From the Philippine News Agency (May 5): Security tightened for President Duterte’s 4th visit to Maguindanao
All is set for the visit here Friday of President Rodrigo Duterte, who will preside over a closed-door command conference with military and police officials on the government’s drive against terrorism and illegal drugs.
Personnel from the Police Regional Office in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (PRO-ARMM) and soldiers from the 6th Infantry Division, both based in Maguindanao’s first district, have been placed on heightened alert.
Perlita Tiangco, of Philippine Information Agency (PIA-12), said the President will also preside over the ceremonial awarding of certificates of completion to police graduates of a motorcycle riding course.
Chief Supt. Reuben Sindac, PRO-ARMM director, said the police and the military have been on alert to secure VIPs attending the President’s visit, his fourth in Maguindanao since assuming the presidency.
Duterte visited the Army’s Camp Siongco headquarters in Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao and Buluan town, also in Maguindanao, last year. He also visited Cotabato City, located within the province of Maguindanao, last year where he launched an anti-poor program.
Senior Supt. Agustin Tello, Maguindanao police director, said all roads leading to Camp SK Pendatun are secured.
Maj. Gen. Arnel dela Vega, commander of the 6th Infantry Division, ordered the deployment of Army personnel around the police regional headquarters starting Thursday as well as the Philippine Air Force choppers for aerial security.
The President is expected to arrive at Camp SK Pendatun at around 2 p.m.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/985161
Thursday, May 4, 2017
Captured Abu Sayyaf shot dead in escape try
From the Philippine News Agency (May 5): Captured Abu Sayyaf shot dead in escape try
One of the Abu Sayyaf stragglers, who was nabbed on Thursday without resistance in hinterland Barangay Tanawan, was shot dead while attempting to escape at past 2:00 a.m. on Friday.
Bohol Police Provincial Director PSSupt Felipe Natividad confirmed that suspect Abu Sayyaf member Saad Samad Kiram, alias “Abu Saad” 36, a native of Tulayan, Luuk, Sulu, was being transported by police escorts to Bohol District Jail in Barangay Cabawan, Tagbilaran City less than 24 hours after his capture.
Natividad said that Abu Saad requested his escorts to allow him answer the call of nature while in transit to jail and was allowed to take off his handcuff.
Abu Saad then took the opportunity to run and hot pursuit ensued.
Hours later the police tracked Abu Saad’s location somewhere in Cortes town and rearrested him. The suspect tried to take the firearm of one of the arresting police officers but failed. The police officer shot Abu Saad in an apparent self defence, Trinidad said.
Cortes police office said in interview Friday morning said the bandit was brought to a hospital in the city where he died shortly.
Trinidad told media during the governor’s weekly press conference that his office based in Camp Dagohoy would conduct further investigation on the escape attempt.
Abu Saad was nabbed on Thursday morning without resistance in hinterland barangay Tanawan, about seven kilometers from town proper.
Police said formal charges of “illegal possession of firearms and explosives” against Abu Saad were set to be filed on Friday.
Following Abu Saad’s death, the security forces are still scouring the hinterlands for two other bandits. Military officer said there could be only two remaining stragglers left and a possibility that one of them had died due to wounds during the encounter in Inabanga town in Arpil 11, 2017.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/985233
One of the Abu Sayyaf stragglers, who was nabbed on Thursday without resistance in hinterland Barangay Tanawan, was shot dead while attempting to escape at past 2:00 a.m. on Friday.
Bohol Police Provincial Director PSSupt Felipe Natividad confirmed that suspect Abu Sayyaf member Saad Samad Kiram, alias “Abu Saad” 36, a native of Tulayan, Luuk, Sulu, was being transported by police escorts to Bohol District Jail in Barangay Cabawan, Tagbilaran City less than 24 hours after his capture.
Natividad said that Abu Saad requested his escorts to allow him answer the call of nature while in transit to jail and was allowed to take off his handcuff.
Abu Saad then took the opportunity to run and hot pursuit ensued.
