inspector Celestino Daniel, chief of the Columbio Police, identified the victim as Tuanci Payot Dilangalen, 60, a farmer from Sitio Bantong at Barangay Sinapulan, Columbio. Bakal said the victim was still asleep when the grenade went off, around 7 a.m. It was the victim’s son-in-law identified as Sammy Obtang that saw the victim's bloodied body minutes after the blast. The victim, who was hit on his chest and lower abdomen, died on-the-spot, reports said. Police hinted land conflict as one of the motives behind the blast as the victim occupied a land at Brgy. Sinapulan without permission from the tribal leaders of the B'laan natives, reports said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=470807
4 NPA rebels burn heavy equipment in Nueva Ecija
From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 13): 4 NPA rebels burn heavy equipment in
Nueva Ecija
Four alleged members of the New People's Army (NPA) set fire on four heavy equipment being used in rehabilitation works along a river bank in Barangay Pesa here Monday afternoon, the police reported. The four heavy equipment operators were unhurt when the heavily armed men stormed the construction site. The men reportedly identified themselves as NPA members as they threatened to shoot the heavy equipment operators. Police investigation showed that the armed men came at about 4:30 p.m. Monday where the construction crew was working for one Israel Reguyal, a resident of Barangay Larcon here. The men, armed with M-16 rifles and handguns asked the workers for the whereabouts of their employer. Unable to find the workers' boss, they doused the heavy equipment with gasoline and set them on fire.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=470906
Four alleged members of the New People's Army (NPA) set fire on four heavy equipment being used in rehabilitation works along a river bank in Barangay Pesa here Monday afternoon, the police reported. The four heavy equipment operators were unhurt when the heavily armed men stormed the construction site. The men reportedly identified themselves as NPA members as they threatened to shoot the heavy equipment operators. Police investigation showed that the armed men came at about 4:30 p.m. Monday where the construction crew was working for one Israel Reguyal, a resident of Barangay Larcon here. The men, armed with M-16 rifles and handguns asked the workers for the whereabouts of their employer. Unable to find the workers' boss, they doused the heavy equipment with gasoline and set them on fire.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=470906
Military, LGU ink MOA for internal security ops in Davao Oriental town
From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 13): Military, LGU ink MOA for internal
security ops in Davao Oriental town
The military and the local government unit (LGU) here formally inked the memorandum of agreement (MOA) citing the lead role of the Municipal Peace and Order Council (MPOC) in the internal security operation in the area. San Isidro Mayor Edgar Flor Saulon recently signed the agreement as chair of the MPOC with Lt. Colonel Francisco Lorenzo, Jr., commanding officer of the 28th Infantry Battalion in behalf of the military. The local chief executive said it is high time the local government needs to address the dissent that causes insurgency. “I understand that we can address insurgency not only through the military option but through the LGU taking a lead role. Eventually, we can attain peace and development in our community,” Saulon said. Col. Rey Leonardo Guerrero, commander of the 701st Infantry Brigade, declared that the San Isidro town is already cleared from the presence of the rebels. He said for the past two years, no insurgency-related harassment happened in the area. “In this ceremony, we will tell everyone that we are open for business. This place has been peaceful for two years now. This is the direction that the Davao Oriental Provincial government wants, to finish the clearing operation this year and in January 2013, development will go full blast,” Guerrero said. Lorenzo assured the local government that the soldiers will stay to assist the LGU in all its activities to ensure lasting peace conducive to development. Lt. Colonel Lyndon Paniza, spokesperson of the 10th ID, expressed hope the convergence between the LGU and the soldiers will yield good results that will benefit more the residents. “We are just starting our concerted effort to prevent the resurgence of threats and harassment perpetrated by the armed groups, so that the residents can live peaceful and even help to spur development here,” he said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=471015
