From The Diplomat (Sep 20): Philippine Militancy in the Spotlight with Freed Norwegian Hostage
Abu Sayyaf finally releases another captive.
Abu Sayyaf has finally freed Norwegian hostage Kjartan Sekkingstad after a year in captivity and three Indonesian fishermen amid reports that ransoms worth more than $2 million were paid to the outlawed group.
Governments often insist that ransoms will not be paid in such instances. But inducements and intervention from Manila appear to have succeeded where foreign policy has not, which Ottawa discovered in recent months with the beheadings of two Canadian hostages, Robert Hall and John Ridsdel.
They were killed in April and June after deadlines for ransom payments, reportedly worth up to $1.3 million, lapsed.
Their plight was particularly tragic with recently elected Prime Minister Justin Trudeau naively touting the virtues of his government, which refused to deal with the Abu Sayyaf, a terrorist group with a sworn allegiance to Islamic State.
Those sentiments were echoed by Norwegian Prime Minister Erna Solberg, who told the NTB national news agency that “Norwegian officials had not participated in any payment of ransom or made any concessions in the matter.”
Despite this, the Philippines Star said it was told by sources that Sekkingstad’s family and friends from Norway had raised a ransom payment and Norway Ambassador Erik Forner had apparently flown to Davao in anticipation of Sekkingstad’s release.
“I would like to reiterate that the government maintains the no-ransom policy,” Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar told government radio.
“Now, if a third party or the family gives ransom, we do not know,” he said.
The release of Sekkingstad and Indonesians – Lorence Koten, Theo Doros Kofong, and Emanuel Arakian – will likely be seen as a victory for Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte.
Duterte has shocked governments abroad and the Catholic Church and civil society at home with his use of extrajudicial killings to bring the illicit drug trade under control. More 3,500 people have been killed in just ten weeks since his election.
However, three weeks ago, Duterte said he would shift his deadly focus onto the Abu Sayyaf, insurgents he once admired, demanding their elimination after they “started slaughtering people like chickens”.
Duterte’s orders were plain and simple: “Kill them, destroy them”.
Sekkingstad told journalist that he, Hall and Ridsdel had been treated as slaves by the Abu Sayyaf and were often dodging bullets by attacking government forces. He said Abu Sayyaf numbers had peaked at around 300.
They were kidnapped about a year ago near Davao, where Duterte once served as mayor, along with Filipina Marites Flor. She was released in June after witnessing the grisly killings of Hall and Ridsdel.
The Abu Sayyaf has attempted to portray itself as an Islamic militancy group with pretensions of establishing a caliphate within Southeast Asia, not unlike the Islamic State in the Middle East.
However, their kidnap and ransom policies have earned them comparisons with thugs and bandits, which operate in the Southern Philippines with impunity.
Abductions have become commonplace since then-Abu Sayyaf leader Galib Andang, also known as Commander Robot, began ordering the kidnapping of foreign tourists from the deluded safety of tourist resorts across the Sulu Sea in East Malaysia in the 1990s.
At best, they are a low-grade terrorist outfit with a preference for soft targets, like tourists.
The release of the three Indonesians was aided by the Moro Islamic Liberation front (MILF), which is currently in peace negotiations with Manila. But the whereabouts of Dutch hostage Ewold Horn remains unknown.
Authorities have also indicated that Abu Sayyaf has attempted to spread its wings following the demise of al-Qaeda affiliate Jemaah Islamiyah and its even nastier offshoot Jemaah Ansharut Tauhid, responsible for a string of deadly bombings across Indonesia.
Both groups had shared hideouts and operations with Abu Sayyaf throughout much of the 2000s but most of their former members are either dead or in jail.
http://thediplomat.com/2016/09/philippine-militancy-in-the-spotlight-with-freed-norwegian-hostage/
Monday, September 19, 2016
DND, AFP: Abu Sayyaf feeling the pressure
From CNN Philippines (Sep 20): DND, AFP: Abu Sayyaf feeling the pressure
Since President Rodrigo Duterte assumed office in June this year, eleven kidnap victims of the Abu Sayyaf have been released. Defense officials say the terrorist group may be feeling the impact of relentless military operations which intensified more than three weeks ago in Jolo, Sulu.
The latest to be freed this weekend were Norwegian national Kjartan Sekkingstad, and Indonesian captives Lorence Koten, Theorus Kopong, and Emanuel Arakain. Two Filipinos, Levi Gonzales and Daniela Taruc, were also released.
READ: Abu Sayyaf frees two other kidnap victims
Some 7,000 soldiers have been deployed in the Sulu province. The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) explains that with the government's indefinite ceasefire with communist rebels, this has allowed them to concentrate on operations against the Abu Sayyaf.
READ: Freed Norwegian hostage Sekkingstad thanks Duterte
"Mula nung magdagdag tayo ng five battalions nitong nakaraang linggo at nag-umpisa yung all-out offensive natin medyo nagulo sila doon at kaysa masagasaan sila ng tropa at mawala kanilang hostages, eh binigay na lang nila," said Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana.
[Translation: Since we added five batallions last week and started the all-out offensive, they got rattled and decided to give up their hostages rather than fight with our troops.]
Based on the Armed Forces of the Philippines' validation, as of last month Abu Sayyaf fighters now just number to 481. While they may still have many local 'sympathizers,' the AFP sees this number to further decrease.
AFP Spokesman B/Gen. Restituto Padilla said, "An indication or clear proof of the pressure they're experiencing is that they don't want to engage our troops anymore, they have broken down into smaller groups, not wanting to fight." With this, Padilla hopes more hostages would be released.
The Abu Sayyaf is believed to be still holding 16 hostages.
