From the Manila Times (Dec 2): 189 candidate soldiers complete training at 10th Infantry Division
The Compostela Valley-based 10th Infantry Division announced that 189 of its candidate soldiers have successfully completed their training at its Division Training School in Camp General Manuel T. Yan Sr. in Barangay Tuburan, Mawab town Monday.
A native of Loreto Agusan Sel Sur, Mariano N. Gonzales Jr. topped the class, besting 96 other members of the “Maalab” or “Mandirigmang Agila Alay ay Lakas at Buhay.”
The class has an original regular quota of 97 candidate soldiers.
Seven were not able to survive the rigors of military training and discipline. They were replaced from the pool of reserved but qualified trainees.
On the other hand, Nicko John S. Manginsay of Tagum City topped the Candidate Soldier Course Class 370-2014 besting 91 others.
Their class name “Maligalig” which stands for “Mandirigmang Agila na Likas ang Galing,Iingatan ang Gawain Bilang Isang Kawal” has an original quota of 96 but four failed to pass the course.
The Candidate Soldier Course, cross-trained with Jungle Warfare Mountaineering Operation Course also includes training in humanitarian assistance and disaster response and peace and development outreach program orientation course.
10th Infantry Division commander Major Gen. Eduardo M. Año, the graduation’s keynote speaker, congratulated the new members of “Team Agila” as well as their families and relatives.
In his message Año, reminded that “soldiers are not only required to possess a high degree of military skills but also willingness to make personal sacrifices, lots of personal sacrifices to provide the most combat capability and the maximum service possible for the tax paid by our people.”
http://www.manilatimes.net/189-candidate-soldiers-complete-training-at-10th-infantry-division/145944/
Monday, December 1, 2014
Civilian woman hurt as NPAs strafed military truck in Albay
From the Manila Times (Dec 2): Civilian woman hurt as NPAs strafed military truck in Albay
A civilian woman was wounded when she was accidentally hit by stray bullets after five New People’s Army (NPA) fighters fired upon a passing Army truck at Barangay Morera, Guinobatan, Albay, late Monday night.
Southern Luzon Command spokesperson Major Angelo Guzman said the incident happened at 12:47 p.m.
He identified the victim as one Rose Otilano.
Guzman said the victim was standing near the roadside when the rebels fired 10 rounds at a passing Army KM4-50 and quickly made their getaway.
Stray bullets, however, hit Ortilano instead.
Soldiers rushed the victim to the Bicol Regional Teaching and Training Hospital in Legazpi City.
The military truck was transporting six Army soldiers to Legazpi City when attacked by the NPAs.
No one however was hurt among the soldiers.
Lt. Col. Perfecto Peñaredondo, 2nd Infantry Battalion commander, has deployed forces for pursuit operations.
Guzman said that all Southern Luzon Command units were ordered to be extra vigilant and intensify security operations particularly in enemy strongholds.
http://www.manilatimes.net/civilian-woman-hurt-as-npas-strafed-military-truck-in-albay/145948/
A civilian woman was wounded when she was accidentally hit by stray bullets after five New People’s Army (NPA) fighters fired upon a passing Army truck at Barangay Morera, Guinobatan, Albay, late Monday night.
Southern Luzon Command spokesperson Major Angelo Guzman said the incident happened at 12:47 p.m.
He identified the victim as one Rose Otilano.
Guzman said the victim was standing near the roadside when the rebels fired 10 rounds at a passing Army KM4-50 and quickly made their getaway.
Stray bullets, however, hit Ortilano instead.
Soldiers rushed the victim to the Bicol Regional Teaching and Training Hospital in Legazpi City.
The military truck was transporting six Army soldiers to Legazpi City when attacked by the NPAs.
No one however was hurt among the soldiers.
Lt. Col. Perfecto Peñaredondo, 2nd Infantry Battalion commander, has deployed forces for pursuit operations.
Guzman said that all Southern Luzon Command units were ordered to be extra vigilant and intensify security operations particularly in enemy strongholds.
http://www.manilatimes.net/civilian-woman-hurt-as-npas-strafed-military-truck-in-albay/145948/
Army sends more troops to track down BIFF in Maguindanao
From the Manila Times (Dec 2): Army sends more troops to track down BIFF in Maguindanao
CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao: The military has sent more troops Tuesday to the town of Shariff Saydona, Maguindanao following the harassment incident by outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) Monday.
Captain Joann Petinglay, 6th Infantry Division information officer, said the BIFF has been harassing far flung communities in Datu Shariff Saydona who refused to provide revolutionary tax to the outlawed group.
Three BIFF fighters were killed in a clash with elements of the 45th Infantry Battalion in the village of Nabundas, Shariff Saydona at past 7 a.m. Monday.
Two soldiers were slightly wounded when BIFF under Commander Sanad fired mortars at approaching government forces. The remains of three unarmed BIFF were turned over by the military to the local village officials.
Captain Jay Maniwang, civil-military relations chief of the 601st Brigade which has jurisdiction over the second district of Maguindanao, said the soldiers were set to the village of Nabundas to check on alleged forced taxation by armed men.
But as they approached the village, they were ambushed by about 30 BIFF fighters who were positioned on both sides of the dirt road.
Two soldiers were immediately hit by shrapnel when a mortar round landed near them.
Maniwang said they are now safe in a government hospital and will soon be discharged.
Maj. Gen. Edmundo Pangilinan, 6th Infantry Division chief, said there is no let-up in the offensive against the lawless elements blamed for the series of atrocities against civilians and against the military.
Four government forces were separately executed by BIFF hit men, including a Camp Aguinaldo-based Army major. They also harassed civilian communities in farming villages during harvest season and even execute those who refused to shell out portions of the harvest to the movement.
Soldiers from the 45th IB, backed by armoured personnel carriers, are now station in Barangay Nabundas to protect the civilians and prevent the BIFF from advancing to populated communities.
Capt. Petinglay said the BIFF also sent reinforcement and positioned along the Maguindanao marshland in an apparent attempt to overrun Army positions as well as a satellite camp of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (BIFF).
Maguindanao Gov. Esmael Toto Mangudadatu has sent the provincial relief team to extend emergency aid to some 50 families displaced by the conflict. The affected families are now in Barangay Nabundas village multi-purpose hall.
http://www.manilatimes.net/army-sends-more-troops-to-track-down-biff-in-maguindanao/145950/
CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao: The military has sent more troops Tuesday to the town of Shariff Saydona, Maguindanao following the harassment incident by outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) Monday.
Captain Joann Petinglay, 6th Infantry Division information officer, said the BIFF has been harassing far flung communities in Datu Shariff Saydona who refused to provide revolutionary tax to the outlawed group.
Three BIFF fighters were killed in a clash with elements of the 45th Infantry Battalion in the village of Nabundas, Shariff Saydona at past 7 a.m. Monday.
Two soldiers were slightly wounded when BIFF under Commander Sanad fired mortars at approaching government forces. The remains of three unarmed BIFF were turned over by the military to the local village officials.
