From GMA News (Jun 11): Two killed, top JI operative wounded in Maguindanao raid
Abdul Basit Usman, reputed to be a bomb expert from the local terror group Jemaah Islamiyah, was reported wounded in a joint military and police raid in an isolated barangay in the province but he managed to escape, military officials said Wednesday.
Two of Usman's relatives were killed in the incident, according to a military report.
Troops from the First Mechanized brigade and 45th Infantry Battalion, together with Maguindanao police personnel, raided Usman's hideout at around 5:45 a.m. Tuesday, the report said.
“They fired rocket-propelled grenades at the assaulting team, but we coordinated our efforts and struck it right... suddenly, they were scampering to different directions as we closed in on them,” said ground commander Lt.Col. Donald Hongitan of the 45th IB.
Brigadier General Edmundo Pangilinan, commanding general of the Philippine Army’s 6th Division, said security forces managed to locate the hideout and explosives manufacturing facility of the Al Qaeda-linked Jemaah Islamiya after persistent intelligence work.
He said four women were also arrested during raid and were turned over to the Maguindanao Police Women’s Desk for questioning.
Citing reports, he said one of the women could be the wife of either Usman or Marwan, another JI top operative from Malaysia who was with the group.
A $1million reward was offered to anyone who can provide information that could lead to Usman's capture.
BIFF and JI
Joint police and military operations are still being undertaken against another group, the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), which is believed to have been involved in previous attacks on military detachments, Pangilinan said.
“During the raid he (Usman) was there. He was wounded as per report from our operating troops. This proves BIFF is not only coddling Jemaah Islamiyah but it seems they have strong ties,” he added.
But Abumisry Mama, spokesperson for the BIFF, denied the accusation.
“From what we learned, there was a strafing incident in Barangay Libutan and we have no troops there. Maybe they are looking for somebody else,” Mama said.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/365177/news/regions/two-killed-top-ji-operative-wounded-in-maguindanao-raid
Wednesday, June 11, 2014
PHL, other claimants need be to be firm over territorial row with China — Int'l affairs expert
From GMA News (Jun 11): PHL, other claimants need be to be firm over territorial row with China — Int'l affairs expert
As China aggressively shows its determination to take control of the disputed areas in the South China Sea, other claimant countries should be firm in staking their claims while the US must keep a cool head because the tiff is going to be a “long game,” an expert on international affairs said Wednesday.
In an interview on GMA News TV's "News To Go," Dr. Robert Sutter, a professor of Practice of International Affairs at the Elliott School of George Washington University, said: “At this point, the Chinese remain very determined to move ahead."
[But] “I don't think China will go to war with the US. They are very careful to avoid confrontation with the US," he said.
As with rebalancing policy of the US in the region, Sutter said "it is very important and very good. It shows the Barack Obama administration is in it for a long game.”
He cited the US-China crisis in the Taiwan Strait, which had dragged from 1995 to 2008.
"Both US and Chinese forces were facing each other head to head over Taiwan. We were on alert, they were on alert. One false move and we could have a conflict directly between the forces. That was dangerous, we got through that, I think we'll get through this,” he said.
Sutter said what he is seeing in the territorial disputes is that China "is taking over pieces of territory with Coast Guard forces backed up by economic sanctions and diplomatic threats.”
There are going to be tensions but that will not lead to conflict, he added.
“They (Chinese) are trying to intimidate people but they are not resorting to force because if they did they might engage the US..., [a scenario] China is very wary [about]," he said.
The force being used by China on the ships of the Philippines and Vietnam recently was done by its civilian forces, Sutter said.
“This is not the Army or the Navy and they are very careful to avoid the Army or the Navy doing this because that would be an international confrontation which could involve the United States,” he said.
Aside from China and the Philippines, Vietnam, Taiwan, Brunei, and Malaysia have overlapping claims in the South China Sea.
Don't put value on Chinese words
On the other hand, Sutter said claimant countries should not put much value on the words of Chinese officials saying they want the territorial issue to be resolved peacefully.
“They are determined to gain control on this territory, that is the uppermost priority for China," he said.
Vietnam tried hard to engage China, he said, but Beijing's response was the setting up of an oil rig in Paracel Islands, a move Sutter believes is a direct affront to Vietnam.
For a long time, China had wanted to take control of the disputed islands. Now that its capabilities are stronger, it is using its might to achieve its goal.
“The main issue [for China] is nationalism, sovereignty, and security – but the sovereignty in particular. Their Coast Guard is bigger, they are able to surround Philippine ships, they overwhelmed them. These are probes, these are not direct attacks but they are overwhelming. I think they (China) will continue (doing this),” Sutter said.
What should be done?
Sutter said claimant countries must show to China the cost of its aggressive behavior to stop Beijing from bullying them.
He cited the recent US-Philippines enhanced defense agreement as one of the possible "costs" China has to pay for its bullying game.
“China has suffered tremendous reputation cost (because of the issue) but reputation costs don't matter that much to the Chinese when they deal with sovereignty issue because they are very tough on this.
"So it has to come in other ways, one cost is the deepening of the US security presence in the region. China does not want that,” he said.
Sutter said America's increased presence in the region will show China that its actions are provoking the countries to invite the US to have a closer military relationship with them.
“We (the US) can go to China saying we are deepening our relationships with the region, you don't like it one bit, we know that... but we are deepening it anyway because the countries in the region want that for reassurance purposes and so we will continue to do that,” he said.
Other calibrated moves
Aside from a deepening relations between the US and claimant countries, Sutter believes other “calibrated” moves should be done to stop China's aggressive activities in the disputed territories.
“There probably need to be some other cost and I'm not sure what they are now but they have to be very carefully calibrated because the goal isn't to confront China from the US point of view. The goal is to reach some sort of an understanding with the Chinese to stop this kind of behavior,” he said.
Sutter said the US does not take a position on the disputes themselves but has a strong position on the aggressive and coercive moves.
“I think Americans will increasingly take actions that will show the Chinese the cost (of their behavior) and get them to calm down a bit on this issue. It will make them realize that by doing this they are going to face the costs in various ways,” he said.
He said China knows it will not gain much by dragging powerful countries into the dispute.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/365227/news/nation/phl-other-claimants-need-be-to-be-firm-over-territorial-row-with-china-int-l-affairs-expert
As China aggressively shows its determination to take control of the disputed areas in the South China Sea, other claimant countries should be firm in staking their claims while the US must keep a cool head because the tiff is going to be a “long game,” an expert on international affairs said Wednesday.
In an interview on GMA News TV's "News To Go," Dr. Robert Sutter, a professor of Practice of International Affairs at the Elliott School of George Washington University, said: “At this point, the Chinese remain very determined to move ahead."
[But] “I don't think China will go to war with the US. They are very careful to avoid confrontation with the US," he said.
As with rebalancing policy of the US in the region, Sutter said "it is very important and very good. It shows the Barack Obama administration is in it for a long game.”
He cited the US-China crisis in the Taiwan Strait, which had dragged from 1995 to 2008.
"Both US and Chinese forces were facing each other head to head over Taiwan. We were on alert, they were on alert. One false move and we could have a conflict directly between the forces. That was dangerous, we got through that, I think we'll get through this,” he said.
Sutter said what he is seeing in the territorial disputes is that China "is taking over pieces of territory with Coast Guard forces backed up by economic sanctions and diplomatic threats.”