Lorenzana would neither confirm nor deny reports that ransom was paid for the recent release of kidnap victims although President Duterte himself said last month that up to ₱50-million was paid for Sekkingstad. Padilla said if there were ransom negotiations between the Abu Sayyaf and their hostages' families, this was beyond the AFP's control. He says some families find ways to directly deal with the kidnappers, and give in to ransom demands out of fear for the lives of their loved ones held captive.
Padilla reiterates the government's 'no ransom' policy. He also explains this is important to financially disable the Abu Sayyaf since some of their leaders insist in keeping the hostages for money. Padilla says they use the money to buy the sympathy and loyalty of local residents, as well as to strenghten their ranks, "Nagiging pera-pera ito, 'yun ang naging problema. Ginagamit nila iyan (ransom) pambili ng armas para lumakas sila, ginagamit din nila para maka-recruit kasi meron din silang sign-up fee na tinatawag."
[Translation: It all boils down to money, and that becomes the problem. They use the ransom to buy arms and become stronger. They also use it to recruit members because they have something called a sign-up fee.]
While it may be too early to claim gains in the war against terrorism, the AFP would rather look at it as one step towards peace, especially since the Moro National Liberation Front, and its leader Nur Misuari have been actively helping out to secure the Abu Sayyaf's kidnap victims. Misuari had even requested the DND to suspend offensives.
Lorenzana said he has already informed Misuari that he cannot grant the MNLF leader's request, and if ever he can only order the suspension of military operations in specific areas where the MNLF is negotiating the release of hostages.
Duterte has been in talks with Misuari, as part of his efforts to pursue peace in Mindanao. The President said he does not want the police to implement the arrest warrant against Misuari who is facing rebellion charges for the 2013 Zamboanga siege.
http://cnnphilippines.com/news/2016/09/20/department-of-national-defense-armed-forces-of-the-philippines-abu-sayyaf-pressure.html
Since President Rodrigo Duterte assumed office in June this year, eleven kidnap victims of the Abu Sayyaf have been released. Defense officials say the terrorist group may be feeling the impact of relentless military operations which intensified more than three weeks ago in Jolo, Sulu.
The latest to be freed this weekend were Norwegian national Kjartan Sekkingstad, and Indonesian captives Lorence Koten, Theorus Kopong, and Emanuel Arakain. Two Filipinos, Levi Gonzales and Daniela Taruc, were also released.
READ: Abu Sayyaf frees two other kidnap victims
Some 7,000 soldiers have been deployed in the Sulu province. The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) explains that with the government's indefinite ceasefire with communist rebels, this has allowed them to concentrate on operations against the Abu Sayyaf.
READ: Freed Norwegian hostage Sekkingstad thanks Duterte
"Mula nung magdagdag tayo ng five battalions nitong nakaraang linggo at nag-umpisa yung all-out offensive natin medyo nagulo sila doon at kaysa masagasaan sila ng tropa at mawala kanilang hostages, eh binigay na lang nila," said Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana.
[Translation: Since we added five batallions last week and started the all-out offensive, they got rattled and decided to give up their hostages rather than fight with our troops.]
Based on the Armed Forces of the Philippines' validation, as of last month Abu Sayyaf fighters now just number to 481. While they may still have many local 'sympathizers,' the AFP sees this number to further decrease.
AFP Spokesman B/Gen. Restituto Padilla said, "An indication or clear proof of the pressure they're experiencing is that they don't want to engage our troops anymore, they have broken down into smaller groups, not wanting to fight." With this, Padilla hopes more hostages would be released.
The Abu Sayyaf is believed to be still holding 16 hostages.
Lorenzana would neither confirm nor deny reports that ransom was paid for the recent release of kidnap victims although President Duterte himself said last month that up to ₱50-million was paid for Sekkingstad. Padilla said if there were ransom negotiations between the Abu Sayyaf and their hostages' families, this was beyond the AFP's control. He says some families find ways to directly deal with the kidnappers, and give in to ransom demands out of fear for the lives of their loved ones held captive.
Padilla reiterates the government's 'no ransom' policy. He also explains this is important to financially disable the Abu Sayyaf since some of their leaders insist in keeping the hostages for money. Padilla says they use the money to buy the sympathy and loyalty of local residents, as well as to strenghten their ranks, "Nagiging pera-pera ito, 'yun ang naging problema. Ginagamit nila iyan (ransom) pambili ng armas para lumakas sila, ginagamit din nila para maka-recruit kasi meron din silang sign-up fee na tinatawag."
[Translation: It all boils down to money, and that becomes the problem. They use the ransom to buy arms and become stronger. They also use it to recruit members because they have something called a sign-up fee.]
While it may be too early to claim gains in the war against terrorism, the AFP would rather look at it as one step towards peace, especially since the Moro National Liberation Front, and its leader Nur Misuari have been actively helping out to secure the Abu Sayyaf's kidnap victims. Misuari had even requested the DND to suspend offensives.
Lorenzana said he has already informed Misuari that he cannot grant the MNLF leader's request, and if ever he can only order the suspension of military operations in specific areas where the MNLF is negotiating the release of hostages.
Duterte has been in talks with Misuari, as part of his efforts to pursue peace in Mindanao. The President said he does not want the police to implement the arrest warrant against Misuari who is facing rebellion charges for the 2013 Zamboanga siege.
http://cnnphilippines.com/news/2016/09/20/department-of-national-defense-armed-forces-of-the-philippines-abu-sayyaf-pressure.html
Davao activists commemorate 25th year of US bases rejection
From the often pro-CPP online publication the Davao Today (Sep 16): Davao activists commemorate 25th year of US bases rejection
“We have all been witness to the long list of violations that have not even been tackled here in our country,” said Sheena Duazo, regional secretary general of Bayan. Duazo cited the cases of Michael Meiring, who accidently exploded a bomb inside the Evergreen Hotel but was whisked off by suspected FBI agents from the hospital where he was being treated and the case of Nicole, “a Davaoeña who was raped by a US soldier in Subic.”