Captain Jay Maniwang, civil-military relations chief of the 601st Brigade which has jurisdiction over the second district of Maguindanao, said the soldiers were set to the village of Nabundas to check on alleged forced taxation by armed men.
But as they approached the village, they were ambushed by about 30 BIFF fighters who were positioned on both sides of the dirt road.
Two soldiers were immediately hit by shrapnel when a mortar round landed near them.
Maniwang said they are now safe in a government hospital and will soon be discharged.
Maj. Gen. Edmundo Pangilinan, 6th Infantry Division chief, said there is no let-up in the offensive against the lawless elements blamed for the series of atrocities against civilians and against the military.
Four government forces were separately executed by BIFF hit men, including a Camp Aguinaldo-based Army major. They also harassed civilian communities in farming villages during harvest season and even execute those who refused to shell out portions of the harvest to the movement.
Soldiers from the 45th IB, backed by armoured personnel carriers, are now station in Barangay Nabundas to protect the civilians and prevent the BIFF from advancing to populated communities.
Capt. Petinglay said the BIFF also sent reinforcement and positioned along the Maguindanao marshland in an apparent attempt to overrun Army positions as well as a satellite camp of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (BIFF).
Maguindanao Gov. Esmael Toto Mangudadatu has sent the provincial relief team to extend emergency aid to some 50 families displaced by the conflict. The affected families are now in Barangay Nabundas village multi-purpose hall.
http://www.manilatimes.net/army-sends-more-troops-to-track-down-biff-in-maguindanao/145950/
6 NPAs yield in Davao Oriental
From the Manila Bulletin (Dec 1): 6 NPAs yield in Davao Oriental
Six members of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) operating in the province of Davao Oriental have voluntarily surrendered to authorities, the Philippine Army reported.
Last Saturday, four NPA rebels yielded to Lupon town Mayor Domingo Lim, the report said.
The four rebels were identified as Jayson Mabaslay alias Beboy; Richard Mabaslay alias Cocoy; Jennifer Mabaslay alias Jena; and Jocel Tejano alias Jenny.
The military said Jayson Mabaslay served as the vice team leader of a group of NPAs operating in the area while Jocel Tejano is a medic.
It also reported that before the surrender of the four, two other insurgents had surrendered to elements of 66th IB in sitio Yauri, barangay Calapagan in Lupon town.
The two were identified as Jomar Mabaslay alias Gilbert and Rene Boy Nacion alias Totoy.
No firearms were surrendered by the six rebels, the army added.
There was also no report whether the Mabaslays were relatives.
Hardship and disillusionment were the main reasons why the rebels decided to go back to the fold of the law.
Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) commander Lt. General Aurelio Baladad lauded the decision of the six rebels to finally return to their normal lives.
Baladad also urged the other rebels in the area to do the same and start to live peacefully with their respective families and communities.
“We are glad that these NPAs to decided to return to a peaceful and productive lives”, Baladad said in a statement sent by the Army to the media here.
He added that the six rebels can now avail of the livelihood and other assistance programs from the government for them to start their normal lives in their communities.
“For years, the Eastern Mindanao Command has facilitated the surrender of 442 rebels. Those who surrendered with firearms are now enrolled with the Guns for Peace program of the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” Baladad pointed out.
http://www.mb.com.ph/6-npas-yield-in-davao-oriental/
Six members of the communist New People’s Army (NPA) operating in the province of Davao Oriental have voluntarily surrendered to authorities, the Philippine Army reported.
Last Saturday, four NPA rebels yielded to Lupon town Mayor Domingo Lim, the report said.
The four rebels were identified as Jayson Mabaslay alias Beboy; Richard Mabaslay alias Cocoy; Jennifer Mabaslay alias Jena; and Jocel Tejano alias Jenny.
The military said Jayson Mabaslay served as the vice team leader of a group of NPAs operating in the area while Jocel Tejano is a medic.
It also reported that before the surrender of the four, two other insurgents had surrendered to elements of 66th IB in sitio Yauri, barangay Calapagan in Lupon town.
The two were identified as Jomar Mabaslay alias Gilbert and Rene Boy Nacion alias Totoy.
No firearms were surrendered by the six rebels, the army added.
There was also no report whether the Mabaslays were relatives.
Hardship and disillusionment were the main reasons why the rebels decided to go back to the fold of the law.
Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) commander Lt. General Aurelio Baladad lauded the decision of the six rebels to finally return to their normal lives.
Baladad also urged the other rebels in the area to do the same and start to live peacefully with their respective families and communities.
“We are glad that these NPAs to decided to return to a peaceful and productive lives”, Baladad said in a statement sent by the Army to the media here.
He added that the six rebels can now avail of the livelihood and other assistance programs from the government for them to start their normal lives in their communities.
“For years, the Eastern Mindanao Command has facilitated the surrender of 442 rebels. Those who surrendered with firearms are now enrolled with the Guns for Peace program of the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” Baladad pointed out.
http://www.mb.com.ph/6-npas-yield-in-davao-oriental/
EDCA as an implementing treaty (VFA) of an implementing treaty (MDT) is absurdity - Dean Magallona
From InterAksyon (Dec 1): EDCA as an implementing treaty (VFA) of an implementing treaty (MDT) is absurdity - Dean Magallona
The argument of the Department of Foreign Affairs that the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement with the United States is an implementing agreement of the Visiting Forces Agreement, which is also the implementing agreement of the Mutual Defense Treaty is an “absurdity,” said an international law expert Monday.
“An Implementing treaty of an implementing treaty of an implementing treaty is an absurdity,” said Merlin Magallona, former dean of the University of the Philippines’ College of Law, at the Senate hearing on EDCA.
He also argued that there is a clear “discontinuity” between EDCA and MDT, particularly after the expiration in 1991 of the Military Bases Agreement between the two countries.
Tagging as an executive agreement the accord that allows for rotational presence of US forces in the country is, Magallona said, meant to put it beyond the reach of the Senate - vested by the Philippine Constitution with the power to allow foreign military bases, troops, or facilities in the country as long as it concurs in a treaty providing so.
“The Senate concurrence is the constitutional device by which the treaty is saved from said constitutional prohibition (against foreign military forces in the country),” he said.
EDCA is also “contrary and incompatible” to the respective self-defense clauses of the United Nations Charter and the Philippine Constitution, Magallona said.
Self-defense, he said, is a state obligation and responsibility.
https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=4004111469161356591&pli=1#editor/target=post;postID=4358119196815297041
The argument of the Department of Foreign Affairs that the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement with the United States is an implementing agreement of the Visiting Forces Agreement, which is also the implementing agreement of the Mutual Defense Treaty is an “absurdity,” said an international law expert Monday.
“An Implementing treaty of an implementing treaty of an implementing treaty is an absurdity,” said Merlin Magallona, former dean of the University of the Philippines’ College of Law, at the Senate hearing on EDCA.
He also argued that there is a clear “discontinuity” between EDCA and MDT, particularly after the expiration in 1991 of the Military Bases Agreement between the two countries.
