From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 20): Rebeldeng NPA patay sa engkwentro
Usa ka sakop sa rebeldeng New People’s Army (NPA) ang patay sa usa ka engkwentro sa mga tropa sa gobyerno didto sa amihanan-sidlakan nga utlanan sa Bukidnon ug Misamis Oriental sa Sitio Kalha-an, barangay Minalwang, Claveria, Misamis Oriental, niining Martes.
Si Lt. Norman Tagros, ang spokesman sa 8th Infantry Battalion, sa interbyu sa radyo miingon nga ang nasangpit nga mga NPA gituohan nga hiniusa nga mga elemento sa Guerilla Front 4B, North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) ubos sa mando ni Lino Namatidong alyas “Dahon” ug sa Headquarter Force niini ubos sa mando ni Dionisio Micabalo alyas “Muling.”
Nakuha diha sa “battlefield” kon panggubatan ang us aka AK-47 nga armas nga dunay 30 ka rounds nga magasin, bala ug propaganda nga mga dokumento sa Communist Party of the Philippines–New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).
Ang taho sa Philippine Army miingon nga ang mga kauban sa namatay nga NPA nasamdan usab tungod sa daghang tulo sa mga dugo nga nagkatag diha sa ilang mga agianan atol sa ilang pag-eskapo.
Hinuon, walay report nga nasamdan o nakalas sa mga kasundaluhan sa gobyerno.
Ang 4th Infantry "Diamond" Division sa Philippine Army, pinaagi nila ni 403rd Infantry Brigade Commander Col. Jesse A. Alvarez ug 8th Infantry Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Lennon G. Babilonia, miingon nga kamulo sila karon nakig-alayon uban sa local government unit sa lugar aron sa pagtabang sa pamilya sa namatay’ng NPA ug pagtanyag sa tabang ngadto sa ubang mga miyembro sa NPA nga nasamdan panahon sa engkwentro.
Ang patay’ng lawas sa NPA anaa karon sa Hagpa, Impasugong, Bukidnon. Ang mga opisyal sa army ug mga lider sa Indigenous People miingon nga ang mga paryente sa gipatay nga rebelde kinahanglan mopakita ug motambong sa “vigil” tungod kay ang namatay nagkinahanglan usab sa takos ug desente nga paglubong.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1501416474104/cebuano-news-rebeldeng-npa-patay-sa-engkwentro
Friday, November 21, 2014
US envoy keynotes youth gathering in Zamboanga
From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 21): US envoy keynotes youth gathering in Zamboanga
US
Speaking before high school and college students gathered at the Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) gymnasium, Ambassador Goldberg said the US government is committed to help the young people create a better future.
Young people around the world, he said, can make a difference by doing and standing what is right.
He also disclosed that the US has been supporting youth development programs in Mindanao like the livelihood skills training given to 181 out-of-school-youth in Zamboanga City under the US Embassy Manila’s United States Agency for International Development-Mindanao Youth for Development (USAID-MYDev).
Goldberg personally attended the signing of the Cities Development Initiative (CDI) between the US government and Zamboanga City.
The CDI, which is part of the US-Philippines Partnership for Growth, aims to stimulate the city’s development potential through collaboration in the areas of health, education and environment as well as economic and invest promotions.
The ambassador also met some of the participants in the journalistic writing workshops conducted by the Zamboanga del Norte Press club (ZNPC) and Philippine Information Agency (PIA) to high school students and IP (indigenous people) college students, respectively.
ZNPC and PIA have partnered with the US Embassy in providing free training on journalistic writing to budding campus journalists.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1431416537694/us-envoy-keynotes-youth-gathering-in-zamboanga-
Speaking before high school and college students gathered at the Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) gymnasium, Ambassador Goldberg said the US government is committed to help the young people create a better future.
Young people around the world, he said, can make a difference by doing and standing what is right.
He also disclosed that the US has been supporting youth development programs in Mindanao like the livelihood skills training given to 181 out-of-school-youth in Zamboanga City under the US Embassy Manila’s United States Agency for International Development-Mindanao Youth for Development (USAID-MYDev).
Goldberg personally attended the signing of the Cities Development Initiative (CDI) between the US government and Zamboanga City.
The CDI, which is part of the US-Philippines Partnership for Growth, aims to stimulate the city’s development potential through collaboration in the areas of health, education and environment as well as economic and invest promotions.
The ambassador also met some of the participants in the journalistic writing workshops conducted by the Zamboanga del Norte Press club (ZNPC) and Philippine Information Agency (PIA) to high school students and IP (indigenous people) college students, respectively.
ZNPC and PIA have partnered with the US Embassy in providing free training on journalistic writing to budding campus journalists.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1431416537694/us-envoy-keynotes-youth-gathering-in-zamboanga-
NPA seeks ceasefire
From the Manila Standard Today (Nov 22): NPA seeks ceasefire
New People’s Army rebels who abducted three Surigao del Norte policemen have sent feelers that they wanted a ceasefire, says Mayor Dominador Esma Jr. of Alegria, Surigao del Norte.
Reached by mobile phone on Thursday, he said Governor Sol Matugas has been informed as head of the Surigao del Norte Provincial Crisis Committee, pending formal negotiations initiated by the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines.
On Friday, 1st Lt. Patrick Martinez, Army 4th Infantry Division spokesman, said a military-police operation has been launched to recover the policemen.
“The decision for suspension of military operations (SOMO) will not come from us, the military. As in most cases, it actually originated from civilian authorities,” he told Manila Standard. “But I think, Governor Matugas learning from bitter lessons in the abduction and release of four Surigao del Norte policemen last July, it is most unlikely, the SOMO request will be realized.”