“Remember Jennifer Laude, who was murdered by US Marine Scott Pemberton in Olongapo and Gregan Cardeño, a Filipino Bahasa interpreter who died inside a US base in Marawi City,” Duazo added.
On September 16, 1991, 12 senators voted to reject the RP-US Bases Treaty of 1991. The 12 were former Senators Agapito “Butz” Aquino, Joseph Estrada, Teofisto Guingona Jr, Sotero Laurel II, Ernesto Maceda Jr, Orlando Mercado, Aquilino Pimentel Jr, Rene Saguisag, Jovito Salonga, Wigberto Tañada, Victor Ziga, and Juan Ponce Enrile.
The group also expressed hopes that Duterte’s pronouncements of an “independent foreign policy” would lead to the eventual scrapping of the Visiting Forces Agreement and the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement, calling the agreements an “unequal relationship” and inimical to national sovereignty.
“In spite of the senate decision that spurned the presence of US bases 25 years ago, we now have these executive agreements signed by previous administrations that have given the US military the legal means to stay encamped in the Philippines, such as the Visiting Forces Agreement and the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement,” Duazo said.
The VFA restored the presence of American soldiers in Philippine soil through Senate ratification on May 27, 1999, and the EDCA is an executive agreement signed by former president Benigno Aquino III on July 26, 2016 thereby not needing the ratification of the senate.
“It is totally outrageous to let foreign military troops, who are almost invulnerable to Philippine laws and commanded by it’s own country’s interests, to set foot and perform operations in our nation. And to think we are seeing this complete trampling of our national sovereignty ever since we proclaimed independence,” League of Filipino Students spokesperson Abdul Rauf Sissay said.
The group also expressed hopes that Duterte’s pronouncements of an independent foreign policy would lead to the eventual scrapping of the Visiting Forces Agreement and the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement, calling the agreements an “unequal relationship” and inimical to national sovereignty.
“We now have these agreements signed by the previous administrations that have given the US military the legal means to stay in the Philippines,” Duazo said.
The VFA restored the presence of American soldiers in Philippine soil through Senate ratification on May 27, 1999, and the EDCA is an executive agreement signed by former president Benigno Aquino III on July 26, 2016.
“It is totally outrageous to let foreign military troops, who are almost invulnerable to Philippine laws and commanded by it’s own country’s interests, to set foot and perform operations in our nation. And to think we are seeing this complete trampling of our national sovereignty ever since we proclaimed independence,” League of Filipino Students spokesperson Abdul Rauf Sissay said.
http://davaotoday.com/main/politics/davao-activists-commemorate-25th-year-of-us-bases-rejection/
JUNK VFA, EDCA. Activists led by the Bagong Alyansang Makabayan Southern Mindanao Region and the League of Filipino Students hold a protest action in San Pedro street, Davao City to urge President Rodrigo Duterte to pursue his plan of an independent foreign policy in commemoration of the 25th anniversary of the Philippine Senate’s rejection of the new treaty for the Subic Bay Naval Station and end to US military presence Friday,September 16. The groups called on Pres. Duterte to scrap the Visiting Forces Administration and the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement. (Paulo C. Rizal/davaotoday.com)
Activists here commemorated the 25th year since 12 Senators voted to reject the RP-US Bases treaty of 1991 by protesting alleged human rights violations committed by United States military and called for the termination of the agreements that allow the presence of American soldiers in Philippine territory.
“Remember Jennifer Laude, who was murdered by US Marine Scott Pemberton in Olongapo and Gregan Cardeño, a Filipino Bahasa interpreter who died inside a US base in Marawi City,” Duazo added.
On September 16, 1991, 12 senators voted to reject the RP-US Bases Treaty of 1991. The 12 were former Senators Agapito “Butz” Aquino, Joseph Estrada, Teofisto Guingona Jr, Sotero Laurel II, Ernesto Maceda Jr, Orlando Mercado, Aquilino Pimentel Jr, Rene Saguisag, Jovito Salonga, Wigberto Tañada, Victor Ziga, and Juan Ponce Enrile.
The group also expressed hopes that Duterte’s pronouncements of an “independent foreign policy” would lead to the eventual scrapping of the Visiting Forces Agreement and the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement, calling the agreements an “unequal relationship” and inimical to national sovereignty.
“In spite of the senate decision that spurned the presence of US bases 25 years ago, we now have these executive agreements signed by previous administrations that have given the US military the legal means to stay encamped in the Philippines, such as the Visiting Forces Agreement and the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement,” Duazo said.
The VFA restored the presence of American soldiers in Philippine soil through Senate ratification on May 27, 1999, and the EDCA is an executive agreement signed by former president Benigno Aquino III on July 26, 2016 thereby not needing the ratification of the senate.
“It is totally outrageous to let foreign military troops, who are almost invulnerable to Philippine laws and commanded by it’s own country’s interests, to set foot and perform operations in our nation. And to think we are seeing this complete trampling of our national sovereignty ever since we proclaimed independence,” League of Filipino Students spokesperson Abdul Rauf Sissay said.
The group also expressed hopes that Duterte’s pronouncements of an independent foreign policy would lead to the eventual scrapping of the Visiting Forces Agreement and the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement, calling the agreements an “unequal relationship” and inimical to national sovereignty.