Tagging as an executive agreement the accord that allows for rotational presence of US forces in the country is, Magallona said, meant to put it beyond the reach of the Senate - vested by the Philippine Constitution with the power to allow foreign military bases, troops, or facilities in the country as long as it concurs in a treaty providing so.
“The Senate concurrence is the constitutional device by which the treaty is saved from said constitutional prohibition (against foreign military forces in the country),” he said.
EDCA is also “contrary and incompatible” to the respective self-defense clauses of the United Nations Charter and the Philippine Constitution, Magallona said.
Self-defense, he said, is a state obligation and responsibility.
https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=4004111469161356591&pli=1#editor/target=post;postID=4358119196815297041
Miriam Santiago insists EDCA a new treaty that Senate must ratify
From InterAksyon (Dec 1): Miriam Santiago insists EDCA a new treaty that Senate must ratify
Insisting that the Senate is the only treaty-ratifying entity under the Constitution, Senator Miriam Defensor–Santiago said Monday she will file a resolution expressing the sense of the Senate about its concurrence and ratification first being obtained in the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA).
The Palace position is weak and all its citations are obsolete, said Santiago, who chairs the Senate foreign relations committee and is a known international law expert.In a press briefing after conducting the first hearing on the constitutionality of EDCA, Santiago said the agreement as it stands cannot be the implementing treaty of the Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) passed by the Senate in 1951 and must be treated as a new agreement which the Senate is constitutionally mandated to ratify or reject.
“We will pass a resolution to express the sense of the Senate about the failure of the President to endorse the EDCA to the Senate for concurrence and ratification. We are extremely disappointed that this has not been done because that is the constitutional procedure described in our Constitution,” Santiago said.
'Palace position on EDCA totally weak'
Santiago observed that the position of the Palace in defending EDCA is totally weak because all of its citations are obsolete.
“My goodness, the Mutual Defense Treaty [is so old]. . . . It is over 50 years old. How can a treaty in 2014 be the implementation of a treaty made as far back as 1951? They are stretching it too far,” Santiago said.
Santiago said that since the Supreme Court prohibits the Senate from compelling the President to send EDCA for its concurrence, the Senate foreign relations committee will file its resolution to enlighten the Executive Department on its constitutional powers to ratify treaties.
“So, as a result of the proceedings this afternoon . . the foreign relations committee will issue the sense of the Senate resolution hoping it will enlighten" people; manifest before the Supreme Court the attitude of the Senate as a collective body; and convey to the President "the sense of commitment of various senators to the EDCA," Santiago said.
During the hearing she chaired, former UP Law Dean and international law expert Merlin Magallona described as a total absurdity the notion that the EDCA is an implementing treaty of an implementing treaty.
Pia Cayetano: backs chair's position
With this, Senator Pia Cayetano supported Santiago’s position, saying that as the Senate cannot compel the President to submit EDCA for ratification, the Upper Chamber can take a position on its sense as a whole body.
“I stand with the position of the chair that we cannot compel the President to transmit the document to us. But, we can take a position on how we feel about as a Senate body,” Cayetano said.
Cayetano also argued that the EDCA cannot be the implementing treaty of another treaty since it introduced new terms including utilities, free franchise for telecommunications. “These terms are not present in the VFA.”
“Article 4, supplies of equipment and materials - we already authorized the US to enter their supplies, and the document already gets the authorization so say that this is implementing treaty of VFA. But, no, this is new,” Cayetano said.
Meanwhile, Santiago said that there is nothing in the EDCA which can be used by the country to defend itself from any foreign aggression, including Chinese encroachment on its territory.
Santiago cited an instance when Obama was asked if he will defend Japan from Chinese aggression over the disputed island south of Tokyo, and Obama said yes. However, when asked whether America will come to the Philippines' defense in case of a similar action by China over Ayungin Shoal, Obama said no, according to Santiago.
“Tinanong si Obama na ikaw ba makikipag-giyera galling sa America kapag inatake ang mga islands na ito. Sabi nya opo,” Santiago said.
However, when asked about the Chinese aggression on Ayungin Shoal and other islands in the West Philippines Sea, Obama supposedly stated that he will not defend the country.
“Pero, tinanong siya na ikaw ba makikipag-giyera bilang pinuno ng America kapag inatake ng China ang Pilipinas, sabi nya hindi,” Santiago said.
“It is clear now that we will not gain anything from EDCA and there is nothing in EDCA that stipulates what kind of help they can give us. Sure, they helped us after typhoon Yolanda but now, they are telling us that EDCA should already be in force,” Santiago added, speaking in Filipino.
EDCA in effect already?
Santiago asserted that EDCA can only be effective and valid if the Senate ratifies the treaty, but it was shocking to note the agreement was in effect even before it was questioned in the Supreme Court.
“And what shocked everybody during the proceedings in the Supreme Court [is the information] that EDCA is actually in effect. Because wala na palang kailangan pa, kapag sinabi sulatan doon na kung sino ang nagpirma doon, pirmahan na sila. In effect na kaya walang pakialam ang Senado, balewala na kami,” Santiago said.
Santiago said the secret negotiation entered into by the Executive Department on EDCA could be a precedent, since the Palace can now sign an international treaty without the concurrence and ratification of the Senate, as the Constitution requires.
“Kaya nakakagimbal ito baka kasi gagawin na lamang ulit nila ito; balewala na pala ang Senado. May partisipasyon ang Senado kasi kami ang kinatawan ng mamamayan. Kung ganito ito, e puwede na palang makipag-ugyan o makipag-treaty ang Pilipinas sa ibayong bansa na hindi kinokonsulta ang taumbayan sa pamamagitan ng Senado,” she said.
"Yan ang point na sinasabi natin sa EDCA, it should pass the Senate. The administration should have the bravery to consult the Senate on what is the feeling of the Senate about the treaty,” Santiago added.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/100286/miriam-santiago-insists-edca-a-new-treaty-that-senate-must-ratify
Insisting that the Senate is the only treaty-ratifying entity under the Constitution, Senator Miriam Defensor–Santiago said Monday she will file a resolution expressing the sense of the Senate about its concurrence and ratification first being obtained in the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA).
The Palace position is weak and all its citations are obsolete, said Santiago, who chairs the Senate foreign relations committee and is a known international law expert.In a press briefing after conducting the first hearing on the constitutionality of EDCA, Santiago said the agreement as it stands cannot be the implementing treaty of the Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) passed by the Senate in 1951 and must be treated as a new agreement which the Senate is constitutionally mandated to ratify or reject.
“We will pass a resolution to express the sense of the Senate about the failure of the President to endorse the EDCA to the Senate for concurrence and ratification. We are extremely disappointed that this has not been done because that is the constitutional procedure described in our Constitution,” Santiago said.
'Palace position on EDCA totally weak'
Santiago observed that the position of the Palace in defending EDCA is totally weak because all of its citations are obsolete.
“My goodness, the Mutual Defense Treaty [is so old]. . . . It is over 50 years old. How can a treaty in 2014 be the implementation of a treaty made as far back as 1951? They are stretching it too far,” Santiago said.