Martinez claimed the same group that kidnapped two Alegria policemen along the national highway in Barangay Pongtud last November 16 were also the ones who held captive four other policemen on July 10 but released July 29 during a five-day ceasefire that took effect July 27.
At the time, Eastern Mindanao Command spokesman Capt. Alberto Caber said the truce covered the towns of Placer, Bacuag, Tubod, Gigakit, Claver and Alegria all of Surigao del Norte and Santiago, Kitcharao and Jabonga all of Agusan del Norte.
Esma, also Municipal Crisis Management Committee chairman, said Insp. Karlo Eden Malinay has been replaced by Senior Insp. Alberto Yong, as town police chief.
http://manilastandardtoday.com/2014/11/22/npa-seeks-ceasefire/
New People’s Army rebels who abducted three Surigao del Norte policemen have sent feelers that they wanted a ceasefire, says Mayor Dominador Esma Jr. of Alegria, Surigao del Norte.
Reached by mobile phone on Thursday, he said Governor Sol Matugas has been informed as head of the Surigao del Norte Provincial Crisis Committee, pending formal negotiations initiated by the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines.
On Friday, 1st Lt. Patrick Martinez, Army 4th Infantry Division spokesman, said a military-police operation has been launched to recover the policemen.
“The decision for suspension of military operations (SOMO) will not come from us, the military. As in most cases, it actually originated from civilian authorities,” he told Manila Standard. “But I think, Governor Matugas learning from bitter lessons in the abduction and release of four Surigao del Norte policemen last July, it is most unlikely, the SOMO request will be realized.”
Martinez claimed the same group that kidnapped two Alegria policemen along the national highway in Barangay Pongtud last November 16 were also the ones who held captive four other policemen on July 10 but released July 29 during a five-day ceasefire that took effect July 27.
At the time, Eastern Mindanao Command spokesman Capt. Alberto Caber said the truce covered the towns of Placer, Bacuag, Tubod, Gigakit, Claver and Alegria all of Surigao del Norte and Santiago, Kitcharao and Jabonga all of Agusan del Norte.
Esma, also Municipal Crisis Management Committee chairman, said Insp. Karlo Eden Malinay has been replaced by Senior Insp. Alberto Yong, as town police chief.
http://manilastandardtoday.com/2014/11/22/npa-seeks-ceasefire/
Eight kidnap groups on the loose — PNP
From the Manila Standard Today (Nov 22): Eight kidnap groups on the loose — PNP
The Philippine National Police is hunting down eight notorious kidnapping groups believed to be behind the series of abduction in the country which are preying mostly on wealthy and prominent Chinese and Filipino businessmen.
Sr. Supt Rene Asperas, Chief of Staff of the PNP’s Anti-Kidnapping Group said a massive hunt has been launched against the syndicates, even as he reported that some 66 leaders of kidnap for ransom groups had already been arrested.
Asperas said there were 43 kidnapping cases from January to November this year, 24 of which were solved, with one kidnapping suspect killed.
Of the 43 cases, 21 occurred in Luzon, 22 in Mindanao, while not even a single incident of kidnapping was reported in the Visayas.
The 19 kidnapping cases in Luzon Asperas said, are still being investigated, while the 22 cases, most of which involved the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) are being looked into by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
Three of the more prominent kidnap for ransom syndicate leaders whom the police arrested recently were identified as Tyron dela Cruz, who was caught in Alburquerque, Bohol shortly after he escaped from jail; Reccinte Padillo and Martin Lico.
Dela Cruz was charged for the 2013 kidnapping of a Filipino-Chinese couple in Laguna. Padillo, on the other hand, is the alleged mastermind in the 2013 kidnapping of businesswoman Sally Chua, who was rescued in Davao City, while Lico leads a kidnap syndicate and is also involved in robberies. Padillo and Dela Cruz’s arrest came after Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas challenged the MRPO to step up their efforts to neutralize the kidnapping groups.
Teresita Ang See, president of the Movement for the Restoration of Peace and Order lauded the recent arrests and gave the PNP a 2.5 grade for its efforts.
Ang See, however, asked the PNP not to be complacent despite its recent successes as most of the kidnap syndicates are just lying law and may come back with a vengeance.
“During the times that the syndicates laid low, the PNP should intensify their manhunt. Of course, the national government should also provide the funding for the manhunt,” she said.
Ang See called on the police and the public to be more vigilant as crimes are expected to rise during the Christmas season.
Meanwhile, Aspera also noted that kidnappers seem to be operating in smaller groups and are now involved in other crimes such as illegal drug trade and robbery.
http://manilastandardtoday.com/2014/11/22/eight-kidnap-groups-on-the-loose-pnp/
The Philippine National Police is hunting down eight notorious kidnapping groups believed to be behind the series of abduction in the country which are preying mostly on wealthy and prominent Chinese and Filipino businessmen.
Sr. Supt Rene Asperas, Chief of Staff of the PNP’s Anti-Kidnapping Group said a massive hunt has been launched against the syndicates, even as he reported that some 66 leaders of kidnap for ransom groups had already been arrested.
Asperas said there were 43 kidnapping cases from January to November this year, 24 of which were solved, with one kidnapping suspect killed.
Of the 43 cases, 21 occurred in Luzon, 22 in Mindanao, while not even a single incident of kidnapping was reported in the Visayas.
The 19 kidnapping cases in Luzon Asperas said, are still being investigated, while the 22 cases, most of which involved the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) are being looked into by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
Three of the more prominent kidnap for ransom syndicate leaders whom the police arrested recently were identified as Tyron dela Cruz, who was caught in Alburquerque, Bohol shortly after he escaped from jail; Reccinte Padillo and Martin Lico.