“We now have these agreements signed by the previous administrations that have given the US military the legal means to stay in the Philippines,” Duazo said.
The VFA restored the presence of American soldiers in Philippine soil through Senate ratification on May 27, 1999, and the EDCA is an executive agreement signed by former president Benigno Aquino III on July 26, 2016.
“It is totally outrageous to let foreign military troops, who are almost invulnerable to Philippine laws and commanded by it’s own country’s interests, to set foot and perform operations in our nation. And to think we are seeing this complete trampling of our national sovereignty ever since we proclaimed independence,” League of Filipino Students spokesperson Abdul Rauf Sissay said.
http://davaotoday.com/main/politics/davao-activists-commemorate-25th-year-of-us-bases-rejection/
Abu Sayyaf got ransom for Norwegian’s release: analysts
From InterAksyon (Sep 20): Abu Sayyaf got ransom for Norwegian’s release: analysts
Presidential peace adviser Jesus Dureza arrives in Davao City Sunday after getting custody of Norwegian Kjartan Sekkingstad (in back), freed by the Abu Sayyaf Group on Saturday. The Norwegian was first brought to MNLF founder Nur Misuari. PHOTO BY GEM AVANCENA, NEWS5-DAVAO
A notorious kidnapping-for-ransom gang in the strife-torn southern Philippines enjoyed another lucrative payday when it released a Norwegian hostage after a year in captivity, analysts said Monday.
A bearded and bedraggled Kjartan Sekkingstad was released Saturday on a remote southern island after what analysts said was almost certainly a payment in the thousands of dollars after the Abu Sayyaf demanded millions.
The Philippine and Norwegian governments have denied paying ransom for the release of Sekkingstad, while highlighting their efforts to secure his freedom after the kidnappers had beheaded two of his fellow hostages, both Canadian.
Security analysts said the Abu Sayyaf would never release a hostage without ransom.
"There was a ransom payment negotiated by intermediaries of the family with diplomatic help. My information is P30 million ($625,000) was paid," said Rodolfo Mendoza, senior analyst of Manila-based Philippine Institute for Peace, Violence and Terrorism Research.
"Hostage-taking is the Abu Sayyaf's fund-raising activity," Mendoza, a former police general, told AFP.
Sekkingstad's brother Odd Kåre Sekkingstad declined to comment when asked by AFP about reports of a ransom.
His sibling was abducted by the Abu Sayyaf from a tourist resort in September 2015, alongside a Filipina who has been freed, and the two Canadians who were beheaded in April and June.
Philippine authorities have said the Norwegian was freed due to a military offensive which President Rodrigo Duterte ordered against the militants, and with the help of a separate Muslim rebel group holding peace talks with the government.
Duterte himself had said last month that P50 million ($1 million) had been paid for Sekkingstad's release.
"The Norwegian, that's already paid," Duterte told reporters.
"I don't know (where the money came from), maybe my bank," he said in jest when asked who paid the ransom.
Zachary Abuza, a Southeast Asian security expert at the National War College in the United States, told AFP there was no doubt ransom was paid.
"The (Abu Sayyaf) did not release him out of the goodness of their hearts...
governments have to deny paying ransoms, as it incentivizes more hostage-taking. But often governments will use third parties."
The payment would allow Abu Sayyaf to buy more guns through the black market, Abuza added.
The Abu Sayyaf, blamed for the nation's worst terror attacks, is a loose network of militants formed in the 1990s with seed money from Osama bin Laden's Al-Qaeda network.
Based in remote Muslim-populated southern Mindanao islands of the mainly Catholic Philippines and listed by the US as a terrorist organization, some of its leaders have since pledged allegiance to the Islamic State group.
In 2014, the Abu Sayyaf boasted of receiving P250 million for two German hostages it freed after six months in captivity.
In 2013, the militants also released an Australian ex-soldier after holding him for 15 months, with a local politician who acted as a negotiator saying ransom was paid.
http://interaksyon.com/article/132577/abu-sayyaf-got-ransom-for-norwegians-release-analysts
Presidential peace adviser Jesus Dureza arrives in Davao City Sunday after getting custody of Norwegian Kjartan Sekkingstad (in back), freed by the Abu Sayyaf Group on Saturday. The Norwegian was first brought to MNLF founder Nur Misuari. PHOTO BY GEM AVANCENA, NEWS5-DAVAO
A notorious kidnapping-for-ransom gang in the strife-torn southern Philippines enjoyed another lucrative payday when it released a Norwegian hostage after a year in captivity, analysts said Monday.
A bearded and bedraggled Kjartan Sekkingstad was released Saturday on a remote southern island after what analysts said was almost certainly a payment in the thousands of dollars after the Abu Sayyaf demanded millions.
The Philippine and Norwegian governments have denied paying ransom for the release of Sekkingstad, while highlighting their efforts to secure his freedom after the kidnappers had beheaded two of his fellow hostages, both Canadian.
Security analysts said the Abu Sayyaf would never release a hostage without ransom.
"There was a ransom payment negotiated by intermediaries of the family with diplomatic help. My information is P30 million ($625,000) was paid," said Rodolfo Mendoza, senior analyst of Manila-based Philippine Institute for Peace, Violence and Terrorism Research.
"Hostage-taking is the Abu Sayyaf's fund-raising activity," Mendoza, a former police general, told AFP.
Sekkingstad's brother Odd Kåre Sekkingstad declined to comment when asked by AFP about reports of a ransom.
His sibling was abducted by the Abu Sayyaf from a tourist resort in September 2015, alongside a Filipina who has been freed, and the two Canadians who were beheaded in April and June.