The military and the local government unit (LGU) here formally inked the memorandum of agreement (MOA) citing the lead role of the Municipal Peace and Order Council (MPOC) in the internal security operation in the area. San Isidro Mayor Edgar Flor Saulon recently signed the agreement as chair of the MPOC with Lt. Colonel Francisco Lorenzo, Jr., commanding officer of the 28th Infantry Battalion in behalf of the military. The local chief executive said it is high time the local government needs to address the dissent that causes insurgency. “I understand that we can address insurgency not only through the military option but through the LGU taking a lead role. Eventually, we can attain peace and development in our community,” Saulon said. Col. Rey Leonardo Guerrero, commander of the 701st Infantry Brigade, declared that the San Isidro town is already cleared from the presence of the rebels. He said for the past two years, no insurgency-related harassment happened in the area. “In this ceremony, we will tell everyone that we are open for business. This place has been peaceful for two years now. This is the direction that the Davao Oriental Provincial government wants, to finish the clearing operation this year and in January 2013, development will go full blast,” Guerrero said. Lorenzo assured the local government that the soldiers will stay to assist the LGU in all its activities to ensure lasting peace conducive to development. Lt. Colonel Lyndon Paniza, spokesperson of the 10th ID, expressed hope the convergence between the LGU and the soldiers will yield good results that will benefit more the residents. “We are just starting our concerted effort to prevent the resurgence of threats and harassment perpetrated by the armed groups, so that the residents can live peaceful and even help to spur development here,” he said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=471015
Framework Agreement forum eyed
From the Sun Star-Zamboanga (Nov 13): Framework Agreement forum eyed
THE Provincial Government of Basilan in partnership with the cross-section of the society and non-government organizations (NGOs) agreed to organize a forum on the Bangsamoro Framework Agreement. Basilan provincial administrator Tahira Ismael said the forum is aimed to correct growing misconceptions about the framework agreement signed between the Philippine Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). “Our people have a wrong understanding of the agreement,” Ismael said fearing it might lead to further division among Basileños if not corrected. Akbar Municipal Mayor Alih Sali said he received information the MILFs are already recruiting young people and luring them to join the group in view of the Bangsamoro Framework Agreement. Sali said the MILFs are allegedly telling them they could apply for integration into the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) if they join the group. Ismael said this is the reason why there is a need to organize a forum where members of the government and MILF panels could enlighten the people in Basilan province. Otherwise, Ismael said, it will be difficult for them to understand the framework agreement “if we talk by ourselves.” Tentatively, they intend to hold the forum on the framework agreement on the 24th of this month, according to Ismael, who is the former mayor of Lantawan town.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/zamboanga/local-news/2012/11/13/framework-agreement-forum-eyed-253016
THE Provincial Government of Basilan in partnership with the cross-section of the society and non-government organizations (NGOs) agreed to organize a forum on the Bangsamoro Framework Agreement. Basilan provincial administrator Tahira Ismael said the forum is aimed to correct growing misconceptions about the framework agreement signed between the Philippine Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). “Our people have a wrong understanding of the agreement,” Ismael said fearing it might lead to further division among Basileños if not corrected. Akbar Municipal Mayor Alih Sali said he received information the MILFs are already recruiting young people and luring them to join the group in view of the Bangsamoro Framework Agreement. Sali said the MILFs are allegedly telling them they could apply for integration into the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) if they join the group. Ismael said this is the reason why there is a need to organize a forum where members of the government and MILF panels could enlighten the people in Basilan province. Otherwise, Ismael said, it will be difficult for them to understand the framework agreement “if we talk by ourselves.” Tentatively, they intend to hold the forum on the framework agreement on the 24th of this month, according to Ismael, who is the former mayor of Lantawan town.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/zamboanga/local-news/2012/11/13/framework-agreement-forum-eyed-253016