There are going to be tensions but that will not lead to conflict, he added.
“They (Chinese) are trying to intimidate people but they are not resorting to force because if they did they might engage the US..., [a scenario] China is very wary [about]," he said.
The force being used by China on the ships of the Philippines and Vietnam recently was done by its civilian forces, Sutter said.
“This is not the Army or the Navy and they are very careful to avoid the Army or the Navy doing this because that would be an international confrontation which could involve the United States,” he said.
Aside from China and the Philippines, Vietnam, Taiwan, Brunei, and Malaysia have overlapping claims in the South China Sea.
Don't put value on Chinese words
On the other hand, Sutter said claimant countries should not put much value on the words of Chinese officials saying they want the territorial issue to be resolved peacefully.
“They are determined to gain control on this territory, that is the uppermost priority for China," he said.
Vietnam tried hard to engage China, he said, but Beijing's response was the setting up of an oil rig in Paracel Islands, a move Sutter believes is a direct affront to Vietnam.
For a long time, China had wanted to take control of the disputed islands. Now that its capabilities are stronger, it is using its might to achieve its goal.
“The main issue [for China] is nationalism, sovereignty, and security – but the sovereignty in particular. Their Coast Guard is bigger, they are able to surround Philippine ships, they overwhelmed them. These are probes, these are not direct attacks but they are overwhelming. I think they (China) will continue (doing this),” Sutter said.
What should be done?
Sutter said claimant countries must show to China the cost of its aggressive behavior to stop Beijing from bullying them.
He cited the recent US-Philippines enhanced defense agreement as one of the possible "costs" China has to pay for its bullying game.
“China has suffered tremendous reputation cost (because of the issue) but reputation costs don't matter that much to the Chinese when they deal with sovereignty issue because they are very tough on this.
"So it has to come in other ways, one cost is the deepening of the US security presence in the region. China does not want that,” he said.
Sutter said America's increased presence in the region will show China that its actions are provoking the countries to invite the US to have a closer military relationship with them.
“We (the US) can go to China saying we are deepening our relationships with the region, you don't like it one bit, we know that... but we are deepening it anyway because the countries in the region want that for reassurance purposes and so we will continue to do that,” he said.
Other calibrated moves
Aside from a deepening relations between the US and claimant countries, Sutter believes other “calibrated” moves should be done to stop China's aggressive activities in the disputed territories.
“There probably need to be some other cost and I'm not sure what they are now but they have to be very carefully calibrated because the goal isn't to confront China from the US point of view. The goal is to reach some sort of an understanding with the Chinese to stop this kind of behavior,” he said.
Sutter said the US does not take a position on the disputes themselves but has a strong position on the aggressive and coercive moves.
“I think Americans will increasingly take actions that will show the Chinese the cost (of their behavior) and get them to calm down a bit on this issue. It will make them realize that by doing this they are going to face the costs in various ways,” he said.
He said China knows it will not gain much by dragging powerful countries into the dispute.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/365227/news/nation/phl-other-claimants-need-be-to-be-firm-over-territorial-row-with-china-int-l-affairs-expert
Photo: Wanted Abu Sayyaf commander nabbed in Paranaque (Khair Mundos)
From GMA News (Jun 11): Photo: Wanted Abu Sayyaf commander nabbed in Paranaque (Khair Mundos)
After a seven-year manhunt, Khair Mundos, a top ranking Abu Sayyaf leader who has a $500,000 bounty on the US Most Wanted list, was arrested by PNP-CIDG agents in Barangay San Dionisio, Parañaque City on Wednesday, June 11. Mundos is believed to be a financier of the bandit group. GMA News
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/photo/61698/wanted-abu-sayyaf-commander-nabbed-in-para-aque
After a seven-year manhunt, Khair Mundos, a top ranking Abu Sayyaf leader who has a $500,000 bounty on the US Most Wanted list, was arrested by PNP-CIDG agents in Barangay San Dionisio, Parañaque City on Wednesday, June 11. Mundos is believed to be a financier of the bandit group. GMA News
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/photo/61698/wanted-abu-sayyaf-commander-nabbed-in-para-aque
Filipino militant linked to al Qaeda arrested
From the Business World (Jun 11): Filipino militant linked to al Qaeda arrested
PHILIPPINE SECURITY forces yesterday captured a top al Qaeda-linked Islamist wanted by the United States and involved in the kidnapping of Western tourists, and hailed the arrest as a major blow to his militant network.
The Christian-majority Philippines has a Muslim minority largely based in its resource-rich southern islands where Muslim rebels have been fighting for autonomy for years.
The head of military intelligence, Major Gen. Eduardo Ano, said the captured militant, Khair Mundos, was an expert bomb-maker and the “spiritual leader” of the Abu Sayyaf faction, which rose to notoriety early last decade by kidnapping foreigners.
“This is a big blow to their organization,” Mr. Ano told reporters yesterday.
“They lost one of their leaders and they now feel insecure. We will try to get them one after another, we will not stop.”
The US had offered a $500,000 bounty for the arrest of Mundos. The Philippines offered P5 million ($114,400) for his recapture after he escaped from prison in 2007.
Mundos fled from the southern Philippines as security forces closed in on him and had been in hiding for months with relatives in the Manila suburb of Parañaque City, Mr. Ano said.
Soldiers and policemen swooped on his hideout and grabbed him early yesterday.
Security forces seized four guns, as well as training manuals used by the Indonesian militant group Jemaah Islamiyah (JI).
“We finally tracked him down,” said Benjamin Magalong, head of police criminal investigation group.
“This is a product of two months surveillance work.”
Mundos had raised funds for the Abu Sayyaf in the Middle East and funneled money from al Qaeda for bombings in the southern Philippines before his first arrest in 2004.
In 2001, Mundos bought a speed boat used in a raid on a Philippine island resort in which several tourists, including three Americans, were kidnapped.
One American woman was rescued a year later, but two Americans including her husband were killed.
The militants are currently holding three people from China, one from Japan, one from the Netherlands, one Swiss and two Germans, Philippine officials say.
The US State Department’s “Rewards for Justice” Web site describes Mundos as a “key leader and financier” of the Abu Sayyaf, an Islamic militant group blamed for the worst extremist attacks in the Philippines.
The group, founded with seed money from al Qaeda, is believed to have only a few hundred militants but has successfully carried out deadly bomb attacks and kidnappings, often targeting foreigners and Christians.
Mundos had been captured in 2004 in the southern Philippine region of Mindanao, a largely lawless area roughly 1,000 kilometers from Manila where the Abu Sayyaf is based.
He was arrested “on the first-ever money laundering charges against terrorists”, according to the “Rewards for Justice” Web site.
It said Mundos confessed in custody to having arranged the transfer of al Qaeda funds to the Abu Sayyaf’s top leader for bombings and other criminal acts throughout Mindanao.
He was also charged in the Philippines with multiple murder charges.
However, Mundos was among dozens of militants who escaped from Kidapawan City prison in Mindanao in February 2007, as part of a well-planned break.
Muslim insurgents using grenade launchers blasted their way into the jail before dawn, then pinned down a handful of guards with rifle fire while Mundos and the others fled.
Manila’s criminal investigation chief, Senior Supt. Roberto Fajardo, said Mundos had fled to the capital to avoid pursuit in the South, but he would not disclose how long the militant had been hiding in the city.
