Filipinos joining extremists in Syria, Iraq possible–military exec

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Sep 26): Filipinos joining extremists in Syria, Iraq possible–military exec



DFA Assistant Secretary and spokesman Charles Jose. AP FILE PHOTO

A ranking Philippine military official on Friday said the possibility of Filipinos fighting alongside Islamic extremists in Syria and Iraq could not be discounted.

“We are not discounting the possibility. There are many Filipinos there,” the official, who refused to be named told reporters.

Reports of Filipinos joining the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) circulated after Foreign Affairs Spokesman Charles Jose said they received unverified information that at least 100 Filipinos trained in Iran before they went to Syria. Two Filipino militants reportedly fought with Syrian ISIS forces and were later killed.

The military official said the reports were being verified. “We are validating the information. When we have information we check it.”

There were also persistent reports of ISIS recruitment in parts of Mindanao as well as photos and videos of Filipino militants on social media allegedly pledging allegiance to ISIS, to which the official also denied.

“They have sympathizers but it doesn’t mean they are recruited. They have Filipino sympathizers but we haven’t verified anyone who has joined. We are still checking,” he said.

“But so far what we have validated was that they are riding on the popularity of ISIS,” he said.

US intelligence officials estimate there are about 15,000 foreign fighters in Iraq and Syria fighting with extremist groups.

http://globalnation.inquirer.net/111732/filipinos-joining-extremists-in-syria-iraq-possible-military-exec

Filipino convicted in US of plot to aid jihadists

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Sep 27): Filipino convicted in US of plot to aid jihadists



FACING LIFE SENTENCE US-based Filipino Ralph de Leon has been convicted by a California court for supporting terrorists planning to kill members of the USmilitary. De Leon and another California man allegedly involved in the plot face life imprisonment.

An American and a Filipino face life in prison after they were found guilty on Thursday in California of plotting to aid jihadists and to kill Americans overseas.

A jury convicted Sohiel Omar Kabir, 36, a naturalized US citizen, and Filipino Ralph de Leon, 25, at the conclusion of a six-week trial that comes as the United States leads air strikes in Syria and Iraq against Islamic State militants.

The trial underlined the threat that homegrown extremists pose to the United States.

Kabir and De Leon were each charged with five counts of conspiracy for what prosecutors said was a plan to train overseas as terrorists so they could target the US military and allies.

Kabir was acquitted on one of five conspiracy counts, and jurors were deadlocked on two of the five identical counts against De Leon.

De Leon was specifically found guilty of conspiring to provide material support to al-Qaida, to receive military-type training from the group and to commit murder, kidnapping or maiming overseas.

“This case shows that the appeal of extremist ideologies can reach from Afghanistan to America,” said US Attorney Stephanie Yonekura after the trial in Riverside County, east of Los Angeles.

This demonstrated “the clear need for continued vigilance in rooting out homegrown violent extremists who plot terrorist acts both here and abroad.”

Radical Islamic teachings

Defense lawyers portrayed the two defendants as hapless pot smokers who talked a big game but didn’t intend any harm.

De Leon and two other men were arrested two years ago before embarking on a journey to meet Kabir in Afghanistan. Kabir was later caught by US troops in Kabul.

Federal agents began tracking the group after one of the men, Miguel Santana Vidriales, returned from visiting his mother in Mexico in 2012 with a copy of a jihadist magazine in his possession.

Prosecutors portrayed Kabir as the ringleader who met De Leon and Santana at a hookah bar and introduced them to radical Islamic teachings. Arifeen David Gojali was recruited later.

Target practice

Santana and Gojali previously pleaded guilty and cooperated with prosecutors.

An FBI informant who infiltrated the group secretly recorded many of their discussions about plans to train first with the Taliban and then graduate to al-Qaida.

The men began hiking to prepare for the rugged terrain in Afghanistan, and they took target practice at shooting ranges and played paint ball to simulate combat, authorities said.

Defense lawyers blamed informant Mohammad Hammad for prodding the men along and paying some of their expenses.

Informant paid $380,000

Mohammad, who was once convicted of trafficking a key ingredient of methamphetamine, was paid $380,000 by the United States for his work.

Kabir and De Leon were convicted of conspiracy to provide material support to terrorists and conspiracy to murder US officers or employees overseas.

Kabir was acquitted on a count of conspiracy to murder, kidnap or maim overseas.