Santiago said that since the Supreme Court prohibits the Senate from compelling the President to send EDCA for its concurrence, the Senate foreign relations committee will file its resolution to enlighten the Executive Department on its constitutional powers to ratify treaties.
“So, as a result of the proceedings this afternoon . . the foreign relations committee will issue the sense of the Senate resolution hoping it will enlighten" people; manifest before the Supreme Court the attitude of the Senate as a collective body; and convey to the President "the sense of commitment of various senators to the EDCA," Santiago said.
During the hearing she chaired, former UP Law Dean and international law expert Merlin Magallona described as a total absurdity the notion that the EDCA is an implementing treaty of an implementing treaty.
Pia Cayetano: backs chair's position
With this, Senator Pia Cayetano supported Santiago’s position, saying that as the Senate cannot compel the President to submit EDCA for ratification, the Upper Chamber can take a position on its sense as a whole body.
“I stand with the position of the chair that we cannot compel the President to transmit the document to us. But, we can take a position on how we feel about as a Senate body,” Cayetano said.
Cayetano also argued that the EDCA cannot be the implementing treaty of another treaty since it introduced new terms including utilities, free franchise for telecommunications. “These terms are not present in the VFA.”
“Article 4, supplies of equipment and materials - we already authorized the US to enter their supplies, and the document already gets the authorization so say that this is implementing treaty of VFA. But, no, this is new,” Cayetano said.
Meanwhile, Santiago said that there is nothing in the EDCA which can be used by the country to defend itself from any foreign aggression, including Chinese encroachment on its territory.
Santiago cited an instance when Obama was asked if he will defend Japan from Chinese aggression over the disputed island south of Tokyo, and Obama said yes. However, when asked whether America will come to the Philippines' defense in case of a similar action by China over Ayungin Shoal, Obama said no, according to Santiago.
“Tinanong si Obama na ikaw ba makikipag-giyera galling sa America kapag inatake ang mga islands na ito. Sabi nya opo,” Santiago said.
However, when asked about the Chinese aggression on Ayungin Shoal and other islands in the West Philippines Sea, Obama supposedly stated that he will not defend the country.
“Pero, tinanong siya na ikaw ba makikipag-giyera bilang pinuno ng America kapag inatake ng China ang Pilipinas, sabi nya hindi,” Santiago said.
“It is clear now that we will not gain anything from EDCA and there is nothing in EDCA that stipulates what kind of help they can give us. Sure, they helped us after typhoon Yolanda but now, they are telling us that EDCA should already be in force,” Santiago added, speaking in Filipino.
EDCA in effect already?
Santiago asserted that EDCA can only be effective and valid if the Senate ratifies the treaty, but it was shocking to note the agreement was in effect even before it was questioned in the Supreme Court.
“And what shocked everybody during the proceedings in the Supreme Court [is the information] that EDCA is actually in effect. Because wala na palang kailangan pa, kapag sinabi sulatan doon na kung sino ang nagpirma doon, pirmahan na sila. In effect na kaya walang pakialam ang Senado, balewala na kami,” Santiago said.
Santiago said the secret negotiation entered into by the Executive Department on EDCA could be a precedent, since the Palace can now sign an international treaty without the concurrence and ratification of the Senate, as the Constitution requires.
“Kaya nakakagimbal ito baka kasi gagawin na lamang ulit nila ito; balewala na pala ang Senado. May partisipasyon ang Senado kasi kami ang kinatawan ng mamamayan. Kung ganito ito, e puwede na palang makipag-ugyan o makipag-treaty ang Pilipinas sa ibayong bansa na hindi kinokonsulta ang taumbayan sa pamamagitan ng Senado,” she said.
"Yan ang point na sinasabi natin sa EDCA, it should pass the Senate. The administration should have the bravery to consult the Senate on what is the feeling of the Senate about the treaty,” Santiago added.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/100286/miriam-santiago-insists-edca-a-new-treaty-that-senate-must-ratify
3 Moro rebels killed, 2 soldiers hurt in Maguindanao clash
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Dec 1): 3 Moro rebels killed, 2 soldiers hurt in Maguindanao clash
Three members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters were killed while two soldiers were wounded in an encounter in a remote village in Shariff Saydona, Maguindanao, Monday morning, the Army said.
Capt. Jay Maniwang, civil-military relations chief of the 601st Brigade, said in a telephone interview that the injured soldiers, who belonged to the 45th Infantry Battalion, were now confined in a government hospital.
Maniwang said the soldiers were on patrol in the village of Nabundas in Shariff Saydona at 6 a.m. when they came under fire.
The soldiers had been sent to Nabundas to check out reports that the BIFF rebels were threatening villagers who refused to provide revolutionary tax.
Maniwang said the soldiers engaged the rebels in a two-hour firefight.
Citing accounts of villagers, Maniwang said the fleeing BIFF took the firearms of their fallen comrades. They were identified by the villagers only as Samsudin, Karim and Abdullah.
Maniwang identified the leader of the rebels as Commander Sanad and a certain Bisaya, both lieutenants of Ameril Ombra Kato, founding chair of the BIFF.
Pursuit operations were continuing, Maniwang said.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/653889/3-moro-rebels-killed-2-soldiers-hurt-in-maguindanao-clash
Three members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters were killed while two soldiers were wounded in an encounter in a remote village in Shariff Saydona, Maguindanao, Monday morning, the Army said.
Capt. Jay Maniwang, civil-military relations chief of the 601st Brigade, said in a telephone interview that the injured soldiers, who belonged to the 45th Infantry Battalion, were now confined in a government hospital.
Maniwang said the soldiers were on patrol in the village of Nabundas in Shariff Saydona at 6 a.m. when they came under fire.
The soldiers had been sent to Nabundas to check out reports that the BIFF rebels were threatening villagers who refused to provide revolutionary tax.
Maniwang said the soldiers engaged the rebels in a two-hour firefight.
Citing accounts of villagers, Maniwang said the fleeing BIFF took the firearms of their fallen comrades. They were identified by the villagers only as Samsudin, Karim and Abdullah.
Maniwang identified the leader of the rebels as Commander Sanad and a certain Bisaya, both lieutenants of Ameril Ombra Kato, founding chair of the BIFF.
Pursuit operations were continuing, Maniwang said.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/653889/3-moro-rebels-killed-2-soldiers-hurt-in-maguindanao-clash
Human rights group condemns charges vs. Aquino protesters
From the Mindanao Examiner (Dec 1): Human rights group condemns charges vs. Aquino protesters
Human rights group Karapatan has condemned the government's harassment against dozens of Filipinos who stage a rally in front of President Aquino's house in Quezon City.
Police filed charges against several protesters after clashing with them on November 29. It said the protesters vandalized Aquino's house after the marchers sprayed paint on the gate.
“It is a logical reaction from a regime that looks at governance as a game of masquerade instead of looking into and addressing the roots of people’s dissent,” Cristina Palabay, Karapatan's Secretary-General.
