From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Feb 10): Soldiers wounded in battle with BIFF get medals
The Armed Forces of the Philippines pinned meritorious service medals on least 19 members of the Sixth Infantry Division who were wounded in recent battles with the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters in Maguindanao and North Cotabato.
AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Emmanuel Bautista, who led in the pinning of medals at General Siongco Hospital at Datu Odin Sinsuat town on Monday morning, described the event as recognition of the soldiers’ bravery and courage in going after lawless elements.
Bautista, who was joined by Gov. Mujiv Hataman of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao in congratulating the injured soldiers, attributed the successful weeklong operation to teamwork and cooperation between the armed forces and local government units.
The BIFF is the military arm of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Movement, a splinter of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front led by Ameril Umbra Kato.
Hataman handed over checks for P10,000 to each awardee and P1 million to the Army’s Sixth Infantry Division for its peacekeeping mission.
“Peace and development are inseparable; there can never be one without the other,” said Hataman, who thanked the AFP for providing the needed security not only in Maguindanao, but all other provinces within ARMM.
Hataman said security threats such as bomb attacks within the 34-hectare compound of the Office of the Regional Governor, where other vital regional offices and installations are located, have been quelled by the presence of the Philippine Marines, and the posting of Army troops in other sensitive areas.
Maj. Gen. Romeo Gapuz, 6th ID commander, assured the local government that any threat to security would be the AFP’s primary concern.
The 19 soldiers who were decorated on Monday belong to the 57th, 33rd, and 46th, and the 601st Infantry Brigade, First and Second mechanized brigades.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/576260/soldiers-wounded-in-battle-with-biff-get-medals
Monday, February 10, 2014
CPP: Surface Comrades George Geluz and Silvestre Layones Jr!
Posted to the CPP Website (Feb 10): Surface Comrades George Geluz and Silvestre Layones Jr!
Bicol NDFP Information Office
The National Democratic Front-Bicol demands the immediate surfacing of comrades George Villacorta Geluz and Silvestre Layones Jr by their abductors from the Philippine National Police Regional Command in Bicol. Comrade George Geluz was captured at a police checkpoint in Gumaca, Quezon on 08 February 2014 at 11 PM, while Comrade Silvestre Layones Jr was seized by state forces in Naga City on 09 February 2014 at 3:30 AM.
Both have yet to be turned up to the public by the PNP Regional Command based at Camp Simeon Ola in Legazpi City. Families and friends of these comrades are deeply worried as to the possible harm that may befall the two beloved revolutionaries in the hands of PNP torturers. It is the families’ right to be informed of the whereabouts and conditions of comrades Geluz and Layones.
The NDF-Bicol likewise demands that if indeed the two comrades are facing criminal charges under the laws of the Government of the Philippines, they should therefore be presented in the courts of the GPH and not be kept incommunicado. The NDF-Bicol particularly holds responsible Bicol PNP’s Archimedes C. Garcia, RISB5 of the 5th Regional Public Safety Battalion for hiding Comrade George Geluz, and the PNP’s Camarines Sur Police Public Safety Company and the Regional Special Operations Task Group for the abduction of Comrade Silvestre Layones Jr.
It should be put forward that comrades Geluz and Layones, at the time of their arrests are engaging in a series of consultations with regards the plight of Bicol’s destitute majority. Such consultations are highly important so as to advance the legitimate demands of the poor and exploited masses on the negotiating table between the GPH and the NDFP. This commitment by the NDFP in realizing a peace based on justice is in stark contrast with the Aquino government’s anti-peace posture of attacking and abducting revolutionaries instead of pursuing peace negotiations.
http://www.philippinerevolution.net/statements/20140210_surface-comrades-george-geluz-and-silvestre-layones-jr
Bicol NDFP Information Office
The National Democratic Front-Bicol demands the immediate surfacing of comrades George Villacorta Geluz and Silvestre Layones Jr by their abductors from the Philippine National Police Regional Command in Bicol. Comrade George Geluz was captured at a police checkpoint in Gumaca, Quezon on 08 February 2014 at 11 PM, while Comrade Silvestre Layones Jr was seized by state forces in Naga City on 09 February 2014 at 3:30 AM.
Both have yet to be turned up to the public by the PNP Regional Command based at Camp Simeon Ola in Legazpi City. Families and friends of these comrades are deeply worried as to the possible harm that may befall the two beloved revolutionaries in the hands of PNP torturers. It is the families’ right to be informed of the whereabouts and conditions of comrades Geluz and Layones.
The NDF-Bicol likewise demands that if indeed the two comrades are facing criminal charges under the laws of the Government of the Philippines, they should therefore be presented in the courts of the GPH and not be kept incommunicado. The NDF-Bicol particularly holds responsible Bicol PNP’s Archimedes C. Garcia, RISB5 of the 5th Regional Public Safety Battalion for hiding Comrade George Geluz, and the PNP’s Camarines Sur Police Public Safety Company and the Regional Special Operations Task Group for the abduction of Comrade Silvestre Layones Jr.