Jurors were deadlocked on two conspiracy counts against De Leon: conspiracy to receive military training from al-Qaida and conspiracy to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization.

Kabir faces sentencing on Feb. 23. De Leon is to return to court on Oct. 20, when prosecutors will announce whether they’ll seek a new trial on the deadlocked counts.

‘Violent jihad’

The trial heard evidence that Kabir traveled to Afghanistan in 2012 and encouraged Santana and De Leon to come with him, saying they would all join “the students”—Taliban militants—and “the professors” al-Qaida.

An undercover FBI agent contacted Santana and De Leon. The latter said he wanted to go abroad to wage “violent jihad,” while Santana said he wanted to be a sniper.

In September 2012, De Leon and Santana recruited Gojali to accompany them to Afghanistan.

The three undertook preliminary training in southern California at firearms and paint ball facilities.

The trio were arrested in November that year as they prepared to drive south to Mexico, en route to Afghanistan.

‘Very real threat’

FBI Los Angeles agent Bill Lewis said: “The threat posed to America’s security by individuals within the United States who support terrorists is very real.

“This case demonstrates the process by which individuals living in the United States were groomed and radicalized toward an extremist ideology and, ultimately, planned the murder of American and coalition forces.”

Kabir and De Leon, both of California, each face life sentences for the convictions in the US District Court.

http://globalnation.inquirer.net/111737/filipino-convicted-in-us-of-plot-to-aid-jihadists

Singapore defense chief visits PH

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Sep 26): Singapore defense chief visits PH

 

Singapore Defense Minister Ng Eng Gen (left) is welcomed by Undersecretary for Defense Operations Natalio C. Ecarma III at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport on Wednesday. DND PHOTO

Singapore’s Defense Minister Dr. Ng Eng Gen has visited the Philippines to discuss partnership in dealing with natural disasters.

He met with Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin on Thursday at Camp Aguinaldo to discuss bilateral defense relations and agreed to launch a dialogue among defense senior officials of both sides.

The two defense chiefs noted the increasing need to enhance partnerships in dealing with natural disasters, said Arsenio Andolong, acting   chief of public affairs office of the Department of National Defense  on Friday.

Gazmin also presented the Philippines’ security outlook and its efforts to make it more efficient and effective.

“We look forward to a more dynamic bilateral relationship with Singapore, as both countries address security concerns in the Asia-Pacific region. The visit of Minister Ng is a manifestation of a stronger Philippine-Singapore defense relations towards regional peace and stability,” Gazmin said in a statement.

Ng also visited the Office of Civil Defense where a dinner was hosted by Gazmin. He left the country  on Friday  afternoon.http://globalnation.inquirer.net/111734/singapore-defense-chief-visits-ph

Tabak tenders sendoff party for Col. Nagrampa

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 26): Tabak tenders sendoff party for Col. Nagrampa

The 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division on Wednesday evening tendered a farewell party for Colonel Agapito Carmelo Nagrampa Jr., the outgoing chief of staff of the Philippine Army’s premiere division.

The party, which was held at the Tennis Court, 1st Infantry Division, Camp Major Cesar San-an, Pulacan was attended by the officers and men of the division led by Tabak commander BGen. Gerardo Barrientos Jr. including civilian employees and guests.

The 55 year-old military official served the 1st Infantry Division as chief of staff from May 23, 2013 – Aug. 30, 2014.

He was a former commanding officer of 55th Infantry Battalion in Oroquieta City, commanding officer of Division Training Unit, and executive officer of 104th Infantry Brigade based in Sulu province.

After serving a year at the 1st Infantry Division, Nagrampa would be transferred to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) in Davao City. He will be replaced by Col. Manuel Felino Ramos.   

BGen. Barrientos in his message said “we are here not necessarily to celebrate the departure of Col. Nagrampa but to pay tribute to the things he has done to the 1st Infantry Division and, at the same time, to welcome the new set of officers who are assigned in the division.”

Barrientos said the farewell party offers an opportunity for the officers to mingle with the troopers. “Coincidentally, in my 83rd day of service in the division, I happened to meet my classmates here,” Barrientos announced.

“We are here to unite our efforts in order for us to achieve our common goal—“unity and heroism,” Barrientos stressed.

Buoyed by the presence of troopers, Barrientos said “the gathering manifests the troopers unity as protectors and defenders of the land.” 

