From Update.Ph (Apr 27): President Jokowi initiates joint patrol with Malaysia, Philippines
President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) has initiated a joint patrol involving Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines in response to 14 Indonesians held hostage in the Philippine waters.
“This week, we will invite the Malaysian military chief and foreign minister, and the Philippine military chief and foreign minister to discuss the possibility of a joint patrol to ensure that the sea lane is safe,” President Jokowi said at the State Palace here on Tuesday.
The president said the process of releasing the Indonesians held hostage by the armed group since a few weeks ago is not simple thing.
All sides must realize and understand that the hostage crisis is not an easy thing, he pointed out.
“We will find it hard. We must understand that the other cases which have lasted for six and eight months have not been resolved either. In fact, any of them has been executed. It is not that easy to underestimate a difficult thing as Philippine soldiers have cordoned off the area. As we all know that the hostages have been removed to other area. Has the act of removing the hostage caused difficulties to us?” he said.
After all, the president said he will never give up and keep trying to release the Indonesians held hostage.
Operations have been conducted at noon and night to ensure that the hostages will not lose contact with the Philippine government, he said.
“We hope that it can be resolved soon as I have stated,” he said.
http://www.update.ph/2016/04/president-jokowi-initiates-joint-patrol-with-malaysia-philippines/4746
Wednesday, April 27, 2016
Transition Commissioner: BBL not a guarantee to lasting peace in Mindanao but will eradicate poverty
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 27): Transition Commissioner: BBL not a guarantee to lasting peace in Mindanao but will eradicate poverty
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=880135
Commisioner Abdullah Camlian, a member of the Bangsamoro
Transition Commission in the Government of the Philippines Peace Negotiating
Panel, admitted that the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) will not guarantee a
lasting peace in Mindanao but will pave the way for the disbandment of armed
groups in Southern Philippines .
Camlian, also one of the founders of the Moro Islamic
Liberation Front (MILF) and among the speakers during the “Usapang Kapayapaan”
forum for congressional candidates on Tuesday here, clarified issues concerning
the BBL together with Sec. Senen Bacani, also a member of the negotiating pane
for the Government of the Republic of the Philippines.
In his opening statement, Camlian clarified that the problem
in the Bangsamoro region is not economic or poverty but political.
He said prior to the establishment of the Republic of the
Philippines, the Bangsamoro people already had an existing law under the Sultanate
of Sulu and now they want to regain their autonomy.
“We want to participate, we want to be like you, we want to
vote for those people who we want to govern us”, said Camlian.
He added the Bangsamoro people felt neglected, treated as
second class citizens thus the many rebellions that happened for over a
century.
“And if this aspiration for self governance is the root of
all this evil or this conflict, then why not resolve it”, said Camlian.
“But we can
guarantee to arrest rebels and conflict or trouble will be eradicated as well
as guarantee the disbandment of all armed groups”, said Camlian.
Meanwhile, with the clarifications made on the misunderstood
provisions of the BBL, the four congressional candidates who attended the forum
had mixed reactions.
Mario Operaña, a retired Army Master Sergeant who served in Mindanao and now a candidate for congressman in the
fourth district of the province, strongly opposes BBL and instead suggested a
shift to the federal form of government.
Eric Acuña, former congressman of the third district of the
province, said BBL should first undergo thorough study by Congress, insisting
that the peace process must be inclusive.
He too suggested federalism as the way to achieve a long
lasting peace in the country especially in Mindanao .
On the other hand, outgoing Governor Amado Espino Jr., a
candidate for congressman in the fifth district, said peace and order problems
must be addressed by the government through socio- economic programs like what
they are doing in Pangasinan, an insurgency-free province since 2010.
Rep. Jesus Celeste, reelectionist in the first district,
sent a representative in the person of Atty. Artemio Amon.
Rep. Leopoldo Bataoil of the second district was not able to
attend as he is sick while Generoso Tulagan Sr. of the third district had an
important meeting in Manila
Pangasinan has 15 congressional candidates in all its six
districts. However, only three of these candidates attended the forum.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=880135
Negrenses top newly enlisted soldiers of Army’s 3rd ID
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 28): 3 Negrenses top newly enlisted soldiers of Army’s 3rd ID
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=880349
Three Negrenses were among those who topped the Candidate
Soldiers Classes 388 and 389 comprised of 168 newly-enlisted soldiers who will
be deployed by the Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division.
The joint enlistment, entrustment of firearms, and graduation
ceremonies led by 3rd ID commander Brig. Gen. Harold Cabreros was held at Camp
General Macario Peralta Jr. in Jamindan, Capiz Wednesday.
Ven Gador, an Information Technology graduate from Barangay
Suay, Himamaylan City
Gador was the recipient of Commander, 3rd Infantry Division
Award for garnering a general point average of 89.80 percent in all evaluated
subjects, both academic and non-academic courses.
Ujem Broce of Cauayan, Negros Occidental received the Chief
of Staff, 3rd ID Award for graduating number two in Class 389.
Class 388’s Jonel Merdon of Kabankalan City
Meanwhile, Jovel Jovena, a Tourism Management graduate from
Sigma, Capiz topped Class 388, with also 84 trainees, while Jonathan Jadol of
San Joaquin, Iloilo
Ryan John Graciosa of Pototan, Iloilo
Recipients of the Commandant, 3rd Division Training School
Awards were Alan Resureccion of Passi City , Iloilo and Kevin
Sumosa of Trinidad, Bohol for graduating number
three in Class 388 and Class 389, respectively.
The 168 newly-enlisted members of the Spearhead Troopers
Division will be deployed to the different battalions in Western Visayas, Central Visayas , and Negros Island Region.
They underwent six months of Candidate Soldier Course and
Scout Ranger Orientation Course held at the Division Training School of Camp
Peralta.
The training, which started on October 26, 2015, provided
the candidate soldiers with the basic knowledge and skills of soldiery to develop
their character worthy to become members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines
Cabreros urged the new soldiers, who will later implement
the 3rd ID’s campaign “Dagyaw Para sa Kalinong,” to strictly observe and
respect human rights as well as the International Humanitarian Law, and the
Rule of Law.
“Be guided by the Army Transformation Roadmap in exercising
your mandate to serve the people and secure the communities,” he added
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=880349
President Aquino to Abu Sayyaf: We will speak to you in language of force
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 27): President Aquino to Abu Sayyaf: We will speak to you in language of force
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=880296
President Benigno S. Aquino III on Wednesday vowed that the
government will not stop until the threat posed by the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG)
is ended.
“The full resources of the State are being brought down on
the ASG. Our primary objective is to rescue the hostages and ensure the safety
of our civilian population. We will leave no stone unturned and are studying
every instrument, both military and legal, to ensure success in our areas of
operations and wherever else required,” he said in a statement.
The ASG beheaded Canadian mining executive John Ridsdel
after the government failed to pay the PhP300 million ransom demanded by the
bandits.
Ridsdel’s severed head, which was inside a plastic bag
dropped by two men on a motorcycle, was found by residents in Jolo town, five
hours after the expiry of the ransom deadline set at 3 p.m. last Monday (April
25).
Ridsdel was among the four hostages who were abducted by ASG
bandits on September 21 last year from a resort in Samal Island
In his statement, the President said he had sent a letter to
Ridsdel’s family on Tuesday to express his condolences.
"We are so appalled by this murder… This murder was
meant to terrorize our whole population. The Abu Sayyaf thought they could
instill fear in us; instead, they have galvanized us even further to ensure
justice is meted out. We have always been open to talks with those who desire
peace; but those who commit atrocities can expect the full might of the State,"
he said.
"I am ready to devote all my energies towards ensuring
that, at the very least, this will be a very seriously degraded problem that I
will pass on to my successor," he added.
President Aquino explained that since its founding in the
early 1990s, allegedly as an affiliate of Al-Qaeda, the Abu Sayyaf has
committed atrocity upon atrocity.
He cited as examples the sacking of Ipil in 1995, the
bombing of the Davao
International Airport
“Their actions speak for themselves. Even as it poses as a
group of Islamic freedom fighters, the Abu Sayyaf has behaved as criminals
focused on enriching themselves by taking hostages for ransom," he said.