‘Fireworks’ Seen In OIC Meeting
From the Manila Bulletin (Nov 12): ‘Fireworks’ Seen In OIC Meeting
“Fireworks” from Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) founder Nur Misuari are expected in Djibouti, East Africa, as the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP), MNLF, and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) attend the 39th Session of the Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM) of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on Nov. 15 to 17. The MNLF has an observer status in the OIC while the GRP has applied for an observer seat. Since the mid-70s, the “Question on Muslims in Southern Philippines” has been enshrined in the OIC annals. The 57-member state pan-Islamic body brokered the historic 1976 Tripoli Agreement and the 1996 Final Peace Agreement (FPA) both signed by the GRP and MNLF. In the GRP-MILF peace talks, the OIC is now an observer. Hadji Datu Acmad Bayam, former chief MNLF propagandist, told the Manila Bulletin he sees “fireworks in Djibouti” as he expects Misuari to express a mouthful on the incomplete implementation of the FPA and the signing of the GRP-MILF Framework Agreement (FA) on Oct. 15. “Misuari’s fireworks re: GRP-MILF FA is expected at OIC Djibouti meeting. But GRP is determined to pursue the peace process in terms of transforming the letter and spirit of the FA without prejudice to the 1996 GRP-MNLF FPA. “I also expect Brother Nur to open up on the FPA as its implementation is still being reviewed. What he is going to say both on the FPA and FA is not going to be pleasant to the ears,” said Bayam. Prof. Mashur Ghalib bin Jundam, “confidant” to Misuari and the group’s Central Committee, said Misuari and his delegation left Monday morning for Djibouti. On the other hand, Undersecretary Rafael Seguis said the GRP delegation was scheduled to leave yesterday afternoon to attend the OIC meeting. Seguis, head of the GRP group, said OIC Secretary General Prof. Ekmeleddin Ihsanuglo addressed the OIC’s invitation to Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario. He said the two-member Philippine team (with Atty. Zoilo Velasco), will be complemented in Djibouti by Philippine Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Ezeddin Tago and Ambassador to Egypt Claro Cristobal, who is also non-resident envoy to Djibouti. “We will be pushing our application for observer status,” said Seguis, adding that they will answer any possible “badmouthing” from any source. Ghazali Jaafar, MILF vice chairman for political affairs, said earlier their group will be sending a “high-level delegation” to the OIC meeting in Djibouti. Some members of the MILF delegation are senior peace negotiator lawyer Datu Michael Mastura, negotiator Robert Maulana Alonto, and Muhajirrin Ali. Jaafar did not say whether MILF Chairman Al-Haji Murad Ebrahim is delegation head. Earlier, Ihsanuglo welcomed the GRP-MILF’s FA, at the same time saying that whatever peace accord that would come out should be linked to the Tripoli Agreement....
http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/381177/fireworks-seen-in-oic-meeting
“Fireworks” from Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) founder Nur Misuari are expected in Djibouti, East Africa, as the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP), MNLF, and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) attend the 39th Session of the Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM) of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on Nov. 15 to 17. The MNLF has an observer status in the OIC while the GRP has applied for an observer seat. Since the mid-70s, the “Question on Muslims in Southern Philippines” has been enshrined in the OIC annals. The 57-member state pan-Islamic body brokered the historic 1976 Tripoli Agreement and the 1996 Final Peace Agreement (FPA) both signed by the GRP and MNLF. In the GRP-MILF peace talks, the OIC is now an observer. Hadji Datu Acmad Bayam, former chief MNLF propagandist, told the Manila Bulletin he sees “fireworks in Djibouti” as he expects Misuari to express a mouthful on the incomplete implementation of the FPA and the signing of the GRP-MILF Framework Agreement (FA) on Oct. 15. “Misuari’s fireworks re: GRP-MILF FA is expected