From the Manila Standard Today (Dec 8): Officer killed in battle
A fresh graduate of the Philippine Military Academy was killed in a battle on Friday between government forces and the New People’s Army in the hinterlands of Barangay Buhisan in San Agustin, Surigao del Sur.
Major Christian Uy, spokesperson of the 4th Infantry Division, identified the victim as 2nd Lt. Romeo Beniegla Jr. of the 3rd Philippine Army Special Forces Battalion.
Major Judith Loayon of the 410st Infantry Battalion identified two other casualties as Private First Class Gaspar M. Calleja, Jr. and Pfc. Donald Linian, both members of the 3rd Philippine Army Special Forces.
In separate mobile phone interviews this December 7 morning, both Majors Uy and Loayon told MST government troopers were patrolling Barangay Buhisan when 30 NPA rebels engaged them in a 30 minute firefight.
The exchanges of volleys of gun fires for thirty minutes resulted to the killing of the PMA fresh graduate and seriously wounding two other soldiers which were immediately brought to military emergency hospital here in Barangay Bancasi inside Military Headquarters compound located near Butuan City Airport.
The two military officials claimed that as of press time the military is conducting hot pursuit operations against the fleeing communist rebels.
http://manilastandardtoday.com/2013/12/08/officer-killed-in-battle-/
Saturday, December 7, 2013
Misuari still hiding in Mindanao – Hashim
From the Manila Bulletin (Dec 7): Misuari still hiding in Mindanao – Hashim
Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) leader Habib Mujahab Hashim revealed that MNLF founder Nur Misuari is still hiding and has not left the country. The Department of Justice has filed rebellion charges against Misuari and other MNLF members on Oct. 7, over the Zamboanga siege which left 200 people dead (File photo).
Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) founding Chairman Nur P. Misuari is still in Mindanao, hiding from the long arm of the law, senior MNLF leader Habib Mujahab Hashim revealed yesterday to dispel reports he had already fled the country.
“I learned that Brother Nur is still in the country, taking safety precautions by hiding because government security forces are after him,” Hashim, who heads the MNLF-Islamic Command Council (MNLF-ICC) faction, said after speaking with Misuari’s close allies.
Hashim said the MNLF is also helping prepare the embattled Moro leader’s defense in the rebellion charges filed by the government against him.
He said Misuari is well, just got “a little sick, but otherwise is strong and moving about.”
Misuari is very much alive, said Hashim.
Most likely, Hashim said that Misuari will not be able to participate personally in the 40th Session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC-CFM) on Dec. 9-11 in Conakry, Guinea, Western Africa.
“Brother Nur is sending his eldest son, Abdulkarim, together with some MNLF leaders, to represent him and read his speech at the plenary of the OIC conference,” he said.
http://www.mb.com.ph/misuari-still-hiding-in-mindanao-hashim/
Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) leader Habib Mujahab Hashim revealed that MNLF founder Nur Misuari is still hiding and has not left the country. The Department of Justice has filed rebellion charges against Misuari and other MNLF members on Oct. 7, over the Zamboanga siege which left 200 people dead (File photo).
Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) founding Chairman Nur P. Misuari is still in Mindanao, hiding from the long arm of the law, senior MNLF leader Habib Mujahab Hashim revealed yesterday to dispel reports he had already fled the country.
“I learned that Brother Nur is still in the country, taking safety precautions by hiding because government security forces are after him,” Hashim, who heads the MNLF-Islamic Command Council (MNLF-ICC) faction, said after speaking with Misuari’s close allies.
Hashim said the MNLF is also helping prepare the embattled Moro leader’s defense in the rebellion charges filed by the government against him.
He said Misuari is well, just got “a little sick, but otherwise is strong and moving about.”
Misuari is very much alive, said Hashim.
Most likely, Hashim said that Misuari will not be able to participate personally in the 40th Session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC-CFM) on Dec. 9-11 in Conakry, Guinea, Western Africa.
“Brother Nur is sending his eldest son, Abdulkarim, together with some MNLF leaders, to represent him and read his speech at the plenary of the OIC conference,” he said.
http://www.mb.com.ph/misuari-still-hiding-in-mindanao-hashim/
Clan war displaces 30 families in Kidapawan City
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 7): Clan war displaces 30 families in Kidapawan City
An armed conflict involving Moro clans erupted in a remote village here that forced about 30 families or 140 persons fleeing, officials said today.
Two warring families both claimed ownership of a vast tract of agricultural land in thevillage of Patadon , Kidapawan
City
Psalmer Bernalte, Kidapawan City information officer, said the displaced families now housed at Amas Elementary School, in nearby Barangay Amas, are being attended to by the city social welfare office.
The families fled when armed men believed to be sympathizers of one of the claimants of said vast tract of land were seen roaming around the village Wednesday.
Mayor Joseph Evangelista earlier ordered the return of displaced families to their homes as normalcy had been restored.
But the residents refused having experienced armed hostilities between two warring families both claiming ownership of about 50 hectares of agricultural lands started shooting in an attempt to drive away each other.
Bernalte said the disputed lands are part of the reserved area within the Central Mindanao Integrated Agricultural Research Center (CEMIARC) of the Department of Agriculture.
He said the city government is addressing the issue to determine genuine owners by coordinating with concerned government agencies.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=594691
An armed conflict involving Moro clans erupted in a remote village here that forced about 30 families or 140 persons fleeing, officials said today.