It should be put forward that comrades Geluz and Layones, at the time of their arrests are engaging in a series of consultations with regards the plight of Bicol’s destitute majority. Such consultations are highly important so as to advance the legitimate demands of the poor and exploited masses on the negotiating table between the GPH and the NDFP. This commitment by the NDFP in realizing a peace based on justice is in stark contrast with the Aquino government’s anti-peace posture of attacking and abducting revolutionaries instead of pursuing peace negotiations.
http://www.philippinerevolution.net/statements/20140210_surface-comrades-george-geluz-and-silvestre-layones-jr
Aquino unfazed by Mindanao terror attacks, attends ARMM summit
From the Business Mirror (Feb 10): Aquino unfazed by Mindanao terror attacks, attends ARMM summit
PRESIDENT Aquino, unfazed by renewed terror attacks in Mindanao, is set to fly to Davao City on Wednesday morning to attend a summit of the soon to be abolished Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM)—formed after a 1996 peace pact with the mainstream Moro National LIberation Front (MNLF)—to give way to a new Bangsamoro entity provided in a separate peace deal being worked out by the government with the breakaway Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
Malacañang maintained on Monday that the bombing of a transmission tower of the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP) in Maguindanao over the weekend “should not derail” the Aquino administration’s efforts to attain peace in the South.
A Palace statement read by Palace Spokesman Edwin Lacierda on the eve of the ARMM summit acknowledged that “there will always be people who will try to put down the government, especially now that the Bangsamoro peace agreement will be signed.”
Lacierda did not name the group suspected to have carried out the attack on the NGCP tower even as he affirmed that the government is “prepared to make sure we can push through with our goal to achieve just and lasting peace in MIndanao.”
At a Palace news briefing, Lacierda told reporters the President decided to go to Mindanao and forge ahead with the peace agreement with the MILF, even after the tower attack.
“The President has gone [to the MILF headquarters in Camp Darapanan],” he recalled, adding that Aquino “is not averse going to places where he has to be.”
In the same briefing, Lacierda sidestepped questions on potential security threats likely to come from disgruntled followers of fugitive MNLF leader Nur Misuari, who went into hiding after government forces crushed the Zamboanga siege mounted by Misuari’s men in the City late last year.
Asked if the government was monitoring possible attacks from disgruntled rebels when the new peace agreement with the MILF is finally sealed, Lacierda replied: “If ever we have, I am not in a liberty to discuss it.”
He added: “No. 2, we have always stated that there will be other people who will be naysayers, who have negative views on this peace agreement, but we continue to reach out to them.”
Lacierda also said, “the goal is to arrive at a just and lasting peace in Mindanao” adding that government peace negotiators have already reached out to both the MNLF and to other [MILF] factions.”
Philippine military launches anti-Sayyaf ops
From the Mindanao Examiner blog site (Feb 10): Philippine military launches anti-Sayyaf ops
Security forces have launched an operation to capture Abu Sayyaf gunmen tagged the spate of kidnappings in the southern Philippine province of Sulu.
Marines earlier clashed with Abu Sayyaf rebels under Sihata Latip and Abraham Hamid in Talipao town that left at least 9 gunmen dead and wounded and one the slain has been identified as Rakib Jal. Troops also captured a rebel encampment on a remote village used by the Abu Sayyaf to launch attacks on civilian and military targets in the province.
The camp was being used by Abu Sayyaf leaders Sibih Pisih and Idang Susukan. It was unknown if there were weapons or bombs in the base which is now being held by the Marine Battalion Landing Team 2.
Several government militias who are members of the Barangay Peace Action Team were also wounded and that two of them - Niko Minuddin and Sabor Sasapan - had been evacuated to Zamboanga City for emergency medical operation, local police said.
“The victims were airlifted to the Western Mindanao Command and immediately rushed to Zamboanga Medical Center,” said Chief Inspector Ariel Huesca, a regional police spokesman.
Last month, provincial police forces led by Senior Superintendent Abraham Orbita clashed with small band of Abu Sayyaf gunmen that eventually swelled to about 400 after armed supporters of the terror group attacked them in the village of Tanduh Bato in Luuk town.
The fighting was so fierce that Orbita’s group, back by a pair of armoured carriers, managed to hold their ground until police reinforcement arrived, but the gunmen broke into smaller groups and dispersed.
In May 2009, a police commander of Sulu, Senior Superintendent Julasirim Kasim and three of his aides and a brother, were killed in an ambushed staged by Abu Sayyaf group in Maimbung town. Kasim had been in the front line in battling the Abu Sayyaf.
The Abu Sayyaf, which means “Bearer of the sword,” has been linked by authorities to the al-Qaeda and Jemaah Islamiya and is blamed on the spate of bombings in the southern Philippines.
http://mindanaoexaminer.blogspot.com/2014/02/philippine-military-launches-anti.html
Security forces have launched an operation to capture Abu Sayyaf gunmen tagged the spate of kidnappings in the southern Philippine province of Sulu.
Marines earlier clashed with Abu Sayyaf rebels under Sihata Latip and Abraham Hamid in Talipao town that left at least 9 gunmen dead and wounded and one the slain has been identified as Rakib Jal. Troops also captured a rebel encampment on a remote village used by the Abu Sayyaf to launch attacks on civilian and military targets in the province.