Dela Cruz was charged for the 2013 kidnapping of a Filipino-Chinese couple in Laguna. Padillo, on the other hand, is the alleged mastermind in the 2013 kidnapping of businesswoman Sally Chua, who was rescued in Davao City, while Lico leads a kidnap syndicate and is also involved in robberies. Padillo and Dela Cruz’s arrest came after Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas challenged the MRPO to step up their efforts to neutralize the kidnapping groups.
Teresita Ang See, president of the Movement for the Restoration of Peace and Order lauded the recent arrests and gave the PNP a 2.5 grade for its efforts.
Ang See, however, asked the PNP not to be complacent despite its recent successes as most of the kidnap syndicates are just lying law and may come back with a vengeance.
“During the times that the syndicates laid low, the PNP should intensify their manhunt. Of course, the national government should also provide the funding for the manhunt,” she said.
Ang See called on the police and the public to be more vigilant as crimes are expected to rise during the Christmas season.
Meanwhile, Aspera also noted that kidnappers seem to be operating in smaller groups and are now involved in other crimes such as illegal drug trade and robbery.
http://manilastandardtoday.com/2014/11/22/eight-kidnap-groups-on-the-loose-pnp/
PNoy wants to step up counter-terrorism efforts –Palace
From GMA News (Nov 21): PNoy wants to step up counter-terrorism efforts –Palace
President Benigno Aquino III wants security officials to step up counter-terrorism efforts, Malacañang said Friday, after the Philippines ranked higher in the Global Terrorism Index Report.
During a press briefing, deputy presidential spokesperson Undersecretary Abigail Valte said the administration would strive to lessen the number of incidents involving terrorist groups in the country.
"So far, I am quite certain that the President has seen some of the results of the work but, because he is the President, will continue to demand more from our law enforcement agencies when it comes to counter-terrorism," Valte said.
She issued this statement after the Philippines was identified as the ninth country in the world most at risk to terrorism.
The Global Terrorism Index Report also said that terrorist activities in the Philippines — particularly those linked to the New Peoples' Army, the Abu Sayyaf group and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front — doubled last year.
Valte further said that the Philippine government is working with other countries to suppress the threat of other terrorist groups, particularly Islamic State militants.
"We have been coordinating and cooperating with our neighbors just to make sure that the Philippines will remain free from any ISIS [Islamic State of Iraq and Syria] recruitment," she said.
ISIS recruitment activities have been reported in Mindanao, although the Philippine military has maintained that such activities remain unverified.
Last August, the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) and Abu Sayyaf bandits claimed to have pledged allegiance to the Islamic State jihadists.
Aquino earlier ordered a relentless hunt against members of the Abu Sayyaf, which is supposedly getting logistical support from the global militant Islamist group al Qaeda.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/389174/news/nation/pnoy-wants-to-step-up-counter-terrorism-efforts-palace
President Benigno Aquino III wants security officials to step up counter-terrorism efforts, Malacañang said Friday, after the Philippines ranked higher in the Global Terrorism Index Report.
During a press briefing, deputy presidential spokesperson Undersecretary Abigail Valte said the administration would strive to lessen the number of incidents involving terrorist groups in the country.
"So far, I am quite certain that the President has seen some of the results of the work but, because he is the President, will continue to demand more from our law enforcement agencies when it comes to counter-terrorism," Valte said.
She issued this statement after the Philippines was identified as the ninth country in the world most at risk to terrorism.
The Global Terrorism Index Report also said that terrorist activities in the Philippines — particularly those linked to the New Peoples' Army, the Abu Sayyaf group and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front — doubled last year.
Valte further said that the Philippine government is working with other countries to suppress the threat of other terrorist groups, particularly Islamic State militants.
"We have been coordinating and cooperating with our neighbors just to make sure that the Philippines will remain free from any ISIS [Islamic State of Iraq and Syria] recruitment," she said.
ISIS recruitment activities have been reported in Mindanao, although the Philippine military has maintained that such activities remain unverified.
Last August, the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) and Abu Sayyaf bandits claimed to have pledged allegiance to the Islamic State jihadists.
Aquino earlier ordered a relentless hunt against members of the Abu Sayyaf, which is supposedly getting logistical support from the global militant Islamist group al Qaeda.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/389174/news/nation/pnoy-wants-to-step-up-counter-terrorism-efforts-palace
Gov’t keen on striking down ISIS recruitment in RP
From the Daily Tribune (Nov 21): Gov’t keen on striking down ISIS recruitment in RP
The Aquino administration has expressed intentions to completely thwart possible recruitment activities conducted by the Islamic State militants in the Philippines, as Malacanang noted that moves by the jihadist group to recruit Filipinos in Mindanao have yet to be verified.
Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said that the authorities are currently on the case, ensuring that the administration will act as soon as possible in time that such an instance is verified in the country.
Coloma said that the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and local government officials in vicinities where alleged recruitment takes place are on watch for the illegal activities of the terrorist group.
“We continue to assure that our authorities and law enforcement are ensuring the security of the people and of their communities from terrorist threats,” he said.
The AFP said it is coordinating with local leaders to prevent ISIS recruitment efforts and enjoined their support to our counter-radicalization campaign in the communities, Coloma added.
A Filipino was reported to be among the Islamic State fighters seen in a recent video showing the beheading of Syrian soldiers earlier this week, prompting the Palace official to give out the statements.
However, military intelligence units said that the authenticity of the video, which may be part of the jihadist group’s propaganda, has yet to be ascertained.
Reports that the Islamic State jihadists control large swathes of Iraqi and Syrian territory revealed that the group has been accused of several atrocities in these areas, whereas in the local scene, a student form the Western Mindanao State University earlier reported Islamic State recruitment activities in southern Philippines.