Barrientos encouraged also the troopers to faithfully perform their duties and responsibilities, as “the people in the community have high expectation from them.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=1371411633026

AFP assures security in the waterways and rivers surrounding the city

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 26): AFP assures security in the waterways and rivers surrounding the city 

COTABATO CITY – As part of AFP’s role in the maintenance of peace and security in Cotabato City, uniformed men of the Special Armed Forces (SAF) Battalion, under the 603rd Brigade on Monday, Sept. 22 inspected and scoured various river tributaries  in  the area.

Using the air boat, the SAF members travelled and scoured the rivers of Kakar area, Lugay-Lugay, Timaco and the exit part going to Illiana Bay for more than an hour to monitor and intelligence gathering on possible movements of lawless groups and other criminal elements who use the rivers as escape route.

Army’s 603rd Brigade commander Col. Arnel dela Vega said regular inspection of the waterways and river tributaries is being conducted to ensure the security and protection of people and the communities against criminal activities of lawless groups.
  
“I can say - our waterways, the rivers and mainland waterways are relatively secure. We can say that there is no present and immediate threat, dela Vega  said. "We always conduct our preemptive security operations to prevent possible attempts to sow fear and apprehension among our residents,”

He added, “even though we have not received any report of threats regarding the security, we are constantly on alert and vigilant to be on the guard especially along the water ways.

The military official urged the support and cooperation of the public particularly barangay officials in the campaign against lawlessness by reporting presence of suspicious looking individuals to authorities to prevent crimes and other illegal activities.

“We also strengthen our communication capability and coordination efforts with the local police in the conduct of visibility and patrol so that whenever we can see any threat around the waterways we can readily and directly establish a blocking position,” he cited.

Citing the need for proactive stance, he said, they have likewise established detachments along the waterways adding the need for the continued commitment and help of the community especially the barangay tanod to be active in the intensified and aggressive campaign in the maintenance of peace and stability in the area.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=1661411703215

Bangsamoro bill is for genuine autonomy, not separate state -- GPH, MILF assure Congress

From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 26): Bangsamoro bill is for genuine autonomy, not separate state -- GPH, MILF assure Congress

As Congress began discussions on the Bangsamoro bill for its swift passage into law, the Government of the Philippines (GPH), Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), and  Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) spoke in unison that the future Bangsamoro will exercise genuine autonomy within the flexibilities of the Philippine Constitution. They assured that the Bangsamoro will not be a separate state, but will remain part of the Philippines and under the supervision of the President.

“Supremacy of the Philippine Constitution is a fact found in the Bangsamoro bill. It states that the Bangsamoro is within Philippine territory and it will be under the President's supervision as mandated in the Constitution,” Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita Quintos Deles explained.  She emphasized that “autonomy (for the Bangsamoro) does not mean dismemberment from the country, as the future region will still be part of the Philippines.”

BTC and MILF Peace Panel Chair Mohagher Iqbal‎, also cited in his opening statement that “there are enough flexibilities in the Constitution to allow the establishment of the Bangsamoro.”

Deles and Iqbal, together with GPH Peace Panel Chair Professor Miriam Coronel-Ferrer were among the main resource persons invited at the House of Representatives on Wednesday to present and discuss the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law to the Ad Hoc Committee on the BBL, which is headed by Cagayan de Oro 2nd district Rep. Rufus Rodriguez. Members of the BTC and legal teams involved in the crafting of the draft BBL were also present as well as civil society groups.

Deles, in her opening statement, underscored that “it is their (GPH, MILF, and BTC) joint intent that throughout the entire legislative process (for the passage of the Bangsamoro bill), they will continue to work and speak as one.”

The proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law, filed as House Bill 4994 in the House of Representatives and Senate Bill 2804, is the enabling law of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) signed between GPH and MILF on March 27 of this year.  It aims to establish a Bangsamoro region, which will exercise genuine autonomy, that will replace the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) by 2016.

Lawmakers’ support, scrutiny of the bill
Meanwhile, a number of lawmakers affirmed support for the Bangsamoro bill as they sought clarifications with the BTC, GPH, and MILF on some provisions of the priority measure.

North Cotabato Rep. Nancy Catamco, Chair of the House Indigenous Peoples’ Committee, manifested her support for the passage of the law, saying it is because she can see that IPs in the proposed Bangsamoro territory are supportive of the bill which has explicit provisions on the respect of IPs rights.