The camp was being used by Abu Sayyaf leaders Sibih Pisih and Idang Susukan. It was unknown if there were weapons or bombs in the base which is now being held by the Marine Battalion Landing Team 2.
Several government militias who are members of the Barangay Peace Action Team were also wounded and that two of them - Niko Minuddin and Sabor Sasapan - had been evacuated to Zamboanga City for emergency medical operation, local police said.
“The victims were airlifted to the Western Mindanao Command and immediately rushed to Zamboanga Medical Center,” said Chief Inspector Ariel Huesca, a regional police spokesman.
Last month, provincial police forces led by Senior Superintendent Abraham Orbita clashed with small band of Abu Sayyaf gunmen that eventually swelled to about 400 after armed supporters of the terror group attacked them in the village of Tanduh Bato in Luuk town.
The fighting was so fierce that Orbita’s group, back by a pair of armoured carriers, managed to hold their ground until police reinforcement arrived, but the gunmen broke into smaller groups and dispersed.
In May 2009, a police commander of Sulu, Senior Superintendent Julasirim Kasim and three of his aides and a brother, were killed in an ambushed staged by Abu Sayyaf group in Maimbung town. Kasim had been in the front line in battling the Abu Sayyaf.
The Abu Sayyaf, which means “Bearer of the sword,” has been linked by authorities to the al-Qaeda and Jemaah Islamiya and is blamed on the spate of bombings in the southern Philippines.
http://mindanaoexaminer.blogspot.com/2014/02/philippine-military-launches-anti.html
Special anti-kidnapping task force formed in Sulu province
From the Mindanao Examiner blog site (Feb 10): Special anti-kidnapping task force formed in Sulu province
Sulu Gov. Totoh Tan and provincial police chief Abraham Orbita and other members of the anti-kidnapping task force. (Mindanao Examiner Photo - Ahl-Franzie Salinas)
Philippine authorities and the Sulu provincial government have put up a special anti-kidnapping task force to address the threats of kidnappings and abductions here.
Gov. Totoh Tan, who was invited as speaker to a recent seminar on “Community Awareness and Actions on Kidnap for Ransom” held at the Sulu Area Coordinating Center, said the creation of the Special Anti-Kidnapping Task Force-Sulu is long overdue “if we take into consideration the spate of incidences in the province, but nevertheless, as they say, better late than never.”
“Ang mga hakbangin po tulad ng pagsugpo sa kaganapan ng mga kidnapping ay hindi lamang po nakasalalay sa ating mga kapulisan at kasundaluhan. Ang mga lokal na pamahalaan at ating mga komunidad at taong-bayan ay dapat rin po na gampanan ang kanilang bahagi kaagapay ng ating sektor sa seguridad upang magkaroon ng tagumpay sa pagsugpo at paglutas ng mga insidente ng kidnapping na lubusang nakasira sa pangalan at reputasyon ng ating lalawigan.”
“ Ang mga nangyari sa Sulu, kung ito’y mangyari sa mga lungsod ng Kabisayaan at Luzon ay sari-saring ingay na ang maririnig natin sa telebisyon at sa mga kalsada upang maiparating sa mga kinauukulan ang mga naisin ng tao sa kanilang kapaligiran. Bagama’t ang mga tao natin ay hindi matimpi at hindi masyadong lantad sa kanilang mga napupuna, hindi po ibig sabihin na ang kanilang pagsasawalang-kibo ay palatandaan ng kanilang pagsang-ayon sa mga pangyayari,” ani Tan sa talumpati nito.
Tan, in one media interview, said many kidnapped victims were taken from other provinces and cities only to bring and hide them here and dragging the province to a situation that gives a bad impression to the peace and order situation in Sulu.
The seminar was attended by various municipal governments, non-governmental organizations, traders and business groups and police, among others.
http://mindanaoexaminer.blogspot.com/2014/02/special-anti-kidnapping-task-force.html
Sulu Gov. Totoh Tan and provincial police chief Abraham Orbita and other members of the anti-kidnapping task force. (Mindanao Examiner Photo - Ahl-Franzie Salinas)
Philippine authorities and the Sulu provincial government have put up a special anti-kidnapping task force to address the threats of kidnappings and abductions here.
Gov. Totoh Tan, who was invited as speaker to a recent seminar on “Community Awareness and Actions on Kidnap for Ransom” held at the Sulu Area Coordinating Center, said the creation of the Special Anti-Kidnapping Task Force-Sulu is long overdue “if we take into consideration the spate of incidences in the province, but nevertheless, as they say, better late than never.”
“Ang mga hakbangin po tulad ng pagsugpo sa kaganapan ng mga kidnapping ay hindi lamang po nakasalalay sa ating mga kapulisan at kasundaluhan. Ang mga lokal na pamahalaan at ating mga komunidad at taong-bayan ay dapat rin po na gampanan ang kanilang bahagi kaagapay ng ating sektor sa seguridad upang magkaroon ng tagumpay sa pagsugpo at paglutas ng mga insidente ng kidnapping na lubusang nakasira sa pangalan at reputasyon ng ating lalawigan.”