"ASG and various smaller terrorist groups and factions
now want to align themselves with ISIS to gain access to the funds and
resources of ISIS . From Day One of my
administration, they have had aspirations to conduct bombings in Metro Manila
to catch the attention of ISIS . May I
emphasize that these have been, and remain, only aspirations,” the Chief
Executive said.
He noted that as part of the group’s efforts to gain favor
with ISIS, one of its leaders, Isnilon Hapilon, through his cohorts in prison,
has tried to convert other prisoners in the New Bilibid Prison to their cause
and establish ties with remnants of the Rajah Sulayman Movement, purportedly in
an attempt to embark on a bombing campaign in Metro Manila.
They allegedly even hatched plots to kidnap Manny Pacquiao
or one of his children, as well as the President’s sister, Kris Aquino, or one
of her children, “with the plan to use them in bargaining for the release of
their cohorts”, he said.
“Threats against my own life have been investigated,"
the President added.
He, however, emphasized that no improvised explosive device
(IED) attributable to the group of Hapilon has been found.
“We have monitored their activities, unraveled their
network, and arrested the key players, while some of the minor players who were
already on the run are being hunted down. I credit our security services for
putting these threats to bed with both professionalism and discretion. The
public may rest assured that they may go about their daily lives without fear
or unease," he said.
President Aquino said the government wants "to
seriously erode any ability of the ASG to continue to function" by
conducting continuing operations in Basilan against Hapilon and his sub-leader,
Furuji Indama.
On the current situation in Sulu, he said “our reports tell us
that the captives are under the control of Radillon Sajiron, who has
consolidated his forces around himself and the captives.”
He explained that this is both a problem and an opportunity
-- a problem because of the sizeable force surrounding Sajiron and the
captives, but also an opportunity because “smashing these forces is within our
grasp."
"This is why intensive operations are ongoing against
the ASG forces holding civilians captive in Sulu," he said.
"Casualties are to be expected. But what has to be of
utmost importance is neutralizing the criminal activities of the ASG. The men
and women in our Armed Forces are well-trained, well-equipped, and resourceful.
I have full trust and confidence in them," said the President.
"We have proven before that we will choose all-out
justice over all-out war. We have always believed in the power of dialogue,
development, and positive engagement over arms. But we will always act from a
position of strength. So, to the ASG, and whoever may aid or abet them, you
have chosen only the language of force, and we will speak to you only in that
language. We will not stop until the threat they pose to our communities is
ended," President Aquino said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=880296
Possible body of John Ridsdel recovered in Sulu
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 27): Possible body of John Ridsdel recovered in Sulu
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=880290
A headless body, believed to be those of Canadian John
Ridsdel, was recovered in Talipao, Sulu early Wednesday morning.
The remains were found at the vicinity of Bud Samin,
Barangay Gata, of the above-mentioned locality, said Western Mindanao Command
spokesman Major Filemon Tan.
The body was recovered by joint elements of the Talipao
Police and Special Action Force (SAF) with the help of Talipao Barangay Police
Auxiliary Team.
Another report said that at 10 a.m. Wednesday, one Abejari
Sahemari, a municipal councilor, reported to the Talipao police the discovery
of a body of a Caucasian-looking man at Sitio Tibangaw in Barangay Gata.
Immediately, a police scene of the crime (SOCO) team
accompanied by explosive ordinance disposal (EOD) personnel and two mobile
teams were sent to the area.
The policemen reached the area, which is approximately 10
kilometers away from the Talipao Municipal Police Station, around 12 noon.
The body was found sprawled at a dried creek in the
mountainous area of Sitio Tibangaw.
"The cadaver was dumped in the creek by... the
ASG," the report said.
The troops then secured the area for possible presence of
the ASG bandits, while SOCO personnel processed the scene.
"There was no indication that the victim was beheaded
in the area due to the absence of blood stains in the scene," according to
the report.
After the SOCO examination, the body was turned over to the
Marine Battalion Landing Team 11 and was scheduled to the airlifted to Zamboanga City
The recovery of the body came two days after the ASG
beheaded Ridsdel as their ransom demand was not met.
The ASG demanded Php300 million ransom each for Ridsdel and
his fellow captives Robert Hall, Hall's Filipino girlfriend Marites Flor, and
Norwegian Kjartan Sekkingstad.
The victims were seized by the ASG last Sept. 21 from Ocean
View Resort on the Island Garden City of Samal, Davao Del Norte.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=880290
168 new enlisted troops augment Capiz-based 3rd ID
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 28): 168 new enlisted troops augment Capiz-based 3rd ID
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=880380
An additional 168 enlisted troopers have formally joined the
roster of the Capiz-based 3rd Infantry Division Wednesday.
They are members of Candidate Soldier Class (CSC) 388 and
389, said 3rd Infantry Division spokesperson Lt. Col. Ray Tiongson.
They were also formally entrusted with their weapons during
Wednesday's graduation ceremonies after successfully passing the six months CSC
and Scout Ranger Orientation Course held at the Division Training School
Tiongson said training of these troopers started last Oct.
26 with the aim of providing them with the basic knowledge and skills of
soldiery, to develop their character worthy to become members of the Armed
Forces of the Philippines, and to prepare them to perform duties as riflemen
and automatic riflemen of the infantry squads.
Jovel Jovena, a BS Tourism Management graduate from Brgy
Uyong, Sigma, Capiz received the Commander, 3rd Infantry Division Award for
graduating Number 1, besting 83 others in Class 388 with a general point
average of 89.76 percent in all evaluated subjects both academic and
non-academic in the said training.
Ven Gador, a BS Information Technology graduate from Brgy.
Suay, Himamaylan City
He also received the Commander, 3rd Infantry Division Award.
3rd Infantry Division commander Brig. Gen. Harold Cabreros
urged the new members of his unit to strictly observe and respect Human Rights,
International Humanitarian Law and the Rule of Law and be guided by the Army
Transformation Roadmap in exercising their mandate to serve the people and
secure the communities.
He also reminded the newly enlisted soldiers that in war
fighting, not only modern technology in weaponry, equipment and war machines
will dictate who will win the battle. Discipline and determination are also
factors in winning.
“To the new members of Team Spearhead, I believe that you
have attained the basic knowledge and skills that the soldier must know and do,
and developed the character that you must be. Continue to develop those
attributes and always focus on your job as we intensify our efforts in
sustaining the gains in peace and security in our area of responsibility,”
Cabreros said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=880380
President Aquino vows “degraded problem” on ASG
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 27): President Aquino vows “degraded problem” on ASG
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=880244
President Benigno Aquino III on Wednesday vowed the
continued fight against the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) to prevent the bandits from
terrorizing people and get the attention and funding of ISIS .
“I am ready to devote all my energies towards ensuring that,
at the very least, this will be a very seriously degraded problem that I will
pass on to my successor,” he said in a statement.
The statement was issued nearly two days after the bandits
beheaded one of their Canadian hostages, John Ridsdel, who was among the four
people the bandits kidnapped from a resort in Samal Island
The President said he had written Ridsdel’s family to
express his condolences.
“We are so appalled by this murder. Mr. Ridsdel was a person
against whom no one had any grievance—a person who was powerless against his
captors. This murder was meant to terrorize our whole population,” he said.
The President said military operations against the bandits
continue, particularly in Sulu, to save the hostages who were seized along with
Ridsdel.
He said the hostages were reportedly under the control of
one Radilon Sajiron, whom Aquino said “has consolidated his forces around
himself and the captives.”
He said this situation was “both a problem and an
opportunity.”
“It is a problem because of the sizeable force surrounding
Sajiron and the captives, but it is also an opportunity because smashing these
forces is within our grasp,” he said.
“This is why intensive operations are ongoing against the
ASG forces holding civilians captive in Sulu. The full resources of the State
are being brought down on the ASG. Our primary objective is to rescue the
hostages and ensure the safety of our civilian population,” he said.
President Aquino said the atrocities of the ASG were the
main reasons for the continued military operations in Balisan, particularly
targeted ASG head Isnilon Hapilon and a deputy, Furuji Indama.
“We will leave no stone unturned and are studying every
instrument, both military and legal, to ensure success in our areas of
operations and wherever else required,” he said pointing out the government’s
target was “to seriously erode any ability of the ASG to continue to function.”