Anak Mindanao Rep. Djalia Hataman, a member of the Ad Hoc Committee expressed hope and prayers that as a legislator, she can help “get this law passed.” She shared that “heated, passionate debates will ensue not just among legislators, but the public in general,” but prays that “we do not come out of this divided. Let this be a true exercise of democracy.”

Deles in responding to clarifications to the Bangsamoro bill expressed her appreciation for the rigorous scrutiny of the proposed organic act to ensure that it becomes the best autonomy law that will be passed. “We welcome scrutiny. That is a sort of engagement we expect,” she said while relaying that the GPH, MILF, and BTC will pursue dialogue with Congress to build understanding on the substance and spirit of the Bangsamoro bill.

Magdalo Partylist Rep. Gary Alejano also relayed support to ensuring that the Bangsamoro bill will be “constitutional and acceptable to all stakeholders.”

Appeal to Congress
Actor Robin Padilla, who attended the committee hearing, appealed, to Congress to take on their monumental role for the successful passage of the Bangsamoro law which he believes is crucial for peace in the south.

“Nag-aantay po ang lahat. Magiging historical po ito para po sa inyong mga mambabatas. Ito po ang iiwan ninyong legacy sa Pilipinas na kayo po ang naging daan upang makamit talaga ang tuwid na daan. (Many are waiting. This [passage of the Bangsamoro bill] will be a historical [role] for you lawmakers. This is your legacy to the Philippines; that you became an instrument in achieving the straight path.),” said Padilla.

Padilla said that the success of the Bangsamoro law, which is within the hands of Congress, will also benefit and bring more peace and progress in other areas in the country.

BTC commissioners Timuay Melanio Ulama and Abdullah Camlian, during the committee hearing, also expressed their appeal to Congress for the passage of the law. Ulama is confident that that the Bangsamoro law respects IP rights, while Camlian, in an emotional speech, underscored the historical background and significance of resolving the Bangsamoro aspiration for self-governance through genuine autonomy for the Bangsamoro region.

Coronel-Ferrer, on her part, said that “ending the internal conflict in the south through the implementation of the Bangsamoro peace agreement” signed with the biggest rebel group in the country “will provide a viable atmosphere to uplift the lives of our people” in parts of Mindanao which for decades have been mired in conflict and poverty.

Iqbal emphasized that the MILF “trust the wisdom of both houses of Congress to pass a good legislation,” referring to the Bangsamoro bill.(OPAPP)

http://news.pia.gov.ph/index.php?article=1781411696452

Expert wary of ISIS influence reaching PHL rebel groups

From GMA News (Sep 26): Expert wary of ISIS influence reaching PHL rebel groups

A political science professor on Friday expressed concern over the possibility of terror group Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) extending its influence to Philippine rebel  groups.

In an interview on "News To Go," Rommel Banlaoi, executive director of the Philippine Institute for Peace, Violence and Terrorism Research, said, "Nakababahala kung ang impluwensiya ng ISIS ay makarating dito sa Pilipinas dahil mas bayolente, mas draconian ang kanilang paniniwala."

"'Yun kasi ang brand ng ISIS: Nagpo-propagate sila ng isang form ng Jihad na napaka-violent at brutal at nagtuturo ng Islamic principle na nagja-justify ng violent activities," he added.

Also, he said the international terror group al Qaeda may be extreme, but ISIS is even more.

"Ang al Qaeda ay masasabi nating extreme, ang ISIS ay... nasa extremist portion talaga ng spectrum of violence, sobrang draconian talaga ang measure nila," he said.

Banlaoi said there is already an ISIS presence in the Philippines. "Ang presensiya nila meron na dahil may self-proclaimed followers sila."

"Tatlo ang tinitingnan ko na aspeto ng ISIS presence [dito]: Una, kung may legitimate ISIS members na nag-ooperate sa Pilipinas; pangalawa, ISIS-inspired personalities and groups; at Pangatlo, mga grupong nagba-bandwagon lang sa popularity ng ISIS," he said.

However, he said his group is still verifying reports on whether there are rebels trained by ISIS who have come to the Philippines.

Earlier reports said Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte and former President Fidel V. Ramos indicated ISIS was training at least 100 Filipinos.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines also said it was investigating on the matter, adding that it had not yet received any verified information on any recruitment activities by ISIS in the Philippines.

However, the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), a breakaway group of the Moro Islamic  Liberation Front now talking peace with Manila, and the bandit Abu Sayyaf Group have pledged support to ISIS.