“ Ang mga nangyari sa Sulu, kung ito’y mangyari sa mga lungsod ng Kabisayaan at Luzon ay sari-saring ingay na ang maririnig natin sa telebisyon at sa mga kalsada upang maiparating sa mga kinauukulan ang mga naisin ng tao sa kanilang kapaligiran. Bagama’t ang mga tao natin ay hindi matimpi at hindi masyadong lantad sa kanilang mga napupuna, hindi po ibig sabihin na ang kanilang pagsasawalang-kibo ay palatandaan ng kanilang pagsang-ayon sa mga pangyayari,” ani Tan sa talumpati nito.
Tan, in one media interview, said many kidnapped victims were taken from other provinces and cities only to bring and hide them here and dragging the province to a situation that gives a bad impression to the peace and order situation in Sulu.
The seminar was attended by various municipal governments, non-governmental organizations, traders and business groups and police, among others.
http://mindanaoexaminer.blogspot.com/2014/02/special-anti-kidnapping-task-force.html
3 NPA rebels surrender to Solcom troops
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 10): 3 NPA rebels surrender to Solcom troops
CAMP GUILLERMO NAKAR, Lucena City -- A top official of the Southern Luzon Command (Solcom) reported Monday that three members of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in Quezon and Albay surrendered to the
Solcom Commander Lt. Gen. Caesar Ronnie F. Ordoyo identified the insurgents as Gloria Anda alias Syra, a resident of Barangay Binahian B in Lopez and Jerry Manjares alias Rejie of Barangay Burgos in Mulanay, Quezon.
Lt. Gen. Ordoyo said the two rebels who operated in the province’s 3rd and 4th districts turned in their cal. 45 Colt pistol to elements of the 85th Infantry Battalion in Lopez, Quezon.
Ordoyo said the third dissident, Rene Briñas Lorenzana alias Primo, who operated in Albay, voluntarily surrendered to the Bayanihan Team of the 2nd Infantry Battalion at Barangay Nagotgot in Manito, Albay.
The Solcom top official revealed that besides the military’s ground operations, the government troops’ sustained peace initiatives and community development intervention programs aimed for inclusive growth in the countryside have lured rebels to return to the fold of law.
“It is never too late for our brothers and sisters out there to transform their lives as government welcomes them back under the peace process. Their armed struggle against the government by resorting to violence only destroys human lives and properties,” he said.
Ordoyo said armed and violent means are not the right and moral thing to advance the rebels' lost cause and that they could serve our countrymen better using peaceful and collaborative means to effect societal reforms.
He encouraged the other NPA members who remain exploited and are still hiding in the highlands to once and for all give up their useless armed struggle and be part of the government’s development and peace initiatives.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=614381
CAMP GUILLERMO NAKAR, Lucena City -- A top official of the Southern Luzon Command (Solcom) reported Monday that three members of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in Quezon and Albay surrendered to the
Solcom Commander Lt. Gen. Caesar Ronnie F. Ordoyo identified the insurgents as Gloria Anda alias Syra, a resident of Barangay Binahian B in Lopez and Jerry Manjares alias Rejie of Barangay Burgos in Mulanay, Quezon.
Lt. Gen. Ordoyo said the two rebels who operated in the province’s 3rd and 4th districts turned in their cal. 45 Colt pistol to elements of the 85th Infantry Battalion in Lopez, Quezon.
Ordoyo said the third dissident, Rene Briñas Lorenzana alias Primo, who operated in Albay, voluntarily surrendered to the Bayanihan Team of the 2nd Infantry Battalion at Barangay Nagotgot in Manito, Albay.
The Solcom top official revealed that besides the military’s ground operations, the government troops’ sustained peace initiatives and community development intervention programs aimed for inclusive growth in the countryside have lured rebels to return to the fold of law.
“It is never too late for our brothers and sisters out there to transform their lives as government welcomes them back under the peace process. Their armed struggle against the government by resorting to violence only destroys human lives and properties,” he said.
Ordoyo said armed and violent means are not the right and moral thing to advance the rebels' lost cause and that they could serve our countrymen better using peaceful and collaborative means to effect societal reforms.
He encouraged the other NPA members who remain exploited and are still hiding in the highlands to once and for all give up their useless armed struggle and be part of the government’s development and peace initiatives.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=614381
RP-Indonesia enjoying peaceful co-existence
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 19): RP-Indonesia enjoying peaceful co-existence
The Republic of thePhilippines
and the Republic
of Indonesia
“There have been no major pressing issues betweenIndonesia
and the Philippines
Representatives of the Philippines-Indonesia Border Committee Chairmen’s Conference signed on February 5, 2014 inDavao City
“While there were minor concerns involving the common fishing grounds, these were immediately resolved by the Committee,” Cruz said, although there were apprehensions made in the past by Indonesian authorities against Philippine fishing vessels while traversing the Indonesia EZZ en route to the high seas.
Eko Hanturo , Indonesia
Among the bilateral agreements signed during the Border Conference includes the following issues: safe passage of Philippine fishing vessel to Indonesia’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EZZ), set guidelines on the type and size of vessels and the mandatory safety equipment on board the vessels in crossing the border, extend the area of coordinate patrol operation up to Sulu Islands, modify the concept of operation of coordinate patrol, harmonize border crossing stations standing operating procedure (SOP) in both the Philippines and Indonesia stations and assignment of custom personnel at border crossing stations to restrict transportation of contrabands, especially liquor across the border.