Two warring families both claimed ownership of a vast tract of agricultural land in the
Psalmer Bernalte, Kidapawan City information officer, said the displaced families now housed at Amas Elementary School, in nearby Barangay Amas, are being attended to by the city social welfare office.
The families fled when armed men believed to be sympathizers of one of the claimants of said vast tract of land were seen roaming around the village Wednesday.
Mayor Joseph Evangelista earlier ordered the return of displaced families to their homes as normalcy had been restored.
But the residents refused having experienced armed hostilities between two warring families both claiming ownership of about 50 hectares of agricultural lands started shooting in an attempt to drive away each other.
Bernalte said the disputed lands are part of the reserved area within the Central Mindanao Integrated Agricultural Research Center (CEMIARC) of the Department of Agriculture.
He said the city government is addressing the issue to determine genuine owners by coordinating with concerned government agencies.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=594691
Japan defense minister back to discuss regional tensions
From Rappler (Dec 7): Japan defense minister back to discuss regional tensions
Japan highlighted the need for a peaceful resolution of the regional conflict as various countries expressed concern over China's Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ) established over Japan-controlled islands in the East China Sea.
ALLIES: Japanese
defense Minister Itsunori Onodera returns to the Philippines
to discuss regional security and Japan
Japan highlighted the need for a peaceful resolution of the regional conflict as various countries expressed concern over China's Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ) established over Japan-controlled islands in the East China Sea.
"I think the world shares the same understanding that the regional tension should not be raised by the course of action," Japanese Defense Minister Itsunori Onodera told reporters in Manila on Saturday, December 7.
"What's important is for the international community or society to [send] a strong message [to] China," Onodera added.
Onodera is back in the Philippines after visiting last June. He met with Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin to discuss China's ADIZ and the growing tension in the region, Japan's assistance to Typhoon Yolanda victims, and deeper military-to-military cooperation between the two countries. (READ: Japan vows to help PH amid China sea row. )
The Philippines joined the US, European Union, South Korea, and Taiwan, among other countries, in criticizing China's unilateral establishment of the ADIZ. It wants foreign aircraft to provide a flight plan if they want to fly over the disputed area. (READ: US forces operating 'normally' in China air zone and Japan, South Korea defy Chinese air zone)
ADIZ in West Philippine Sea?
Onodera said they are also concerned about reports China will also establish a similar ADIZ in the West Philippine Sea, where the Philippines and China are involved in a bitter territorial dispute.
Gazmin shared the sentiment but at the same time downplayed the possibility of China setting up another ADIZ. Gazmin said it was "speculative at this point."
Onodera however reiterated, "Any unilateral establishment of ADIZ in any area would bring up tension over the area. Therefore, we have concerns over such development."
After Yolanda, Japan wants deal with PH to 'deploy troops faster'
From Rappler (Dec 7): After Yolanda, Japan wants deal with PH to 'deploy troops faster'
Japan is looking at an "advanced disaster relief framework or agreement" to allow "our forces to be deployed to the Philippines faster," Japan Defense Minister Itsunori Onodera told reporters on Saturday, December 7.
JAPANESE AID.
Japanese military beside their Japanese Air Force C130 cargo plane after its
arrival at Tacloban
Airport
Japan is looking at an "advanced disaster relief framework or agreement" to allow "our forces to be deployed to the Philippines faster," Japan Defense Minister Itsunori Onodera told reporters on Saturday, December 7.
"That would be more meaningful for future field operations here. The two of us agreed that we would expand and deepen our cooperation between two sides on defense authorities," he said.
Japan sent about 1,200 troops to assist victims of Super Typhoon Yolanda. It is contemplating plans to pull them out by the end of the year but Onodera vowed it's not the end of Japan's assistance to the typhoon victims. (READ: Japanese troops welcomed back in typhoon-hit Philippines and Japan triples PH aid package to over $30M)
Onodera is scheduled to visit Japanese operations in the Visayas on Sunday, December 8, to determine the future assistance it will offer the Philippines.
"The needs in the site are changing from emergency relief to reconstruction and recovery. Therefore, self defense forces and international disaster relief operations, I believe, are closing by the end of the year. But this does not mean that the support and assistance by government of Japan would end. It will change and shift to the next stage," said Onodera.
The US is the only treaty ally of the Philppines. In the wake of China's aggression in the West Philippine Sea, the two countries are negotiating a military-to-military agreement to allow increased rotational presence of US troops in the Philippines and give them more access to military bases.
Japan also vowed to help the Philippines defend its terrority. (READ: PH 'closely coordinating with allies' amid tensions)
Japan defense chief sees tensions rising if China puts up another ADIZ over West Philippine Sea
From InterAksyon (Dec 7): Japan defense chief sees tensions rising if China puts up another ADIZ over West Philippine Sea
Japanese Defense Minister Onodera is welcomed by Secretary Voltaire Gazmin at the Department of National Defense in Quezon City on Saturday. KRISKEN JONES, INTERAKSYON.COM
Tensions will climb higher in the West Philippine Sea should China decide to put up an air defense identification zone (ADIZ) there, Japanese Defense Minister Itsunori Onodera said Saturday.
The visiting Japanese officials made this statement during a press briefing after his visit with Department of National Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin at DND headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.