“It was getting too hot (in the South) so he came here while waiting for things to cool down,” Mr. Fajardo told reporters.
Mundos was detained just outside the house of a relative and did not resist arrest, according to another senior police officer involved who asked not to be named.
Mundos is one of the three main Islamist ideologues of the Abu Sayyaf, according to military intelligence officers. His brother, Burham Mundos, is also a key financier with direct links to the JI.
The US military has had about 500 troops rotating through the southern Philippines since 2002 to train Filipino soldiers how to combat the Abu Sayyaf.
Many Abu Sayyaf leaders have been captured or killed, but it continues to pose a threat in the South, kidnapping people and carrying out bomb attacks.
The militants are able to draw support from local Muslim communities who feel they have been persecuted for centuries by Christian rulers in Manila.
They also get money for weapons from their successful kidnap-for-ransom ventures.
The Abu Sayyaf was also blamed for the bombing of a passenger ferry in Manila Bay in 2004 in which more than 100 people were killed, the worst militant attack in the Philippines’ recent history.
Mr. Ano said Mundos was not in Manila to plan or lead any attack in the capital, but was simply trying to avoid capture.
No other details about the raid were immediately given.
http://www.bworldonline.com/content.php?section=Nation&title=Filipino-militant-linked-to-al-Qaeda-arrested&id=88991
PHILIPPINE SECURITY forces yesterday captured a top al Qaeda-linked Islamist wanted by the United States and involved in the kidnapping of Western tourists, and hailed the arrest as a major blow to his militant network.
The Christian-majority Philippines has a Muslim minority largely based in its resource-rich southern islands where Muslim rebels have been fighting for autonomy for years.
The head of military intelligence, Major Gen. Eduardo Ano, said the captured militant, Khair Mundos, was an expert bomb-maker and the “spiritual leader” of the Abu Sayyaf faction, which rose to notoriety early last decade by kidnapping foreigners.
“This is a big blow to their organization,” Mr. Ano told reporters yesterday.
“They lost one of their leaders and they now feel insecure. We will try to get them one after another, we will not stop.”
The US had offered a $500,000 bounty for the arrest of Mundos. The Philippines offered P5 million ($114,400) for his recapture after he escaped from prison in 2007.
Mundos fled from the southern Philippines as security forces closed in on him and had been in hiding for months with relatives in the Manila suburb of Parañaque City, Mr. Ano said.
Soldiers and policemen swooped on his hideout and grabbed him early yesterday.
Security forces seized four guns, as well as training manuals used by the Indonesian militant group Jemaah Islamiyah (JI).
“We finally tracked him down,” said Benjamin Magalong, head of police criminal investigation group.
“This is a product of two months surveillance work.”
Mundos had raised funds for the Abu Sayyaf in the Middle East and funneled money from al Qaeda for bombings in the southern Philippines before his first arrest in 2004.
In 2001, Mundos bought a speed boat used in a raid on a Philippine island resort in which several tourists, including three Americans, were kidnapped.
One American woman was rescued a year later, but two Americans including her husband were killed.
The militants are currently holding three people from China, one from Japan, one from the Netherlands, one Swiss and two Germans, Philippine officials say.
The US State Department’s “Rewards for Justice” Web site describes Mundos as a “key leader and financier” of the Abu Sayyaf, an Islamic militant group blamed for the worst extremist attacks in the Philippines.
The group, founded with seed money from al Qaeda, is believed to have only a few hundred militants but has successfully carried out deadly bomb attacks and kidnappings, often targeting foreigners and Christians.
Mundos had been captured in 2004 in the southern Philippine region of Mindanao, a largely lawless area roughly 1,000 kilometers from Manila where the Abu Sayyaf is based.
He was arrested “on the first-ever money laundering charges against terrorists”, according to the “Rewards for Justice” Web site.
It said Mundos confessed in custody to having arranged the transfer of al Qaeda funds to the Abu Sayyaf’s top leader for bombings and other criminal acts throughout Mindanao.
He was also charged in the Philippines with multiple murder charges.
However, Mundos was among dozens of militants who escaped from Kidapawan City prison in Mindanao in February 2007, as part of a well-planned break.
Muslim insurgents using grenade launchers blasted their way into the jail before dawn, then pinned down a handful of guards with rifle fire while Mundos and the others fled.
Manila’s criminal investigation chief, Senior Supt. Roberto Fajardo, said Mundos had fled to the capital to avoid pursuit in the South, but he would not disclose how long the militant had been hiding in the city.
“It was getting too hot (in the South) so he came here while waiting for things to cool down,” Mr. Fajardo told reporters.
Mundos was detained just outside the house of a relative and did not resist arrest, according to another senior police officer involved who asked not to be named.
Mundos is one of the three main Islamist ideologues of the Abu Sayyaf, according to military intelligence officers. His brother, Burham Mundos, is also a key financier with direct links to the JI.
The US military has had about 500 troops rotating through the southern Philippines since 2002 to train Filipino soldiers how to combat the Abu Sayyaf.
Many Abu Sayyaf leaders have been captured or killed, but it continues to pose a threat in the South, kidnapping people and carrying out bomb attacks.
The militants are able to draw support from local Muslim communities who feel they have been persecuted for centuries by Christian rulers in Manila.
They also get money for weapons from their successful kidnap-for-ransom ventures.
The Abu Sayyaf was also blamed for the bombing of a passenger ferry in Manila Bay in 2004 in which more than 100 people were killed, the worst militant attack in the Philippines’ recent history.
Mr. Ano said Mundos was not in Manila to plan or lead any attack in the capital, but was simply trying to avoid capture.
No other details about the raid were immediately given.
http://www.bworldonline.com/content.php?section=Nation&title=Filipino-militant-linked-to-al-Qaeda-arrested&id=88991
Top Filipino terror suspect captured near Naia
From the Business Mirror (Jun 11): Top Filipino terror suspect captured near Naia
PHILIPPINE Army troops and police on Wednesday captured a top Filipino commander of the Abu Sayyaf extremist group who is on the US list of most-wanted terrorists and has acknowledged receiving al-Qaeda funds to finance bombings in the country.
Philippine security officials said Khair Mundos was arrested in a slum community near Manila’s international airport but it was not immediately clear why he was in the capital. The military and police have been hunting him for his alleged involvement in bombings and kidnappings.
Mundos is one of the highest-ranking terrorist suspects to be captured in the country in years. He was captured in 2004 but escaped in 2007.
Military Intelligence Chief Maj. Gen. Eduardo Ano described Mundos’s capture as a major blow to Abu Sayyaf, where he has served as a top commander, financial and logistical officer, trainer and planner of attacks.
The US State Department said Mundos, who also faces money-laundering charges, acknowledged that he arranged the transfer of al-Qaeda funds to the Abu Sayyaf to finance bombings and other attacks in the Philippines.
The State Department announced a $500,000 reward in 2009 for the killing or capture of Mundos. US authorities said he has worked as a financier for Abu Sayyaf.
He has led Abu Sayyaf militants on southern Basilan and is known to have links with members of the Southeast Asian militant network Jemaah Islamiyah.
Abu Sayyaf, which has an estimated 300 armed fighters split into about six factions, has been blamed for deadly bomb attacks, ransom kidnappings and beheadings. It was founded in the early 1990s on jungle-clad Basilan, near Zamboanga, a region 860 kilometers (540 miles) south of Manila where American counterterrorism troops have been stationed for more than a decade.