The President said “casualties are expected” but assured the
public that what was important was neutralizing ASG’s criminal activities.
“The men and women in our Armed Forces are well-trained,
well-equipped, and resourceful. I have full trust and confidence in them,” he
said.
President Aquino also said the government had been open to
dialogues with the rebels but pointed out that it “will always act from a
position of strength.”
“So, to the ASG, and whoever may aid or abet them, you have
chosen only the language of force, and we will speak to you only in that
language,” he said.
"We will not stop until the threat they pose to our
communities is ended,” he said.
This after disclosing that ASG has targeted several
personalities, including him, his sister, Kris, and one of her kids; and
Filipino boxing champ Manny Pacquiao and one of his kids.
President Aquino said ASG, along with smaller terrorist
group, have continued their kidnap-for-ransom activities to get the attention
and receive funding from ISIS .
He noted that even at the start of the current Aquino
administration the ASG has planned to conduct a series of bombing in Metro
Manila “to catch the attention of ISIS .”
”May I emphasize that these have been, and remain, only
aspirations,” he said.
The President also said the bandits, through its allies in
prison, even tried to convert prisoners in the New Bilibid Prison in line with
their plan to conduct bombings in the metropolis.
There were no improvised explosive devices (IEDs) found that
can be traced to the ASG but authorities have monitored the bandits’ activities
and network and even arrested some key players, he said.
”I credit our security services for putting these threats to
bed with both professionalism and discretion. The public may rest assured that
they may go about their daily lives without fear or unease,” he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=880244
Want communism to rise? Choose Duterte – Roxas
From Rappler (Apr 27): Want communism to rise? Choose Duterte – Roxas
Mar Roxas is in vote-rich Cebu for the 3rd time, where Duterte is the favored bet
RELEASED. The NPA releases 5 police officers to Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte. File photo by Editha Caduaya/ Rappler
The standard-bearer of the ruling Liberal Party (LP) on Wednesday, April 27, sought to differentiate himself even further from the front runner in the 2016 presidential race, by linking Rodrigo Duterte to communists.
“Well, napatunayan ‘yung koneksyon ng NPA, ‘yung komyunistang NPA, sa kay Mayor Duterte. Nandiyan sa YouTube. Kayo mismo, mga mamamahayag, marami nang record,” Roxas said in a news conference in Talisay City. (It only goes to show his ties to the New People’s Army, the communist NPA. It’s on YouTube. You yourselves, you’re journalists, you’ve seen records of that.)
The LP standard-bearer was asked to react to the NPA’s recent release of 5 abducted cops to Duterte and the Davao mayor’s subsequent declaration that he would “disband” government because it was already weak.
“Kung gusto ninyong manaig ang komunismo dito sa ating bansa, kung gusto ninyo na lumakas ang boses ng mga NPA na rebelde sa ating bansa, malinaw kung sino dapat ninyong piliin. Siya mismo ang nagsasabi niyan, si Mayor Duterte mismo,” added Roxas. (If you want communism to prevail in the country, if you want the NPA’s power to be amplified, it’s clear who you should choose. Mayor Duterte himself has said that.)
The Davao mayor indeed has not denied his open lines to the NPA. Just last Tuesday, April 26, he revealed in a sortie in Tulunan, North Cotabato, that he and exiled communist leader Jose Maria Sison have agreed to observe a ceasefire between government and NPA rebels forces if Duterte gets elected as president.
Roxas, who served as transportation and later, interior chief under the current administration, said the NPA only seeks to “turn upside-down” the current system of government and the country’s way of life. Communism, he pointed out, is a “godless political philosophy.”
Roxas and running mate Leni Robredo on Wednesday visited Cebu for the 3rd time since the campaign period began. It’s a critical time for both – Duterte is threatening to pull away farther from the pack while Robredo is inching closer to a solo lead.
In Cebu, Roxas and Robredo campaigned in Madridejos town and Talisay City. In Cebu City, the tandem held a political rally with party chairman President Benigno Aquino III.
The Visayas vote
The Cebu rally caps off 2 days of campaigning in two vote-rich Visayas provinces.
On Tuesday, the LP tandem campaigned in Negros Occidental, a bailiwick and home province of Roxas. (READ: Roxas hits ex-LP provincial chairman, insists on victory in Negros Occidental)
Cebu is also considered a bailiwick of the administration bet, but Duterte could spoil that trend.
Duterte, the only Bisaya-speaking candidate, is seen as a favorite in the province. He also leads in the Central Visayas region, which Cebu belongs to.
The latest Pulse Asia survey also saw Roxas lose dominance in the Visayas region for the first time. Some 32% of those polled said Duterte was their favored candidate. Roxas trailed with 27%.
Roxas downplayed the survey, telling reporters he’s confident “the Visayas vote will remain with Daang Matuwid.”
“And we will see on May 9,” he added.
Headless cadaver found in Sulu
From Rappler (Apr 27): Headless cadaver found in Sulu
It's found two days after the beheading of a Canadian hostage
Locals found a headless cadaver of a Caucasian on Wednesday, April 27, in a village in Talipao, Sulu, the same province where Abu Sayyaf kidnappers beheaded a Canadian two days ago.
Police reached the mountainous area in sitio Tibangaw at 12 noon, guided by councilors Hadji Sahemari and Kibar Pala, and other local officials.
It's found two days after the beheading of a Canadian hostage
Locals found a headless cadaver of a Caucasian on Wednesday, April 27, in a village in Talipao, Sulu, the same province where Abu Sayyaf kidnappers beheaded a Canadian two days ago.
Military sources said the cadaver was seen in a dry creek at 10 am Wednesday in the village of Gata, which is about 10 kilometers away from Talipao town.
The body will be immediately brought to Zamboanga City for identification, the same sources added.
On Monday, Abu Sayyaf kidnappers beheaded their Canadian captive John Ridsdel, one of 3 foreign hostages abducted on Samal Island in Davao in September 2015. The murder came after ransom talks – initially pegged at P1 billion for each then reduced to P300 million – bogged down.
The military also launched attacks in an attempt to rescue the hostages.
On Tuesday night, the commander of the Army troops in Sulu, Brig Gen Alan Arrojado, resigned.
Soldier freed after 5 days in NPA custody; five more still held captive in Mindanao
From MindaNews (Apr 27): Soldier freed after 5 days in NPA custody; five more still held captive in Mindanao
A soldier seized at an “Army” checkpoint manned by the New People’s Army (NPA) early morning of April 21 in Malasila town was released in an upland village here late afternoon of April 26 to Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte
The release came a day after five police officers were freed in Paquibato district also to the Presidential frontrunner.
But five more captives remain in the hands of the the NPA in the northern part of Mindanao, Efren Aksasato, spokersperson of the National Democratic Front-Far South Mindanao Region (NDF-FSMR), told the crowd of civilians and NPA guerrillas at the barangay plaza.
REUNITED. Army PFC Edgardo Hilaga of the 7th Infantry Battallion reunites with his family in an upland village in Tulunan, North Cotabato on April 26, 2016. Hilaga was arrested by members of the New People’s Army at a checkpoint in Barangay Malasila, Makilala on April 21. MindaNews photo by TOTO LOZANO
Years before he became a Presidential candidate, Duterte as Davao City mayor or as chair of the Regional Peace and Order Council, had been receiving soldiers and policemen freed by the NPA and from the area of release, he would turn them over to their superiors.
Family members rushed to embrace the 24-year old Pfc Edgardo Hilaga of the 7th Infantry Battalion at 1:47 p.m. as he was about to go up the stage escorted by the NPA’s custodial force. But his parents and sister had to wait a few more hours, as Duterte, who was expected to arrive at 1 p.m., arrived at 4:22 p.m.
Hilaga’s wife waited at home with their two-month old firstborn.
Hilaga said he was rushing to return to his base on a motorcyle at 4:50 a.m. on April 21 when he was stopped at a checkpoint marked “Army” in Sitio Crossing Balawan, Barangay Malasila in Makilala. He immediately identified himself as a soldier thinking those who stopped him were from the Army.