President Aquino earlier said the Philippines is willing to help in the campaign against the jihadist group.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/nation/gov-t-keen-on-striking-down-isis-recruitment-in-rp
The Aquino administration has expressed intentions to completely thwart possible recruitment activities conducted by the Islamic State militants in the Philippines, as Malacanang noted that moves by the jihadist group to recruit Filipinos in Mindanao have yet to be verified.
Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said that the authorities are currently on the case, ensuring that the administration will act as soon as possible in time that such an instance is verified in the country.
Coloma said that the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and local government officials in vicinities where alleged recruitment takes place are on watch for the illegal activities of the terrorist group.
“We continue to assure that our authorities and law enforcement are ensuring the security of the people and of their communities from terrorist threats,” he said.
The AFP said it is coordinating with local leaders to prevent ISIS recruitment efforts and enjoined their support to our counter-radicalization campaign in the communities, Coloma added.
A Filipino was reported to be among the Islamic State fighters seen in a recent video showing the beheading of Syrian soldiers earlier this week, prompting the Palace official to give out the statements.
However, military intelligence units said that the authenticity of the video, which may be part of the jihadist group’s propaganda, has yet to be ascertained.
Reports that the Islamic State jihadists control large swathes of Iraqi and Syrian territory revealed that the group has been accused of several atrocities in these areas, whereas in the local scene, a student form the Western Mindanao State University earlier reported Islamic State recruitment activities in southern Philippines.
President Aquino earlier said the Philippines is willing to help in the campaign against the jihadist group.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/nation/gov-t-keen-on-striking-down-isis-recruitment-in-rp
BIFF explodes bomb to embarrass Catapang
From the Business Mirror (Nov 21): BIFF explodes bomb to embarrass Catapang
LESS than a day after the Armed Forces chief of staff, Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang, ordered military forces in Central Mindanao to wipe out the breakaway Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), a homemade bomb lobbed by a man believed to be a BIFF guerrilla exploded on a busy highway in Cotabato City.
The blast occurred just 12 hours after Catapang visited Central Mindanao.
During his visit, Catapang ordered military commanders to hasten the operations against lawless groups in the region, particularly the BIFF whom he dubbed as a “spoiler of peace.”
Capt. Jo-Ann Petinglay, public affairs officer of the Army’s Sixth Infantry Division (GID), said the latest attack in the series of harassments and terrorist activities by the BIFF occurred at around 6 p.m. on Thursday along Sinsuat Avenue, particularly infront of a Petron gasoline station at the crossing of Luna Street, Cotabato City.
During the explosion, two persons identified as Leslie Encina, 18, and Kristel Mae Uy, 20, were wounded. They were taken to the nearest hospital for treatment.
Petinglay said the explosion was witnessed by soldiers who were onboard a military vehicle that was incidentally passing by.
According to the public affairs officer, one of the soldiers saw a man throwing a package that exploded on the highway.
She said the bomb was made from a 60mm high explosive mortar shell, hinting that it was the handiwork of the BIFF which had used similar type of explosive in its previous terrorism attacks in the region.
On Thursday morning Catapang visited the 6ID and ordered its commander, Maj. Gen. Edmundo Pangilinan, and other military commanders in the area to step up their operations against all lawless groups operating in the region, including the BIFF.
On Monday suspected members of the BIFF members led by a certain Commander Obetin detonated a homemade bomb near a primary school in Kabacan, North Cotabato, that wounded 16 people and killed Monique Mentawil, 19.
On Tuesday heavily armed BIFF members led by Commander Abunawas also attacked a Christian community at Sitio Lunok, Barangay Baliki, Midsayap, at around 10 p.m. but the villagers engaged the attackers in a gun battle.
On Wednesday an Army patrol briefly clashed with BIFF members at around 9 p.m. in Maguindanao.
Government’s goal to lessen terrorism incidents -- Valte
From the Business World (Nov 21): Government’s goal to lessen terrorism incidents -- Valte
AS THE PHILIPPINES’ rating among the countries most affected by terrorism went up in the annual Global Terrorism Index report, Malacañang yesterday reaffirmed its fight against terrorism in the country.
AS THE PHILIPPINES’ rating among the countries most affected by terrorism went up in the annual Global Terrorism Index report, Malacañang yesterday reaffirmed its fight against terrorism in the country.
“We’d like to see more of the details of the report, but certainly, at the end of the day, our goal really is to lessen these incidents because you are looking at the safety also of the people,” Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail dlF. Valte told a press briefing Friday.
“We’d like to see what those incidents are and compare it with the data that our law enforcement agencies have. But certainly, I think everyone is unified in the goal that we want to lessen these incidents,” she added.
On the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), Ms. Valte said the country “has been coordinating and cooperating with our neighbors just to make sure that the Philippines will remain free from any ISIS recruitment.”
“Yesterday, we were asked about some information that a Filipino was involved in the beheading of some Syrians in the most recent ISIS video. The military is endeavoring to check the veracity of that particular video, but so far, we still do not have any confirmation of the nationality of that person,” she said.
“We will continue to push for that. You have seen the administration’s resolve in trying to reach a just and lasting peace for our brothers and sisters in Mindanao through the Bangsamoro agreement. And perhaps to us, we will remain undeterred in our efforts to continue to push for that,” she added.
The global index said terrorism activities in the Philippines have doubled in 2013. This ranks the country at 9th place among states that are “most at risk of becoming less peaceful.” The Philippines ranked 10th in 2012.
On the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), Ms. Valte said the country “has been coordinating and cooperating with our neighbors just to make sure that the Philippines will remain free from any ISIS recruitment.”
“Yesterday, we were asked about some information that a Filipino was involved in the beheading of some Syrians in the most recent ISIS video. The military is endeavoring to check the veracity of that particular video, but so far, we still do not have any confirmation of the nationality of that person,” she said.