PAF to celebrate 67th founding anniversary on July 1
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 11): PAF to celebrate 67th founding anniversary on July 1
The Philippine Air Force (PAF) will celebrate its 67th founding anniversary on July 1 with the theme: ”PAF 2014: SOAR HIGH PAF for Peace, Freedom and Development.”
Lt. Col. Enrico Canaya, Air Force spokesperson, said the PAF will demonstrate the proficiency of pilots in their aerobatic maneuvers, the discipline of soldiers during the parade and review and its readiness for combat, disasters and calamities and support to national development through a capability demonstration at Clark Field in Pampanga.
According to Canaya, the PAF has lined up several pre-anniversary activities. These included the following:
* Bloodletting campaign held from May 5 to 30 with the theme: “Dugong Alay, Dugtong Buhay.” This was conducted in all Air Force Bases to generate substantial blood collection for donation to partner institutions in partnership with the Philippine Red Cross (PRC), Philippine Blood Center (PBC) and other charitable blood service organizations.
Canaya said that as of June 9, the PAF had collected a total of 316,800 cc of blood with 704 volunteers from civilian and military personnel.
* Children’s Day with the theme: “Masayang Kabataan, Masiglang Pamayanan.” This was conducted at all PAF major bases from May 12 to June 6, in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development, children’s foundations, orphanages and Air Force Bases’ Youth Clubs.
This provided the youth a pleasant and lasting experience and made them resilient to enemy propaganda. As of June 9, a total of 1,758 children had participated in the activity.
* A joint weekend retreat seminar was held on May 23-25, 2014 at the Carmelite Missionaries Center of Spirituality inTagaytay City
The activity was a marital, family and parenting weekend retreat to strengthen marriage, develop a family spirituality and help reduce marital, family problems that may affect work performances and to help NCOs develop skills in initial counseling techniques and empower them to address the problems of their peers and subordinates more effectively.
* Tree planting activities were also done to support the government’s National Greening Program. The activity was held from May 26 to June 15 at areas identified by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
* It was in partnership with DENR, local government units (LGUs), cause-oriented groups and reservists.
As of June 9, a total of 4,033 saplings/seedlings were already planted.
* An anniversary fun run with the theme: “Takbong Hukbong Himpapawid Para sa Karunungan at Kinabukasan ng Kabataan 2014” was held last June 1 at theCultural Center
of the Philippines (CCP) Complex, Pasay
City
The purpose of this activity was to raise funds for scholarship programs intended for deserving military dependents.
Mall exhibits will be held on June 11-13 at Mall of Asia and June 18-22 at SM Clark in Pampanga. The purpose of this activity is to show to the public the capability and equipment of the PAF.
An Air Power Symposium (APS) will be held on July 16 at theWorld Trade Center , Pasay
City
The APS is part of the Asian Defense and Security (ADAS) 2014 scheduled from July 16-18. This is a one-day event that will highlight the importance of air power to the nation’s stability and development.
It will serve as the intellectual centerpiece for the PAF's 67th Anniversary celebration.
This event will be attended by senior PAF and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) officers, various Air chiefs or their representatives from ASEAN and other Air Forces, selected key officials of the Department of National Defense and other government agencies and other stakeholders from the public and private sectors.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=652297
The Philippine Air Force (PAF) will celebrate its 67th founding anniversary on July 1 with the theme: ”PAF 2014: SOAR HIGH PAF for Peace, Freedom and Development.”
Lt. Col. Enrico Canaya, Air Force spokesperson, said the PAF will demonstrate the proficiency of pilots in their aerobatic maneuvers, the discipline of soldiers during the parade and review and its readiness for combat, disasters and calamities and support to national development through a capability demonstration at Clark Field in Pampanga.
According to Canaya, the PAF has lined up several pre-anniversary activities. These included the following:
* Bloodletting campaign held from May 5 to 30 with the theme: “Dugong Alay, Dugtong Buhay.” This was conducted in all Air Force Bases to generate substantial blood collection for donation to partner institutions in partnership with the Philippine Red Cross (PRC), Philippine Blood Center (PBC) and other charitable blood service organizations.
Canaya said that as of June 9, the PAF had collected a total of 316,800 cc of blood with 704 volunteers from civilian and military personnel.
* Children’s Day with the theme: “Masayang Kabataan, Masiglang Pamayanan.” This was conducted at all PAF major bases from May 12 to June 6, in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development, children’s foundations, orphanages and Air Force Bases’ Youth Clubs.
This provided the youth a pleasant and lasting experience and made them resilient to enemy propaganda. As of June 9, a total of 1,758 children had participated in the activity.
* A joint weekend retreat seminar was held on May 23-25, 2014 at the Carmelite Missionaries Center of Spirituality in
The activity was a marital, family and parenting weekend retreat to strengthen marriage, develop a family spirituality and help reduce marital, family problems that may affect work performances and to help NCOs develop skills in initial counseling techniques and empower them to address the problems of their peers and subordinates more effectively.
* Tree planting activities were also done to support the government’s National Greening Program. The activity was held from May 26 to June 15 at areas identified by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
* It was in partnership with DENR, local government units (LGUs), cause-oriented groups and reservists.
As of June 9, a total of 4,033 saplings/seedlings were already planted.
* An anniversary fun run with the theme: “Takbong Hukbong Himpapawid Para sa Karunungan at Kinabukasan ng Kabataan 2014” was held last June 1 at the
The purpose of this activity was to raise funds for scholarship programs intended for deserving military dependents.
Mall exhibits will be held on June 11-13 at Mall of Asia and June 18-22 at SM Clark in Pampanga. The purpose of this activity is to show to the public the capability and equipment of the PAF.
An Air Power Symposium (APS) will be held on July 16 at the
The APS is part of the Asian Defense and Security (ADAS) 2014 scheduled from July 16-18. This is a one-day event that will highlight the importance of air power to the nation’s stability and development.
It will serve as the intellectual centerpiece for the PAF's 67th Anniversary celebration.
This event will be attended by senior PAF and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) officers, various Air chiefs or their representatives from ASEAN and other Air Forces, selected key officials of the Department of National Defense and other government agencies and other stakeholders from the public and private sectors.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=652297
Ranking ASG leader bagged in Paranaque - ISAFP chief
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 11): Ranking ASG leader bagged in Paranaque - ISAFP chief
Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (ISAFP) commander Major Gen. Eduardo Ano on Wednesday confirmed the arrest of Khair Mundos, a ranking Abu Sayyaf Group leader, during an operation inSan Isidro , Paranaque
City
He added that the operation, which was conducted by Army intelligence operatives, took place around 9:45 a.m.
Ano said that incessant military pressure inMindanao
prompted Mundos to flee and seek shelter with his relatives in Metro Manila.
He also clarified that the ASG leader has no plans to conduct bombing attacks in Metro Manila.
The ISAFP chief added that the ASG leader's capture has a huge impact on the terrorist organization as Mundos is considered their bravest operative and known to lead bombing operations.
"He (Mundos) has good standing in the ASG and is even considered one of their spiritual leaders. Those people lost one of their leaders," Ano said.
Ano stated that Mundos has direct links with Jemaah Islamiyah and Al-Qaeda terrorist organizations.