Philippine authorities have said the Norwegian was freed due to a military offensive which President Rodrigo Duterte ordered against the militants, and with the help of a separate Muslim rebel group holding peace talks with the government.
Duterte himself had said last month that P50 million ($1 million) had been paid for Sekkingstad's release.
"The Norwegian, that's already paid," Duterte told reporters.
"I don't know (where the money came from), maybe my bank," he said in jest when asked who paid the ransom.
Zachary Abuza, a Southeast Asian security expert at the National War College in the United States, told AFP there was no doubt ransom was paid.
"The (Abu Sayyaf) did not release him out of the goodness of their hearts...
governments have to deny paying ransoms, as it incentivizes more hostage-taking. But often governments will use third parties."
The payment would allow Abu Sayyaf to buy more guns through the black market, Abuza added.
The Abu Sayyaf, blamed for the nation's worst terror attacks, is a loose network of militants formed in the 1990s with seed money from Osama bin Laden's Al-Qaeda network.
Based in remote Muslim-populated southern Mindanao islands of the mainly Catholic Philippines and listed by the US as a terrorist organization, some of its leaders have since pledged allegiance to the Islamic State group.
In 2014, the Abu Sayyaf boasted of receiving P250 million for two German hostages it freed after six months in captivity.
In 2013, the militants also released an Australian ex-soldier after holding him for 15 months, with a local politician who acted as a negotiator saying ransom was paid.
http://interaksyon.com/article/132577/abu-sayyaf-got-ransom-for-norwegians-release-analysts
NPA rebels bring 6 rifles in their surrender to army
From the Mindanao Times (Sep 19): NPA rebels bring 6 rifles in their surrender to army
FIVE MEMBERS of the New People’s Army surrendered to the 75th Infantry Battalion, bringing along with them six M16 rifles, in Barangay St. Christine, Lianga, Surigao del Sur at around 3:30 p.m. on Saturday.
Capt. Joe Patrick Martinez, spokesperson of 4th Infantry Division, said the five NPAs (names are not given for security reasons) are former members of the Komiteng Rebolusyonaryo sa Munisipalidad- KRM (municipal revolutionary committee) established by the CPP-NPA in the outlaying localities of the said town.
“The NPAs chose to go back after they have decided to heed the government’s sincere effort to unite the country,” Martinez said.
In his statement, Lt. Col. Harold S. Akaz, commanding Officer of 75IB, is grateful for the rebels’ decision as he assured ample support so they could resume their lives.
“We are happy that all of you will finally enjoy living a peaceful life with your families and we will facilitate all the support that shall be given to you to help you reintegrate in your respective communities,” he added.
Maj. Gen. Benjamin R. Madrigal Jr., commander of 4th Infantry Division, also wished the surrenderees luck.
“We in the Armed Forces are truly grateful to your decision in giving what is best for our Country — the dream of achieving lasting peace that every Filipinos deserve,” he said.” We welcome those who may wish or decide to immediately experience peace and be with their families.”
The five will be given support under the Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP) of the provincial government of Surigao del Sur.
Misuari wants a halt in anti-Sayyaf ops in Sulu
From the Mindanao Examiner (Sep 19): Misuari wants a halt in anti-Sayyaf ops in Sulu
Philippines Defense chief Delfin Lorenzana said Monday a former rebel chieftain – wanted by authorities for the 2013 deadly attacks in Zamboanga City – is asking for a halt in military offensives against the Abu Sayyaf in the southern Sulu province to allow peaceful negotiations for the safe release of a dozen hostages still in the hands of the notorious group tied to Islamic State.
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/misuari-wants-a-halt-in-anti-sayyaf-ops-in-sulu/
Philippines Defense chief Delfin Lorenzana said Monday a former rebel chieftain – wanted by authorities for the 2013 deadly attacks in Zamboanga City – is asking for a halt in military offensives against the Abu Sayyaf in the southern Sulu province to allow peaceful negotiations for the safe release of a dozen hostages still in the hands of the notorious group tied to Islamic State.
He said Nur Misuari, chieftain of the Moro National
Liberation Front, relayed this message for him through Presidential peace adviser
Jesus Dureza.
Lorenzana said he will not allow a total halt in the
operations against the Abu Sayyaf, but he would let local military
commanders to decide on a localize truce to pave the way for peaceful
negotiations by Misuari to the Abu Sayyaf.
He said among the hostages are Malaysians tugboat crew
members kidnapped in Sabah ,
Malaysia
The Abu Sayyaf recently freed Norwegian Kjartan Sekkingstad
and three Indonesian tugboat crew members Teo Kopong, Lorenz Koten and
Emmanuel in Sulu following negotiations by Misuari. Army reports said some
P30 million were paid to the Abu Sayyaf and P30 million more for the Indonesian
hostages to buy out their liberty.
Abu Sayyaf militants also released a Filipino
couple, Levy Gonzales – a telecommunication technician working for Power
City Corporation – and his pregnant wife Daniela Taruc in the village
called Tiptipon in Panglima Sugala town in Sulu, one of 5 provinces under the
Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
The couple was spotted late Sunday by a civilian walking in
the village and immediately informed authorities upon learning they were freed
by the Abu Sayyaf. They were later brought to an army base in Jolo town
where Western Mindanao Command officials were quick to say that the release was
the result of the on-going military operations against the Abu Sayyaf, the same
claims they made following the release of the Norwegian and Indonesian
hostages.
It was unknown whether Gonzales’ company or their family
paid ransoms to the Abu Sayyaf in exchange for their freedom. The duo was
kidnapped in August 6 along with their driver Shariff Julhasan Abirin in
Timpook village in Patikul town. There was no information on the fate of Abirin
or whether he had been freed or not. The Abu Sayyaf previously demanded P1
million for the safe release of the hostages.