"China's unilateral action to change the status quo by force or coercive action will bring back tension in this region," Onodera stressed, in the wake of rising tensions in the East China Sea, over which China declared an ADIZ, and demanded that all countries with aircraft passing through the zone submit flight plans else face "defensive measures."
Onodera said that this declaration violates the spirit of the international treaty of ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization).
The Japanese defense chief is on a two-day visit to the Philippines.
He added that he has received reports that China is considering establishing a new ADIZ in the West Philippine Sea.
China and Japan have a serious maritime dispute over a cluster of islands Japan calls Senkakus but which China claims and calls Diaoyus.
The disputed territories have been at the center of the two countries' territorial dispute for decades, but are presently under Japan's administrative control.
China and the Philippines have a similar dispute in the West Philippine Sea, where the Spratly Islands are located.
Last month, the Chinese government put up an ADIZ over the East China Sea, covering the group of islets claimed by both China and Japan. Onodera said Japan and the US have been "firmly and calmly" continuing patrols and surveillance in the East China Sea despite China's ADIZ.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/76391/japan-defense-chief-sees-tensions-rising-if-china-puts-up-another-adiz-over-west-philippine-sea
Japanese Defense Minister Onodera is welcomed by Secretary Voltaire Gazmin at the Department of National Defense in Quezon City on Saturday. KRISKEN JONES, INTERAKSYON.COM
Tensions will climb higher in the West Philippine Sea should China decide to put up an air defense identification zone (ADIZ) there, Japanese Defense Minister Itsunori Onodera said Saturday.
The visiting Japanese officials made this statement during a press briefing after his visit with Department of National Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin at DND headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.
"China's unilateral action to change the status quo by force or coercive action will bring back tension in this region," Onodera stressed, in the wake of rising tensions in the East China Sea, over which China declared an ADIZ, and demanded that all countries with aircraft passing through the zone submit flight plans else face "defensive measures."
Onodera said that this declaration violates the spirit of the international treaty of ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization).
The Japanese defense chief is on a two-day visit to the Philippines.
He added that he has received reports that China is considering establishing a new ADIZ in the West Philippine Sea.
China and Japan have a serious maritime dispute over a cluster of islands Japan calls Senkakus but which China claims and calls Diaoyus.
The disputed territories have been at the center of the two countries' territorial dispute for decades, but are presently under Japan's administrative control.
China and the Philippines have a similar dispute in the West Philippine Sea, where the Spratly Islands are located.
Last month, the Chinese government put up an ADIZ over the East China Sea, covering the group of islets claimed by both China and Japan. Onodera said Japan and the US have been "firmly and calmly" continuing patrols and surveillance in the East China Sea despite China's ADIZ.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/76391/japan-defense-chief-sees-tensions-rising-if-china-puts-up-another-adiz-over-west-philippine-sea
AFP files complaint of truce violation against MILF unit over Marawi attack
From InterAksyon (Dec 7): AFP files complaint of truce violation against MILF unit over Marawi attack
A day after Malacanang Palace condemned the attack in Marawi City and abduction of its police chief by a unit of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, the Armed Forces of the Philippines filed a complaint against the MILF culprits for violation of the cease-fire agreement.
The complaint was filed by a military unit based in Lanao del Sur before a counterpart body, over the Dec. 6 raid on the Marawi City Police in Barangay West Marinaut.
Col. Glenn Macasero, commander of the Army’s 103rdInfantry Brigade, filed the complaint before the office of Oshama Ali, head of the MILF Ad Hoc Joint Action Group (AHJAG) Team 2 based in the province.
The subject of Macasero’s complaint was a certain Toni Datu Repors, leader of the MILF unit who led his men in the raid shortly after midnight Friday, killing the police chief’s brother and abducting the police chief himself as human shield while they withdrew.
“Elements of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) led by a certain Toni Datu Repors blatantly violated the truce with the government when he and his cohorts attacked the Marawi City Police Station, killing one civilian, and abducted Supt. Christopher Panapan, Chief-of-Police of Marawi City PNP past midnight of December 6, 2013,” Macasero said.
A police report earlier tagged Commander Abdurahman Macapaar alias Bravo as the one who led the attack.
Macasero said the MILF had come by boat near the vicinity of the police station, in a bid to spring some comrades held on gun charges. “They conducted the attack to free their detained comrades, namely, Johani Abuat Cader and Mesron Mauntol Borodan who were apprehended by the police sometime on October 20, 2013 for illegal possession of firearms,” he said.
The MILF team took Panapan hostage as they fled, and later released him after negotiations by the Crisis Management Committee led by the city vice mayor. The police said the attackers had killed Malik, brother of Panapan.
Repors’ group’s raid took place despite resumption of formal negotiations between the government and MILF peace panels in Kuala Lumpur—covering the rest of the annexes set in the Framework Agreement signed in October 2012 by President Benigno Aquino III and MILF chairman Al Haj Murad .
Malacanang Palace denounced the attack Friday night, and the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process said it had moved for an investigation by a joint panel.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/76393/afp-files-complaint-of-truce-violation-against-milf-unit-over-marawi-attack
A day after Malacanang Palace condemned the attack in Marawi City and abduction of its police chief by a unit of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, the Armed Forces of the Philippines filed a complaint against the MILF culprits for violation of the cease-fire agreement.
The complaint was filed by a military unit based in Lanao del Sur before a counterpart body, over the Dec. 6 raid on the Marawi City Police in Barangay West Marinaut.