“We will continue to push for that. You have seen the administration’s resolve in trying to reach a just and lasting peace for our brothers and sisters in Mindanao through the Bangsamoro agreement. And perhaps to us, we will remain undeterred in our efforts to continue to push for that,” she added.
The global index said terrorism activities in the Philippines have doubled in 2013. This ranks the country at 9th place among states that are “most at risk of becoming less peaceful.” The Philippines ranked 10th in 2012.
At the top of the 2013 list are Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Nigeria, Syria, India, Somalia, Yemen, and Thailand.
Terrorism increased “significantly” in the Philippines between 2012 and 2013, with almost twice as many incidents recorded at 499 and the number of deaths more than doubled from 122 to 292, said the Institute for Economics and Peace, the international think tank which prepared the study.
“Terrorism in the Philippines is intrinsically tied with nationalist and separatist claims by people living in provinces in southern Philippines (Mindanao),” the report said -- adding that “terrorism is spread across the country” over the past year, with 438 cities suffering terrorist attacks in 2013, “of which only 104 had one attack or 83 percent of the 81 provinces had at least one terrorist attack.”
Cotabato City recorded the highest number of terrorist activities, the report said, with 11 separate attacks and 11 fatalities recorded.
The report also said the New People’s Army, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, and the Abu Sayyaf Group carried out the most terrorist activities in 2013.
It added that the government was the target in 34 percent of deaths from terrorist attacks; while business leaders, private citizens, and the police were the targets in 10-17 percent of deaths.
“The use of these tactics and targets demonstrates that many of the terrorist groups in the Philippines are seeking to directly change the political system,” the report said.
Terrorism increased “significantly” in the Philippines between 2012 and 2013, with almost twice as many incidents recorded at 499 and the number of deaths more than doubled from 122 to 292, said the Institute for Economics and Peace, the international think tank which prepared the study.
“Terrorism in the Philippines is intrinsically tied with nationalist and separatist claims by people living in provinces in southern Philippines (Mindanao),” the report said -- adding that “terrorism is spread across the country” over the past year, with 438 cities suffering terrorist attacks in 2013, “of which only 104 had one attack or 83 percent of the 81 provinces had at least one terrorist attack.”
Cotabato City recorded the highest number of terrorist activities, the report said, with 11 separate attacks and 11 fatalities recorded.
The report also said the New People’s Army, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, and the Abu Sayyaf Group carried out the most terrorist activities in 2013.
It added that the government was the target in 34 percent of deaths from terrorist attacks; while business leaders, private citizens, and the police were the targets in 10-17 percent of deaths.
“The use of these tactics and targets demonstrates that many of the terrorist groups in the Philippines are seeking to directly change the political system,” the report said.
Curfew order in ESSzone extended until Dec 8
From The Sun Daily (Nov 21): Curfew order in ESSzone extended until Dec 8
The ninth phase of the curfew order for the waters off the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (ESSZone) which ends tomorrow, has been further extended. The extension is from Nov 23 to Dec 8, from 7pm to 5am.
Sabah Police Comissioner Datuk Jalaluddin Abdul Rahman said the decision to extend the curfew order at six districts in ESSZone was made after reviewing the security situation there, and following public request.
"After considering several security issues, I am inclined to extend the curfew after the ninth order ends tomorrow," he told reporters after chairing a meeting of the Royal Malaysian Police Practical Training Programme here today.
The first phase of the curfew in the ESSZone area was enforced on July 19, following several incidents of kidnapping involving local residents and foreigners at some districts in eastern Sabah.
Meanwhile, Jalaluddin said a bilateral meeting between Sabah police and East Kalimantan police in Indonesia would be held from Dec 24 to 26 to discuss various security issues at the borders of the two regions.
He said the annual meeting in Balik Papan, Kalimantan Timur would among others, discuss issues relating to smuggling, cross-border crime, kidnapping, drug distribution, as well as new issues affecting Malaysia and Indonesia. – Bernama
http://www.thesundaily.my/news/1234366
The ninth phase of the curfew order for the waters off the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (ESSZone) which ends tomorrow, has been further extended. The extension is from Nov 23 to Dec 8, from 7pm to 5am.
Sabah Police Comissioner Datuk Jalaluddin Abdul Rahman said the decision to extend the curfew order at six districts in ESSZone was made after reviewing the security situation there, and following public request.
"After considering several security issues, I am inclined to extend the curfew after the ninth order ends tomorrow," he told reporters after chairing a meeting of the Royal Malaysian Police Practical Training Programme here today.
The first phase of the curfew in the ESSZone area was enforced on July 19, following several incidents of kidnapping involving local residents and foreigners at some districts in eastern Sabah.
Meanwhile, Jalaluddin said a bilateral meeting between Sabah police and East Kalimantan police in Indonesia would be held from Dec 24 to 26 to discuss various security issues at the borders of the two regions.
He said the annual meeting in Balik Papan, Kalimantan Timur would among others, discuss issues relating to smuggling, cross-border crime, kidnapping, drug distribution, as well as new issues affecting Malaysia and Indonesia. – Bernama
http://www.thesundaily.my/news/1234366
Army recovers 20 IEDs planted in Samar village; NPA blamed
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Nov 20): Army recovers 20 IEDs planted in Samar village; NPA blamed
The military recently foiled an attempt by communist rebels to sow terror and bomb civilian communities in Samar with the seizure of 20 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) that the guerrillas planted in Barangay (village) Mabini, Basey town.
Lt. Col. Miguel Ceballos, commander of the Army’s 20th Infantry Battalion (IB), said the bombs were retrieved following reports from residents about suspicious-looking wires laid in the outskirts of Sitio Bega, Barangay Mabini in Basey. Troops from the 20th IB immediately went to the area and discovered the IEDs.