Under the previous Border Patrol and Crossing Agreement, a Customs Officer has already been designated at the Border stations to restrict the entry of contrabands and to enforce customs regulations when it comes to the entry of goods into the respective borders, he said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=614399
The Republic of the
“There have been no major pressing issues between
Representatives of the Philippines-Indonesia Border Committee Chairmen’s Conference signed on February 5, 2014 in
“While there were minor concerns involving the common fishing grounds, these were immediately resolved by the Committee,” Cruz said, although there were apprehensions made in the past by Indonesian authorities against Philippine fishing vessels while traversing the Indonesia EZZ en route to the high seas.
Among the bilateral agreements signed during the Border Conference includes the following issues: safe passage of Philippine fishing vessel to Indonesia’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EZZ), set guidelines on the type and size of vessels and the mandatory safety equipment on board the vessels in crossing the border, extend the area of coordinate patrol operation up to Sulu Islands, modify the concept of operation of coordinate patrol, harmonize border crossing stations standing operating procedure (SOP) in both the Philippines and Indonesia stations and assignment of custom personnel at border crossing stations to restrict transportation of contrabands, especially liquor across the border.
Under the previous Border Patrol and Crossing Agreement, a Customs Officer has already been designated at the Border stations to restrict the entry of contrabands and to enforce customs regulations when it comes to the entry of goods into the respective borders, he said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=614399
Military secures industrial firms in Misamis Oriental
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 10): Military secures industrial firms in Misamis Oriental
CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City -– The military has deployed forces in Misamis Oriental (MisOr) to secure various industries and companies that could be a target of a destabilization plot by rebel forces here.
Capt. Christian Uy, spokesperson of the army’s Public Affairs Division here, said on Monday that the deployment of combined military and police operatives was ordered last week after the military overran the largest military camp of the Moro rebel’s Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in Cotabato.
He said the military was only cautious as some hardcore BIFF members are now an object of a military manhunt inMindanao .
“We are wary of possible effects of the Cotabato conflict which might spill over in some provinces inNorthern Mindanao ,
especially in Misamis Oriental where there is a concentration of large
industries,” Maj. Gen. Ricardo Visaya, commander of the army’s 4th Infantry
Division here said in a statement.
Uy said that the New People’s Army (NPA) might also exploit the situation prompting the military to map out precautionary measures.
In response, the army’s 4th ID has deployed military personnel throughout Caraga andNorthern Mindanao regions to secure
specially the entry and exit point of these areas, Uy added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=614481
CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City -– The military has deployed forces in Misamis Oriental (MisOr) to secure various industries and companies that could be a target of a destabilization plot by rebel forces here.
Capt. Christian Uy, spokesperson of the army’s Public Affairs Division here, said on Monday that the deployment of combined military and police operatives was ordered last week after the military overran the largest military camp of the Moro rebel’s Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in Cotabato.
He said the military was only cautious as some hardcore BIFF members are now an object of a military manhunt in
“We are wary of possible effects of the Cotabato conflict which might spill over in some provinces in
Uy said that the New People’s Army (NPA) might also exploit the situation prompting the military to map out precautionary measures.
In response, the army’s 4th ID has deployed military personnel throughout Caraga and
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=614481
Domogan orders city police to verify reports CPLA members occupy disputed lots
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 10): Domogan orders city police to verify reports CPLA members occupy disputed lots
Baguio City
mayor Mauricio Domogan ordered the Baguio
City
Residents in a nearby barangay and some city officials reported seeing the CPLA men setting up camp on vacant lots in the area brandishing high-powered arms.
They said the development is disturbing and should be checked at once.
The mayor asked city police director Jesus Cambay Jr. to coordinate with Cordillera PNP regional director Isagani Nerez and with the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) to look into the report.
The mayor also asked the city's anti-squatting team to check on developments about the ejectment case at the Baguio Dairy Farm which the court granted but could not implement pending the issuance of a writ of execution.
The mayor committed to the Department of Agriculture (DA) the city’s assistance in the demolition of the structures in the area.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=614538
Residents in a nearby barangay and some city officials reported seeing the CPLA men setting up camp on vacant lots in the area brandishing high-powered arms.
They said the development is disturbing and should be checked at once.
The mayor asked city police director Jesus Cambay Jr. to coordinate with Cordillera PNP regional director Isagani Nerez and with the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) to look into the report.
The mayor also asked the city's anti-squatting team to check on developments about the ejectment case at the Baguio Dairy Farm which the court granted but could not implement pending the issuance of a writ of execution.
The mayor committed to the Department of Agriculture (DA) the city’s assistance in the demolition of the structures in the area.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=614538
Palawan police nabs top NPA leader
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 10): Palawan police nabs top NPA leader
Since year 2000, police and military authorities in this city and the whole province have been tracking down Sonny Gonzales to capture him, the highest commander of the identified communist-terrorist Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) in Palawan.
Early Sunday morning, Gonzales, also known as Gilbert Silagan, alias Ka Glenn and Ka Marlon, ended his more than 13-year effort to evade government authorities, who were pursuing him when he was arrested with his wife Alma Morenoo, alias Ka Carol, in Barangay Inogbong, Bataraza.