Makilala Mayor Rudy Caoagdan, who attended the turnover rites, told MindaNews he immediately convened the Crisis Management Committee (CMC) and asked the military to hold off operations while they negotiate for Hilaga’s release.
Aksasato said Hilaga was freed after he was cleared of involvement in war crimes and human rights abuses committed by the 7th IB in North Cotabato.
“Salamat sa nagtabang sa akoa. Salamat sa nagtabang sa akoa” (thank you to all who workd for my release), Hilaga said.
Aksasato said the CMC also wrote NDF chief negotiator Luis Jalandoni on April 22 to seek his release.
Hilaga rode with Duterte on board a helicopter bound for the Eastern Mindanao Command in Panacan, Davao City, where he was turned over.
From Paquibato district last Monday, the five freed police officers were also brought by helicopter to the headquarters of the Police Regional Office 11 at Camp Quintin M. Merecido in Davao City at past 4 p.m.
They were days flagged down on their way to a village in Paquibato to attend to a civilian who was injured in a clash between the military and the NPA.
Released after nine days in captivity were Chief Insp. Leonardo V. Tarongoy, the station commander of Paquibato Police Station; PO3 Rosenie L. Cabuenas; PO3 Rudolf Pacete; PO3 Abdul Azis A. Ali Jr.; and PO2 Neil C. Arellano.
Duterte said he asked the leadership of the NPA in Southern Mindanao to release the five as they had nothing to do with the military operations.
“They are just there to investigate. Pano pag may nakawan, ni-rape?,” he told reporters at the PRO 11. He recalled the instances how he appealed for the release of abducted police officers in the past.
Duterte has repeatedly vowed he would resume peace negotiations with the NDF when he becomes President (see other story). “We cannot fight forever. We must talk,” he said.
http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2016/04/27/soldier-freed-after-5-days-in-npa-custody-five-more-still-held-captive-in-mindanao/
A soldier seized at an “Army” checkpoint manned by the New People’s Army (NPA) early morning of April 21 in Malasila town was released in an upland village here late afternoon of April 26 to Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte
The release came a day after five police officers were freed in Paquibato district also to the Presidential frontrunner.
But five more captives remain in the hands of the the NPA in the northern part of Mindanao, Efren Aksasato, spokersperson of the National Democratic Front-Far South Mindanao Region (NDF-FSMR), told the crowd of civilians and NPA guerrillas at the barangay plaza.
REUNITED. Army PFC Edgardo Hilaga of the 7th Infantry Battallion reunites with his family in an upland village in Tulunan, North Cotabato on April 26, 2016. Hilaga was arrested by members of the New People’s Army at a checkpoint in Barangay Malasila, Makilala on April 21. MindaNews photo by TOTO LOZANO
Years before he became a Presidential candidate, Duterte as Davao City mayor or as chair of the Regional Peace and Order Council, had been receiving soldiers and policemen freed by the NPA and from the area of release, he would turn them over to their superiors.
Family members rushed to embrace the 24-year old Pfc Edgardo Hilaga of the 7th Infantry Battalion at 1:47 p.m. as he was about to go up the stage escorted by the NPA’s custodial force. But his parents and sister had to wait a few more hours, as Duterte, who was expected to arrive at 1 p.m., arrived at 4:22 p.m.
Hilaga’s wife waited at home with their two-month old firstborn.
Hilaga said he was rushing to return to his base on a motorcyle at 4:50 a.m. on April 21 when he was stopped at a checkpoint marked “Army” in Sitio Crossing Balawan, Barangay Malasila in Makilala. He immediately identified himself as a soldier thinking those who stopped him were from the Army.
Makilala Mayor Rudy Caoagdan, who attended the turnover rites, told MindaNews he immediately convened the Crisis Management Committee (CMC) and asked the military to hold off operations while they negotiate for Hilaga’s release.
Aksasato said Hilaga was freed after he was cleared of involvement in war crimes and human rights abuses committed by the 7th IB in North Cotabato.
“Salamat sa nagtabang sa akoa. Salamat sa nagtabang sa akoa” (thank you to all who workd for my release), Hilaga said.
Aksasato said the CMC also wrote NDF chief negotiator Luis Jalandoni on April 22 to seek his release.
Hilaga rode with Duterte on board a helicopter bound for the Eastern Mindanao Command in Panacan, Davao City, where he was turned over.
From Paquibato district last Monday, the five freed police officers were also brought by helicopter to the headquarters of the Police Regional Office 11 at Camp Quintin M. Merecido in Davao City at past 4 p.m.
They were days flagged down on their way to a village in Paquibato to attend to a civilian who was injured in a clash between the military and the NPA.
Released after nine days in captivity were Chief Insp. Leonardo V. Tarongoy, the station commander of Paquibato Police Station; PO3 Rosenie L. Cabuenas; PO3 Rudolf Pacete; PO3 Abdul Azis A. Ali Jr.; and PO2 Neil C. Arellano.
Duterte said he asked the leadership of the NPA in Southern Mindanao to release the five as they had nothing to do with the military operations.
“They are just there to investigate. Pano pag may nakawan, ni-rape?,” he told reporters at the PRO 11. He recalled the instances how he appealed for the release of abducted police officers in the past.
Duterte has repeatedly vowed he would resume peace negotiations with the NDF when he becomes President (see other story). “We cannot fight forever. We must talk,” he said.
http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2016/04/27/soldier-freed-after-5-days-in-npa-custody-five-more-still-held-captive-in-mindanao/
Duterte: Joma Sison coming home to talk peace
From MindaNews (Apr 27): Duterte: Joma Sison coming home to talk peace
TULUNAN, North Cotabato (MindaNews / 27 April) – Prof. Jose Maria Sison, founding chair of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) has committed to come home to talk peace, Davao City mayor and Presidential frontrunner Rodrigo Duterte announced before a crowd of civilians and members of the New People’s Army (NPA) Tuesday afternoon during the release of a soldier the NPA held captive for five days. (see other story)
He said among the first things he would do if becomes President is to immediately declare a ceasefire.
PEACE. Young members of the New People’s Army welcome Davao City Mayor and Presidential frontrunner Rodrigo Duterte upon his arrival to receive Army Private First Class Edgardo Hilaga of the 7th Infantry Battallion in an upland village in Tulunan, North Cotabato on April 26, 2016. Hilaga was freed by the NPA after five days in captivity. MindaNews photo by TOTO LOZANO
Duterte narrated that the night before (April 25), he spoke with Sison via Skype and told his former professor on Political Thought, “pauli diri kay magstorya ta” (come home and let’s talk).
He said Sison agreed to come home during their Skype conversation in a venue with some military officials in attendance but added they did not know he was talking with Sison in another room.
Duterte did not say where the venue was but the night before, he was at the birthday celebration of his spiritual adviser, Pastor Apollo Quiboloy of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ. Quiboloy claims to be “The Appointed Son of God.”
After his speech at the barangay plaza Tuesday, Duterte told reporters that as President, he would immediatley declare a ceasefire with the National Democratic Front (NDF) to pave the way for the resumption of peace talks.
He said he suggested to Sison that “pag-uwi nya, ceasefire agad” (ceasefire as soon as he returns home).
The Presidential frontrunner was the speaker at the graduation rites of Lyceum on April 23 where he narrated that Sison was his professor on Political Thought “and that’s why he contaminated us early on and we became the first KM (Kabataang Makabayan members).”
Sison was founding chair of the KM.
“If I make it God-willing to the Presidency, I will be the first Left President in this country,” Duterte said.
[
LIKE BROTHERS. A policeman shakes hand with members of the New Peoples Army after the latter released Private First Class Edgardo Hilaga of the 7th Infantry Battallion in Tulunan, North Cotabato on April 26, 2016. Hilaga was captured at a checkpoint in Makilala five days earlier. MindaNews photo by TOTO LOZANO
He has repeatedly said in speeches before and during the campaign that he is a socialist, is not a member of the CPP and does not believe in armed struggle.
The lone Mindanawon candidate told the crowd here that he opted to eventually run is for President when he realized that not one among the Presidential candidates was talking about Mindanao, about the peace processes that need to be attended to with the NPA, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF).
He talked about how the elite has been running this country for decades. He explained he would not have minded if government funds had been spent for the common good and not to line the pockets of the corrupt.