Lt. Col. Erwin Alea, public affairs officer of the Army’s 8th Infantry Division (ID), thanked the residents for their vigilance and quick reporting.
Alea quoted Maj. Gen. Jet Velarmino, commander of 8th ID, as saying that the seizure of IEDs only proved the NPA’s violent character.
“Guided by concerned residents in the locality, the soldiers went to the area and were able to recover 20 sets of IEDs,” said Alea in a statement.
Alea said that soldiers continued to look for more IEDs in the area.
He said that IEDs could have been intended to inflict harm on the soldiers patrolling in the area.
“Further, the civilians’ safety is threatened as these (IEDs) can also destroy innocent lives and properties,” said Alea.
Meanwhile, Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Gregorio Pio Catapang visited the troops stationed in Maguindanao and was given updates on the atrocities perpetrated by lawless elements.
The Army recorded a series of IED attacks on military outposts and civilian communities.
Catapang told his troops to intensify the haunt for lawless elements which have been trying to spoil the government’s peace process with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.
Catapang said that his visit was like a homecoming to reminisce his younger days as a junior officer.
He said he saw action against enemies of the state in the hinterlands of Maguindanao and Cotabato.
“I received my baptism of fire as a young lieutenant here. It is a very memorable place for me. I am glad that peace and development have gradually taken over this land,” Catapang said.http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/652009/army-recovers-20-ieds-planted-in-samar-village-npa-blamed
The military recently foiled an attempt by communist rebels to sow terror and bomb civilian communities in Samar with the seizure of 20 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) that the guerrillas planted in Barangay (village) Mabini, Basey town.
Lt. Col. Miguel Ceballos, commander of the Army’s 20th Infantry Battalion (IB), said the bombs were retrieved following reports from residents about suspicious-looking wires laid in the outskirts of Sitio Bega, Barangay Mabini in Basey. Troops from the 20th IB immediately went to the area and discovered the IEDs.
Lt. Col. Erwin Alea, public affairs officer of the Army’s 8th Infantry Division (ID), thanked the residents for their vigilance and quick reporting.
Alea quoted Maj. Gen. Jet Velarmino, commander of 8th ID, as saying that the seizure of IEDs only proved the NPA’s violent character.
“Guided by concerned residents in the locality, the soldiers went to the area and were able to recover 20 sets of IEDs,” said Alea in a statement.
Alea said that soldiers continued to look for more IEDs in the area.
He said that IEDs could have been intended to inflict harm on the soldiers patrolling in the area.
“Further, the civilians’ safety is threatened as these (IEDs) can also destroy innocent lives and properties,” said Alea.
Meanwhile, Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Gregorio Pio Catapang visited the troops stationed in Maguindanao and was given updates on the atrocities perpetrated by lawless elements.
The Army recorded a series of IED attacks on military outposts and civilian communities.
Catapang told his troops to intensify the haunt for lawless elements which have been trying to spoil the government’s peace process with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.
Catapang said that his visit was like a homecoming to reminisce his younger days as a junior officer.
He said he saw action against enemies of the state in the hinterlands of Maguindanao and Cotabato.
“I received my baptism of fire as a young lieutenant here. It is a very memorable place for me. I am glad that peace and development have gradually taken over this land,” Catapang said.http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/652009/army-recovers-20-ieds-planted-in-samar-village-npa-blamed
Global Terrorism Index 2014
From the Institute of Economics and Peace (Nov 18): Global Terrorism Index 2014
The Global Terrorism Index (GTI) is the first index to systematically rank and compare 162 countries according to the impact of terrorism.
The GTI uses four indicators to measure the impact of terrorism: the number of terrorist incidents, the number of deaths, the number of casualties and the level of property damage. These indicators are used to create a weighted five year average for each country, which takes into account the lasting effects of terrorism.
The score given to each country therefore indicates the impact of a terrorist attack on a society in terms of the fear and subsequent security response.
http://www.visionofhumanity.org/#/page/our-gti-findings
The 2014 Global Terrorism Index has just been released.
The Global Terrorism Index Report analyses the impact of terrorism in 162 countries and identifies the social, economic and political factors associated with it.
Highlights: Global Terrorism Index
Terrorism has become a global phenomenon with a 61% increase in the number of people killed in terrorist attacks over the last year. The 2014 Global Terrorism Index provides a fact-based understanding of terrorism and its impact.
Explore the interactive Global Terrorism Index map and download the Global Terrorism Index Report.
http://economicsandpeace.org/research/iep-indices-data/global-terrorism-index
The Global Terrorism Index (GTI) is the first index to systematically rank and compare 162 countries according to the impact of terrorism.
The GTI uses four indicators to measure the impact of terrorism: the number of terrorist incidents, the number of deaths, the number of casualties and the level of property damage. These indicators are used to create a weighted five year average for each country, which takes into account the lasting effects of terrorism.
The score given to each country therefore indicates the impact of a terrorist attack on a society in terms of the fear and subsequent security response.
http://www.visionofhumanity.org/#/page/our-gti-findings
The 2014 Global Terrorism Index has just been released.
The Global Terrorism Index Report analyses the impact of terrorism in 162 countries and identifies the social, economic and political factors associated with it.
Highlights: Global Terrorism Index
The number of terrorist attacks around the world has increased dramatically; over 80% of all terrorism occurs in only 5 countries. Get the facts on terrorism.
Explore the interactive Global Terrorism Index map and download the Global Terrorism Index Report.
Key Facts:
- 17,958 people were killed in terrorist attacks last year, that’s 61% more than the previous year.
- 82% of all deaths from terrorist attack occur in just 5 countries: Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Nigeria and Syria.