US
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=652356
Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (ISAFP) commander Major Gen. Eduardo Ano on Wednesday confirmed the arrest of Khair Mundos, a ranking Abu Sayyaf Group leader, during an operation in
He added that the operation, which was conducted by Army intelligence operatives, took place around 9:45 a.m.
Ano said that incessant military pressure in
He also clarified that the ASG leader has no plans to conduct bombing attacks in Metro Manila.
The ISAFP chief added that the ASG leader's capture has a huge impact on the terrorist organization as Mundos is considered their bravest operative and known to lead bombing operations.
"He (Mundos) has good standing in the ASG and is even considered one of their spiritual leaders. Those people lost one of their leaders," Ano said.
Ano stated that Mundos has direct links with Jemaah Islamiyah and Al-Qaeda terrorist organizations.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=652356
NPA leader, follower surrender in Davao Oriental
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 11): NPA leader, follower surrender in Davao Oriental
A New People’s Army (NPA) leader and one of his members surrendered to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the local government ofMati City
In a statement forwarded by AFP public affairs office chief Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala, the surrenderees were identified as Joseph Alpas also known as "Roland" and team leader of the Abe Squad 4 of the NPA’s Pulang Bagani Company 3.
He and his team member, Rogelio M. Garapan alias "Ganie" voluntarily surrendered on Monday to Mati City Vice Mayor Glenda Rabat Gayta, 701st Brigade Commander, Col. Benjamin R. Madrigal Jr., and Senior Supt. Jose C. Carumba.
They brought along with them one M-14 carbine and an M-4 automatic rifle with 10 magazines and an anti-personnel landmine.
The rebel returnees are now under the custody of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) through Davao Oriental Halfway House – a processing center for former rebels.
The surrendered firearms and improvised landmine on the other hand, are now at the 701st Brigade headquarters for processing under the government’s Guns for Peace program.
Just last week, a total of 54 NPA rebels under Embay Casal Gayaw, alias Rixan, leader of FC 34 operating in the boundaries of Agusan, Bukidnon, and Davao provinces, surrendered with 53 assorted firearms to the 403rd Infantry Brigade at Impalambong, Malaybalay City.
The increasing number of NPAs surrendering to the government fold is attributed to the group’s weakened leadership following the arrest of Benito and Wilma Tiamzon last March.
Zagala said the AFP reiterates its call to the NPAs who continue to engage in criminal activities to surrender and totally abandon the armed struggle.
In this way, he said more innocent civilians will be spared from their crimes which hamper growth and development in our country.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=652525
A New People’s Army (NPA) leader and one of his members surrendered to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the local government of
In a statement forwarded by AFP public affairs office chief Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala, the surrenderees were identified as Joseph Alpas also known as "Roland" and team leader of the Abe Squad 4 of the NPA’s Pulang Bagani Company 3.
He and his team member, Rogelio M. Garapan alias "Ganie" voluntarily surrendered on Monday to Mati City Vice Mayor Glenda Rabat Gayta, 701st Brigade Commander, Col. Benjamin R. Madrigal Jr., and Senior Supt. Jose C. Carumba.
They brought along with them one M-14 carbine and an M-4 automatic rifle with 10 magazines and an anti-personnel landmine.
The rebel returnees are now under the custody of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) through Davao Oriental Halfway House – a processing center for former rebels.
The surrendered firearms and improvised landmine on the other hand, are now at the 701st Brigade headquarters for processing under the government’s Guns for Peace program.
Just last week, a total of 54 NPA rebels under Embay Casal Gayaw, alias Rixan, leader of FC 34 operating in the boundaries of Agusan, Bukidnon, and Davao provinces, surrendered with 53 assorted firearms to the 403rd Infantry Brigade at Impalambong, Malaybalay City.
The increasing number of NPAs surrendering to the government fold is attributed to the group’s weakened leadership following the arrest of Benito and Wilma Tiamzon last March.
Zagala said the AFP reiterates its call to the NPAs who continue to engage in criminal activities to surrender and totally abandon the armed struggle.
In this way, he said more innocent civilians will be spared from their crimes which hamper growth and development in our country.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=652525
DND honors South Korea’s Araw Force Contingent for humanitarian acts in Leyte
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 11): DND honors South Korea’s Araw Force Contingent for humanitarian acts in Leyte
Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin on Wednesday afforded the South Korean Joint Support Group Araw Force Contingent with the Bakas Parangal Award in a ceremony at their base camp in Candahugvillage
of Palo , Leyte .
Bakas Parangal Award in three categories - Kadakilaan, Kabayanihan and Kagitingan – is a recognition bestowed by the National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (NDRRMC) to individuals or groups that provide exemplary services during times of calamities and disaster.
The award is a reminder that what they done in helping victims of disaster do not only save lives but also change lives.
The Araw Contingent is currently in theprovince of Leyte
The contingent is focusing its rehabilitation work at the municipalities of Palo, Tanauan and Tolosa repairing elementary school buildings and local government structures including hospitals.
”South Korean government is one of the first foreign governments that immediately responded to the request of the Philippine government for international aid after typhoon Yolanda devastated provinces in the central part of the country,” said Gazmin in his speech.
“With this, the Philippine government and its people are thanking the South Korean military contingents in their exemplary heroism, kindness and bravery that marks and appreciated by victims of typhoon Yolanda,” he added.
Gazmin added that this will also strengthen more the bilateral relation and friendship of theRepublic of South Korea and the Philippines
that was forged 64 years ago when Philippine military and South Korean army
fought together in the defense of the freedom of South Korea
South Korean Ambassador to the Philippines Hyuk Lee said that the presence of their country’s soldier in the province did not only forge friendship between two military forces but also among locals where they are conducting rehabilitation works.
Araw Forces is assisted by personnel of the 546th engineering construction battalion of AFP assigned inTacloban
City
“I had seen that you developed a good working environment with your partner soldiers in the rehabilitation of public structures but you also have great time with the locals,” Lee said.
Lee also stressed to the South Korean troops that their experience inLeyte should be a reminder and should give them lesson of
how important it is for people of all nation to help each other and live in
harmony.
The award was received by Colonel Chulwon Lee, commander of Joint Support Group Araw Force contingent.
Last month the South Korean troops also received a Military Civic Action Medal from Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Emmanuel Bautista.
Wednesday’s awarding ceremony was witnessed by Leyte Governor Leopoldo Dominico Petilla, Palo Mayor Remedios Petilla, Tanauan Mayor Pelagio Tecson Jr., Tolosa Mayor Erwin Ocana, AFP Central Commander General John Bonafos, 8th Infantry Division Commander Major General Jet Velarmino, OCD executive director Undersecretary Alexander Palma and OCD 8 regional director Blanche Gobienchong.
Prior the ceremony Gazmin inspected government structures that were rehabilitated by the group like theBaras
Elementary School , Leyte Provincial
Hospital and Pawing Elementary School
Araw Forces will stay until December of this year and the second batch of their military humanitarian contingents will arrive before the end of this month.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=652393
Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin on Wednesday afforded the South Korean Joint Support Group Araw Force Contingent with the Bakas Parangal Award in a ceremony at their base camp in Candahug
Bakas Parangal Award in three categories - Kadakilaan, Kabayanihan and Kagitingan – is a recognition bestowed by the National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (NDRRMC) to individuals or groups that provide exemplary services during times of calamities and disaster.