“Mao ning magrebolusyon ta ug akoy ma Presidente. Gub-on ko ning gobyernoha. Magtindog kog bag-o” (That is why we will wage a revolution if I become President. I will destroy this government. I will set up a new one), Duterte said. The crowd laughed but applauded when he said, “Ubani ko ninyo” (Be with me).
“Ilisdan ni nako ning gobyernoha. Magrebolusyon kog naa na ko didto kay dili ni para sa tao, dili ni matabang ug kaning Constitution nato (We will change this governemnt. I will wage a revolution if I am there because this government is not for the people, this can’t be helped under the present Constitution), he added.
The lone Mindanawon candidate is also the lone candidate among five contenders who is espousing a change in the system of government, from the unitary, Presidential, highly centralized form to the federal, parliamentary system.
The shift to federalism, however, requires amending the 1987 Constitution.
REVOLT FROM THE INSIDE. Davao City mayor Rodrigo Duterte vows to “change the government” and “revolt from the inside” if he becomes President during his speech at the release ceremonies for Army Private First Class Edgardo Hilaga who was freed by the New People’s Army on April 26, 2016, five days after he was arrested in a checkpoint in Malasila, Makilala. MindaNews photo by TOTO LOZANO
In earlier prounoncements he vowed to set up a revolutionary government and abolish Congress if he cannot effect change within six months should he become President.
“We will change this government. Pag naa na ko, muingon ko nga (when I become President, I will say) I will revolt from the inside, dili hinuan nga revolt nga magpatay. Naa koy back-up sa katawhan, back up ko sa tanan, ang miltary ug pulis musunod na lang na (not a bloody revolt, though. I will be backed up by the people, backed up by all, the military and police will just follow), he told the crowd here.
He said he wants government workers to remember that government funds are not personal funds.
“Ayaw kuhaa nang kwarta sa mga tao kay binayran ka man” (Do not get the people’s money because you are paid to do your work), he said.
“Usbon gyud nako ang utok sa Pilipino. Kinahanglan kaming taga-gobyerno ma-realize gyud namo nga kami suluguon lang” (I will really change the mindset of the Filipino. We must in government realize that we are mere servants of the people), said Duterte, a government prosecutor for 11 years, appointed OIC vice mayor from 1986 to 1988, elected mayor for seven terms (1988-1998; 2001-2010; 2013-2016), representative of the first district (1998-2001) and vice mayor (2010-2013).
If he wins the Presidency, the Filipino people should not expect him to have an oath-taking at the Luneta because he does not want to disturb traffic and would rather have his oath-taking in his office.
Duterte said the traditional oath-taking would also require him to feed the rich who do not need to be fed, anyway. If he will have to spend, he said, he would rather that the money intended for the inauguration be used to feed the poor.
He ended his 29-minute speech by raising his right fist and saying “Mabuhay ang NPA, Mabuhay ang NDF, mabuhay si Duterte” (Long live the NPA, Long live the NDF, Long live Duterte).
It wasn’t the first time he did that during a release ceremony.
http://www.mindanews.com/peace-process/2016/04/27/duterte-joma-sison-coming-home-to-talk-peace/
TULUNAN, North Cotabato (MindaNews / 27 April) – Prof. Jose Maria Sison, founding chair of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) has committed to come home to talk peace, Davao City mayor and Presidential frontrunner Rodrigo Duterte announced before a crowd of civilians and members of the New People’s Army (NPA) Tuesday afternoon during the release of a soldier the NPA held captive for five days. (see other story)
He said among the first things he would do if becomes President is to immediately declare a ceasefire.
PEACE. Young members of the New People’s Army welcome Davao City Mayor and Presidential frontrunner Rodrigo Duterte upon his arrival to receive Army Private First Class Edgardo Hilaga of the 7th Infantry Battallion in an upland village in Tulunan, North Cotabato on April 26, 2016. Hilaga was freed by the NPA after five days in captivity. MindaNews photo by TOTO LOZANO
Duterte narrated that the night before (April 25), he spoke with Sison via Skype and told his former professor on Political Thought, “pauli diri kay magstorya ta” (come home and let’s talk).
He said Sison agreed to come home during their Skype conversation in a venue with some military officials in attendance but added they did not know he was talking with Sison in another room.
Duterte did not say where the venue was but the night before, he was at the birthday celebration of his spiritual adviser, Pastor Apollo Quiboloy of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ. Quiboloy claims to be “The Appointed Son of God.”
After his speech at the barangay plaza Tuesday, Duterte told reporters that as President, he would immediatley declare a ceasefire with the National Democratic Front (NDF) to pave the way for the resumption of peace talks.
He said he suggested to Sison that “pag-uwi nya, ceasefire agad” (ceasefire as soon as he returns home).
The Presidential frontrunner was the speaker at the graduation rites of Lyceum on April 23 where he narrated that Sison was his professor on Political Thought “and that’s why he contaminated us early on and we became the first KM (Kabataang Makabayan members).”
Sison was founding chair of the KM.
“If I make it God-willing to the Presidency, I will be the first Left President in this country,” Duterte said.
[
LIKE BROTHERS. A policeman shakes hand with members of the New Peoples Army after the latter released Private First Class Edgardo Hilaga of the 7th Infantry Battallion in Tulunan, North Cotabato on April 26, 2016. Hilaga was captured at a checkpoint in Makilala five days earlier. MindaNews photo by TOTO LOZANO
He has repeatedly said in speeches before and during the campaign that he is a socialist, is not a member of the CPP and does not believe in armed struggle.
The lone Mindanawon candidate told the crowd here that he opted to eventually run is for President when he realized that not one among the Presidential candidates was talking about Mindanao, about the peace processes that need to be attended to with the NPA, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF).
He talked about how the elite has been running this country for decades. He explained he would not have minded if government funds had been spent for the common good and not to line the pockets of the corrupt.
“Mao ning magrebolusyon ta ug akoy ma Presidente. Gub-on ko ning gobyernoha. Magtindog kog bag-o” (That is why we will wage a revolution if I become President. I will destroy this government. I will set up a new one), Duterte said. The crowd laughed but applauded when he said, “Ubani ko ninyo” (Be with me).
“Ilisdan ni nako ning gobyernoha. Magrebolusyon kog naa na ko didto kay dili ni para sa tao, dili ni matabang ug kaning Constitution nato (We will change this governemnt. I will wage a revolution if I am there because this government is not for the people, this can’t be helped under the present Constitution), he added.
The lone Mindanawon candidate is also the lone candidate among five contenders who is espousing a change in the system of government, from the unitary, Presidential, highly centralized form to the federal, parliamentary system.
The shift to federalism, however, requires amending the 1987 Constitution.
REVOLT FROM THE INSIDE. Davao City mayor Rodrigo Duterte vows to “change the government” and “revolt from the inside” if he becomes President during his speech at the release ceremonies for Army Private First Class Edgardo Hilaga who was freed by the New People’s Army on April 26, 2016, five days after he was arrested in a checkpoint in Malasila, Makilala. MindaNews photo by TOTO LOZANO
In earlier prounoncements he vowed to set up a revolutionary government and abolish Congress if he cannot effect change within six months should he become President.
“We will change this government. Pag naa na ko, muingon ko nga (when I become President, I will say) I will revolt from the inside, dili hinuan nga revolt nga magpatay. Naa koy back-up sa katawhan, back up ko sa tanan, ang miltary ug pulis musunod na lang na (not a bloody revolt, though. I will be backed up by the people, backed up by all, the military and police will just follow), he told the crowd here.
He said he wants government workers to remember that government funds are not personal funds.
“Ayaw kuhaa nang kwarta sa mga tao kay binayran ka man” (Do not get the people’s money because you are paid to do your work), he said.
“Usbon gyud nako ang utok sa Pilipino. Kinahanglan kaming taga-gobyerno ma-realize gyud namo nga kami suluguon lang” (I will really change the mindset of the Filipino. We must in government realize that we are mere servants of the people), said Duterte, a government prosecutor for 11 years, appointed OIC vice mayor from 1986 to 1988, elected mayor for seven terms (1988-1998; 2001-2010; 2013-2016), representative of the first district (1998-2001) and vice mayor (2010-2013).