Col. Glenn Macasero, commander of the Army’s 103rdInfantry Brigade, filed the complaint before the office of Oshama Ali, head of the MILF Ad Hoc Joint Action Group (AHJAG) Team 2 based in the province.
The subject of Macasero’s complaint was a certain Toni Datu Repors, leader of the MILF unit who led his men in the raid shortly after midnight Friday, killing the police chief’s brother and abducting the police chief himself as human shield while they withdrew.
“Elements of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) led by a certain Toni Datu Repors blatantly violated the truce with the government when he and his cohorts attacked the Marawi City Police Station, killing one civilian, and abducted Supt. Christopher Panapan, Chief-of-Police of Marawi City PNP past midnight of December 6, 2013,” Macasero said.
A police report earlier tagged Commander Abdurahman Macapaar alias Bravo as the one who led the attack.
Macasero said the MILF had come by boat near the vicinity of the police station, in a bid to spring some comrades held on gun charges. “They conducted the attack to free their detained comrades, namely, Johani Abuat Cader and Mesron Mauntol Borodan who were apprehended by the police sometime on October 20, 2013 for illegal possession of firearms,” he said.
The MILF team took Panapan hostage as they fled, and later released him after negotiations by the Crisis Management Committee led by the city vice mayor. The police said the attackers had killed Malik, brother of Panapan.
Repors’ group’s raid took place despite resumption of formal negotiations between the government and MILF peace panels in Kuala Lumpur—covering the rest of the annexes set in the Framework Agreement signed in October 2012 by President Benigno Aquino III and MILF chairman Al Haj Murad .
Malacanang Palace denounced the attack Friday night, and the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process said it had moved for an investigation by a joint panel.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/76393/afp-files-complaint-of-truce-violation-against-milf-unit-over-marawi-attack
OPAPP: Statement of Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita Quintos Deles on the attack and abduction of the Marawi City police chief perpetrated by a small group of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Members
From the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) (Dec 6): Statement of Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita Quintos Deles on the attack and abduction of the Marawi City police chief perpetrated by a small group of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Members
The unfortunate incident involving the attack to the Marawi City police station, and the abduction and release thereafter of the Police Chief, Supt. Christopher Panapan, occurred while the GPH and the MILF peace panels are in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia for the conduct of the 42nd Exploratory Talks.
Upon learning of the incident from official ground reports, the GPH peace panel immediately raised the matter to its MILF counterpart for urgent action. Our Panels have closely monitored the situation on the ground, and undertook coordination with their respective ceasefire committees to assist in ensuring the incident’s immediate resolution in the soonest possible time.
Our ceasefire and security mechanisms on the ground established for matters such as this were immediately put to work and deployed to the area of the incident. As already done by the local security force, we give due recognition to our government ceasefire and security committees – the Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH) with its local monitoring team, the AdHoc Joint Action Group (AHJAG), and the International Monitoring Team (IMT) who constitute the GPH-MILF ceasefire and security mechanisms, for the crucial role they played in securing the safe release of City Police Chief Panapan, and preventing possible escalation of hostilities that might have compromised the existing ceasefire between Government and the MILF.
We give due recognition to our local security forces for their command and restraint on the ground that enabled peaceful resolution of the incident, and to local government officials who worked together with the ceasefire mechanism.
In accordance with the rules and procedures agreed upon between the GPH and MILF, investigations will be conducted immediately by the joint committees. As we have declared many times before, what we are after is peace with justice. We will rely on the established mechanisms to ensure that the rule of law is followed and justice is duly served.
We give due recognition to the MILF leadership for working with us on this matter. At this point in time when we are in the last stage of the negotiations towards the completion of a comprehensive agreement, it is important that we are able to prove that we have control over our forces, and can protect our communities in our commitment to deliver the much deserved peace and development in the region.
http://www.opapp.gov.ph/news/statement-presidential-adviser-peace-process-teresita-quintos-deles-attack-and-abduction-marawi
The unfortunate incident involving the attack to the Marawi City police station, and the abduction and release thereafter of the Police Chief, Supt. Christopher Panapan, occurred while the GPH and the MILF peace panels are in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia for the conduct of the 42nd Exploratory Talks.
Upon learning of the incident from official ground reports, the GPH peace panel immediately raised the matter to its MILF counterpart for urgent action. Our Panels have closely monitored the situation on the ground, and undertook coordination with their respective ceasefire committees to assist in ensuring the incident’s immediate resolution in the soonest possible time.
Our ceasefire and security mechanisms on the ground established for matters such as this were immediately put to work and deployed to the area of the incident. As already done by the local security force, we give due recognition to our government ceasefire and security committees – the Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH) with its local monitoring team, the AdHoc Joint Action Group (AHJAG), and the International Monitoring Team (IMT) who constitute the GPH-MILF ceasefire and security mechanisms, for the crucial role they played in securing the safe release of City Police Chief Panapan, and preventing possible escalation of hostilities that might have compromised the existing ceasefire between Government and the MILF.
We give due recognition to our local security forces for their command and restraint on the ground that enabled peaceful resolution of the incident, and to local government officials who worked together with the ceasefire mechanism.
In accordance with the rules and procedures agreed upon between the GPH and MILF, investigations will be conducted immediately by the joint committees. As we have declared many times before, what we are after is peace with justice. We will rely on the established mechanisms to ensure that the rule of law is followed and justice is duly served.