The award is a reminder that what they done in helping victims of disaster do not only save lives but also change lives.
The Araw Contingent is currently in the
The contingent is focusing its rehabilitation work at the municipalities of Palo, Tanauan and Tolosa repairing elementary school buildings and local government structures including hospitals.
”South Korean government is one of the first foreign governments that immediately responded to the request of the Philippine government for international aid after typhoon Yolanda devastated provinces in the central part of the country,” said Gazmin in his speech.
“With this, the Philippine government and its people are thanking the South Korean military contingents in their exemplary heroism, kindness and bravery that marks and appreciated by victims of typhoon Yolanda,” he added.
Gazmin added that this will also strengthen more the bilateral relation and friendship of the
South Korean Ambassador to the Philippines Hyuk Lee said that the presence of their country’s soldier in the province did not only forge friendship between two military forces but also among locals where they are conducting rehabilitation works.
Araw Forces is assisted by personnel of the 546th engineering construction battalion of AFP assigned in
“I had seen that you developed a good working environment with your partner soldiers in the rehabilitation of public structures but you also have great time with the locals,” Lee said.
Lee also stressed to the South Korean troops that their experience in
The award was received by Colonel Chulwon Lee, commander of Joint Support Group Araw Force contingent.
Last month the South Korean troops also received a Military Civic Action Medal from Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Emmanuel Bautista.
Wednesday’s awarding ceremony was witnessed by Leyte Governor Leopoldo Dominico Petilla, Palo Mayor Remedios Petilla, Tanauan Mayor Pelagio Tecson Jr., Tolosa Mayor Erwin Ocana, AFP Central Commander General John Bonafos, 8th Infantry Division Commander Major General Jet Velarmino, OCD executive director Undersecretary Alexander Palma and OCD 8 regional director Blanche Gobienchong.
Prior the ceremony Gazmin inspected government structures that were rehabilitated by the group like the
Araw Forces will stay until December of this year and the second batch of their military humanitarian contingents will arrive before the end of this month.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=652393
Duterte to lead outreach mission to NPA hideaway on 116th Independence Day
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 11): Duterte to lead outreach mission to NPA hideaway on 116th Independence Day
Mayor Rodrigo Duterte will lead government agencies in an outreach mission to mark the 116th Independence Day in Paquibato area known to be a stronghold of the New People’s Army (NPA) for many years.
A flag raising ceremony to start the outreach mission dubbed as “Unity for Peace in Paquibato” will be attended by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Emmanuel T. Bautista; Eastern Mindanao Command Commander Lt. Gen. Ricardo Rainier G. Cruz III; 10th Infantry Division Commander Maj. Gen. Ariel B. Bernardo; and Philippine National Police (PNP) Regional Chief Supt. Wendy Garcia Rosario.
The Association of Regional Executives of National Agency (ARENA) headed by Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Regional Director Mariano Alquiza will be offering government service.
People from Paquibato District which comprises 13 villages, will take part in the outreach mission. Aside from the “Serbisyo Caravan”, other activities are Interfaith Prayer; Bike for Peace; Unveiling of Peace Monument; Ground Breaking of Joint AFP-PNP Action Center (JAPAC) Facility; Presentation of Former Rebels (FRs); Signing of Covenant for Peace and Development; and “Concert for Peace”.
According to the military, Paquibato district will also be declared peaceful and development-ready by the local and city officials on the same day.
Different city dignitaries are invited to deliver needed basic services as a jumpstart development in the said district.
Paquibato district is situated 50 kilometers north ofDavao City
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=652521
Mayor Rodrigo Duterte will lead government agencies in an outreach mission to mark the 116th Independence Day in Paquibato area known to be a stronghold of the New People’s Army (NPA) for many years.
A flag raising ceremony to start the outreach mission dubbed as “Unity for Peace in Paquibato” will be attended by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Emmanuel T. Bautista; Eastern Mindanao Command Commander Lt. Gen. Ricardo Rainier G. Cruz III; 10th Infantry Division Commander Maj. Gen. Ariel B. Bernardo; and Philippine National Police (PNP) Regional Chief Supt. Wendy Garcia Rosario.
The Association of Regional Executives of National Agency (ARENA) headed by Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Regional Director Mariano Alquiza will be offering government service.
People from Paquibato District which comprises 13 villages, will take part in the outreach mission. Aside from the “Serbisyo Caravan”, other activities are Interfaith Prayer; Bike for Peace; Unveiling of Peace Monument; Ground Breaking of Joint AFP-PNP Action Center (JAPAC) Facility; Presentation of Former Rebels (FRs); Signing of Covenant for Peace and Development; and “Concert for Peace”.
According to the military, Paquibato district will also be declared peaceful and development-ready by the local and city officials on the same day.
Different city dignitaries are invited to deliver needed basic services as a jumpstart development in the said district.
Paquibato district is situated 50 kilometers north of
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=652521
New Army brigade commander eyeing zero-insurgency in Negros Oriental
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 11): New Army brigade commander eyeing zero-insurgency in Negros Oriental
The newly-installed commander of the Philippine Army’s 302nd Infantry Brigade based inTanjay
City
Col. Allan Martin, in an interview with reporters immediately after his installation as the new brigade commander Wednesday, pointed out that it has always been the aspiration of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to attain a zero-armed group in Negros Oriental.
It could be very difficult, he admitted, but ifBohol
was able to do it, then Negros Oriental could also do the same, Martin said.
Martin said he would try his best to carry on the accomplishments of his predecessor, Brig. Gen. Francisco Patrimonio.
The brigade has done so much under the leadership of Patrimonio and there are activities, programs and projects that have already been aligned, he noted.
Martin also expressed hope of continued support from residents as well as other government agencies in achieving peace and prosperity in the province.
The declaration of the province last month as conflict manageable and development ready in relation to the insurgency was a product of the support and help given by the local officials and the public in general, he added.
Martin officially assumed his post Wednesday in a change of command ceremony presided by Maj. Gen. Aurelio Baladad, commander of the 3rd Infantry Division based in Jamindan, Capiz.
Baladad, in his message, lauded and thanked Patrimonio for the many accomplishments the different Army units under the brigade had earned during his more than two years stint with the 302nd brigade.
At the same time, Baladad encouraged and challenged Martin to do his best in pursuing the activities of the brigade in its quest for peace and development in Negros Oriental.
While Negros Oriental has already been declared as conflict manageable and development ready, the task on hand now is to sustain that status and continue working towards an insurgency-free Negros Oriental.
In the meantime, government forces still have to deal with a bigger problem of attending to the insurgency problem in the adjacentprovince of Negros
Occidental
The New People’s Army (NPA), the armed component of the Communist Party of the Philippines/National Democratic Front, has reportedly dwindled in numbers, particularly in its armed members in Negros Oriental, the Army said.
But there is still an NPA force to reckon with in Negros Occidental and the Army must ensure there will be no spillover of the rebels to Negros Oriental.
Patrimonio, for his part, thanked the troops, civilian officials, various civic groups and non-government organizations, for their untiring and full support to the brigade’s programs and projects that have played an important part in the brigade’s accomplishments in the past two years or so.
Patrimonio, a member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class ’82 and a mistah of Baladad, will be assigned as the latter’s deputy division commander of the 3ID.