Hours later the police tracked Abu Saad’s location somewhere in Cortes town and rearrested him. The suspect tried to take the firearm of one of the arresting police officers but failed. The police officer shot Abu Saad in an apparent self defence, Trinidad said.
Cortes police office said in interview Friday morning said the bandit was brought to a hospital in the city where he died shortly.
Trinidad told media during the governor’s weekly press conference that his office based in Camp Dagohoy would conduct further investigation on the escape attempt.
Abu Saad was nabbed on Thursday morning without resistance in hinterland barangay Tanawan, about seven kilometers from town proper.
Police said formal charges of “illegal possession of firearms and explosives” against Abu Saad were set to be filed on Friday.
Following Abu Saad’s death, the security forces are still scouring the hinterlands for two other bandits. Military officer said there could be only two remaining stragglers left and a possibility that one of them had died due to wounds during the encounter in Inabanga town in Arpil 11, 2017.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/985233
Air Force chopper crashes in Tanay, 3 dead
From the Philippine Star (May 4): Air Force chopper crashes in Tanay, 3 dead
A military chopper crashed in Tanay, Rizal this afternoon, killing two soldiers and injuring two others, the military confirmed. Alexis Romero/File
Three soldiers died while another was seriously injured when an Air Force chopper crashed in Tanay, Rizal on Thursday afternoon, the military confirmed.
Speaking on ANC, Col. Antonio Francisco, the spokesperson of the Philippine Air Force, said that a military helicopter crashed in Sitio Hiltop in Tanay, Rizal around 3 p.m., killing two soldiers and injuring two other military personnel. The number of personnel killed was updated to three on Thursday evening.
“As of now, what I can give you is it happened at around 3 o’clock this afternoon in Sitio Hiltop in Tanay. We are still trying to confirm those who are injured in the incident,” Franciso said. “There were two soldiers who are in very serious situation right now. That is all we know right now.”
The spokesperson said that the chopper was carrying two military pilots and two crew members. He did not clarify who among the four were killed and who were injured pending the notification of their families about the incident.
Franciso said that the PAF chopper was maneuvering during air-to-ground operations being conducted together with soldiers from the Philippine Army when it crashed. These exercises were part of the disaster relief preparations being conducted by the Army 2nd Infantry Division together with some police personnel from CALABARZON, according to a DZMM report.
The spokesperson clarified that based on initial reports, no risky maneuvers were involved when the aircraft went down.
The chopper experienced trouble during the practical exercise that led to the accident, a DZMM reporter said.
Francisco said that the helicopter came from Camp Capinpin in Tanay, Rizal and crashed in a village just several minutes away from the military base.
Because of the incident, all Air Force aircraft and choppers will be barred from flying pending the results of an investigation.
He said that before the Air Force flies a chopper they first ensure that it is airworthy, dousing possible speculations that the accident was because of problems with the aircraft.
“Whenever we fly our helicopters, it’s always air worthy. We make sure that before we fly our helicopters, it’s always air worthy,” Francisco said.
Three soldiers died while another was seriously injured when an Air Force chopper crashed in Tanay, Rizal on Thursday afternoon, the military confirmed.
Speaking on ANC, Col. Antonio Francisco, the spokesperson of the Philippine Air Force, said that a military helicopter crashed in Sitio Hiltop in Tanay, Rizal around 3 p.m., killing two soldiers and injuring two other military personnel. The number of personnel killed was updated to three on Thursday evening.
“As of now, what I can give you is it happened at around 3 o’clock this afternoon in Sitio Hiltop in Tanay. We are still trying to confirm those who are injured in the incident,” Franciso said. “There were two soldiers who are in very serious situation right now. That is all we know right now.”
The spokesperson said that the chopper was carrying two military pilots and two crew members. He did not clarify who among the four were killed and who were injured pending the notification of their families about the incident.
Franciso said that the PAF chopper was maneuvering during air-to-ground operations being conducted together with soldiers from the Philippine Army when it crashed. These exercises were part of the disaster relief preparations being conducted by the Army 2nd Infantry Division together with some police personnel from CALABARZON, according to a DZMM report.