She also accused the government of human rights violations under the so-called Oplan Bayanihan, the military's anti-insurgency campaign. "Aquino’s Oplan Bayanihan is instrumental in the bombing of communities, illegal arrests, detention, and killings of activists masqueraded as - peace and development, and respect for human rights - and the police brutality used against legitimate protest actions and during demolition of urban poor shanties masqueraded as - maintenance of peace and order - and pork barrel system and the Development Acceleration Program or DAP masqueraded as economic stimuli," Palabay said.
She added: "Aquino’s statements on extrajudicial killings and a host of human rights violations in the Philippines is a recording — a canned, predictable response, if not a mantra he has to recite to convince himself that his regime is different from all the other regimes in the past, which committed transgressions on people’s rights and lives."
There was no immediate response from the government, but the military has previously tagged Karapatan as a front of the Communist Party of the Philippines and itrs armed wing the New People's Army.
http://www.mindanaoexaminer.com/news.php?news_id=20141201090835
Human rights group Karapatan has condemned the government's harassment against dozens of Filipinos who stage a rally in front of President Aquino's house in Quezon City.
Police filed charges against several protesters after clashing with them on November 29. It said the protesters vandalized Aquino's house after the marchers sprayed paint on the gate.
“It is a logical reaction from a regime that looks at governance as a game of masquerade instead of looking into and addressing the roots of people’s dissent,” Cristina Palabay, Karapatan's Secretary-General.
She also accused the government of human rights violations under the so-called Oplan Bayanihan, the military's anti-insurgency campaign. "Aquino’s Oplan Bayanihan is instrumental in the bombing of communities, illegal arrests, detention, and killings of activists masqueraded as - peace and development, and respect for human rights - and the police brutality used against legitimate protest actions and during demolition of urban poor shanties masqueraded as - maintenance of peace and order - and pork barrel system and the Development Acceleration Program or DAP masqueraded as economic stimuli," Palabay said.
She added: "Aquino’s statements on extrajudicial killings and a host of human rights violations in the Philippines is a recording — a canned, predictable response, if not a mantra he has to recite to convince himself that his regime is different from all the other regimes in the past, which committed transgressions on people’s rights and lives."
There was no immediate response from the government, but the military has previously tagged Karapatan as a front of the Communist Party of the Philippines and itrs armed wing the New People's Army.
http://www.mindanaoexaminer.com/news.php?news_id=20141201090835
Soldier killed, 6 wounded in Sagada
From the Manila Standard Today (Dec 2): Soldier killed, 6 wounded in Sagada
Suspected New People’s Army rebels ambushed on government troops Sunday evening in a remote village of Sagada town in Mountain Province resulting in the death of a soldier and six others wounded.
Capt. Randy Santa Maria, of the 5th Infantry Division said the identities of the casualties are being verified pending notification of relatives.
He said the military convoy led by Capt. Jefferson Somera and personnel of Alpha 5th Civil Military Office Battalion under 1Lt. Edelfred Mendoza and Cordillera Youth Leaders were attacked at Sitio Pogew in Barangay Teptep-an at 10:30 p.m. after conducting a Youth Leadership Summit at Sagada National High School.
The injured were brought for treatment at the Bontoc Provincial Hospital.
Santa Maria said teambuilding activities involved at least 72 participants “to further enhance the leadership skills, camaraderie and unity of the youth and prepare them to become responsible citizens and future leaders of the society.”
Lecturers included representatives from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Department, National Youth Council and non-government organizations.
Maj. Gen. Lysander Suerte, newly installed 5ID commander who replaced Maj. Gen. Benito De Leon, said “the remnants of the NPA are disrupting the strong cooperation among the government and the non-government organizations in the conduct of civil-military operations within Sagada.”
Recently, Governor Leonardo Mayaen and Vice Governor Bonifacio Lacwasan Jr. of Mountain Province have declared the locality as generally peaceful and ready for development.
http://manilastandardtoday.com/2014/12/02/soldier-killed-6-wounded-in-sagada/
Suspected New People’s Army rebels ambushed on government troops Sunday evening in a remote village of Sagada town in Mountain Province resulting in the death of a soldier and six others wounded.
Capt. Randy Santa Maria, of the 5th Infantry Division said the identities of the casualties are being verified pending notification of relatives.
He said the military convoy led by Capt. Jefferson Somera and personnel of Alpha 5th Civil Military Office Battalion under 1Lt. Edelfred Mendoza and Cordillera Youth Leaders were attacked at Sitio Pogew in Barangay Teptep-an at 10:30 p.m. after conducting a Youth Leadership Summit at Sagada National High School.
The injured were brought for treatment at the Bontoc Provincial Hospital.
Santa Maria said teambuilding activities involved at least 72 participants “to further enhance the leadership skills, camaraderie and unity of the youth and prepare them to become responsible citizens and future leaders of the society.”
Lecturers included representatives from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Department, National Youth Council and non-government organizations.
Maj. Gen. Lysander Suerte, newly installed 5ID commander who replaced Maj. Gen. Benito De Leon, said “the remnants of the NPA are disrupting the strong cooperation among the government and the non-government organizations in the conduct of civil-military operations within Sagada.”
Recently, Governor Leonardo Mayaen and Vice Governor Bonifacio Lacwasan Jr. of Mountain Province have declared the locality as generally peaceful and ready for development.
http://manilastandardtoday.com/2014/12/02/soldier-killed-6-wounded-in-sagada/
NPA asks Binay to join talks
From the Manila Standard Today (Dec 2): NPA asks Binay to join talks
New People’s Army rebels holding Alegria policemen have sent feelers over the weekend that they wanted Vice President Jejomar Binay in the negotiating panel along with the suspension of military operations (SOMO).
Alegria, Surigao del Norte Mayor Dominador Esma Jr, said the twin demands followed the appeal of close relatives and wives of the officers who have been captive for weeks.
Suspected NPA members abducted PO3 Democrito Polvorosa and PO1 Marichel Unclara Contemplo in Barangay Pongtod along the national highway last November 16 bound for Barangay Pungtod aboard a patrol car for a meeting with staff of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and residents for the Pantawid Pampamilyang Pilipino Program.
Earlier on November 12, PO1 Jonrey Amper was abducted at 9:45 a.m. in Malimono, Surigao del Norte while riding his XRM Honda motorcycle in Barangay Bunyasan in Malimono town.
Acting spokesman 1st Lt. Patrick Martinez of the 4th Infantry Division confirmed ongoing joint military and police operations to recover the police officers.
Esma told Manila Standard by phone that the Surigao del Norte Provincial Crisis Committee headed by Governor Sol Folcadilla Matugas has been notified about the alleged NPA request to have Binay in the negotiations.
Last July, Secretary Mar Roxas of the Department of Interior and Local Government, acted as negotiator together with Independiente Filipina Church or IFI priests and nuns that lead to the release by the NPA of four Surigao del Norte policemen.
When asked by newsmen and this writer at the Kitcharao Central elementary school in Agusan del Norte where the four lawmen meet their loved ones, he said he was only a facilitator.
http://manilastandardtoday.com/2014/12/02/npa-asks-binay-to-join-talks/
New People’s Army rebels holding Alegria policemen have sent feelers over the weekend that they wanted Vice President Jejomar Binay in the negotiating panel along with the suspension of military operations (SOMO).