If he wins the Presidency, the Filipino people should not expect him to have an oath-taking at the Luneta because he does not want to disturb traffic and would rather have his oath-taking in his office.
Duterte said the traditional oath-taking would also require him to feed the rich who do not need to be fed, anyway. If he will have to spend, he said, he would rather that the money intended for the inauguration be used to feed the poor.
He ended his 29-minute speech by raising his right fist and saying “Mabuhay ang NPA, Mabuhay ang NDF, mabuhay si Duterte” (Long live the NPA, Long live the NDF, Long live Duterte).
It wasn’t the first time he did that during a release ceremony.
http://www.mindanews.com/peace-process/2016/04/27/duterte-joma-sison-coming-home-to-talk-peace/
Body of beheaded Canadian hostage recovered in Southern Philippines
From the Mindanao Examiner (Apr 27): Body of beheaded Canadian hostage recovered in Southern Philippines
The body of a Canadian man beheaded by the Abu Sayyaf in southern Philippines had been recovered Wednesday as security forces intensified its operation against the jihadist group allied with the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria, military intelligence sources said.
The body of the 68-year old John Ridsdel – who was brutally killed on April 25 – was found by villagers in the village of Gatas in Patikul town, a known stronghold of the Abu Sayyaf. His head was recovered the same day he was executed and handed over to his kin who flew to Zamboanga City from Canada.
Ridsdel, a former executive of international miner TVI Resource Development in Zamboanga del Norte province, was beheaded in the hinterlands of Patikul after his family and the Canadian government failed to P300 million ransom demanded by the Abu Sayyaf.
The notorious group is still holding nearly 2 dozen foreign hostages – 14 of them Indonesian seamen kidnapped at sea in Sabah in Malaysia and in Tawi-Tawi, one of five provinces under the restive Muslim autonomous region in Mindanao.
Ridsdel was kidnapped by 10 gunmen from the resort island of Samal in Davao del Norte province in September 21 last year along with fellow Canadian Robert Hall, 50; and a Norwegian man Kjartan Sekkingstad, 56, and his Filipina girlfriend, Maritess Flor.
The Abu Sayyaf demanded as much as P300 million each for the safe release of the foreign hostages and set April 8 for the deadline, but extended this until April 25.
The military’s Western Mindanao Command under General Mayoralgo dela Cruz did not give any details of the on-going operations against the Abu Sayyaf in Sulu, another province in the autonomous region, but President Benigno Aquino ordered a massive assault on the jihadist group also blamed for the spate of terrorism there.
An army brigadier in Sulu, Alan Arrojado, who was earlier relieved by the Western Mindanao Command from his post as commander of the anti-terror task group in the province for failing to stop the Abu Sayyaf kidnappings, has resigned as chief of the 501st Infantry Brigade a day after Ridsdel’s beheading. He was replaced by army Colonel Jose Faustino.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines did not say if it would also relieve Dela Cruz, who is also in-charge of military operations against the Abu Sayyaf in nearby Basilan province in the Muslim autonomous region, where 18 soldiers had been brutally killed and 5 dozens more wounded in fierce clashes in Tipo-Tipo town just this month.
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/body-of-beheaded-canadian-hostage-recovered-in-southern-philippines/
The body of a Canadian man beheaded by the Abu Sayyaf in southern Philippines had been recovered Wednesday as security forces intensified its operation against the jihadist group allied with the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria, military intelligence sources said.
The body of the 68-year old John Ridsdel – who was brutally killed on April 25 – was found by villagers in the village of Gatas in Patikul town, a known stronghold of the Abu Sayyaf. His head was recovered the same day he was executed and handed over to his kin who flew to Zamboanga City from Canada.
Ridsdel, a former executive of international miner TVI Resource Development in Zamboanga del Norte province, was beheaded in the hinterlands of Patikul after his family and the Canadian government failed to P300 million ransom demanded by the Abu Sayyaf.
The notorious group is still holding nearly 2 dozen foreign hostages – 14 of them Indonesian seamen kidnapped at sea in Sabah in Malaysia and in Tawi-Tawi, one of five provinces under the restive Muslim autonomous region in Mindanao.
Ridsdel was kidnapped by 10 gunmen from the resort island of Samal in Davao del Norte province in September 21 last year along with fellow Canadian Robert Hall, 50; and a Norwegian man Kjartan Sekkingstad, 56, and his Filipina girlfriend, Maritess Flor.
The Abu Sayyaf demanded as much as P300 million each for the safe release of the foreign hostages and set April 8 for the deadline, but extended this until April 25.
The military’s Western Mindanao Command under General Mayoralgo dela Cruz did not give any details of the on-going operations against the Abu Sayyaf in Sulu, another province in the autonomous region, but President Benigno Aquino ordered a massive assault on the jihadist group also blamed for the spate of terrorism there.
An army brigadier in Sulu, Alan Arrojado, who was earlier relieved by the Western Mindanao Command from his post as commander of the anti-terror task group in the province for failing to stop the Abu Sayyaf kidnappings, has resigned as chief of the 501st Infantry Brigade a day after Ridsdel’s beheading. He was replaced by army Colonel Jose Faustino.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines did not say if it would also relieve Dela Cruz, who is also in-charge of military operations against the Abu Sayyaf in nearby Basilan province in the Muslim autonomous region, where 18 soldiers had been brutally killed and 5 dozens more wounded in fierce clashes in Tipo-Tipo town just this month.
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/body-of-beheaded-canadian-hostage-recovered-in-southern-philippines/
Sulu Army commander resigns after beheading of Canadian hostage
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Apr 27): Sulu Army commander resigns after beheading of Canadian hostage
OUTRAGE Canadians John Ridsdel (right) and Robert Hall are shown in this video grab sent earlier by the Abu Sayyaf to media outlets. MILITANT VIDEO VIA AP VIDEO
An Army commander in Sulu has filed his resignation from his post on Tuesday in the wake of the beheading of a Canadian hostage.
In his resignation letter, 501st Brigade Commander Brig. Gen. Alan Arrojado said his resignation was “due to conflict of approach [in] addressing the Abu Sayyaf threats in Sulu.”
In a text message to INQUIRER.net, Arrojado said he resigned after he learned that he will be relieved on Wednesday without having been informed.
“I am a general of the armed forces that should have been informed accordingly,” he said.
Arrojado was named commander of Joint Task Group Sulu in October 2014 but was later removed from his post last early this month. He kept his position, however, as commander of the 501st Brigade to oversee the 10th, 32nd and 35th Infantry Battalions.
When asked of the conflict of approach in dealing with the Abu Sayyaf, he refused to elaborate and just said: “Iba ang approach nila kaysa sa akin (Their approach was different from mine).”
READ: AFP vows to bring ASG to justice after Canadian hostage beheaded
Col. Jose Faustino replaced Arrojado in a turnover ceremony on Wednesday. The latter will be assigned as Assistant Division Commander of the First Infantry Division in Zamboanga del Sur.
“I will report to my new assignment without reservation as ordered,” he said.
Military spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla, meanwhile, said that everything is covered by orders in the Army and no officer can resign unless it is a major post.
“There is no blame game here,” he said.
Padilla said that Arrojado “served with distinction” as brigade commander of the 602nd and 501st brigade for a total of two years and five months.
“In the last 18 months he led the campaign against the kidnap for ransom groups in the island of Jolo,” he said, adding that Army officers usually serve a minimum of 1 year & 6 months in major positions to complete their billet requirements.
http://globalnation.inquirer.net/139035/sulu-army-commander-resigns-after-beheading-of-canadian-hostage
OUTRAGE Canadians John Ridsdel (right) and Robert Hall are shown in this video grab sent earlier by the Abu Sayyaf to media outlets. MILITANT VIDEO VIA AP VIDEO
An Army commander in Sulu has filed his resignation from his post on Tuesday in the wake of the beheading of a Canadian hostage.
In his resignation letter, 501st Brigade Commander Brig. Gen. Alan Arrojado said his resignation was “due to conflict of approach [in] addressing the Abu Sayyaf threats in Sulu.”