We give due recognition to the MILF leadership for working with us on this matter. At this point in time when we are in the last stage of the negotiations towards the completion of a comprehensive agreement, it is important that we are able to prove that we have control over our forces, and can protect our communities in our commitment to deliver the much deserved peace and development in the region.
http://www.opapp.gov.ph/news/statement-presidential-adviser-peace-process-teresita-quintos-deles-attack-and-abduction-marawi
OPAPP: 158 CPLA members complete transition into the army; fulfills closure agreement provision on integration
From the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) (Dec 7): 158 CPLA members complete transition into the army; fulfills closure agreement provision on integration
Gamu, Isabela – One hundred fifty-eight (158) members and next of kin of former rebel group Cordillera Peoples' Liberation Army (CPLA) on Wednesday officially took oath as soldiers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), having completed the army integration program, a component of the 2011 Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the government and the Cordillera Bodong Administration (CBA)-CPLA.
The event was complemented with the turn-in of 186 firearms of the former rebel group.
Undersecretary Maria Cleofe Gettie Sandoval of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) noted the completion of the army integration program and turnover of firearms as significant achievements of the peace process and accomplishments for the government “whose task has been to ensure our faithfulness to the commitments we had signed…”
The 2011 MOA is geared towards the CBA-CPLA's final disposition of arms and forces and its transformation into an unarmed, socio-economic entity that will contribute to peace and development in the Cordillera region.
In a message delivered on Wednesday during the graduation ceremonies of army integrees, Sandoval noted the initial findings of a focus group discussion (FGD) with the integrees indicating a transformation in various aspects.
“Mas lumakas, mas tumibay ang loob, mas tumatag ang paniniwala sa sarili, mas lumalim ang kakayahang makipagkapwa-tao, at higit sa lahat, mas nabuo ang kahandaang unahin ang mga mamamayan bago ang sarili at maging tunay na lingkod ng bayan (have become physically stronger, have grown in inner strength, have more formidable faith in self, have deeper capacities for kinship with fellowmen, and most specially, more capacitated and prepared to think for the sake of the people first rather than self gains and more prepared to be genuine public servants).”
“These are all worthwhile accomplishments that are not easy to achieve in a lifetime. Palakpakan po natin ang ating mga graduates sa matagumpay nilang pagdating sa yugtong ito ng kanilang buhay (Let’s congratulate the graduates for successfully reaching this chapter in their lives),” Sandoval enthused.
For his part, AFP Chief of Staff General Emmanuel Bautista, the ceremony’s guest of honor and speaker, welcomed the new soldiers in his speech.
“Tinatanggap namin kayo ng buong puso sa Hukbong Sandatahan ng Pilipinas. Kayo ngayon ay ganap nang mga sundalo (We wholeheartedly accept you all to the Armed Forces of the Philippines. You are all official soldiers now).”
Bautista also told the integrees that much is expected of them as graduates trained in excellence and virtue. The general reminded the new soldiers that their mandate is to protect the people and the country and that part of their responsibilities as members of the army is to uphold non-partisanship, discipline, and respect for human rights.
Sandoval thanked all partners, Bautista and 5th Infantry Division (5ID) commander Major Gen. Joel Ibanez for their commitment to the peace agenda of the President and support to the CBA-CPLA peace track.
“It has been a worthwhile partnership, overall, which we hope will continue in the service of building a sustainable peace in the Cordillera,” Sandoval said.
To partners CBA and CPLA, the Undersecretary looked forward to “a new beginning where you lead as empowered, empowering, enlightened, and enlightening presence in the Cordillera’s pursuit of peace.
Among the integrees, a woman, Private Wendy Cacbet of Paracelis, Mt. Province was awarded First Honor. Three more women are on the Top Ten – Privates Marichu Edduba (3rd) Lhariza Joy Gannisi (4th) and Marites Polanco (8th).
The army integration program of CPLA began in 2001 with the issuance of Administrative Order 18. In 2011, the government’s MOA with the CBA-CPLA again included army integration as an option for socio-economic reintegration.
http://www.opapp.gov.ph/news/158-cpla-members-complete-transition-army-fulfills-closure-agreement-provision-integration
Gamu, Isabela – One hundred fifty-eight (158) members and next of kin of former rebel group Cordillera Peoples' Liberation Army (CPLA) on Wednesday officially took oath as soldiers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), having completed the army integration program, a component of the 2011 Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the government and the Cordillera Bodong Administration (CBA)-CPLA.
The event was complemented with the turn-in of 186 firearms of the former rebel group.
Undersecretary Maria Cleofe Gettie Sandoval of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) noted the completion of the army integration program and turnover of firearms as significant achievements of the peace process and accomplishments for the government “whose task has been to ensure our faithfulness to the commitments we had signed…”
The 2011 MOA is geared towards the CBA-CPLA's final disposition of arms and forces and its transformation into an unarmed, socio-economic entity that will contribute to peace and development in the Cordillera region.
In a message delivered on Wednesday during the graduation ceremonies of army integrees, Sandoval noted the initial findings of a focus group discussion (FGD) with the integrees indicating a transformation in various aspects.