Alegria, Surigao del Norte Mayor Dominador Esma Jr, said the twin demands followed the appeal of close relatives and wives of the officers who have been captive for weeks.
Suspected NPA members abducted PO3 Democrito Polvorosa and PO1 Marichel Unclara Contemplo in Barangay Pongtod along the national highway last November 16 bound for Barangay Pungtod aboard a patrol car for a meeting with staff of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and residents for the Pantawid Pampamilyang Pilipino Program.
Earlier on November 12, PO1 Jonrey Amper was abducted at 9:45 a.m. in Malimono, Surigao del Norte while riding his XRM Honda motorcycle in Barangay Bunyasan in Malimono town.
Acting spokesman 1st Lt. Patrick Martinez of the 4th Infantry Division confirmed ongoing joint military and police operations to recover the police officers.
Esma told Manila Standard by phone that the Surigao del Norte Provincial Crisis Committee headed by Governor Sol Folcadilla Matugas has been notified about the alleged NPA request to have Binay in the negotiations.
Last July, Secretary Mar Roxas of the Department of Interior and Local Government, acted as negotiator together with Independiente Filipina Church or IFI priests and nuns that lead to the release by the NPA of four Surigao del Norte policemen.
When asked by newsmen and this writer at the Kitcharao Central elementary school in Agusan del Norte where the four lawmen meet their loved ones, he said he was only a facilitator.
http://manilastandardtoday.com/2014/12/02/npa-asks-binay-to-join-talks/
NPA officials keep silence
From the Sun Star-Cebu (Dec 2): NPA officials keep silence
NO PLEA FROM THE TIAMZONS. Police escorts keep reporters from interviewing Wilma Tiamzon as she steps out of the Toledo City Palace of Justice, where she and husband Benito Tiamzon, the top two officials of the Communist Party of the Philippines, were arraigned. Story, A2. (SUN.STAR FOTOS/ARNI ACLAO)
TWO top communist officials and their five companions did not enter a plea during their arraignment before Toledo City Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 29 Judge Ruben Altubar yesterday morning.
Defense lawyer Rachel Pastores told reporters that Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) officials Benito Enriquez Tiamzon and his wife Wilma Austria Tiamzon, Joel Enano, Arlene Panea, Rex Villaflor, Nona Castillo and Jeosi Nepa kept silent when charges against them were read.
“They didn’t enter any plea because they believe the charges are fabricated and they won’t dignify these by entering any plea,” said Pastores after the arraignment.
The lawyer said it was the court that entered a not guilty plea for them, following Rule 116 of the Revised Rules of Criminal Procedure.
Castillo and Nepa are charged for violating Republic Act (RA) 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.
Gun possession
The Tiamzons, Enano, Panea and Villaflor are accused of violating Section 1 of RA 9516 for illegal possession firearms and ammunition. Castillo and Nepa are on bail, while the rest are detained at the custodial center in Camp Crame in Manila.
The arraignment happened eight months after the accused were arrested by the police in Aloguinsan last March 22. The first arraignment was set last August, but it did not push through after the police failed to transport them.
“Fabricated case, planted evidence,” said Wilma. “Simple lang ang dahilan para supilin ang katarungang ipaglaban (These are simple grounds to suppress that rights we have been fighting for).”
The prosecution was represented by Assistant Provincial Prosecutor Reynaldo Menchavez Jr. and Assistant State Prosecutor Niven Canlapan.
Pastores said they tried to convince Altubar to reschedule the arraignment because they will file a petition asking the Court of Appeals in Cebu City to review the judge's dismissal of the defense's motion for judicial determination of probable cause.
Security
Journalists were barred by the police from entering the court during the proceedings.
They were only allowed to observe through the glass door, which was guarded by two uniformed policemen.
Other police officers, some of them in civilian clothes, were inside the court.
A court employee, who requested anonymity, said the judge did not issue an order barring the media from covering the proceedings.
Toledo City Police Station Chief Ricky Delelis also denied issuing a similar order.
The compound of Toledo City Hall of Justice was heavily guarded yesterday with more than 100 personnel from the police and military.
Threat
Delelis said they are securing the place because there was a threat that communist rebels might rescue the accused.
Supporters, who were carrying posters printed demands of the accused's freedom, were blocked at the gate by anti-riot policemen.
Pastores criticized the tight security given by the military and the police.
“Masyado yung overkill ang ginawa nila sa isang gawa-gawang kaso (That was an overkill considering the charges were fabricated),” she said.
At 7:30 a.m., Delelis said three helicopters that carried the Tiamzons, Enano, Panea, and Villaflor landed in Barangay Tubod, about 700 meters from the hall of justice.
The accused were later transported to the court by military service vehicles.
When the proceeding ended around 9:40 a.m., the Tiamzons and Panea boarded an armored personnel carrier (APC), while Enano and Villaflor were separately ferried by two military trucks.
“Ang gobiyernong ito ay walang respeto sa karapatang pantao (This government does not respect human rights),” Villaflor told the crowd.
“Planted ang evidence laban sa amin (The evidence were planted),” Benito shouted later.
Delelis said the accused were brought to Tubod and the helicopters airlifted the accused to the Mactan Benito Ebuen Airbase in Lapu-lapu City, before they were transported back to Camp Crame.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/cebu/local-news/2014/12/02/npa-officials-keep-silence-379687
NO PLEA FROM THE TIAMZONS. Police escorts keep reporters from interviewing Wilma Tiamzon as she steps out of the Toledo City Palace of Justice, where she and husband Benito Tiamzon, the top two officials of the Communist Party of the Philippines, were arraigned. Story, A2. (SUN.STAR FOTOS/ARNI ACLAO)
TWO top communist officials and their five companions did not enter a plea during their arraignment before Toledo City Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 29 Judge Ruben Altubar yesterday morning.
Defense lawyer Rachel Pastores told reporters that Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) officials Benito Enriquez Tiamzon and his wife Wilma Austria Tiamzon, Joel Enano, Arlene Panea, Rex Villaflor, Nona Castillo and Jeosi Nepa kept silent when charges against them were read.
“They didn’t enter any plea because they believe the charges are fabricated and they won’t dignify these by entering any plea,” said Pastores after the arraignment.
The lawyer said it was the court that entered a not guilty plea for them, following Rule 116 of the Revised Rules of Criminal Procedure.
Castillo and Nepa are charged for violating Republic Act (RA) 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.
Gun possession
The Tiamzons, Enano, Panea and Villaflor are accused of violating Section 1 of RA 9516 for illegal possession firearms and ammunition. Castillo and Nepa are on bail, while the rest are detained at the custodial center in Camp Crame in Manila.
The arraignment happened eight months after the accused were arrested by the police in Aloguinsan last March 22. The first arraignment was set last August, but it did not push through after the police failed to transport them.
“Fabricated case, planted evidence,” said Wilma. “Simple lang ang dahilan para supilin ang katarungang ipaglaban (These are simple grounds to suppress that rights we have been fighting for).”