at OIC Djibouti meeting. But GRP is determined to pursue the peace process in terms of transforming the letter and spirit of the FA without prejudice to the 1996 GRP-MNLF FPA. “I also expect Brother Nur to open up on the FPA as its implementation is still being reviewed. What he is going to say both on the FPA and FA is not going to be pleasant to the ears,” said Bayam. Prof. Mashur Ghalib bin Jundam, “confidant” to Misuari and the group’s Central Committee, said Misuari and his delegation left Monday morning for Djibouti. On the other hand, Undersecretary Rafael Seguis said the GRP delegation was scheduled to leave yesterday afternoon to attend the OIC meeting. Seguis, head of the GRP group, said OIC Secretary General Prof. Ekmeleddin Ihsanuglo addressed the OIC’s invitation to Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario. He said the two-member Philippine team (with Atty. Zoilo Velasco), will be complemented in Djibouti by Philippine Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Ezeddin Tago and Ambassador to Egypt Claro Cristobal, who is also non-resident envoy to Djibouti. “We will be pushing our application for observer status,” said Seguis, adding that they will answer any possible “badmouthing” from any source. Ghazali Jaafar, MILF vice chairman for political affairs, said earlier their group will be sending a “high-level delegation” to the OIC meeting in Djibouti. Some members of the MILF delegation are senior peace negotiator lawyer Datu Michael Mastura, negotiator Robert Maulana Alonto, and Muhajirrin Ali. Jaafar did not say whether MILF Chairman Al-Haji Murad Ebrahim is delegation head. Earlier, Ihsanuglo welcomed the GRP-MILF’s FA, at the same time saying that whatever peace accord that would come out should be linked to the Tripoli Agreement....
http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/381177/fireworks-seen-in-oic-meeting
MILF’s ultimate objective: Include Bangsamoro in Constitution
From the Business Mirror (Nov 13): MILF’s ultimate objective: Include Bangsamoro in Constitution
THE ultimate political objective of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in signing the framework agreement (FRAG) with the government is obviously for the proposed new concept of Bangsamoro to be enshrined in the Constitution. In its editorial posted on www.luwaran.com, the MILF said: “Moreover, when two parties signed a peace agreement, they are enjoined to undertake efforts to implement the agreement mutually, but there are instances that the activity will only involve one party and the other party simply cannot help or participate. For instance, in case this is deemed necessary which we firmly believe it is, accommodating the Government-MILF Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro as fleshed out in the Basic Law into the Philippine Constitution is an internal process of government but it is still part of the bargain and the peace process.” The new concept of autonomy will replace the current Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) that was signed into law by Congress as a bargaining chip for the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) to disarm and disband in 1996 through a peace process....
'Bounty for rebel leader's son P3.2M, not P700K'
From the Philippine Star (Nov 13): 'Bounty for rebel leader's son P3.2M, not P700K'
With a very huge sum on his head, Grayson Naogsan, son of Cordillera Peoples Democratic Front spokesperson Simon Naogsan, is really a “bigshot” in the rebel movement, a police official said. Government wanted him for P3.2 million cash reward, said Cordillera police director Chief Supt. Benjamin Magalong, instead of only P700,000 as earlier reported. The younger Naogsan was taken by policemen a week ago in a mall in Baguio City. Magalong said ‘the monetary reward the younger Naogsan carried under JO No. 10-2009 dated April 23, 2009 as reported earlier was updated and the bounty was increased to P3.2 million under Armed Forces of the Philippines/Philippine National Police Joint Resolution Number 72-2012 dated August 28, 2012.’ The younger Naogsan who took the nom de guerres “Jose/Jayson/Fagway/Cynthian," is facing 10 counts of murder and one count of crime of rebellion. He is an alleged member of the Kilusang Larangang Guerilya Marco, Ilocos Cordillera Regional Committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army and reportedly operated along the “East Chico Line Team," police said. Judge Artemio B. Marrero of the Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 35 in Bontoc, Mountain Province, Judge Joseph Baguilat RTC Branch 14 of Lagawe, Ifugao and Judge Corpus Alzate of RTC of Abra issued the 11 warrants of arrest, Magalong said. But according to the Manila-based human rights group Karapatan, the arrest of the alleged “high-valued rebel” was based on “trumped up charges.” This is aside from the disrespect of the PNP to Naogsan’s relatives, especially his wife, Rose who was reportedly led to a run-around in Manila and various areas in the Cordillera when they started to locate him, the group said. “The PNP showed callousness to the feelings of the relatives who were anxious to know the whereabouts and the condition of Naogsan,” said Cristina Palabay, secretary general of Karapatan.After almost a week of searching, Palabay added, relatives finally found him in Ifugao Provincial Jail, after he was taken by police and military agents on Nov. 5 in Baguio City. The Baguio-based Cordillera Human Rights Alliance (CHRA), meanwhile, claim that Naogsan was arrested on the basis of a defective warrant of arrest issued by the Bontoc Regional Trial Court Branch 35 which bore the name of a certain “Jason Naogsan” and not Grayson Naogsan. The said warrant was amended, Jude Baggo, spokesperson of the CHRA said, to change “Jason” to “Grayson." “No one should be arrested simply because he is a son or a relative of a person who is a member of the revolutionary movement. The government has not grown tired of parading its arbitrariness,” Palabay said, adding that, “it has not learned from the case of Rolly Panesa, the security guard whom they mistook for a certain Benjamin Mendoza.” More than five years ago, Naogsan’s brother, Simon Jr., was slain in a firefight with government troopers in Abra province.
With a very huge sum on his head, Grayson Naogsan, son of Cordillera Peoples Democratic Front spokesperson Simon Naogsan, is really a “bigshot” in the rebel movement, a police official said. Government wanted him for P3.2 million cash reward, said Cordillera police director Chief Supt. Benjamin Magalong, instead of only P700,000 as earlier reported. The younger Naogsan was taken by policemen a week ago in a mall in Baguio City. Magalong said ‘the monetary reward the younger Naogsan carried under JO No. 10-2009 dated April 23, 2009 as reported earlier was updated and the bounty was increased to P3.2 million under Armed Forces of the Philippines/Philippine National Police Joint Resolution Number 72-2012 dated August 28, 2012.’ The younger Naogsan who took the nom de guerres “Jose/Jayson/Fagway/Cynthian," is facing 10 counts of murder and one count of crime of rebellion. He is an alleged member of the Kilusang Larangang Guerilya Marco, Ilocos Cordillera Regional Committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army and reportedly operated along the “East Chico Line Team," police said. Judge Artemio B. Marrero of the Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 35 in Bontoc, Mountain Province, Judge Joseph Baguilat RTC Branch 14 of Lagawe, Ifugao and Judge Corpus Alzate of RTC of Abra issued the 11 warrants of arrest, Magalong said. But according to the Manila-based human rights group Karapatan, the arrest of the alleged “high-valued rebel” was based on “trumped up charges.” This is aside from the disrespect of the PNP to Naogsan’s relatives, especially his wife, Rose who was reportedly led to a run-around in Manila and various areas in the Cordillera when they started to locate him, the group said. “The PNP showed callousness to the feelings of the relatives who were anxious to know the whereabouts and the condition of Naogsan,” said Cristina Palabay, secretary general of Karapatan.After almost a week of searching, Palabay added, relatives finally found him in Ifugao Provincial Jail, after he was taken by police and military agents on Nov. 5 in Baguio City. The Baguio-based Cordillera Human Rights Alliance (CHRA), meanwhile, claim that Naogsan was arrested on the basis of a defective warrant of arrest issued by the Bontoc Regional Trial Court Branch 35 which bore the name of a certain “Jason Naogsan” and not Grayson Naogsan. The said warrant was amended, Jude Baggo, spokesperson of the CHRA said, to change “Jason” to “Grayson." “No one should be arrested simply because he is a son or a relative of a person who is a member of the revolutionary movement. The government has not grown tired of parading its arbitrariness,” Palabay said, adding that, “it has not learned from the case of Rolly Panesa, the security guard whom they mistook for a certain Benjamin Mendoza.” More than five years ago, Naogsan’s brother, Simon Jr., was slain in a firefight with government troopers in Abra province.
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