Last Thursday, President Benigno Aquino III expressed the country's intetion to assist in the United States' campaign against the ISIS.

Aquino said the Department of Foreign Affairs will meet with the US State Department to discuss the matter.

More than a military problem

Banglaoi said the ISIS problem goes beyond the military aspect, which is the only area that can be solved by airstrikes being launched by the US.

"Ang ina-address ng airstrike ay i-neutralize 'yung armed component ng ISIS, pero 'yung ISIS ay hindi lamang military problem. Isa siyang ideological, social, political, [and] economic problem," he said.

"Social problem siya kasi ang ISIS, kina-capitalize ang existing social grievances na makikita sa iba't ibang dako ng mundo, particularly sa Muslim roots. Ang mga ISIS ideas na makikita sa internet, pwede mag-take advantage sa existing social grievances.... Gumagawa sila ng religious justification [for] violent behaviors," he added.

Challenge to Bangsamoro

The ideas promulgated by ISIS also poses a big challenge to the Bangsamoro and the autonomous government it will eventually establish, especially if it will not be able to properly rule in its territory, Banglaoi said.

"Malaking hamon 'yan sa Bangsamoro government na itatayo... na maging epektibo ang pamamahala sa Mindanao para mapigilan ang paglago ng [ISIS doon]," he said.

"Kung ang Bangsamoro government [ay] makade-deliver ng social services, maa-uplift ang kalagayan ng tao, maayos ang underlying conditions, siguro magiging malakas na antidote ito. Pero kung magiging failure kagaya ng ARMM (Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao), pwede pa maging mitsa ng panibagong uri ng kaguluhan sa Mindanao."

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/380986/news/nation/expert-wary-of-isis-influence-reaching-phl-rebel-groups

MILF non-committal on revising BBL

From the Philippine Star posted to ABS-CBN (Sep 26): MILF non-committal on revising BBL

Moro Islamic Liberation Front chief negotiator Mohagher Iqbal was non-committal on whether the MILF would accept changes in the draft Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL).

During the first hearing on the proposed law at the House Wednesday, Zamboanga City Rep. Celso Lobregat tried to elicit an assurance from him that the MILF would accept an amended Bangsamoro bill.

Lobregat said he was trying to make sure that the proposed BBL would comply with the Constitution and the laws.

“What happens if Congress amends or revises the BBL, or deletes or adds some provisions?” he asked. “Would the MILF accept it?”

In reponse, Iqbal said the MILF trusts the collective wisdom of the House of Representatives and the Senate.

“But we do not answer hypothetical questions,” he said.

 

Lobregat said he intends to propose changes in the BBL that he believes would go against the Constitution and existing laws.

It’s possible that the House and the Senate might introduce changes in the proposed law, he added.

House ad hoc committee chairman Rufus Rodriguez asked presidential peace adviser Teresita Deles about Lobregat’s questions.

Deles said the government peace panel understands that both sides in the peace talks recognize the supremacy of Congress over the proposed BBL.

“The two sides are jointly on board every step of the peace process,” she said.

Committee members asked her whether the proposed parliamentary setup in the envisioned Bangsamoro region would be constitutional, considering that the country has a presidential form of government.

They also inquired about the special status to be accorded to a Bangsamoro entity.

Deles said the Constitution allows Congress to prescribe a different political system for an autonomous region, and that the proposed region would not be treated as a local government.

“It is above an LGU but not equal to the national government,” she said.

During the hearing, Cavite Rep. Elpidio Barzaga Jr. proposed that a provision be included in the proposed law prohibiting secession of the Bangsamoro region.

I have the best intention,” he said.

“I want to guarantee the integration of the Philippine territory. As a lawyer, I don’t see anything wrong with that provision.”

http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/09/26/14/milf-non-committal-revising-bbl

2 nabbed for possession of blasting caps

From the Philippine Star (Sep 26): 2 nabbed for possession of blasting caps

ZAMBOANGA CITY - Two men were arrested for possession of blasting caps smuggled into the city, early Thursday.

Senior Superintendent Angelito Casimiro, city police director, identified the suspects as Almuksin Amilussin and Saud Arnado.

Casimiro said operatives of the Central Police Station were sent to the city's port to verify intelligence reports intercepted by the Western Mindanao Command's Naval Intelligence Service Group (NISG).