“Mas lumakas, mas tumibay ang loob, mas tumatag ang paniniwala sa sarili, mas lumalim ang kakayahang makipagkapwa-tao, at higit sa lahat, mas nabuo ang kahandaang unahin ang mga mamamayan bago ang sarili at maging tunay na lingkod ng bayan (have become physically stronger, have grown in inner strength, have more formidable faith in self, have deeper capacities for kinship with fellowmen, and most specially, more capacitated and prepared to think for the sake of the people first rather than self gains and more prepared to be genuine public servants).”
“These are all worthwhile accomplishments that are not easy to achieve in a lifetime. Palakpakan po natin ang ating mga graduates sa matagumpay nilang pagdating sa yugtong ito ng kanilang buhay (Let’s congratulate the graduates for successfully reaching this chapter in their lives),” Sandoval enthused.
For his part, AFP Chief of Staff General Emmanuel Bautista, the ceremony’s guest of honor and speaker, welcomed the new soldiers in his speech.
“Tinatanggap namin kayo ng buong puso sa Hukbong Sandatahan ng Pilipinas. Kayo ngayon ay ganap nang mga sundalo (We wholeheartedly accept you all to the Armed Forces of the Philippines. You are all official soldiers now).”
Bautista also told the integrees that much is expected of them as graduates trained in excellence and virtue. The general reminded the new soldiers that their mandate is to protect the people and the country and that part of their responsibilities as members of the army is to uphold non-partisanship, discipline, and respect for human rights.
Sandoval thanked all partners, Bautista and 5th Infantry Division (5ID) commander Major Gen. Joel Ibanez for their commitment to the peace agenda of the President and support to the CBA-CPLA peace track.
“It has been a worthwhile partnership, overall, which we hope will continue in the service of building a sustainable peace in the Cordillera,” Sandoval said.
To partners CBA and CPLA, the Undersecretary looked forward to “a new beginning where you lead as empowered, empowering, enlightened, and enlightening presence in the Cordillera’s pursuit of peace.
Among the integrees, a woman, Private Wendy Cacbet of Paracelis, Mt. Province was awarded First Honor. Three more women are on the Top Ten – Privates Marichu Edduba (3rd) Lhariza Joy Gannisi (4th) and Marites Polanco (8th).
The army integration program of CPLA began in 2001 with the issuance of Administrative Order 18. In 2011, the government’s MOA with the CBA-CPLA again included army integration as an option for socio-economic reintegration.
http://www.opapp.gov.ph/news/158-cpla-members-complete-transition-army-fulfills-closure-agreement-provision-integration
Nur Misuari still in PH, says MNLF official
From ABS-CBN (Dec 7): Nur Misuari still in PH, says MNLF official
Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) founding chairman Nur Misuari is still in the Philippines, according to the chairman of the MNLF's Islamic Command Council.
Habib Hashim said he has recently talked to Misuari's personal aide, who confirmed that the MNLF chairman has not fled the country and is just hiding from police authorities.
He said there is no truth to reports that Misuari has already left the Philippines before charges were filed against him by the Department of Justice (DOJ) in connection with the September siege in Zamboanga City.
Hashim said Misuari has expressed interest to attend the Organization of Islamic Conference in Guinea on December 9 to 11 to voice out his thoughts on the Zamboanga crisis.
However, Misuari has been placed on the Bureau of Immigration's (BI) lookout bulletin after the DOJ filed rebellion charges and charges for violations of international humanitarian laws against him, MNLF commander Habier Malik, and 63 others last October.
Misuari and Malik, as well as Bas Arki and Assamin Hussin, have pending warrants of arrest and are barred from leaving the Philippines.
Meanwhile, Hashim warned that if the tripartite review of the implementation of the 1996 final peace agreement will still not go well, the nearly three-week firefight between MNLF rebels and government troops in Zamboanga City may happen again.
He clarified, however, that Misuari has yet to confirm if they will again attack the city.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/12/07/13/nur-misuari-still-ph-says-mnlf-official
Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) founding chairman Nur Misuari is still in the Philippines, according to the chairman of the MNLF's Islamic Command Council.
Habib Hashim said he has recently talked to Misuari's personal aide, who confirmed that the MNLF chairman has not fled the country and is just hiding from police authorities.
He said there is no truth to reports that Misuari has already left the Philippines before charges were filed against him by the Department of Justice (DOJ) in connection with the September siege in Zamboanga City.
Hashim said Misuari has expressed interest to attend the Organization of Islamic Conference in Guinea on December 9 to 11 to voice out his thoughts on the Zamboanga crisis.
However, Misuari has been placed on the Bureau of Immigration's (BI) lookout bulletin after the DOJ filed rebellion charges and charges for violations of international humanitarian laws against him, MNLF commander Habier Malik, and 63 others last October.
Misuari and Malik, as well as Bas Arki and Assamin Hussin, have pending warrants of arrest and are barred from leaving the Philippines.
Meanwhile, Hashim warned that if the tripartite review of the implementation of the 1996 final peace agreement will still not go well, the nearly three-week firefight between MNLF rebels and government troops in Zamboanga City may happen again.
He clarified, however, that Misuari has yet to confirm if they will again attack the city.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/12/07/13/nur-misuari-still-ph-says-mnlf-official
Army officer killed, 2 hurt in firefight with NPA in Surigao del Sur
From GMA News (Dec 7): Army officer killed, 2 hurt in firefight with NPA in Surigao del Sur
An Army second lieutenant was killed Friday afternoon in an encounter with New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in Surigao del Sur, a military official said.