Basilan operations
Security forces are also operating against the Abu Sayyaf in
Basilan province where troops captured a stronghold of the militant group in
the village of Baguindan
Governor Mujiv Hataman, of the Autonomous Region in Muslim
Mindanao, led the government and military officials in the handover of the Abu
Sayyaf camp to civilian authorities and spearheaded a humanitarian and medical
mission in the area.
Hataman was also quoted by a television report as saying
that foreign members of the Islamic State are being coddled by the Abu Sayyaf
in Basilan. He said the foreign jihadists, including a Malaysian and Jamaican
bomb experts, were training the Abu Sayyaf in the manufacture of improvised
explosives.
Speaking to hundreds of residents, Hataman – accompanied by
his wife, Representative Djalia Turabin and his deputy governor, Haroun Lucman
– called on civilians to support the government’s peace efforts and called for
unity in achieving long lasting peace.
“It’s about time for this place –Baguindan – to receive
various programs and projects from the government. Ang Baguindan ay para sa
Baguindan. Nandito kami para protektahan ang mga tao dito,” he said.
The town’s mayor, Arcam Istarul, also pledged his support to
the military and thanked the soldiers for liberating the village from the Abu
Sayyaf. He said more than 1500 families in the area benefited from the
humanitarian mission.
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/misuari-wants-a-halt-in-anti-sayyaf-ops-in-sulu/
Dela Rosa flies to Colombia for conference on terrorism, drugs
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 19): Dela Rosa flies to Colombia for conference on terrorism, drugs
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=924366
Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General
Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa led a three-man PNP delegation to the
"Counter-terrorism and Counter-narcotics Exchange Conference" in
Bogota, Colombia organized by the United States Department of State.
Police Deputy Director General Francisco Uyami, Jr. has been
designated as PNP Officer-in-Charge (OIC) during the absence of Dela Rosa
effective Sept. 19-23, 2016.
The PNP delegation left the Philippines
High in the agenda of the conference are regional issues and
concerns on emerging terrorist threats, including narco-terrorism and
transnational drug trafficking.
The other members of the PNP delegation are Police Director
Fernando Mendez, Jr., PNP Director for Personnel and Records Management (DPRM),
and Senior Supt. Alden Delvo, Senior Executive Assistant.
Police Chief Supt. Wilson Caubat was designated OIC of the
DPRM during Mendez' absence.
The Office of Regional Affairs of the Embassy of the United States
The PNP delegation will return on Saturday.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=924366
Government, NDF peace panels to draw up formal bilateral truce in next Oslo talks
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 19): Government, NDF peace panels to draw up formal bilateral truce in next Oslo talks
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=924299
The government and the National Democratic Front (NDF) of
the Communist Party of the Philippines
are expected to draw up the final bilateral ceasefire in the next round of the
peace negotiations in Oslo ,
Norway
Lawyer Angela Librado, a member of the GRP panel, said the
final bilateral ceasefire is one of the major items during the next Oslo
President Rodrigo Duterte re-imposed ceasefire on August 22
and this was reciprocated by the NDF at the close of the resumption of talks
last August 26.
Librado explained a unified ceasefire agreement is necessary
so that they can come up with deadlines. “We gave ourselves 60 days to draft
(the bilateral truce),” Librado said during Monday’s Kapehan sa Dabaw at SM
Davao Annex.
Librado said the unified ceasefire agreement is crucial
because it enables both parties to go around and seek consultations on the
substantive agenda, one of which is the socioeconomic reforms.
Librado is optimistic both panels will achieve the bilateral
ceasefire during the second round of talks.
“Both committees are trying to unify respective draft and
discuss the ceasefire agreement shortly before the Oslo
Both panels are still to discuss the details of the
socio-economic reforms; political and constitutional reforms; and end of
hostilities and disposition of forces; the amnesty proclamation; joint
monitoring committees; further releases of detained NDF personnel; and the
modality and mechanics of the ceasefire.
At the resumption of peace talks last August, both panels
reached agreements on six major agenda. They reaffirmed all previously signed
agreements between the GRP and the NDF that were started by The Hague Joint
Declaration in 1992 and proceeded by the Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity
Guarantees (JASIG) in 1996 and the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect of Human
Rights And International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL) in 1998 which were all
signed under the administration of President Fidel Ramos.
The panels also agreed to reconstitute the JASIG list after
the first document was corrupted. The encrypted list will contain the photos
and identities of NDF consultants who are still underground and will be immune
to arrest while the peace process is ongoing.
The government will issue documents of acknowledgement for
the NDF consultants still in hiding and for the 54 “publicly known NDF
personalities.”
The negotiating parties agreed to accelerate the peace
negotiations and set timelines for the completion of the remaining substantive
agenda.
Meanwhile, another crucial agenda is on the release of
political prisoners. Librado said there are two things that government is
looking into: the cases of 434 detainees in different detention centers around
the country and situation of the 100 detainees, who have reached senior years
and those who are sickly.
President Duterte has ordered the release of 22 detained NDF
consultants to fulfill a campaign promise to hold peace negotiations with the
communist movement. Most of them were able to join the Oslo
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=924299
Gov't projects to pour in former Abu Sayyaf camp in Basilan town
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 19): Gov't projects to pour in former Abu Sayyaf camp in Basilan town
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=924109
TIPO-TIPO, Basilan –- Gov. Mujiv Hataman of
the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) witnessed the turnover ceremony
marking the restoration of government authority in the former stronghold of the
Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in Barangay Baguindan here on Sunday.
Hataman called for unity in achieving long lasting peace as
he spoke to hundreds of residents present in the event.