- Last year terrorism was dominated by four groups: the Taliban, Boko Haram, ISIL, and al Qa’ida.
- More than 90% of all terrorist attacks occur in countries that have gross human rights violations.
- 40 times more people are killed by homicides than terrorist attacks.
http://economicsandpeace.org/research/iep-indices-data/global-terrorism-index
Why the AFP chief is skipping the Pacquiao match
From Rappler (Nov 21): Why the AFP chief is skipping the Pacquiao match
Know what event General Gregorio Catapang Jr prefers to witness other than the boxing match of Army reserve officer Emmanuel 'Manny' Pacquiao?
Apologies to Army reserve officer Emmanuel "Manny" Pacquiao, the Armed Forces chief of staff will have to miss his boxing match against Chris Algieri on Sunday, November 23.
Know what event General Gregorio Catapang Jr prefers to witness other than the boxing match of Army reserve officer Emmanuel 'Manny' Pacquiao?
Apologies to Army reserve officer Emmanuel "Manny" Pacquiao, the Armed Forces chief of staff will have to miss his boxing match against Chris Algieri on Sunday, November 23.
General Gregorio Catapang Jr will be in La Union to award the posthumous Gold Cross Medal to the slain fresh graduate of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA), 2Lt Jun Corpuz.
Corpuz died fighting the Abu Sayyaf in Basilan last month. His father will receive the honor, the 3rd highest combat award. (READ: Basilan's hero: Fresh PMA grad dies in Abu Sayyaf hands)
“I can always watch the replay of our Pambansang Kamao, but I could not miss the opportunity to present this award to the family of our fallen hero, who made the ultimate sacrifice for the country,” Catapang said.
But he promises to watch a replay of the match. More importantly, he has made sure that troops nationwide will get the chance to watch the Pacquiao-Algieri fight through live screens that will be set up at the following venues:
- AFP Grandstand and AFP Wellness Center in Camp Aguinaldo
- Officers' Clubhouse and the Army General Hospital Multipurpose Hall at the Army headquarters in Fort Bonifacio
- The gymnasium of the Philippine Air Force headquarters in Villamor Airbase
- Social Hall in Bonifacio Naval Station, Conference Room in Naval Base Cavite, and Fleet Marine Ready Force Wardroom in Sangley Point; NETC Blain Theater in Zambales, and the Multipurpose Hall of Naval Sea Systems Command in Cavite
EXCLUSIVE | 'Pinoy ISIS jihadist' is Indonesian, says military
From InterAksyon (Nov 21): EXCLUSIVE | 'Pinoy ISIS jihadist' is Indonesian, says military
One of the photographs that military intelligence sources provided InterAksyon.com, comparing the alleged Filipino jihadist ISIS member (right) with a known Abu Sayyaf member.
The alleged Filipino jihadist named by the British tabloid Daily Mail as a member of the Islamic State group (also known as ISIS) is actually Indonesian, a military intelligence officer told InterAksyon.com.
The jihadist was shown in a video among other ISIS fighters wearing brown camouflage uniforms beheading more than a dozen captured Syrian pilots.
"There was already a report coming from our counterparts in Indonesia confirming that the jihadist was indeed Indonesian,” said the officer who requested anonymity because he is not authorized to speak on the matter.
“I'm not at liberty to divulge his name," he added.
Other intelligence sources also provided InterAksyon.com pictures of some members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) who look like the Indonesian jihadist.
The ASG members, however, did not match the “facial frame” of the jihadist.
"We are always on red alert when it comes to terrorism threat in our country, especially the ISIS phenomenon. There are some groups who expressed support to ISIS such as the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) and Abu Sayyaf Group pero hanggang doon na lamang sila (but that’s as far as they go)," said the officer said.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/99640/exclusive--pinoy-isis-jihadist-is-indonesian-says-military
One of the photographs that military intelligence sources provided InterAksyon.com, comparing the alleged Filipino jihadist ISIS member (right) with a known Abu Sayyaf member.
The alleged Filipino jihadist named by the British tabloid Daily Mail as a member of the Islamic State group (also known as ISIS) is actually Indonesian, a military intelligence officer told InterAksyon.com.
The jihadist was shown in a video among other ISIS fighters wearing brown camouflage uniforms beheading more than a dozen captured Syrian pilots.
"There was already a report coming from our counterparts in Indonesia confirming that the jihadist was indeed Indonesian,” said the officer who requested anonymity because he is not authorized to speak on the matter.
“I'm not at liberty to divulge his name," he added.
Other intelligence sources also provided InterAksyon.com pictures of some members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) who look like the Indonesian jihadist.
The ASG members, however, did not match the “facial frame” of the jihadist.
"We are always on red alert when it comes to terrorism threat in our country, especially the ISIS phenomenon. There are some groups who expressed support to ISIS such as the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) and Abu Sayyaf Group pero hanggang doon na lamang sila (but that’s as far as they go)," said the officer said.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/99640/exclusive--pinoy-isis-jihadist-is-indonesian-says-military
Dozens displaced, 27 houses burned in rido in North Cotabato
From MindaNews (Nov 21): Dozens displaced, 27 houses burned in rido in North Cotabato
A rido involving members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front erupted near the boundary of Aleosan and Midsayap towns in North Cotabato resulting in the displacement of at least 211 families and the burning of 27 houses.
No casualties have been reported on both sides.
Aleosan Vice Mayor Eduardo Cabaya told Mindanews that the feuding families have a long-standing conflict.
In a report emailed to MindaNews by the town’s Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (DRRMO), sporadic clashes between the feuding families started on November 15 and lasted for four days.
This has resulted to the displacement of villagers and torching of the houses in Sitio Resingan in Barangay Dunguan. However, the report was not clear on who committed the arson.