The prosecution was represented by Assistant Provincial Prosecutor Reynaldo Menchavez Jr. and Assistant State Prosecutor Niven Canlapan.
Pastores said they tried to convince Altubar to reschedule the arraignment because they will file a petition asking the Court of Appeals in Cebu City to review the judge's dismissal of the defense's motion for judicial determination of probable cause.
Security
Journalists were barred by the police from entering the court during the proceedings.
They were only allowed to observe through the glass door, which was guarded by two uniformed policemen.
Other police officers, some of them in civilian clothes, were inside the court.
A court employee, who requested anonymity, said the judge did not issue an order barring the media from covering the proceedings.
Toledo City Police Station Chief Ricky Delelis also denied issuing a similar order.
The compound of Toledo City Hall of Justice was heavily guarded yesterday with more than 100 personnel from the police and military.
Threat
Delelis said they are securing the place because there was a threat that communist rebels might rescue the accused.
Supporters, who were carrying posters printed demands of the accused's freedom, were blocked at the gate by anti-riot policemen.
Pastores criticized the tight security given by the military and the police.
“Masyado yung overkill ang ginawa nila sa isang gawa-gawang kaso (That was an overkill considering the charges were fabricated),” she said.
At 7:30 a.m., Delelis said three helicopters that carried the Tiamzons, Enano, Panea, and Villaflor landed in Barangay Tubod, about 700 meters from the hall of justice.
The accused were later transported to the court by military service vehicles.
When the proceeding ended around 9:40 a.m., the Tiamzons and Panea boarded an armored personnel carrier (APC), while Enano and Villaflor were separately ferried by two military trucks.
“Ang gobiyernong ito ay walang respeto sa karapatang pantao (This government does not respect human rights),” Villaflor told the crowd.
“Planted ang evidence laban sa amin (The evidence were planted),” Benito shouted later.
Delelis said the accused were brought to Tubod and the helicopters airlifted the accused to the Mactan Benito Ebuen Airbase in Lapu-lapu City, before they were transported back to Camp Crame.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/cebu/local-news/2014/12/02/npa-officials-keep-silence-379687
Civilian hurt by stray bullet during NPA attack in Albay
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Dec 2): Civilian hurt by stray bullet during NPA attack in Albay
A civilian bystander was hit by a stray bullet when unidentified armed men, believed to be members of the New People’s Army (NPA), fired at a military vehicle in Guinobatan, Albay, Monday afternoon, the Army said.
The civilian identified as Rose Otilano was injured after around five communist rebels opened fire at a KM450 vehicle of the 2nd Infantry Battalion in Barangay (village) Morera, Guinobatan town, at 12:47 p.m., said Captain Mardjorie Panesa, public affairs officer of the 9th Infantry Division based in Pili, Camarines Sur.
Panesa said the vehicle was transporting six Army personnel to Legazpi City when the rebels fired more than 10 bullets at them. No one on board the vehicle was hurt.
Otilano, who was standing near the roadside, was found hit by a stray bullet after the rebels escaped from the area, said Panesa.
Otilano was immediately taken to the Bicol Regional Teaching and Training Hospital in Legazpi City by a civilian ambulance for medical treatment.
Panesa said troops of the 2IB with Guinobatan Municipal Police Office conducted an investigation. Pursuit operations were immediately conducted.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/654040/civilian-hurt-by-stray-bullet-during-npa-attack-in-albay
A civilian bystander was hit by a stray bullet when unidentified armed men, believed to be members of the New People’s Army (NPA), fired at a military vehicle in Guinobatan, Albay, Monday afternoon, the Army said.
The civilian identified as Rose Otilano was injured after around five communist rebels opened fire at a KM450 vehicle of the 2nd Infantry Battalion in Barangay (village) Morera, Guinobatan town, at 12:47 p.m., said Captain Mardjorie Panesa, public affairs officer of the 9th Infantry Division based in Pili, Camarines Sur.
Panesa said the vehicle was transporting six Army personnel to Legazpi City when the rebels fired more than 10 bullets at them. No one on board the vehicle was hurt.
Otilano, who was standing near the roadside, was found hit by a stray bullet after the rebels escaped from the area, said Panesa.
Otilano was immediately taken to the Bicol Regional Teaching and Training Hospital in Legazpi City by a civilian ambulance for medical treatment.
Panesa said troops of the 2IB with Guinobatan Municipal Police Office conducted an investigation. Pursuit operations were immediately conducted.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/654040/civilian-hurt-by-stray-bullet-during-npa-attack-in-albay
BIFF, military clash anew in Maguindanao; 3 rebels dead, 2 soldiers hurt
From InterAksyon (Dec 1): BIFF, military clash anew in Maguindanao; 3 rebels dead, 2 soldiers hurt
Three suspected members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters were killed and two soldiers injured in an encounter in Shariff Saidona Mustapha in Maguindanao early Monday morning, said a government report.
Elements of the 45th Infantry Battalion engaged the BIFF group, led by Commander Bisaya and Samad, for nearly two hours, according to the chief of the public affairs office of the 6th Infantry Division, Capt. Joan Petinglay.
The soldiers sustained minor injuries only.
The three BIFF members were identified only as Samsudin, Karim and Abdullah.
The firefight erupted as two military platoons were on patrol early Monday morning in Barangay Nabundas, and they encountered the BIFF.
The entire 6th ID remains on full alert.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/100283/biff-military-clash-anew-in-maguindanao-3-rebels-dead-2-soldiers-hurt
Three suspected members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters were killed and two soldiers injured in an encounter in Shariff Saidona Mustapha in Maguindanao early Monday morning, said a government report.
Elements of the 45th Infantry Battalion engaged the BIFF group, led by Commander Bisaya and Samad, for nearly two hours, according to the chief of the public affairs office of the 6th Infantry Division, Capt. Joan Petinglay.
The soldiers sustained minor injuries only.
The three BIFF members were identified only as Samsudin, Karim and Abdullah.
The firefight erupted as two military platoons were on patrol early Monday morning in Barangay Nabundas, and they encountered the BIFF.
The entire 6th ID remains on full alert.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/100283/biff-military-clash-anew-in-maguindanao-3-rebels-dead-2-soldiers-hurt
2 soldiers wounded in BIFF clash at ‘SORA’ day in ARMM
From the Mindanao Examiner BlogSpot site (Dec 1): 2 soldiers wounded in BIFF clash at ‘SORA’ day in ARMM
.jpg)
A group of BIFF rebels lne up during a clandestine interview just this year with the regional newspaper Mindanao Examiner and a few selected journalists in Maguindanao province. (Mindanao Examiner Photo - Mark Navales)
Two army soldiers were wounded in a clash with rebels in Maguindanao province that coincided on Monday’s State of the Region Address in the Muslim autonomous region.
Security officials confirmed the fighting and said patrolling troops were searching for improvised explosives in the town of Shariff Saydona when some 30 Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters attacked them, sparking fierce clashes in the village of Nabundas.