Present during the turnover of command ceremony at the brigade headquarters in Camp Leon Kilat,Tanjay City , were Vice Governor Mark Macias, other local
officials, heads of government agencies and offices, partners in the different
sectors, the media and officials of the Philippine Army’s various units in Negros Island
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=652559
The newly-installed commander of the Philippine Army’s 302nd Infantry Brigade based in
Col. Allan Martin, in an interview with reporters immediately after his installation as the new brigade commander Wednesday, pointed out that it has always been the aspiration of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to attain a zero-armed group in Negros Oriental.
It could be very difficult, he admitted, but if
Martin said he would try his best to carry on the accomplishments of his predecessor, Brig. Gen. Francisco Patrimonio.
The brigade has done so much under the leadership of Patrimonio and there are activities, programs and projects that have already been aligned, he noted.
Martin also expressed hope of continued support from residents as well as other government agencies in achieving peace and prosperity in the province.
The declaration of the province last month as conflict manageable and development ready in relation to the insurgency was a product of the support and help given by the local officials and the public in general, he added.
Martin officially assumed his post Wednesday in a change of command ceremony presided by Maj. Gen. Aurelio Baladad, commander of the 3rd Infantry Division based in Jamindan, Capiz.
Baladad, in his message, lauded and thanked Patrimonio for the many accomplishments the different Army units under the brigade had earned during his more than two years stint with the 302nd brigade.
At the same time, Baladad encouraged and challenged Martin to do his best in pursuing the activities of the brigade in its quest for peace and development in Negros Oriental.
While Negros Oriental has already been declared as conflict manageable and development ready, the task on hand now is to sustain that status and continue working towards an insurgency-free Negros Oriental.
In the meantime, government forces still have to deal with a bigger problem of attending to the insurgency problem in the adjacent
The New People’s Army (NPA), the armed component of the Communist Party of the Philippines/National Democratic Front, has reportedly dwindled in numbers, particularly in its armed members in Negros Oriental, the Army said.
But there is still an NPA force to reckon with in Negros Occidental and the Army must ensure there will be no spillover of the rebels to Negros Oriental.
Patrimonio, for his part, thanked the troops, civilian officials, various civic groups and non-government organizations, for their untiring and full support to the brigade’s programs and projects that have played an important part in the brigade’s accomplishments in the past two years or so.
Patrimonio, a member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class ’82 and a mistah of Baladad, will be assigned as the latter’s deputy division commander of the 3ID.
Present during the turnover of command ceremony at the brigade headquarters in Camp Leon Kilat,
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=652559
Slain rebel identified
From the Visayan Daily Star (Jun 11): Slain rebel identified
Another suspected New People’s Army rebel, who was among those killed in the latest encounter with soldiers in Tanjay City, Negros Oriental, was identified to be a resident of Brgy. Camindangan, Sipalay City, Negros Occidental.
Andrea Guerrero, spokesperson of the Armando Sumayang Jr. Command, confirmed the death of Danny Ligid-Ligid, “alias Ka Mona and Radja”, 31, in an encounter with 79th Infantry Battalion soldiers on May 24 in Brgy. San Antonio, Tanjay City.
The Southwest Negros Guerilla Front and the Pambansang Katipunan ng Magbubukid ng Pilipinas, meanwhile, praised the devotion and bravery of Ligid-Ligid by offering his life to the cause of the revolutionary movement.
Ka Andres Bayani, PKM Southwest District Committee spokesperson, said Ka Radja had been a member of PKM, before he joined the NPA, on recommendation of the Sanga sang Partido sa Baryo.
Ka Radja was the second family member of Ligid-Ligid, who became a martyr of the revolutionary movement, Guerrero, said in a statement he issued.
In January 2012, Donald Diligdilig, 21, was killed in an encounter with Army soldiers in Sitio Mag-asawang Bukid, Brgy. Camindangan, Sipalay City, military records show.
Lt. Col. Rodrigo Sosmena, then commander of the 47th Infantry Battalion, said Donald was among the three members of his family, who had joined the NPA.
Two other members of the NPA, who were also killed in the Tanjay encounter, were identified by the military as Diosdado Dacal-Dacal and Feliz Yanoc, both residents of Santa Catalina, Negros Oriental.
With the death of the four rebels, Brig. Gen. Francisco Patrimonio, outgoing 302nd Infantry Brigade commander, claimed that the total strength of armed regulars of the South East Front-Komiteng Rehiyonal Negros has been reduced to 19 members.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2014/June/11/negor5.htm
Another suspected New People’s Army rebel, who was among those killed in the latest encounter with soldiers in Tanjay City, Negros Oriental, was identified to be a resident of Brgy. Camindangan, Sipalay City, Negros Occidental.
Andrea Guerrero, spokesperson of the Armando Sumayang Jr. Command, confirmed the death of Danny Ligid-Ligid, “alias Ka Mona and Radja”, 31, in an encounter with 79th Infantry Battalion soldiers on May 24 in Brgy. San Antonio, Tanjay City.
The Southwest Negros Guerilla Front and the Pambansang Katipunan ng Magbubukid ng Pilipinas, meanwhile, praised the devotion and bravery of Ligid-Ligid by offering his life to the cause of the revolutionary movement.
Ka Andres Bayani, PKM Southwest District Committee spokesperson, said Ka Radja had been a member of PKM, before he joined the NPA, on recommendation of the Sanga sang Partido sa Baryo.
Ka Radja was the second family member of Ligid-Ligid, who became a martyr of the revolutionary movement, Guerrero, said in a statement he issued.
In January 2012, Donald Diligdilig, 21, was killed in an encounter with Army soldiers in Sitio Mag-asawang Bukid, Brgy. Camindangan, Sipalay City, military records show.
Lt. Col. Rodrigo Sosmena, then commander of the 47th Infantry Battalion, said Donald was among the three members of his family, who had joined the NPA.
Two other members of the NPA, who were also killed in the Tanjay encounter, were identified by the military as Diosdado Dacal-Dacal and Feliz Yanoc, both residents of Santa Catalina, Negros Oriental.
With the death of the four rebels, Brig. Gen. Francisco Patrimonio, outgoing 302nd Infantry Brigade commander, claimed that the total strength of armed regulars of the South East Front-Komiteng Rehiyonal Negros has been reduced to 19 members.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2014/June/11/negor5.htm
Military says: Bombing diversionary tactic
From the Visayan Daily Star (Jun 11): Military says: Bombing diversionary tactic
The recent bombing of a sugar mill transloading station in Escalante City, Negros Occidental, by the New People’s Army was not just to punish its management for failure to comply with the rebel extortion demands, but also to divert government forces, Col. Jon Aying, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, said yesterday.
The recent bombing of a sugar mill transloading station in Escalante City, Negros Occidental, by the New People’s Army was not just to punish its management for failure to comply with the rebel extortion demands, but also to divert government forces, Col. Jon Aying, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, said yesterday.
The NPA has raided and destroyed twice the transloading stations of Lopez Sugar Corp. in Brgy. San Jose, Toboso and Brgy, Mabini, Escalante, within four years, military records show.
They used Improvised Explosive Devices in bombing the sugar mill transloading station on Sunday in Escalante City, police investigations also showed.
Aying spelled out three possible motives, for the bombing of the transloading station: extortion; a diversionary tactic of the NPA to lessen the pressure on them by military; and to ambush police and military personnel, who may respond to their atrocities.