The spokesperson clarified that based on initial reports, no risky maneuvers were involved when the aircraft went down.
The chopper experienced trouble during the practical exercise that led to the accident, a DZMM reporter said.
Francisco said that the helicopter came from Camp Capinpin in Tanay, Rizal and crashed in a village just several minutes away from the military base.
Because of the incident, all Air Force aircraft and choppers will be barred from flying pending the results of an investigation.
He said that before the Air Force flies a chopper they first ensure that it is airworthy, dousing possible speculations that the accident was because of problems with the aircraft.
“Whenever we fly our helicopters, it’s always air worthy. We make sure that before we fly our helicopters, it’s always air worthy,” Francisco said.
Russia, PH defense chiefs meet for the first time
From Update Philippines (May 3): Russia, PH defense chiefs meet for the first time
National Defense Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana and Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoygu met at the sidelines of VI Moscow Conference on International Security in Moscow April 26.
The meeting between two officials was first. Secretary Lorenzana first visited Russia in December 2016 as preliminary for President Rodrigo Duterte’s visit to Russia later this month.
According to Department of Foreign Affairs, the two officials welcomed the positive developments in the bilateral relations and agreed to further bolster cooperation in the defense and security sphere.
“It is only now that we are set to substantiate our relations especially in the area of defense” since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1976, Secretary Lorenzana said.
Lorenzana also noted that the DND is ready to conclude a framework agreement with the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation when President Rodrigo Roa Duterte visits Moscow next month. The Philippines looks forward to enhanced security and defense engagement in terms of training, exchange of information and expertise, and port calls, among others.
“We are encouraged by the progressive development of Russian-Philippine relations in the defence field. The key event in this context was the meeting of Presidents of the two countriesat the APEC Summit in Lima last November”, Defense Minister Shoygu said.
http://www.update.ph/2017/05/russia-ph-defense-chiefs-meet-for-the-first-time/17128
National Defense Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana and Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoygu met at the sidelines of VI Moscow Conference on International Security in Moscow April 26.
The meeting between two officials was first. Secretary Lorenzana first visited Russia in December 2016 as preliminary for President Rodrigo Duterte’s visit to Russia later this month.
According to Department of Foreign Affairs, the two officials welcomed the positive developments in the bilateral relations and agreed to further bolster cooperation in the defense and security sphere.
“It is only now that we are set to substantiate our relations especially in the area of defense” since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1976, Secretary Lorenzana said.
Lorenzana also noted that the DND is ready to conclude a framework agreement with the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation when President Rodrigo Roa Duterte visits Moscow next month. The Philippines looks forward to enhanced security and defense engagement in terms of training, exchange of information and expertise, and port calls, among others.
“We are encouraged by the progressive development of Russian-Philippine relations in the defence field. The key event in this context was the meeting of Presidents of the two countriesat the APEC Summit in Lima last November”, Defense Minister Shoygu said.
http://www.update.ph/2017/05/russia-ph-defense-chiefs-meet-for-the-first-time/17128
Army leader confident of neutralizing Abu Sayyaf
From the Visayan Daily Star (May 4): Army leader confident of neutralizing Abu Sayyaf
Army vice-commander, Maj. Gen. Harold Cabreros, expressed confidence that the Abu Sayyaf will be neutralized within the six-month period, ordered by President Rodrigo Duterte.
Cabreros told 3rd Infantry Division troopers, “I am confident that we can do it as long as we work as one team, and as one Army, with the cooperation of the community”.
He noted that the quick response of the 3ID against Abu Sayyaf bandits in Bohol last month indicated that the ASGs are feeling the pressure in their former bases of operations in Mindanao.
Two ASG leaders and five others were killed in a series of armed clashes with 3ID troops and the police in Bohol. Three Army soldiers and a policeman also died.
Cabreros said the ASG decided to move elsewhere as they are running out of places to hide.
“Let us keep it that way, until they and other terrorist groups as well as lawless elements are totally defeated,” he further told 3ID troopers during his visit at Camp Macario Peralta in Jamindan, Capiz on May 1.