Captain Jo Ann Petinglay, a spokeswoman for the 6th Infantry Division, said two soldiers from the 45th Infantry Battalion were wounded in the fighting and that also left a still undetermined number of rebel casualties.
“Two platoons of soldiers while conducting security patrol in the area – which was reported to have IEDs – were fired upon by some 30 members of the BIFF under (rebel commanders) Bisaya and Sanad. As a result, two members of the 45th Infantry Battalion were wounded and an undetermined (number of casualties) on the side of the enemy,” she told the regional newspaper Mindanao Examiner.
Petinglay said more troops were sent to the town to pursue the rebels, blamed by police and military authorities in the spate of terrorism in the restive region.
“The 6th Infantry Division condemns these attacks which create fear and terror among innocent civilians,” she said.
Petinglay also called on the local governments and former rebels groups Moro National Liberation Front and Moro Islamic Liberation Front to keep watch over the security situation in their areas and help the government in stopping terrorism by providing information to authorities.
“We are working closely with the police authorities to trample these groups and we assure the public that the government will always be on top of the situation. We will never allow them to succeed,” she said.
The latest attack occurred just 2 days after two separate blasts left one civilian injured in Cotabato City, the seat of the Muslim autonomous region.
Earlier on Saturday, an explosion occurred along the highway in Shariff Aguak town in Maguindanao, one of five provinces under the autonomous region. No one was reported hurt or killed in the blast and the army said the explosion was not strong enough. But a grenade attack later in the day in Cotabato wounded a 22-year old civilian Raisma Baraquir. The attack targeted a dump truck that passed along Sinsuat Avenue, the military said.
The BIFF, which recently pledged allegiance with jihadist group ISIS, is fighting for Muslim independence in Mindanao.
http://www.mindanaoexaminer.net/2014/12/2-soldiers-wounded-in-biff-clash-at.html
.jpg)
A group of BIFF rebels lne up during a clandestine interview just this year with the regional newspaper Mindanao Examiner and a few selected journalists in Maguindanao province. (Mindanao Examiner Photo - Mark Navales)
Two army soldiers were wounded in a clash with rebels in Maguindanao province that coincided on Monday’s State of the Region Address in the Muslim autonomous region.
Security officials confirmed the fighting and said patrolling troops were searching for improvised explosives in the town of Shariff Saydona when some 30 Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters attacked them, sparking fierce clashes in the village of Nabundas.
Captain Jo Ann Petinglay, a spokeswoman for the 6th Infantry Division, said two soldiers from the 45th Infantry Battalion were wounded in the fighting and that also left a still undetermined number of rebel casualties.
“Two platoons of soldiers while conducting security patrol in the area – which was reported to have IEDs – were fired upon by some 30 members of the BIFF under (rebel commanders) Bisaya and Sanad. As a result, two members of the 45th Infantry Battalion were wounded and an undetermined (number of casualties) on the side of the enemy,” she told the regional newspaper Mindanao Examiner.
Petinglay said more troops were sent to the town to pursue the rebels, blamed by police and military authorities in the spate of terrorism in the restive region.
“The 6th Infantry Division condemns these attacks which create fear and terror among innocent civilians,” she said.
Petinglay also called on the local governments and former rebels groups Moro National Liberation Front and Moro Islamic Liberation Front to keep watch over the security situation in their areas and help the government in stopping terrorism by providing information to authorities.
“We are working closely with the police authorities to trample these groups and we assure the public that the government will always be on top of the situation. We will never allow them to succeed,” she said.
The latest attack occurred just 2 days after two separate blasts left one civilian injured in Cotabato City, the seat of the Muslim autonomous region.
Earlier on Saturday, an explosion occurred along the highway in Shariff Aguak town in Maguindanao, one of five provinces under the autonomous region. No one was reported hurt or killed in the blast and the army said the explosion was not strong enough. But a grenade attack later in the day in Cotabato wounded a 22-year old civilian Raisma Baraquir. The attack targeted a dump truck that passed along Sinsuat Avenue, the military said.
The BIFF, which recently pledged allegiance with jihadist group ISIS, is fighting for Muslim independence in Mindanao.
http://www.mindanaoexaminer.net/2014/12/2-soldiers-wounded-in-biff-clash-at.html
Rebel attack kills 4 people in Philippines
From the Mindanao Examiner BlogSpot site (Dec 1): Rebel attack kills 4 people in Philippines
Communist insurgents opened fire on a civilian vehicle and killing four people in the southern Philippines, reports said Monday.
It said four civilians were also wounded in the weekend attack that occurred in the town of Rosario in Agusan del Sur province. The victims were returning home from a nearby church when about two dozen gunmen, believed to be members of the New People’s Army, ambushed the vehicle.
It was unclear what triggered the rebels to attack civilians, but reports said some of the passengers were village leaders and pro-government militias. More than a dozen people were in the vehicle.
There was no immediate statement from the rebel group or any of its leaders, but the province is a known stronghold of the NPA, which has been fighting for decades now for the establishment of their own communist state in the country.
The military’s Eastern Mindanao Command and the 4th Infantry Division also did not issue any statement about the latest attack by the NPA which previously boasted of mass support from villagers in the region.
Rebel forces are still holding two policemen they captured in nearby province of Surigao del Norte. The rebels seized PO3 Democrito Polvorosa and PO1 Marichel Contemplo on November 16 near the village of Pongtud where the NPA had set up a road block.
The two policemen were on a prowl car when about two dozen rebels intercepted them. The fate of the prisoners was unknown, but their capture came barely four days after rebels snatched PO1 Junrie Amper in Malimono town in the neighboring Surigao del Sur province.
http://www.mindanaoexaminer.net/2014/12/rebel-attack-kills-4-people-in.html
Communist insurgents opened fire on a civilian vehicle and killing four people in the southern Philippines, reports said Monday.
It said four civilians were also wounded in the weekend attack that occurred in the town of Rosario in Agusan del Sur province. The victims were returning home from a nearby church when about two dozen gunmen, believed to be members of the New People’s Army, ambushed the vehicle.
It was unclear what triggered the rebels to attack civilians, but reports said some of the passengers were village leaders and pro-government militias. More than a dozen people were in the vehicle.
There was no immediate statement from the rebel group or any of its leaders, but the province is a known stronghold of the NPA, which has been fighting for decades now for the establishment of their own communist state in the country.
The military’s Eastern Mindanao Command and the 4th Infantry Division also did not issue any statement about the latest attack by the NPA which previously boasted of mass support from villagers in the region.
Rebel forces are still holding two policemen they captured in nearby province of Surigao del Norte. The rebels seized PO3 Democrito Polvorosa and PO1 Marichel Contemplo on November 16 near the village of Pongtud where the NPA had set up a road block.
The two policemen were on a prowl car when about two dozen rebels intercepted them. The fate of the prisoners was unknown, but their capture came barely four days after rebels snatched PO1 Junrie Amper in Malimono town in the neighboring Surigao del Sur province.
http://www.mindanaoexaminer.net/2014/12/rebel-attack-kills-4-people-in.html
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