Senior Police Superintendent David Martinez, the head of the Provincial Police Office (PPO) inPalawan , said in
interviews that Silagan, who has a P3-million bounty over his head, was
arrested after they were able to track his location in Bataraza.
Martinez
“It is true. This couple is highly mobile, so when they were spotted in the southern part of the province in Buliluyan, we immediately sent a team of intelligence personnel to focus on tracking them. When they found and confirmed the area where they were staying in Bataraza, our policemen operated to arrest them,”Martinez
ThePalawan police commander said that
Silagan has seven standing warrants of arrest for murder and arson, while his
wife Ka Carol has a P150,000 bounty and is wanted for murder and attempted
murder.
“Since early 2000, Gilbert Silagan has been wanted by authorities for being the highest leader of the NPA inPalawan . He
appears to be the provincial commander of the NPA,” he said, adding the rebel
leader did not put up a fight when the arrest was made.
Martinez said they are now coordinating with the Palawan Regional Trial Court (RTC) to determine what other cases have been filed against Silagan and Moreno, who are also believed to be behind several atrocities staged by the NPA in the province.
As of this writing, the two remain under the heavily guarded custody of the PPO. Charges are now being prepared for filing,Martinez
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=614460
Since year 2000, police and military authorities in this city and the whole province have been tracking down Sonny Gonzales to capture him, the highest commander of the identified communist-terrorist Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) in Palawan.
Early Sunday morning, Gonzales, also known as Gilbert Silagan, alias Ka Glenn and Ka Marlon, ended his more than 13-year effort to evade government authorities, who were pursuing him when he was arrested with his wife Alma Morenoo, alias Ka Carol, in Barangay Inogbong, Bataraza.
Senior Police Superintendent David Martinez, the head of the Provincial Police Office (PPO) in
“It is true. This couple is highly mobile, so when they were spotted in the southern part of the province in Buliluyan, we immediately sent a team of intelligence personnel to focus on tracking them. When they found and confirmed the area where they were staying in Bataraza, our policemen operated to arrest them,”
The
“Since early 2000, Gilbert Silagan has been wanted by authorities for being the highest leader of the NPA in
Martinez said they are now coordinating with the Palawan Regional Trial Court (RTC) to determine what other cases have been filed against Silagan and Moreno, who are also believed to be behind several atrocities staged by the NPA in the province.
As of this writing, the two remain under the heavily guarded custody of the PPO. Charges are now being prepared for filing,
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=614460
3 ranking NPA leaders bagged in Southern Luzon
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 10): 3 ranking NPA leaders bagged in Southern Luzon
Two ranking New People's Army (NPA) leaders were nabbed following operations by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Philippine National Police (PNP) over the weekend in Naga City, Bicol and Gumaca, Quezon.
Police elements of Gumaca, Quezon and intelligence operatives of the Southern Luzon Command under Lt. Gen. Caesar Ronnie P. Ordoyo arrested NPA leader George Geluz, also known as Ka Mario, in a checkpoint in Gumaca at 11 p.m. Saturday.
Galuz, who is the Secretary of the Bicol Regional Party Committee (BRPC), was arrested by virtue of warrants of arrest for the crimes of robbery in band with arson and double frustrated murder issued in Camarines Norte.
He is now under custody of Gumaca Police.
Meanwhile, at 2:50 p.m. Sunday, joint police and militry elements arrested NPA leader Sylvestre Layones, head of the Rodante Urtal Command and Executive Committee member of the BRPC, by virtue of a warrant of arrest for murder issued in Legazpi City, Albay. Also arrested with Layones was Christopher Edrinal, another BRPC ranking leader.
Layones and Edrinal were taken into custody by the police.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=614354
Two ranking New People's Army (NPA) leaders were nabbed following operations by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Philippine National Police (PNP) over the weekend in Naga City, Bicol and Gumaca, Quezon.
Police elements of Gumaca, Quezon and intelligence operatives of the Southern Luzon Command under Lt. Gen. Caesar Ronnie P. Ordoyo arrested NPA leader George Geluz, also known as Ka Mario, in a checkpoint in Gumaca at 11 p.m. Saturday.
Galuz, who is the Secretary of the Bicol Regional Party Committee (BRPC), was arrested by virtue of warrants of arrest for the crimes of robbery in band with arson and double frustrated murder issued in Camarines Norte.
He is now under custody of Gumaca Police.
Meanwhile, at 2:50 p.m. Sunday, joint police and militry elements arrested NPA leader Sylvestre Layones, head of the Rodante Urtal Command and Executive Committee member of the BRPC, by virtue of a warrant of arrest for murder issued in Legazpi City, Albay. Also arrested with Layones was Christopher Edrinal, another BRPC ranking leader.
Layones and Edrinal were taken into custody by the police.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=614354
BRP Magat Salamat marks 37th anniversary in PHL Navy
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 10): BRP Magat Salamat marks 37th anniversary in PHL Navy
The BRP Magat Salamat (PS-20), a patrol ship assigned to the Eastern Mindanao Command, celebrated its 37th year in service in the Philippine Navy on Sunday.