An Army second lieutenant was killed Friday afternoon in an encounter with New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in Surigao del Sur, a military official said.
Captain Christian Uy, spokesman of the Army’s 4th Infantry Division, said Saturday that two other soldiers from the 3rd Special Forces Battalion were wounded in the clash that occurred in Buhisan village in San Agustin town around 12:30 p.m.
Uy said the soldiers were deployed to the village following reports that NPA rebels were conducting extortion activities in the area.
“There was information about the presence of an armed group in the area so the troops conducted an operation. The [rebels] were conducting foraging activities [such as] asking the people for food,” he said.
The spokesperson added that an undetermined number of NPA rebels also died in the ensuing firefight with the troops, which lasted for about 20 minutes.
Earlier this week, at least 4 members of the NPA--including two female fighters--were killed in separate encounters with government troops in Compostela Valley in Mindanao.
The NPA, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines, has been waging an insurgency since 1969.
Peace talks between the government and the CPP-National Democratic Front have been stalled since April this year.
The NPA, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines, has been waging an insurgency since 1969.
Peace talks between the government and the CPP-National Democratic Front have been stalled since April this year.
Five fishermen slain in Sulu sea by suspected pirates
From GMA News (Dec 7): Five fishermen slain in Sulu sea by suspected pirates
Gunmen aboard a speedboat shot dead five members of a fishing crew in a mysterious attack in the seas of Sulu, the coast guard said Saturday.
The five were part of a fishing fleet in the sea near Sulu when the gunmen attacked them on Friday, said coast guard spokesman Lieutenant Jomark Angue.
Even as the five leapt overboard, the gunmen riddled them with bullets, then sped off. Only three of the bodies were recovered, he said.
The attackers were suspected to be pirates, Angue added. But it was unclear why they would attack the fishing boat crew.
Law-enforcement sources said the attack might be part of an extortion attempt by armed groups operating in Sulu, an impoverished, heavily-forested group of islands.
Among the armed groups in Jolo are Muslim separatists who staged a bloody three-week siege in the southern city of Zamboanga in September.
The Al-Qaeda-linked Abu Sayyaf, a group known for the worst terror attacks in Philippine history, including bombings, kidnappings and banditry, are also active in Sulu along with other outlaw bands.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/338764/news/nation/five-fishermen-slain-in-sulu-sea-by-suspected-pirates
Gunmen aboard a speedboat shot dead five members of a fishing crew in a mysterious attack in the seas of Sulu, the coast guard said Saturday.
The five were part of a fishing fleet in the sea near Sulu when the gunmen attacked them on Friday, said coast guard spokesman Lieutenant Jomark Angue.
Even as the five leapt overboard, the gunmen riddled them with bullets, then sped off. Only three of the bodies were recovered, he said.
The attackers were suspected to be pirates, Angue added. But it was unclear why they would attack the fishing boat crew.
Law-enforcement sources said the attack might be part of an extortion attempt by armed groups operating in Sulu, an impoverished, heavily-forested group of islands.
Among the armed groups in Jolo are Muslim separatists who staged a bloody three-week siege in the southern city of Zamboanga in September.
The Al-Qaeda-linked Abu Sayyaf, a group known for the worst terror attacks in Philippine history, including bombings, kidnappings and banditry, are also active in Sulu along with other outlaw bands.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/338764/news/nation/five-fishermen-slain-in-sulu-sea-by-suspected-pirates
4 Leftist Rebels Slain In South Philippine Clashes
From Bernama (Dec 7): 4 Leftist Rebels Slain In South Philippine Clashes
At least four leftist rebels have been killed in recent clashes with government troops in southern Philippines, Xinhua news agency reported.
Three New People's Army (NPA) rebels died in a clash with soldiers at Teresa village in Maco town in Mindanao's Compostela Valley province on Wednesday, said Captain Alberto Caber, spokesperson for the Philippine military's Eastern Mindanao Command.
"Residents said two of the NPA rebels who died in Teresa were women. Fleeing rebels dragged their dying comrades as they fled and apparently concealed them in the forests," Caber said in a statement
Troops were now scouring the area to locate dead insurgents and pursue those who had fled.
On Friday, another clash erupted between soldiers and NPA rebels at nearby Malamodao village in Maco.
One slain NPA rebel was found along with a hand grenade, magazines for M-16 rifles and backpacks.
The military said joint army-police elements are now still on pursuit operations in the areas above at local civilians' request.
The 4,000-strong NPA, an armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines, is fighting a leftist insurgency in 60 Philippine provinces since 1969.
http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v7/wn/newsworld.php?id=999186
At least four leftist rebels have been killed in recent clashes with government troops in southern Philippines, Xinhua news agency reported.
Three New People's Army (NPA) rebels died in a clash with soldiers at Teresa village in Maco town in Mindanao's Compostela Valley province on Wednesday, said Captain Alberto Caber, spokesperson for the Philippine military's Eastern Mindanao Command.
"Residents said two of the NPA rebels who died in Teresa were women. Fleeing rebels dragged their dying comrades as they fled and apparently concealed them in the forests," Caber said in a statement
Troops were now scouring the area to locate dead insurgents and pursue those who had fled.
On Friday, another clash erupted between soldiers and NPA rebels at nearby Malamodao village in Maco.
One slain NPA rebel was found along with a hand grenade, magazines for M-16 rifles and backpacks.