Cabreros added that the implementation of AFP Development Support and Security Plan “Kapayapaan” will complement the gains achieved under the Internal Peace and Security Plan “Bayanihan”.
“We will sustain our CMO (Civil Military Operations) efforts, Community Support Programs, and stakeholder engagement to encourage further support for the AFP's peace initiatives from the locals, and make them resilient against the influence of threat groups,” he also said.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2017/May/04/topstory1.htm
Army vice-commander, Maj. Gen. Harold Cabreros, expressed confidence that the Abu Sayyaf will be neutralized within the six-month period, ordered by President Rodrigo Duterte.
Cabreros told 3rd Infantry Division troopers, “I am confident that we can do it as long as we work as one team, and as one Army, with the cooperation of the community”.
He noted that the quick response of the 3ID against Abu Sayyaf bandits in Bohol last month indicated that the ASGs are feeling the pressure in their former bases of operations in Mindanao.
Two ASG leaders and five others were killed in a series of armed clashes with 3ID troops and the police in Bohol. Three Army soldiers and a policeman also died.
Cabreros said the ASG decided to move elsewhere as they are running out of places to hide.
“Let us keep it that way, until they and other terrorist groups as well as lawless elements are totally defeated,” he further told 3ID troopers during his visit at Camp Macario Peralta in Jamindan, Capiz on May 1.
Cabreros added that the implementation of AFP Development Support and Security Plan “Kapayapaan” will complement the gains achieved under the Internal Peace and Security Plan “Bayanihan”.
“We will sustain our CMO (Civil Military Operations) efforts, Community Support Programs, and stakeholder engagement to encourage further support for the AFP's peace initiatives from the locals, and make them resilient against the influence of threat groups,” he also said.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2017/May/04/topstory1.htm
Abu Sayyaf member captured in Bohol
From Rappler (May 4): Abu Sayyaf member captured in Bohol
(UPDATED) Saad Samad Kiram is captured by authorities in Tubigon, Bohol on Thursday morning
Another suspected member of the Abu Sayyaf, the same one a police officer allegedly tried to rescue, was captured by local military, police, and government forces on Thursday, May 4.
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Central Command chief Lieutenant General Oscar Lactao confirmed the news to Rappler.
LOCAL HELP. Thanks to the help of Tubigon locals, alleged Abu Sayyaf member Saad Samad Kiram is captured by authorities. Sourced photo
According to a police report, Saad Samad Kiram, 36, was captured by authorities at around 7 am on Thursday after he approached a Tubigon, Bohol resident. The resident said Kiram was asking for clothes and food.
The Tubigon resident allowed Kiram inside his home while he reported the alleged Abu Sayyaf member's presence to local authorities.
"Weakened by hunger and exhaustion, [Kiram] was easily subdued by the arresting team," local police and military said in a statement.
According to a police report, recovered from Kiram's posession were a caliber .45 pistol, two magazines with 12 rounds of ammunition, a hand grenade, a cellphone, and personal belongings.
Kiram is allegedly among the Abu Sayyaf members who traveled via pump boat from Sulu in Mindanao to Inabanga in Bohol. On April 11, police and military launched operations against the group, which had supposedly intended to kidnap tourists during the Holy Week break.
"When asked, [Kiram] volunteered valuable information about their plan, composition, and capabilities. His revelations confirm the dissolution of the threat in the province of Bohol," local police and military said.
At least 9 Abu Sayyaf members have since been killed in operations in the province, including the Bohol native who supposedly led the kidnap plan there.
Another alleged Abu Sayyaf member, Ren-ren Dongon, and his wife, Superintendent Maria Cristina Nobleza, were arrested by authorities late April after they tried to evade a checkpoint during a military encounter in Clarin, Bohol.