In a text message to INQUIRER.net, Arrojado said he resigned after he learned that he will be relieved on Wednesday without having been informed.
“I am a general of the armed forces that should have been informed accordingly,” he said.
Arrojado was named commander of Joint Task Group Sulu in October 2014 but was later removed from his post last early this month. He kept his position, however, as commander of the 501st Brigade to oversee the 10th, 32nd and 35th Infantry Battalions.
When asked of the conflict of approach in dealing with the Abu Sayyaf, he refused to elaborate and just said: “Iba ang approach nila kaysa sa akin (Their approach was different from mine).”
READ: AFP vows to bring ASG to justice after Canadian hostage beheaded
Col. Jose Faustino replaced Arrojado in a turnover ceremony on Wednesday. The latter will be assigned as Assistant Division Commander of the First Infantry Division in Zamboanga del Sur.
“I will report to my new assignment without reservation as ordered,” he said.
Military spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla, meanwhile, said that everything is covered by orders in the Army and no officer can resign unless it is a major post.
“There is no blame game here,” he said.
Padilla said that Arrojado “served with distinction” as brigade commander of the 602nd and 501st brigade for a total of two years and five months.
“In the last 18 months he led the campaign against the kidnap for ransom groups in the island of Jolo,” he said, adding that Army officers usually serve a minimum of 1 year & 6 months in major positions to complete their billet requirements.
http://globalnation.inquirer.net/139035/sulu-army-commander-resigns-after-beheading-of-canadian-hostage
PNoy vows to 'neutralize' Abu Sayyaf kidnappers; bares plot to seize Pacquiao, Kris Aquino
From InterAksyon (Apr 27): PNoy vows to 'neutralize' Abu Sayyaf kidnappers; bares plot to seize Pacquiao, Kris Aquino
Abu Sayyaf's Isnilon Hapilon: behind plot to seize Pacquiao, Kris Aquino.
Philippine President Benigno Aquino III vowed Wednesday to launch a military assault aimed at "neutralizing" Islamic militants who beheaded a Canadian hostage and are holding more than 20 other foreigners.
"Casualties are to be expected. But what has to be of utmost importance is neutralising the criminal activities of the ASG," Aquino said in a statement, referring to the Abu Sayyaf militant group by a commonly used acronym.
Aquino released the statement after the severed head of Canadian John Ridsdel, kidnapped seven months ago from aboard a yacht, was dumped Monday on a street on Jolo, a remote southern island that is one of the Abu Sayyaf's main strongholds.
"This murder was meant to terrorize our whole population. The Abu Sayyaf thought they could instill fear in us. Instead, they have galvanized us even further to ensure justice is meted out," Aquino said.
"We have always been open to talks with those who desire peace, but those who commit atrocities can expect the full might of the state."
He did not give a timeframe for the assault.
The Abu Sayyaf militants, whose leaders have pledged allegiance to the Islamic State group, are holding more than 20 other foreigners captive.
These include another Canadian, a Norwegian man and a Filipina who were abducted at the same time as Ridsdel at a marina near Davao, the biggest city in the southern Philippines and about 600 kilometres (370 miles) from Jolo.
The Abu Sayyaf is also believed to be holding a Dutch birdwatcher kidnapped from a southern Philippine island in 2012, as well as 18 Indonesian and Malaysian sailors abducted over the past month.
Aquino said the captives were under the control of Radullan Sahiron, one of the Abu Sayyaf's founders who is famous for losing one arm in battle against the military.
'Smash' the Abu Sayyaf
He said Sahiron had consolidated his forces around himself and the captives in Sulu, a small Muslim-populated archipelago about 1,000 kilometres from Manila. Jolo is the biggest island in Sulu.
"This presents both a problem and an opportunity. It is a problem because of the sizeable force surrounding Sahiron and the captives, but it is also an opportunity because smashing these forces is within our grasp," Aquino said.
The Abu Sayyaf is a radical offshoot of a Muslim separatist insurgency in the south of the mainly Catholic Philippines that has claimed more than 100,000 lives since the 1970s.
It is believed to have just a few hundred militants but has withstood repeated US-backed military offensives against it, surviving by using the mountainous, jungle terrain of the southern islands to its advantage.
Although the Abu Sayyaf's leaders have pledged allegiance to IS, analysts say they are mainly focused on their lucrative kidnappings-for-ransom rather than setting up an Islamic caliphate.
Abu Sayyaf gangs have earned many millions of dollars from kidnapping foreigners and locals since the early 1990s.
One of the Abu Sayyaf's biggest recent windfalls is believed to have come in 2014 when it claimed to have been paid more than $5 million for the release of a German couple abducted from aboard their yacht in the southwest Philippines.
Manny Pacquaio kidnap plot
Aquino also revealed a series of alleged Abu Sayyaf plots to kidnap Filipino boxing hero Manny Pacquiao and the president's younger sister, Kris, a popular television personality.
He said Isnilon Hapilon, who Islamic State has recognized as a local Filipino leader, was behind these plots.
He said Hapilon and other Abu Sayyaf leaders had wanted to conduct the kidnappings, conduct bombings in Manila and even assassinate himself so that IS would give them funds and resources.
He reassured the public that key leaders involved in these plots had been arrested and those threats had been put "to bed".
However he also said Hapilon was on Basilan island, the other key Abu Sayyaf stronghold neighbouring Jolo, and that military assaults against him were continuing.
On April 9, 18 Filipino soldiers were killed as they waged a day-long battle against Abu Sayyaf gunmen on Basilan.
Also Wednesday, the Philippines said it was considering launching joint sea patrols with Malaysia and Indonesia in the waters where the recent kidnappings of the sailors occurred.
http://interaksyon.com/article/127006/pnoy-vows-to-neutralize-abu-sayyaf-kidnappers-bares-plot-to-seize-pacquiao-kris-aquino
Abu Sayyaf's Isnilon Hapilon: behind plot to seize Pacquiao, Kris Aquino.
Philippine President Benigno Aquino III vowed Wednesday to launch a military assault aimed at "neutralizing" Islamic militants who beheaded a Canadian hostage and are holding more than 20 other foreigners.
"Casualties are to be expected. But what has to be of utmost importance is neutralising the criminal activities of the ASG," Aquino said in a statement, referring to the Abu Sayyaf militant group by a commonly used acronym.
Aquino released the statement after the severed head of Canadian John Ridsdel, kidnapped seven months ago from aboard a yacht, was dumped Monday on a street on Jolo, a remote southern island that is one of the Abu Sayyaf's main strongholds.
"This murder was meant to terrorize our whole population. The Abu Sayyaf thought they could instill fear in us. Instead, they have galvanized us even further to ensure justice is meted out," Aquino said.
"We have always been open to talks with those who desire peace, but those who commit atrocities can expect the full might of the state."
He did not give a timeframe for the assault.
The Abu Sayyaf militants, whose leaders have pledged allegiance to the Islamic State group, are holding more than 20 other foreigners captive.
These include another Canadian, a Norwegian man and a Filipina who were abducted at the same time as Ridsdel at a marina near Davao, the biggest city in the southern Philippines and about 600 kilometres (370 miles) from Jolo.
The Abu Sayyaf is also believed to be holding a Dutch birdwatcher kidnapped from a southern Philippine island in 2012, as well as 18 Indonesian and Malaysian sailors abducted over the past month.
Aquino said the captives were under the control of Radullan Sahiron, one of the Abu Sayyaf's founders who is famous for losing one arm in battle against the military.
'Smash' the Abu Sayyaf
He said Sahiron had consolidated his forces around himself and the captives in Sulu, a small Muslim-populated archipelago about 1,000 kilometres from Manila. Jolo is the biggest island in Sulu.
"This presents both a problem and an opportunity. It is a problem because of the sizeable force surrounding Sahiron and the captives, but it is also an opportunity because smashing these forces is within our grasp," Aquino said.
The Abu Sayyaf is a radical offshoot of a Muslim separatist insurgency in the south of the mainly Catholic Philippines that has claimed more than 100,000 lives since the 1970s.
It is believed to have just a few hundred militants but has withstood repeated US-backed military offensives against it, surviving by using the mountainous, jungle terrain of the southern islands to its advantage.