The DRRMO report added that the harassment of paramilitary outposts by suspected BIFF rebels in Dungguan also forced the villagers to flee.
The evacuees came from the sitios of Dungguan and sitios of Bintad, which is already part of Midsayap as well as from Barangay Langayen in neighboring Pikit town.
Of the total number of displaced families, half are from Langayen and they are now staying at the evacuation center in Barangay Tapodoc, also in Aleosan. Those from Dungguan and Bintad have taken shelter in different evacuation centers near Dungguan proper.
Sporadic gunfire could still be heard until Thursday afternoon, said DRRMO staffer Lito Gellado.
Cabaya said the local government has intervened many times to resolve the conflict, but both sides have refused to peacefully settle their dispute.
“Their rido in Dungguan has been ongoing for decades already,” he said over the phone.
http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2014/11/21/dozens-displaced-27-houses-burned-in-rido-in-north-cotabato/
A rido involving members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front erupted near the boundary of Aleosan and Midsayap towns in North Cotabato resulting in the displacement of at least 211 families and the burning of 27 houses.
No casualties have been reported on both sides.
Aleosan Vice Mayor Eduardo Cabaya told Mindanews that the feuding families have a long-standing conflict.
In a report emailed to MindaNews by the town’s Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (DRRMO), sporadic clashes between the feuding families started on November 15 and lasted for four days.
This has resulted to the displacement of villagers and torching of the houses in Sitio Resingan in Barangay Dunguan. However, the report was not clear on who committed the arson.
The DRRMO report added that the harassment of paramilitary outposts by suspected BIFF rebels in Dungguan also forced the villagers to flee.
The evacuees came from the sitios of Dungguan and sitios of Bintad, which is already part of Midsayap as well as from Barangay Langayen in neighboring Pikit town.
Of the total number of displaced families, half are from Langayen and they are now staying at the evacuation center in Barangay Tapodoc, also in Aleosan. Those from Dungguan and Bintad have taken shelter in different evacuation centers near Dungguan proper.
Sporadic gunfire could still be heard until Thursday afternoon, said DRRMO staffer Lito Gellado.
Cabaya said the local government has intervened many times to resolve the conflict, but both sides have refused to peacefully settle their dispute.
“Their rido in Dungguan has been ongoing for decades already,” he said over the phone.
http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2014/11/21/dozens-displaced-27-houses-burned-in-rido-in-north-cotabato/
Surigao Norte police placed on red alert after abduction of 2 more cops
From MindaNews (Nov 21): Surigao Norte police placed on red alert after abduction of 2 more cops
Police stations in Surigao del Norte have been placed on red alert following the series of abductions of policemen by suspected New People’s Army rebels in the province.
Provincial police director Supt. Julito Diray issued the directive shortly after two more policemen were seized Sunday by alleged rebels in Barangay Pungtod, Alegria town.
On Sunday, Police Officer 3 Democrito B. Polvorosa and Police Officer 1 Marichel U. Contemplo, both assigned at Alegria Police Station were flagged down by suspected communist rebels and taken to a still unknown location.
“We must be on alert and vigilant,” Diray said in the directive, adding all police stations should put up checkpoints.
“We intensified our intelligence operations to monitor the movements and activities of the enemy in coordination of Armed Forces of the Philippines,” he said.
Last Wednesday (November 12) a rookie policeman identified as PO1 Junrie Amper was kidnapped by suspected communist guerrillas in a remote village in Malimono town. His captors have not sent word on his whereabouts.
The three policemen are still in the hands of their captors.
MindaNews tried to contact the NPA in Surigao del Norte, including National Democratic Front-Mindanao spokesperson Jorge Madlos but failed.
The NPA was yet to confirm if they have in their custody the three policemen.
On July 10 this year, four police officers were taken hostage by communist rebels in Alegria while the town’s police station was being attacked.
Nineteen days after, PO3 Vic Concon, PO3 Rey Oniel Morales, PO1 Joen Zabala and PO1 Edito Ronquino were released in a remote village in Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte after the government declared a five-day ceasefire in some areas of the province.
http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2014/11/21/surigao-norte-police-placed-on-red-alert-after-abduction-of-2-more-cops/
Police stations in Surigao del Norte have been placed on red alert following the series of abductions of policemen by suspected New People’s Army rebels in the province.
Provincial police director Supt. Julito Diray issued the directive shortly after two more policemen were seized Sunday by alleged rebels in Barangay Pungtod, Alegria town.
On Sunday, Police Officer 3 Democrito B. Polvorosa and Police Officer 1 Marichel U. Contemplo, both assigned at Alegria Police Station were flagged down by suspected communist rebels and taken to a still unknown location.
“We must be on alert and vigilant,” Diray said in the directive, adding all police stations should put up checkpoints.
“We intensified our intelligence operations to monitor the movements and activities of the enemy in coordination of Armed Forces of the Philippines,” he said.
Last Wednesday (November 12) a rookie policeman identified as PO1 Junrie Amper was kidnapped by suspected communist guerrillas in a remote village in Malimono town. His captors have not sent word on his whereabouts.
The three policemen are still in the hands of their captors.
MindaNews tried to contact the NPA in Surigao del Norte, including National Democratic Front-Mindanao spokesperson Jorge Madlos but failed.
The NPA was yet to confirm if they have in their custody the three policemen.
On July 10 this year, four police officers were taken hostage by communist rebels in Alegria while the town’s police station was being attacked.
Nineteen days after, PO3 Vic Concon, PO3 Rey Oniel Morales, PO1 Joen Zabala and PO1 Edito Ronquino were released in a remote village in Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte after the government declared a five-day ceasefire in some areas of the province.
http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2014/11/21/surigao-norte-police-placed-on-red-alert-after-abduction-of-2-more-cops/
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