The officers and crew of the patrol ship marked the occasion by giving "birthday gifts" to the residents of Barangay Lower Makar, Labangal,General Santos City
Personnel of the BRP Magat Salamat also donated trash cans to help maintain the cleanliness along the coastal areas of the city.
The ship crew also served hot meals to more than 150 children, facilitated parlor games to entertain them and distributed school supplies to inspire them to study harder.
"This is one way of giving back the blessings that God bestowed to PS-20. Seeing the smiles of the children is a great birthday gift for our ship,” BRP Magat Salamat commanding officer Cmdr. Emmanuel Eugenio C. Bello said.
The BRP Magat Salamat was commissioned by the PN on Feb. 7, 1977 after the fall ofSouth Vietnam
Its first commanding officer was Cmdr. Jesus E. Biola.
Throughout her service in the PN, she has received numerous awards and was adjudged as Ship of the Year many times.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=614370
The BRP Magat Salamat (PS-20), a patrol ship assigned to the Eastern Mindanao Command, celebrated its 37th year in service in the Philippine Navy on Sunday.
The officers and crew of the patrol ship marked the occasion by giving "birthday gifts" to the residents of Barangay Lower Makar, Labangal,
Personnel of the BRP Magat Salamat also donated trash cans to help maintain the cleanliness along the coastal areas of the city.
The ship crew also served hot meals to more than 150 children, facilitated parlor games to entertain them and distributed school supplies to inspire them to study harder.
"This is one way of giving back the blessings that God bestowed to PS-20. Seeing the smiles of the children is a great birthday gift for our ship,” BRP Magat Salamat commanding officer Cmdr. Emmanuel Eugenio C. Bello said.
The BRP Magat Salamat was commissioned by the PN on Feb. 7, 1977 after the fall of
Its first commanding officer was Cmdr. Jesus E. Biola.
Throughout her service in the PN, she has received numerous awards and was adjudged as Ship of the Year many times.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=614370
Arleigh Burke class destroyers still relevant -- Okata
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 10): Arleigh Burke class destroyers still relevant -- Okata
Despite being in service as early as 1991, the Arleigh Burke class destroyers, of which there are 62 members, are still very capable and could compare favorably with warships just coming out of the shipyards.
This was pointed by USS Pinckney (DDG-91) commanding officer Cmdr. Frank Okata when asked how his ship and other Arleigh Burke class destroyers compare to more modern designs.
He attributes this to the versatility of the Arleigh Burke class destroyers which he says can engage any air, surface and submarine threats simultaneously.
Okata said that this capability cannot be replicated by another warship.
The USS Pinckney belongs to the Flight II series and is the the 41st ship of the Arleigh Burke class of destroyers.
The American ship arrived last Friday for a five-day port visit in thePhilippines
She will be leaving by Tuesday, February 11.
Otaka said the USS Pinckney is armed with two Mark 41 VLS (vertical launch system)of which 96 tubes are fitted to his ship.
The Mark 41 VLS can fire any anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine missile in the US Navy inventory.
Acting in a support role is the Mark 45 Model 4 five-inch automatic gun which can engage surface and air threats in conjunction with the 20mm Phalanx CIWS (closed-in weapon system) fitted at the stern of the ship.
Topping this off is the advanced radars and sonars installed in the USS Pinckney which can detect, track and if needed be, can guide these sophisticated missiles to their respective targets.
The USS Pinckney was named after USN cook William Pinckney, who was awarded the Navy Cross for rescuing a fellow crew member during the Battle of Santa Cruz inSolomon Islands
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=614442
Despite being in service as early as 1991, the Arleigh Burke class destroyers, of which there are 62 members, are still very capable and could compare favorably with warships just coming out of the shipyards.
This was pointed by USS Pinckney (DDG-91) commanding officer Cmdr. Frank Okata when asked how his ship and other Arleigh Burke class destroyers compare to more modern designs.
He attributes this to the versatility of the Arleigh Burke class destroyers which he says can engage any air, surface and submarine threats simultaneously.
Okata said that this capability cannot be replicated by another warship.
The USS Pinckney belongs to the Flight II series and is the the 41st ship of the Arleigh Burke class of destroyers.
The American ship arrived last Friday for a five-day port visit in the
She will be leaving by Tuesday, February 11.
Otaka said the USS Pinckney is armed with two Mark 41 VLS (vertical launch system)of which 96 tubes are fitted to his ship.
The Mark 41 VLS can fire any anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine missile in the US Navy inventory.
Acting in a support role is the Mark 45 Model 4 five-inch automatic gun which can engage surface and air threats in conjunction with the 20mm Phalanx CIWS (closed-in weapon system) fitted at the stern of the ship.
Topping this off is the advanced radars and sonars installed in the USS Pinckney which can detect, track and if needed be, can guide these sophisticated missiles to their respective targets.
The USS Pinckney was named after USN cook William Pinckney, who was awarded the Navy Cross for rescuing a fellow crew member during the Battle of Santa Cruz in
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=614442
6 ASGs killed, 9 others wounded in Sulu encounter
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 10): 6 ASGs killed, 9 others wounded in Sulu encounter
Six members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) were killed while nine others, including six civilian volunteers, were wounded in an encounter in Barangay Mabahay, Talipao town, Sulu Saturday.