Nobleza, who was once assigned to handle anti-terrorism efforts, had apparently married Dongon, brother-in-law to several top terrorists. Dongon and Nobleza were apparently trying to bring medicine and eventually, rescue Kiram. (READ: How a cop and an alleged terrorist 'let the love begin')
http://www.rappler.com/nation/168856-abu-sayyaf-member-captured-bohol
(UPDATED) Saad Samad Kiram is captured by authorities in Tubigon, Bohol on Thursday morning
Another suspected member of the Abu Sayyaf, the same one a police officer allegedly tried to rescue, was captured by local military, police, and government forces on Thursday, May 4.
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Central Command chief Lieutenant General Oscar Lactao confirmed the news to Rappler.
LOCAL HELP. Thanks to the help of Tubigon locals, alleged Abu Sayyaf member Saad Samad Kiram is captured by authorities. Sourced photo
According to a police report, Saad Samad Kiram, 36, was captured by authorities at around 7 am on Thursday after he approached a Tubigon, Bohol resident. The resident said Kiram was asking for clothes and food.
The Tubigon resident allowed Kiram inside his home while he reported the alleged Abu Sayyaf member's presence to local authorities.
"Weakened by hunger and exhaustion, [Kiram] was easily subdued by the arresting team," local police and military said in a statement.
According to a police report, recovered from Kiram's posession were a caliber .45 pistol, two magazines with 12 rounds of ammunition, a hand grenade, a cellphone, and personal belongings.
Kiram is allegedly among the Abu Sayyaf members who traveled via pump boat from Sulu in Mindanao to Inabanga in Bohol. On April 11, police and military launched operations against the group, which had supposedly intended to kidnap tourists during the Holy Week break.
"When asked, [Kiram] volunteered valuable information about their plan, composition, and capabilities. His revelations confirm the dissolution of the threat in the province of Bohol," local police and military said.
At least 9 Abu Sayyaf members have since been killed in operations in the province, including the Bohol native who supposedly led the kidnap plan there.
Another alleged Abu Sayyaf member, Ren-ren Dongon, and his wife, Superintendent Maria Cristina Nobleza, were arrested by authorities late April after they tried to evade a checkpoint during a military encounter in Clarin, Bohol.
Nobleza, who was once assigned to handle anti-terrorism efforts, had apparently married Dongon, brother-in-law to several top terrorists. Dongon and Nobleza were apparently trying to bring medicine and eventually, rescue Kiram. (READ: How a cop and an alleged terrorist 'let the love begin')
http://www.rappler.com/nation/168856-abu-sayyaf-member-captured-bohol
IN PHOTOS: PH Coast Guard off to Benham Rise for maritime security check
From Rappler (May 4): IN PHOTOS: PH Coast Guard off to Benham Rise for maritime security check
The operation will monitor the Joint Fisheries Research activity in the waters near Aurora, and which the UN declared as part of the Philippines' continental shelf
BRP Malapascua (MRRV-4403), together with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (MCS-3001), departed the headquarters of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Wednesday, May 3, to conduct maritime security operations at the vicinity waters of Benham Rise.
Benham Rise is a 13-million-hectare underwater plateau located near Aurora. (READ: Fast Facts: What you should know about Benham Rise)
The operation aims to monitor the Joint Fisheries Research activity in the said waters.
In 2009, the Philippines claimed Benham Rise as part of its continental shelf in a claim lodged with the United Nations Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf.
This claim was approved under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea in 2012.
Marine experts say Benham Rise is about 2,000 to 5,000 meters deep, and is rich in natural gas and other resources.
MRRV 4403 BRP Malapascua is under the helm of Commander Gary Dale Timotea of the PCG, while MCS 3001 is skippered by Captain Luisito Sibayan.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/168897-pcg-maritime-security-operations-benham-rise
The operation will monitor the Joint Fisheries Research activity in the waters near Aurora, and which the UN declared as part of the Philippines' continental shelf
BRP Malapascua (MRRV-4403), together with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (MCS-3001), departed the headquarters of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Wednesday, May 3, to conduct maritime security operations at the vicinity waters of Benham Rise.
Benham Rise is a 13-million-hectare underwater plateau located near Aurora. (READ: Fast Facts: What you should know about Benham Rise)
The operation aims to monitor the Joint Fisheries Research activity in the said waters.