The information gahtered by the NISG claimed that a shipment of explosives on board M/V Magnolia Lili Flora will arrive in the city. The vessel came from Jolo, Sulu and it arrived at the city port at around 5 a.m. Thursday.

Upon verification, the policemen were able to find the blasting caps wrapped in newspaper. It was left unattended at the pilot's house of the ship.

Casimiro said that policemen pounced on the suspects as they attempt to claim the wrapped baggage.

The suspects were brought to the prosecutor's office on Friday morning for inquest proceedings.

Casimiro said that they have yet to determine if the two suspects are members of any local militant groups, including the Abu Sayyaf.

The suspects could also be fishermen engaged in illegal fishing.

Police forces in Mindanao have been placed on high alert after the series of bombings in several southern areas, including Basilan and General Santos City.

http://www.philstar.com/nation/2014/09/26/1373440/2-nabbed-possession-blasting-caps

MILF: Editorial -- Deliberation of BBL in Congress

Editorial posted to the MILF Website (Sep 25): Editorial -- Deliberation of BBL in Congress

The proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) submitted to Congress by His Excellency President Benigno Aquino III during a historic ceremony in Malacañang Palace on September 10 is an “agreed version” between the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) after long, tense, exhausting hours, days, weeks, and months of intensive discussion and bargaining.
  

During the defining moment,  which actually was a make-or-break engagement, it involved no less than Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa Jr. and Presidential Chief Legal Counsel Alfredo Benjamin Caguioa, on the part of government, and Mohagher Iqbal, chair of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) and chair of the MILF Peace Panel, and initially Professor Abhoud Syed Lingga, a member of the MILF Peace Panel, and later succeeded by BTC Commissioner and legal consultant of the MILF Peace Panel, Raissa Jajurie, on the part of the MILF. BTC Executive Director Mike Pasigan, who is one of only two persons in the MILF continuously involved in the GPH-MILF peace negotiation since 1997, was the note-taker on the side of the MILF. (The other mainstay in this peace negotiation is Jun Mantawil, head of Secretariat of the MILF Peace Panel).

In brevity, the BBL required legislative act of Congress, which, even without saying, has plenary power over legislation. It is in this sense that members of Congress, both the Senate and Lower House, should rise above themselves and act as statesmen and pass the BBL with utmost consideration that the text had already been agreed by the Parties. It is our wish and prayer, therefore, that what eventually passes through Congress is a legislated agreement on the basis of the letter and spirit of the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB), its four Annexes, and the Addendum on Bangsamoro Waters, as jointly determined and agreed by the GPH and MILF now captured by the BBL and presented to Congress.

In fairness, the joint GPH-BTC briefing in the Senate on September 23 demonstrated the high sense of knowledge, decorum and sensibilities of the senators present, led by the chair of the committee, Senator Bong Bong Marcos, as well as Senators Koko Pimentel, JB Estrada, and Pia Cayetano. In the House on the next day, Congressman Rufus Rodriguez, Chair of the Ad Hoc Committee on the BBL, showed his strong leadership and mastery of the parliamentary procedures to set the hearing effectively intact after almost six hours of grueling session. Except for Deputy Speaker Pangalian Balindong, Congresswoman Bai Sandra Sema, and Congressman Mangudadatu, who obviously held their comments out of delicadeza, all the other congressmen and congresswomen participated actively. Even Congressman Celso Lobregat, who is known for his anti-Moro stances and who spoke more than any of the congressmen and congresswomen present, courtesy of other congressmen who yielded to him their five-minute slots to ask questions, had also stressed that he is for peace and for the passage of the BBL. Only Congresswoman Aurora Ceriles of Zamboanga Del Sur spoke vehemently against the passage of the bill. For what reason, maybe she is just parroting the comments made by Governor Antonio Ceriles, (her husband or father?) made during an interview that there are no Moros in his province.

In this engagement with Congress, there is an understanding of the Parties that since the BBL is an administration bill and is groomed to be the legacy of the President, the Office of the President (OP) should take the lead in the legal defense of the BBL in Congress. The BTC will only assume the role of a junior partner, being legally speaking; it is under the OP created through Executive Order No. 120. (The MILF Peace Panel and members of the MILF Central Committee cannot participate openly in the deliberations for obvious reasons).