In a belated report to Armed Forces of thePhilippines
According to Cenabre, they were conducting clearing operations in Barangay Mabahay, a known enclave of the ASG, when they encountered with an estimated 50 of the brigands headed by one "Yasser Igasan."
Six ASG men were killed in the firefight while three others were wounded.
No deaths were reported for government troops but six members of the "Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team" (BPAT) helping them in their clearing operations were hurt.
Cenabre said fighting lasted until Saturday night. He added that of the six wounded BPATs, two were already flown to Zamboanga for treatment.
All six wounded are reported to be in a stable condition.
Pursuit operations are still ongoing.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=614453
Six members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) were killed while nine others, including six civilian volunteers, were wounded in an encounter in Barangay Mabahay, Talipao town, Sulu Saturday.
In a belated report to Armed Forces of the
According to Cenabre, they were conducting clearing operations in Barangay Mabahay, a known enclave of the ASG, when they encountered with an estimated 50 of the brigands headed by one "Yasser Igasan."
Six ASG men were killed in the firefight while three others were wounded.
No deaths were reported for government troops but six members of the "Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team" (BPAT) helping them in their clearing operations were hurt.
Cenabre said fighting lasted until Saturday night. He added that of the six wounded BPATs, two were already flown to Zamboanga for treatment.
All six wounded are reported to be in a stable condition.
Pursuit operations are still ongoing.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=614453
Army gets new spokesperson
From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 10): Army gets new spokesperson
Lt. Col. Noel J. Detoyato was appointed as the new Philippine Army (PA) spokesperson Monday.
He replaces Capt. Anthony Bacus who was serving as acting Army spokesperson for the past three months.
With Detoyato's appointment, Bacus now resumed his post as deputy of PA public affairs office.
The former has long years of experience in the field of public affairs and civil military operations (CMO).
He will assume office this week.
Prior to his designation as PA spokesperson, Detoyato was the Group Commander of the Information Development Group, Civil Relations Service, Armed Forces of thePhilippines
He also served as the public affairs officer of the AFP National Development Support Command (AFPNADESCOM), spokesperson of the Army’s 2nd Infantry Division from 2009 to 2010, and public information officer of the 6th Infantry Division from 1995 to 1998.
As spokesperson, Detoyato has faced challenging circumstances and has been at the forefront of disseminating to the public the Army’s stand in various issues confronting the organization.
In 2010, as the spokesperson of the 2nd Infantry Division, he was at the forefront of public information when members of the New People’s Army known as the “Morong 43” were apprehended in Morong, Rizal.
In 1995, he efficiently handled the flow of inquiries, both from local and foreign media, on the security status of Mindanao, particularly Maguindanao, Lanao Del Sur, North Cotabato, and Sultan Kudarat which were then confronting threats from insurgents and lawless elements.
As CMO officer, Detoyato became the acting deputy of the Office of the Unified Command Staff for Civil Military Operations, U7, AFP NADESCOM.
He likewise served as the assistant chief of staff for Civil Military Operations, G2, 2nd Infantry Division.
Detoyato also commanded the 16th Infantry Battalion, 2nd Infantry Division from July 2010 to June 2012.
In 2012, he assumed as the assistant chief of staff for Education and Training, OG8, 2nd Infantry Division.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=614637
Lt. Col. Noel J. Detoyato was appointed as the new Philippine Army (PA) spokesperson Monday.
He replaces Capt. Anthony Bacus who was serving as acting Army spokesperson for the past three months.
With Detoyato's appointment, Bacus now resumed his post as deputy of PA public affairs office.
The former has long years of experience in the field of public affairs and civil military operations (CMO).
He will assume office this week.
Prior to his designation as PA spokesperson, Detoyato was the Group Commander of the Information Development Group, Civil Relations Service, Armed Forces of the
He also served as the public affairs officer of the AFP National Development Support Command (AFPNADESCOM), spokesperson of the Army’s 2nd Infantry Division from 2009 to 2010, and public information officer of the 6th Infantry Division from 1995 to 1998.
As spokesperson, Detoyato has faced challenging circumstances and has been at the forefront of disseminating to the public the Army’s stand in various issues confronting the organization.
In 2010, as the spokesperson of the 2nd Infantry Division, he was at the forefront of public information when members of the New People’s Army known as the “Morong 43” were apprehended in Morong, Rizal.
In 1995, he efficiently handled the flow of inquiries, both from local and foreign media, on the security status of Mindanao, particularly Maguindanao, Lanao Del Sur, North Cotabato, and Sultan Kudarat which were then confronting threats from insurgents and lawless elements.
As CMO officer, Detoyato became the acting deputy of the Office of the Unified Command Staff for Civil Military Operations, U7, AFP NADESCOM.
He likewise served as the assistant chief of staff for Civil Military Operations, G2, 2nd Infantry Division.
Detoyato also commanded the 16th Infantry Battalion, 2nd Infantry Division from July 2010 to June 2012.
In 2012, he assumed as the assistant chief of staff for Education and Training, OG8, 2nd Infantry Division.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=614637
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