"It's about time for this place (Barangay Baguindan) to
receive various programs and projects from the government," Hataman said
as he vowed to pour projects in Barangay Baguindan.
"Ang Baguindan ay para sa Baguindan. Nandito kami para
protektahan ang mga tao dito (Baguindan is for Baguindan. We are here to
protect the people)," he added.
Mayor Arcam Istarul expressed gratitude to the government
and security forces, who neutralized the lawless elements in their area.
"We will help the people of Baguindan through
livelihood projects," Istarul said.
"Mabayah kami sanyang lahat kami (We want our place to
be a peaceful one)," Bisahari Hantian, Baguindan barangay chairperson said
in Yakan, the local dialect.
Saida Abubakar, 57, a resident of the Baguindan, said they
are glad the government never forgot them throughout the ordeal.
"Sana
Lt. Col. Ernest John Jadloc, Army's 74th Infantry Battalion
(IB) commander, said the camp was seized after a month of offensive against the
ASG brigands by joint forces of his battalion, 18th IB, 64th IB, Scout Rangers,
and Special Forces.
Jadloc said the offensive was also meant to bring back government
authority and social services in areas occupied by the ASG brigands.
The ARMM regional government and the provincial government
conducted a People's Day to provide free services such as medical consultation
and check-ups, along with the distribution of hygiene kits.
Present during the event were ARMM Regional Vice-Gov. Haroun
Alrashid Lucman Jr., Anak Mindanao partylist Rep. Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman,
and other ARMM, military and police officials.
ARMM's Humanitarian Emergency Action Response Team
(ARMM-HEART) also distributed relief packs to 1,574 families in Barangay
Baguindan and Barangay Silangkum and in the nearby town of Al-Barka
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=924109
RDC to drumbeat peace, dev’t in far-flung Samar communities
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 19): RDC to drumbeat peace, dev’t in far-flung Samar communities
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=924113
The Regional Development Council (RDC) will hold peace and
development caravans in previously rebel-infested towns of Lapinig, Northern Samar and Motiong Samar on Sept. 29 in a bid to
attain lasting peace in far-flung communities.
Department of Budget and Management Regional Director Imelda
Laceras, chair of the RDC’s development administration committee, said they
will push for the caravans that kicked off last year, to continue.
“This is to support the peace agenda of the Duterte
administration, underscoring the need to accelerate the implementation of peace
accords with communist insurgents, socio economic development in
conflict-affected areas and build a culture of peace and conflict sensitivity
to uplift socio-economic development,” Laceras said.
The RDC recently endorsed a resolution enjoining the
participation of all RDC Eastern Visayas members in the upcoming caravans.
The one-day activity will include delivery of messages from
top officials of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process
(OPAPP) and executives of other agencies, and focus group discussion with
sectoral groups to identify areas for engagement for peace and development
efforts.
Officials will also turnover the Payapa at Masaganang
Pamayanan (PAMANA) projects, delivery of services by different government
agencies and partners, peace story telling for children, and boodle fight.
“The service caravan will take a festive mood to celebrate
partnerships and drumbeat the broader spaces for engagements for peace and
development under the current peace agenda,” Laceras added.
“Achieving peace remains a challenge in some areas Eastern Visayas ” due to limited access to basic services
and economic development, slow dispensation of justice, poor governance and
deteriorating moral values of communities.”
Specific venues for this year’s caravans are the town center
in Lapinig and Calapi village in Motiong. Lapinig is 238 kilometers from
Tacloban, the regional capital while is Motiong is 84 kilometers away from this
city.
The RDC held its first peace and development caravans on
July 29, 2015 in Lawaan village in Paranas, Samar .
Other caravans last year were also conducted in Las Navas in Northern Samar,
Jipapad in Eastern Samar, and Jaro in Leyte .
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=924113
Army foils Maguindanao bombing
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 19): Army foils Maguindanao bombing
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=924133
Government forces recovered Sunday high powered firearms and
bomb making devices following a brief clash with private armed groups suspected
of carrying out bombing activities in Maguindanao and nearby provinces.
Colonel Cirilito Sobejana, commander of the Army's 601st
Infantry Brigade based in Tacurong
City
As the joint forces of two Army brigades were entering the village of Kauran
No casualty on the government side and Sobejana believed the
armed groups suffered injuries as there were blood in their escape route.
Sobejana believed the armed group belonged to the outlawed
Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF).
Government forces recovered a sub-machine gun, assorted
rifles and grenade launchers and ammunition. Soldiers also recovered improvised
bomb making ingredients.
The huge cache of firearms indicate the group was well armed
and well organized and suspected to be behind the rash of bombings in
Maguindanao.
In Datu Unsay, Maguindanao, government forces also found and
safely deactivated three IED near an Army outpost in Barangay Meta on Saturday
night.
Sobejana believed the IED was intended for the military who
maintains a roadside Army base.
Witnesses said three men on board a motorbike were seen
passing by, briefly stopped, then fled to Datu Saudi Ampatuan, also in Maguindanao.
The IEDs were similar to improvised explosives used by the
BIFF in attacking government forces in Maguindanao.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=924133
Manhunt launched for gunmen who seized businesswoman in Zamboanga del Norte town
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 19): Manhunt launched for gunmen who seized businesswoman in Zamboanga del Norte town
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=924276
The police in coordination with the military has launched a
manhunt to track down and to possibly rescue a businesswoman abducted by gunmen
in the nearby Zamboanga del Norte province.
Abducted was Christina Yee, 60, who owns and manages a
hardware in the coastal Barangay Poblacion, Sirawai, Zamboanga del Norte.
Ayub Pia, acting Sirawai municipal administrator, disclosed
that the incident took place shortly after 3:40 p.m. Monday in Barangay
Poblacion, Sirawai.