The sensitivity here in this engagement with Congress is that if the statements made for the record is a personal annotation of the BBL or not the nuances, contexts, and issues settled or agreed by the parties especially during the crucial engagements on August 10, 13-15, 25, 26, and September 4 during the meeting between President Aquino and Chairman Murad in the Palace, then the consequence: Congress would not be guided accordingly. It can also contribute to watering down the proposed bill.

Our appeal to Congress is to refer to the text of the BBL whenever statements or views made by any of the resource persons in order to be guided accordingly; or perhaps, this can be further fine-tuned by talking to people who were privy to the discussions especially during the dying minutes of the hard engagement. Contexts, or even unwritten agreements, are almost as important as text of the agreement itself.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/editorial/item/1229-deliberation-of-bbl-in-congress

MILF: UN-MILF conduct 1st orientation for BIAF commanders

Posted to the MILF Website (Sep 26): UN-MILF conduct 1st orientation for BIAF commanders



The United Nations and the UNICEF in the Philippines together with Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) conducted the 1st Orientation for Base Commanders of the Bangsamoro Islamic armed forces (BIAF-MILF) namely, the Interim Base Command, National Guard Field Base Command, National Guard Inner Base Command and the General Head Quarter Base Command.
   

The orientation was held at Camp Darapanan, Simuay, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao on September 23, 2014. 180 BIAF Commanders from the higher to lower ranks attended the orientation which focused on the UN-MILF Action Plan on the Non recruitment and Use of Children in Armed Conflict. Four (4) Modules were presented and discussed. Module-I entitled “The Children in Armed Conflict”, presented by Mr. Patrick Halton of UNICEF in the Philippines.

Mr. Halton introduced the issue of Children in Armed Conflict. He asked the participants to consider the specific situation of the Philippines and Mindanao in particular, ways in which children become involve in armed conflict through living in an overall environment of hostilities. Second Module is entilted “Framework for Child Protection” presented and discussed by Sittie Morato, UNICEF Consultant. Part of her inputs was the rights of children. Third Module entitled “Monitoring and Reporting in the Philippines” presented by Rohannie Baraguir, Child Protection Officer of the UNICEF. The last Module was on “MILF Action Plan Implementation’ and was presented by Shree Nadarajah also from UNICEF. After the presentations, questions and answers followed.  Several clarifications were raised by the commanders.

At the closing portion of the orientation, BIAF Commanders expressed their approval and commitment in the implementation of General Order (G.O.) signed by the BIAF Chief of Staff Cmdr. Sammy Al-Mansur and MILF Chairman Al-Hadj Murad Ebrahim. It clearly stated the prohibition of the use and recruitment of Children in armed conflict. 

Three out of five MILF panel members were present in the orientation, namely: Edward Guerra, the head of the panel, Mr. Abdulkadir M. Abubakar and Whelma Madato of the Bangsamoro Women Auxiliary Brigade (BWAB).

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/1233-un-milf-conduct-1st-orientation-for-biaf-commanders

CPP/NPA: Video -- NPA Tactical Offensives in Panay May-August 2014

NPA propaganda video posted to the CPP Website (Sep 24): NPA Tactical Offensives in Panay May-August 2014



[Video: "NPA Tactical Offensives in Panay May-August 2014"

The New People’s Army in Panay under the Coronacion “Waling-waling” Chiva Regional Operational Command seized 16 firearms of various caliber in military actions launched from May to August to resist intensified attacks by the 3rd ID and PNP-Region 6. Seven soldiers were likewise killed and seven others wounded in these firefights.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ebjKmy0xOmY

http://www.philippinerevolution.net/

Acquisition of two anti-submarine helicopters for PHL Navy continues

From Ang Malaya (Sep 26): Acquisition of two anti-submarine helicopters for PHL Navy continues

The Department of National Defense Bids and Awards Committee posted its invitation to interested bidders for Philippine Navy’s two anti-submarine helicopters. The acquisition project has a PhP5.4 billion allocated budget under Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Act.

The invitation to bid was signed by DND-BAC Chairman USec Natalio C. Ecarma III.

Included in the contract price are munition, Mission Essential Equipment and Integrated Logistics Support (ILS).

Pre-bid conference will be held on October 7 at DND-BAC conference room at around 10 AM. The First Stage Bid opening will be on October 21. Interested bidders must submit bid on or before the said date.

The committee released a new invitation to bid after several reschedules where interested bidders were informed through supplemental bid bulletin.

Under Medium Term Development Capability Plan, winning bidder must deliver goods within seven hundred thirty days.