Damaged by the explosions were the core sampler laboratory, a crane, platform weighing scale, gas pumping station and a Fuzo hauler truck.
However, the extent of damage was still being assessed by the sugar mill management, as of yesterday, Senior Supt. Milko Lirazan, provincial police director of Negros Occidental, said.
Aying said a coordinated manhunt operation is now being conducted by the 62nd Infantry Battalion, with the participation of the 6th Special Action Battalion, 6th Regional Public Safety Battalion and members of the Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit stationed in the area.
Escalante police chief, Supt. Leo Batiles, said they will collate the testimonies of witnesses, and coordinate with the Philippine Army in identifying the rebel suspects and filing of charges against them.
More than 20 Bayanihan teams of the Philippine Army have been deployed in the so-called guerilla zones of the NPA in the hinterlands of Escalante, Toboso and Calatrava (ESTOCA).
Aying said that with the occupation of NPA guerilla zones by government forces, the rebel group has moved out to other areas of northern Negros after experiencing military debacles.
The ESTOCA area has been the focus of development by the provincial government of Negros Occidental, through its Provincial Peace,Integration and Development Unit, since last year.
The South West Negros Guerilla Front, however, described in its statement, the Negros First Pro-PIDU program of Gov. Alfredo Maranon Jr. and Aying as a form of “psy-war operations” of the military.
PH Navy evacuates stricken crewman from Aussie sub off Samar
From InterAksyon (Jun 11): PH Navy evacuates stricken crewman from Aussie sub off Samar
The Philippine Navy early this week evacuated a sailor stricken with appendicitis from an Australian submarine that had sought assistance off Samar, the military said Wednesday.
“On Sunday afternoon, around 5:56, an Australian submarine surfaced about three nautical miles off Marabut, Samar. It unloaded a patient with appendicitis, probably a crew. Our Navy personnel on board DF339 picked up the patient along with his escort. Immediately thereafter, the submarine left the area,” Lieutenant Commander Jim Alagao, spokesman of the Armed Forces’ Central Command, said in a phone interview.
Alagao said he did not know where the submarine came from.
But he said before it surfaced, the vessel contacted Naval Forces Central Command for assistance in the emergency evacuation of the crewman, who was taken to a hospital in Tacloban City.
The Centcom spokesman declined to identify the sick Australian and his escort, citing military security protocols.
“The following day (Monday), the patient was evacuated to Manila. As per report we received today, the patient’s condition has been improving,” Alagao said, declining to say what hospital the sailor was admitted to.
He said Navy headquarters in Manila is coordinating with the Department of Foreign Affairs for proper documentation of the two foreign sailors.
In recent years, the Philippine and Australian militaries have been strengthening relations for improved interoperability and disaster response.
Alagao also cited Article 18, Paragraph 2, of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea or UNCLOS, on the Doctrine of Innocent Passage, which covers “... passage includes stopping or anchoring ... rendered necessary by force majeure, or distress or for the purpose of rendering assistance to persons, ships or aircraft in danger or distress.”
Article 20 of UNCLOS also provides, “In the territorial sea, submarines and other underwater vehicles are required to navigate on the surface and to show their flag.”
The Australians, said Alagao, “complied (with) these provisions of the UNCLOS, including the requisite permission under the convention. The Navy binds itself to render all appropriate assistance to any nation whose people or uniformed personnel are similarly situated as in the case of this Australian Navy personnel whose life is in peril."
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/88864/ph-navy-evacuates-stricken-crewman-from-aussie-sub-off-samar
The Philippine Navy early this week evacuated a sailor stricken with appendicitis from an Australian submarine that had sought assistance off Samar, the military said Wednesday.
“On Sunday afternoon, around 5:56, an Australian submarine surfaced about three nautical miles off Marabut, Samar. It unloaded a patient with appendicitis, probably a crew. Our Navy personnel on board DF339 picked up the patient along with his escort. Immediately thereafter, the submarine left the area,” Lieutenant Commander Jim Alagao, spokesman of the Armed Forces’ Central Command, said in a phone interview.
Alagao said he did not know where the submarine came from.
But he said before it surfaced, the vessel contacted Naval Forces Central Command for assistance in the emergency evacuation of the crewman, who was taken to a hospital in Tacloban City.
The Centcom spokesman declined to identify the sick Australian and his escort, citing military security protocols.
“The following day (Monday), the patient was evacuated to Manila. As per report we received today, the patient’s condition has been improving,” Alagao said, declining to say what hospital the sailor was admitted to.
He said Navy headquarters in Manila is coordinating with the Department of Foreign Affairs for proper documentation of the two foreign sailors.
In recent years, the Philippine and Australian militaries have been strengthening relations for improved interoperability and disaster response.
Alagao also cited Article 18, Paragraph 2, of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea or UNCLOS, on the Doctrine of Innocent Passage, which covers “... passage includes stopping or anchoring ... rendered necessary by force majeure, or distress or for the purpose of rendering assistance to persons, ships or aircraft in danger or distress.”
Article 20 of UNCLOS also provides, “In the territorial sea, submarines and other underwater vehicles are required to navigate on the surface and to show their flag.”
The Australians, said Alagao, “complied (with) these provisions of the UNCLOS, including the requisite permission under the convention. The Navy binds itself to render all appropriate assistance to any nation whose people or uniformed personnel are similarly situated as in the case of this Australian Navy personnel whose life is in peril."
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/88864/ph-navy-evacuates-stricken-crewman-from-aussie-sub-off-samar
Alleged rebels seize weapons, cash from Agusan del Norte mayor's home
From InterAksyon (Jun 11): Alleged rebels seize weapons, cash from Agusan del Norte mayor's home
Five gunmen dressed in Army uniforms and who introduced themselves as communist rebels robbed the home of Ramon Calo, mayor of Carmen town Agusan del Norte early this week, carting away weapons, belated police reports said Wednesday.
Calo was in Manila at the time of the incident.
The reports said the gunmen, armed with rifles and pistols, barged into Calo’s house around 7:35 p.m. Sunday and hogtied Junpol Tubo and Jeffrey Liro, members of a “Task Force Carmen” assigned to protect the mayor’s residence.
They then forced their way into the mayor’s room with an axe.
The men took an M16 rifle, a 9mm pistol, two shotguns a 9mm Uzi machine pistol, a samurai sword, and an attaché case containing a passbook, ten check booklets and P615 in cash.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/88879/alleged-rebels-seize-weapons-cash-from-agusan-del-norte-mayors-home
Five gunmen dressed in Army uniforms and who introduced themselves as communist rebels robbed the home of Ramon Calo, mayor of Carmen town Agusan del Norte early this week, carting away weapons, belated police reports said Wednesday.
Calo was in Manila at the time of the incident.
The reports said the gunmen, armed with rifles and pistols, barged into Calo’s house around 7:35 p.m. Sunday and hogtied Junpol Tubo and Jeffrey Liro, members of a “Task Force Carmen” assigned to protect the mayor’s residence.
They then forced their way into the mayor’s room with an axe.
The men took an M16 rifle, a 9mm pistol, two shotguns a 9mm Uzi machine pistol, a samurai sword, and an attaché case containing a passbook, ten check booklets and P615 in cash.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/88879/alleged-rebels-seize-weapons-cash-from-agusan-del-norte-mayors-home
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