Pia said that based on initial investigation, Yee was at her
hardware when seven unidentified gunmen, believed to be kidnap-for-ransom-group
(KFRG) members, barged in and seized her.
He said the suspects dragged Yee to a waiting double engine
motorized banca and sped towards the direction of Barangay Pugus, Sirawai,
Zamboanga del Norte.
Senior Supt. Edwin Wagan, Zamboanga del Norte police
director, has ordered the police in the province to intensify intelligence to
locate the whereabouts of the victim.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=924276
ARMM to bring dev't in communities regained by government forces in Basilan
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 19): ARMM to bring dev't in communities regained by government forces in Basilan
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=924139
Regional Gov. Mujiv Hataman of the Autonomous Region in
Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) has vowed to infuse development projects in communities
in Basilan and other parts of the region which were influenced by lawless
elements and recently captured by government forces.
Hataman made the commitment as he witnessed the turnover
ceremony marking the restoration of government authority in a former Abu Sayyaf
Group (ASG) stronghold in Barangay Baguindan, Tipo-Tipo, Basilan on Sunday
morning.
Government forces overran the ASG camp in August as the
government intensified its operation against terrorist organizations.
The camp was seized following a month-long operations by
joint forces of the 18th Infantry Battalion, 64th Infantry Battalion, Scout
Rangers and Special Forces, implementing a directive from President Duterte to
rid the province
of Abu Sayyaf
In a statement released Monday, Hataman has called for unity
in achieving long lasting peace as he spoke to hundreds of residents present in
the event.
"It's about time for this place (Barangay Baguindan) to
receive various programs and projects from the government," Hataman said
as he vowed to pour projects in conflict-affected areas, especially Barangay
Baguindan.
"Ang Baguindan ay para sa Baguindan. Nandito kami para
protektahan ang mga tao dito (Baguindan is for Baguindan. We are here to
protect the people)," Hataman, a native of Basilan, said as the crowd
applauded.
Tipo-Tipo Mayor Arcam Istarul lauded the ARMM regional
government and the military for liberating the town from the clutches of
terrorists.
Istarul said the town government will seek Hataman's help in
bringing livelihood for the people of Baguindan.
Following the turn over rites, Hataman, along with ARMM
Regional Vice-Governor Haroun Alrashid Lucman Jr., Anak Mindanao partylist
representative Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman, and other ARMM officials led in
the conduct of Peoples' Day where the locals receive medical assistance and
medicine.
On top of the outreach program, the ARMM humanitarian unit,
distributed food packs to 1,574 families in Barangay Baguindan and Barangay
Silangkum and in Al-Barka town.
The town had been the site of previous bloody skirmishes
involving ASG and government forces where both sides suffered heavy casualties.
After assuming post as the country's 16th president,
President Duterte had his first provincial visit in Basilan and his marching
orders were clear, that is to defeat Abu Sayyaf and the government will bring
development in the area.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=924139
Zamboanga barangay official arrested for possession of explosive, ammunition
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 19): Zamboanga barangay official arrested for possession of explosive, ammunition
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=924216
A barangay official in Zamboanga City
Police Station 7 acting chief, Chief Insp. Cesar Memoracion,
identified the official as Alikimar Samson, 34, councilor of Barangay Dita.
Samson was arrested at a checkpoint at about 10:20 a.m.
Sunday in Barangay Cabatangan, 6.64 km. west of City Hall.
Memoracion said Samson was driving a vehicle of Barangay
Dita when he was caught in possession of a grenade and 97 rounds of ammunition
for a 5.56-caliber rifle during an inspection at a checkpoint.
He disclosed that Samson is believed to be a member of the
ASG-Urban Terrorist Group (ASG-UTG) and a trusted man of ASG sub-leader Ibni
Acosta.
He said Acosta, known to be an explosive expert, is wanted
for kidnapping. A bounty of PHP3.2 million has been put up for his capture.
Abdurahim Lim, barangay chairman of Dita, said he was
unaware of Samson’s illegal activities.
Lim said Samson had asked permission from him to use the
vehicle of the barangay to accompany his aunt to attend to “emergency” matters.
Lim said Samson has to face the consequence of his acts even
though he is an elected official.
“The law is the law. No one is above the law, no matter who
we are,” he said.
Lim said he would not have allowed Samson to use the vehicle
had he known about the official’s illegal activities.
He disclosed that Samson is the son of the late and former
Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) commander Akbari Samson.
Memoracion said that charges for illegal possession of
explosive and ammunition will be filed against Samson, who is detained at the
Police Station 7 headquarters.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=924216
Gunmen seize businesswoman in Zamboanga del Norte town
From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 19): Gunmen seize businesswoman in Zamboanga del Norte town
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=924271
The police and the military have sent a team to track down
and rescue a businesswoman abducted by gunmen in Zamboanga del Norte province.
Abducted was Martina Nyee, 51, who owns and manages a
hardware store in the coastal Barangay Poblacion, Sirawai, Zamboanga del Norte.
Acting Sirawai municipal administrator, Ayub Pia, disclosed
that Nyee was kidnapped shortly after 4 p.m. Monday in Barangay Poblacion,
Sirawai.
Pia said that based on initial investigations, Nyee was at
her hardware store when seven unidentified gunmen, believed to be
kidnap-for-ransom-group (KFRG) members, barged in and seized her.
He said the suspects dragged Nyee to a waiting double-engine
motorized banca and sped towards the municipality
of Sibuco
Zamboanga del Norte police director, Sr. Supt. Edwin Wagan,
ordered the police to intensify intelligence to locate the whereabouts of the
victim.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=924271
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