Earlier reports said that Philippine Navy is eyeing the AgustaWestland 159 “Wildcat”. Navy variants of AW159 will be serving United Kingdom’s Royal Navy and South Korea’s Navy.

Bell helicopter, an American firm is interested to join the bidding.

http://www.angmalaya.net/nation/2014/09/26/4518-acquisition-of-two-anti-submarine-helicopters-for-phl-navy-continues

China is not happy with EDCA

From Ang Malaya (Sep 26): China is not happy with EDCA

National Institute for South China Sea Studies (NISCSS) said China is not happy with the signing of Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement. EDCA was signed by Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and US Ambassador Philip Goldberg during US President Barack Obama’s visit.

NISCSS head Wu Shicun said United States is “using freedom of navigation as an excuse to interfere in the South China Sea” and do some intelligence activities. NISCSS is China’s think tank for South China Sea.

US is vocal about its interest in Asia-Pacific and whatever happens in the region is not just important for US but also for the world. In this case, US is in the move to modernize its alliances. EDCA is one proof.

Obama said, during his Philippine state visit, “Our goal is not to counter China; our goal is not to contain China. Our goal is to make sure that international rules and norms are respected, and that includes in the area of maritime disputes.”

With EDCA US will be given access to Philippine bases to harbor US Navy warships and accommodate increased rotating US troops. Philippines is planning to offer naval bases facing South China Sea.

Philippines and US clarify that there is no target country.

http://www.angmalaya.net/nation/2014/09/26/4522-china-is-not-happy-with-edca

Filipino, American found guilty in US terror case

From Rappler (Sep 26): Filipino, American found guilty in US terror case

A jury convicts Sohiel Omar Kabir, 36, a naturalized US citizen, and Filipino Ralph De Leon, 25, at the conclusion of a 6-week trial
 

An American and a Filipino national face life in prison after they were found guilty Thursday, September 25, in California of plotting to aid jihadists overseas and to kill US soldiers.

A jury convicted Sohiel Omar Kabir, 36, a naturalized US citizen, and Filipino Ralph de Leon, 25, at the conclusion of a 6-week trial that comes as the United States leads air strikes in Syria and Iraq against Islamic militants. (READ: Pinoy 'terrorist' in solitary confinement in U.S.)

The trial underlined the threat that homegrown extremists pose to the United States.

Deleon was specifically found guilty of conspiring to provide material support to Al-Qaeda, to receive military-type training from the group and to commit murder, kidnapping, or maiming overseas. (READ: PH asks FBI for info on 'foiled terror plot')

"This case shows that the appeal of extremist ideologies can reach from Afghanistan to America," said United States Attorney Stephanie Yonekura after the trial in Riverside County, east of Los Angeles.

This demonstrated "the clear need for continued vigilance in rooting out homegrown violent extremists who plot terrorist acts both here and abroad."

Two co-conspirators – Miguel Alejandro Santana Vidriales and Arifeen David Gojali – had already pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing.

The trial heard evidence that Kabir traveled to Afghanistan in 2012 and encouraged Santana and De Leon to come with him, saying they would all join "the students" -- Taliban militants – and "the professors" – Al-Qaeda.

An undercover FBI agent contacted Santana and De Leon. The latter said he wanted to go abroad to wage "violent jihad," while Santana said he wanted to be a sniper.

In September 2012, De Leon and Santana recruited Gojali to accompany them to Afghanistan.

The 3 undertook preliminary training in southern California at firearms and paintball facilities.

The trio were arrested in November that year as they prepared to drive south to Mexico, en route to Afghanistan.

FBI Los Angeles agent Bill Lewis said: "The threat posed to America's security by individuals within the United States who support terrorists is very real.

"This case demonstrates the process by which individuals living in the United States were groomed and radicalized toward an extremist ideology and, ultimately, planned the murder of American and coalition forces."

Judge Virginia A. Phillips will hand down sentences on February 23.

The verdict comes shortly after President Benigno Aquino III concluded his trip to the United States where he offered his government's help in fighting ISIS, which is also known by the name Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant.

Philippine Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario is set to meet with US State Department officials to discuss this offer, Aquino told reporters in New York on September 23.

“Of course, we want to do something doable and within our capabilities without posing undue risks through their forces or the country at large,” Aquino said.

http://www.rappler.com/world/regions/us-canada/70241-american-filipino-guilty-us-terror-charges