Although the Abu Sayyaf's leaders have pledged allegiance to IS, analysts say they are mainly focused on their lucrative kidnappings-for-ransom rather than setting up an Islamic caliphate.
Abu Sayyaf gangs have earned many millions of dollars from kidnapping foreigners and locals since the early 1990s.
One of the Abu Sayyaf's biggest recent windfalls is believed to have come in 2014 when it claimed to have been paid more than $5 million for the release of a German couple abducted from aboard their yacht in the southwest Philippines.
Manny Pacquaio kidnap plot
Aquino also revealed a series of alleged Abu Sayyaf plots to kidnap Filipino boxing hero Manny Pacquiao and the president's younger sister, Kris, a popular television personality.
He said Isnilon Hapilon, who Islamic State has recognized as a local Filipino leader, was behind these plots.
He said Hapilon and other Abu Sayyaf leaders had wanted to conduct the kidnappings, conduct bombings in Manila and even assassinate himself so that IS would give them funds and resources.
He reassured the public that key leaders involved in these plots had been arrested and those threats had been put "to bed".
However he also said Hapilon was on Basilan island, the other key Abu Sayyaf stronghold neighbouring Jolo, and that military assaults against him were continuing.
On April 9, 18 Filipino soldiers were killed as they waged a day-long battle against Abu Sayyaf gunmen on Basilan.
Also Wednesday, the Philippines said it was considering launching joint sea patrols with Malaysia and Indonesia in the waters where the recent kidnappings of the sailors occurred.
http://interaksyon.com/article/127006/pnoy-vows-to-neutralize-abu-sayyaf-kidnappers-bares-plot-to-seize-pacquiao-kris-aquino
Aquino: Abu Sayyaf had planned to kidnap Pacquiao and my sister Kris
From the Gulf News (Apr 27): Aquino: Abu Sayyaf had planned to kidnap Pacquiao and my sister Kris
The militant group tried to conduct a bombing campaign to draw Daesh support, president says
President Benigno Aquino III revealed Abu Sayyaf radicals had planned to abduct his sister, Kris Aquino, and Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao in order to gain favour from Daesh.
In a statement released on the recent execution of Canadian mining executive John Ridsdel, Aquino said the latest Abu Sayyaf atrocity is part of a renewed campaign by the militant group to get noticed by Daesh, which over the last two years has undertaken similarly brutal attacks against their enemies.
“The Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) and various smaller terrorist groups and factions now want to align themselves with Daesh to gain access to the funds and resources of Daesh. From day one of my administration, they have had aspirations to conduct bombings in Metro Manila to catch the attention of Daesh,” the Philippine leader said.
Aquino said in order to draw the support of Daesh, Abu Sayyaf had tried to conduct a bombing campaign together with the remnants of an organised group of Muslim converts, the Rajah Sulaiman Movement.
“They allegedly even hatched plots to kidnap Manny Pacquiao or one of his children, as well as my sister, Kris, or one of her children, with the plan to use them in bargaining for the release of their cohorts. Threats against my own life have been investigated,” the president said.
Pacquiao is an internationally known Filipino boxer and Congress member and Kris is a local actress.
Aquino said the full resources of the state are being brought to bear on the ASG.
Aquino also said the execution of Ridsdel further fortified the Philippines’ resolve to put an end to kidnapping activities in the South.
“This murder was meant to terrorise our whole population. The Abu Sayyaf thought they could instill fear in us; instead, they have galvanised us even further to ensure justice is meted out,” Aquino said on Wednesday, three days after the militant group executed the Canadian former mining executive in Sulu.
Ridsdel, 68, was executed by the Abu Sayyaf after friends and family working to save him failed to come up with the ransom demanded by the Southern Philippines-based terrorist group.
The Canadian was kidnapped at the Holiday Oceanview Resort in Samal Island in Davao Oriental last September 21 along with compatriot Robert Hall, 50; Norwegian resort manager Kjartan Sekkingstad, 56; and Hall’s Filipina partner, Marites Flor.
The Philippine military had unleashed an all-out operation to rescue the remaining three hostages.
The kidnapping and the brutal execution of Ridsdel drew outrage worldwide, with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau saying that the Canadian government “is committed to working with the Manila and international partners to pursue those responsible for this heinous act and bring them to justice.” Sulu,
Basilan and certain parts of Mindanao are known hotbeds for kidnap for ransom activities. Aside from Filipinos, a number of the kidnap victims are foreigners.
Last March, Abu Sayyaf abducted several crew members of a tugboat in Tawi-Tawi.The Brahma 12 tugboat and the Anand 12 barge were carrying coal from Indonesia when suspected Abu Sayyaf gunmen descended on them and held the crewmen hostage.
On Tuesday, Indonesian President Joko Widodo (Jokowi), according to state-run news agency Antara, initiated joint patrols involving Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines to secure the release of the ten Indonesian sailors and two of their compatriots abducted by Abu Sayyaf.
http://gulfnews.com/news/asia/philippines/aquino-abu-sayyaf-had-planned-to-kidnap-pacquiao-and-my-sister-kris-1.1813024
The militant group tried to conduct a bombing campaign to draw Daesh support, president says
President Benigno Aquino III revealed Abu Sayyaf radicals had planned to abduct his sister, Kris Aquino, and Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao in order to gain favour from Daesh.
In a statement released on the recent execution of Canadian mining executive John Ridsdel, Aquino said the latest Abu Sayyaf atrocity is part of a renewed campaign by the militant group to get noticed by Daesh, which over the last two years has undertaken similarly brutal attacks against their enemies.
“The Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) and various smaller terrorist groups and factions now want to align themselves with Daesh to gain access to the funds and resources of Daesh. From day one of my administration, they have had aspirations to conduct bombings in Metro Manila to catch the attention of Daesh,” the Philippine leader said.
Aquino said in order to draw the support of Daesh, Abu Sayyaf had tried to conduct a bombing campaign together with the remnants of an organised group of Muslim converts, the Rajah Sulaiman Movement.
“They allegedly even hatched plots to kidnap Manny Pacquiao or one of his children, as well as my sister, Kris, or one of her children, with the plan to use them in bargaining for the release of their cohorts. Threats against my own life have been investigated,” the president said.
Pacquiao is an internationally known Filipino boxer and Congress member and Kris is a local actress.
Aquino said the full resources of the state are being brought to bear on the ASG.
Aquino also said the execution of Ridsdel further fortified the Philippines’ resolve to put an end to kidnapping activities in the South.
“This murder was meant to terrorise our whole population. The Abu Sayyaf thought they could instill fear in us; instead, they have galvanised us even further to ensure justice is meted out,” Aquino said on Wednesday, three days after the militant group executed the Canadian former mining executive in Sulu.
Ridsdel, 68, was executed by the Abu Sayyaf after friends and family working to save him failed to come up with the ransom demanded by the Southern Philippines-based terrorist group.
The Canadian was kidnapped at the Holiday Oceanview Resort in Samal Island in Davao Oriental last September 21 along with compatriot Robert Hall, 50; Norwegian resort manager Kjartan Sekkingstad, 56; and Hall’s Filipina partner, Marites Flor.
The Philippine military had unleashed an all-out operation to rescue the remaining three hostages.
The kidnapping and the brutal execution of Ridsdel drew outrage worldwide, with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau saying that the Canadian government “is committed to working with the Manila and international partners to pursue those responsible for this heinous act and bring them to justice.” Sulu,
Basilan and certain parts of Mindanao are known hotbeds for kidnap for ransom activities. Aside from Filipinos, a number of the kidnap victims are foreigners.
Last March, Abu Sayyaf abducted several crew members of a tugboat in Tawi-Tawi.The Brahma 12 tugboat and the Anand 12 barge were carrying coal from Indonesia when suspected Abu Sayyaf gunmen descended on them and held the crewmen hostage.
On Tuesday, Indonesian President Joko Widodo (Jokowi), according to state-run news agency Antara, initiated joint patrols involving Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines to secure the release of the ten Indonesian sailors and two of their compatriots abducted by Abu Sayyaf.
http://gulfnews.com/news/asia/philippines/aquino-abu-sayyaf-had-planned-to-kidnap-pacquiao-and-my-sister-kris-1.1813024
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