The military said joint army-police elements are now still on pursuit operations in the areas above at local civilians' request.
The 4,000-strong NPA, an armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines, is fighting a leftist insurgency in 60 Philippine provinces since 1969.
http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v7/wn/newsworld.php?id=999186
Army intensifies operations on 45th CPP anniversary
From the Visayan Daily Star (Dec 7): Army intensifies operations on 45th CPP anniversary
The Philippine Army in Negros Oriental is relentlessly conducting combat operations especially in far-flung sitios and barangays of the province against possible attacks by rebels during the 45th founding anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines this month.
Brig. Gen. Francisco Patrimonio, commander of the 302nd Infantry Brigade based in Tanjay City, Negros Oriental, said yesterday that it is a standing procedure for the military to strengthen its operations during the CPP anniversary on December 26 since its armed wing, the New People’s Army, could launch tactical offensives.
He said soldiers are directed to intensify the clearing of insurgency-affected areas and strengthen the defense of detachments, while civilians who are possible targets of NPA liquidation are reminded to take extra precautionary measures.
The “targets” should be extra careful and avoid areas that make them vulnerable to attacks by the NPA, Patrimonio said.
Meanwhile, the 79th Infantry Battalion, with the Sta. Catalina government, conducted a closing program for its Bayanihan Team activities in Sitio Hingles, Barangay San Francisco of the town recently.
It was highlighted by the oath-taking of 13 members of the Grupong Pang-organisa of the NPA from the barangay, before Mayor Nathaniel Electona.
Group leaders Ceferino Namuco and Gilmore Fabian called on other residents to break free of the influence of the NPA, and support the government in its quest for development and lasting peace, Lt. Wynmer Calulot of the 79th IB said.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2013/December/07/negor2.htm
The Philippine Army in Negros Oriental is relentlessly conducting combat operations especially in far-flung sitios and barangays of the province against possible attacks by rebels during the 45th founding anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines this month.
Brig. Gen. Francisco Patrimonio, commander of the 302nd Infantry Brigade based in Tanjay City, Negros Oriental, said yesterday that it is a standing procedure for the military to strengthen its operations during the CPP anniversary on December 26 since its armed wing, the New People’s Army, could launch tactical offensives.
He said soldiers are directed to intensify the clearing of insurgency-affected areas and strengthen the defense of detachments, while civilians who are possible targets of NPA liquidation are reminded to take extra precautionary measures.
The “targets” should be extra careful and avoid areas that make them vulnerable to attacks by the NPA, Patrimonio said.
Meanwhile, the 79th Infantry Battalion, with the Sta. Catalina government, conducted a closing program for its Bayanihan Team activities in Sitio Hingles, Barangay San Francisco of the town recently.
It was highlighted by the oath-taking of 13 members of the Grupong Pang-organisa of the NPA from the barangay, before Mayor Nathaniel Electona.
Group leaders Ceferino Namuco and Gilmore Fabian called on other residents to break free of the influence of the NPA, and support the government in its quest for development and lasting peace, Lt. Wynmer Calulot of the 79th IB said.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2013/December/07/negor2.htm
4 NPA guerrillas killed in two ComVal clashes
From GMA News (Dec 7): 4 NPA guerrillas killed in two ComVal clashes
At least 4 members of the New People's Army were killed in separate encounters with government troops in Compostela Valley province in Mindanao on Wednesday and Friday morning.
In a press statement on Saturday, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Eastern Mindanao Command said two female NPA fighters were among the three who died in the clash in Barangay Teresa.
It said residents in the area had told authorities the three died due to the loss of blood, but their bodies were recovered by rebels who survived and then concealed the cadavers in a forested area.
Also, the AFP said another NPA guerrilla was killed in Barangay Malamodao in a clash that lasted for 30 minutes.
Government forces are locating and identifying more casualties reported by civilians, while Joint Army-Police elements are on pursuit operations.
Civilians requested the military for regular security patrols for their protection from NPA harassment and extortion activities in the two barangays.
Meanwhile, Eastern Mindanao Command Commander Lt. Gen. Ricardo Rainier G. Cruz III urged residents to continue reporting NPA presence to the military.
“In our Bayanihan, we will prevail against the NPA,” Cruz said.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/338718/news/regions/4-npa-guerrillas-killed-in-two-comval-clashes
At least 4 members of the New People's Army were killed in separate encounters with government troops in Compostela Valley province in Mindanao on Wednesday and Friday morning.
In a press statement on Saturday, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Eastern Mindanao Command said two female NPA fighters were among the three who died in the clash in Barangay Teresa.
It said residents in the area had told authorities the three died due to the loss of blood, but their bodies were recovered by rebels who survived and then concealed the cadavers in a forested area.
Also, the AFP said another NPA guerrilla was killed in Barangay Malamodao in a clash that lasted for 30 minutes.
Government forces are locating and identifying more casualties reported by civilians, while Joint Army-Police elements are on pursuit operations.
Civilians requested the military for regular security patrols for their protection from NPA harassment and extortion activities in the two barangays.
Meanwhile, Eastern Mindanao Command Commander Lt. Gen. Ricardo Rainier G. Cruz III urged residents to continue reporting NPA presence to the military.
“In our Bayanihan, we will prevail against the NPA,” Cruz said.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/338718/news/regions/4-npa-guerrillas-killed-in-two-comval-clashes
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