This claim was approved under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea in 2012.
Marine experts say Benham Rise is about 2,000 to 5,000 meters deep, and is rich in natural gas and other resources.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/168897-pcg-maritime-security-operations-benham-rise
NDFP orders indemnification of fish vendor hurt in NPA hit
From the Mindanao Times (May 4): NDFP orders indemnification of fish vendor hurt in NPA hit
THE NATIONAL Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) has ordered the payment of damages to the family of fish vendor Larry T. Buenafe, who was hurt during the April 29 attack on a Lapanday-owned box plant in Barangay Mandug, Buhangin District.
The regional council of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines-Southern Mindanao Region ordered the indemnification of Buenafe in a statement sent May 2.
The regional council of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines-Southern Mindanao Region ordered the indemnification of Buenafe in a statement sent May 2.
Buenafe during the attack by the 1st Pulang Bagani Battalion-New People’s Army Southern Mindanao against the Lorenzo-owned Lapanday Foods Corp. (LFC).
“The NDF hereby requests Third Party Facilitators from the church people, medical practitioners, civil libertarians and other advocates to expedite the public dispensation of indemnification the soonest possible time in Davao City,” NDFP southern Mindanao region spokesperson Rubi del Mundo said.
“The 1st PBB reported that a team of its red fighters carried out the demolition action against the reinforcing troops of Task Force Davao in Brgy. Tigatto after the NPA unit assaulted the LFC box and plastic plants in nearby Brgy. Mandug,” del Mundo said.
“The blaster-operator saw that Mr. Buenafe was far from the target military vehicle and proceeded to detonate the explosives. The shock waves and splinter, however, hit and injured him.”
Del Mundo relayed the organization’s apologies to the family of Buenafe.
“The NDF hereby requests Third Party Facilitators from the church people, medical practitioners, civil libertarians and other advocates to expedite the public dispensation of indemnification the soonest possible time in Davao City,” NDFP southern Mindanao region spokesperson Rubi del Mundo said.
“The 1st PBB reported that a team of its red fighters carried out the demolition action against the reinforcing troops of Task Force Davao in Brgy. Tigatto after the NPA unit assaulted the LFC box and plastic plants in nearby Brgy. Mandug,” del Mundo said.
“The blaster-operator saw that Mr. Buenafe was far from the target military vehicle and proceeded to detonate the explosives. The shock waves and splinter, however, hit and injured him.”
Del Mundo relayed the organization’s apologies to the family of Buenafe.
“The NDF-SMR deeply apologizes to the family of Mr. Buenafe and to the public for this occurrence,” del Mundo said.
In a statement, Lapanday said the damage to the box plant alone was already worth P2 billion, with around 130 workers directly affected by the incident.
Around 100 are direct employees of Lapanday, while 30 others were contractuals.
At least five homes inside the Rice Mill compound were razed during the incident, with around seven families affected by the incident.
The City Social Services and Development Office is taking care of the families who were affected.
Earlier this week, both Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio and Vice Mayor Paolo Duterte called out the actions of the NPA for injuring a member of the sector the rebels supposedly represented.
However, Mayor Duterte said that local peace talks were still among the options if the rebel group was willing.
In a statement, Lapanday said the damage to the box plant alone was already worth P2 billion, with around 130 workers directly affected by the incident.
Around 100 are direct employees of Lapanday, while 30 others were contractuals.
At least five homes inside the Rice Mill compound were razed during the incident, with around seven families affected by the incident.
The City Social Services and Development Office is taking care of the families who were affected.
Earlier this week, both Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio and Vice Mayor Paolo Duterte called out the actions of the NPA for injuring a member of the sector the rebels supposedly represented.
However, Mayor Duterte said that local peace talks were still among the options if the rebel group was willing.
Slain suspect was a member of Abu Sayyaf group: police
From the Mindanao Times (May 4): Slain suspect was a member of Abu Sayyaf group: police
AUTHORITIES yesterday confirmed that the slain alleged terrorist last May 2 was an active member of the Abu Sayyaf group.
City police spokesperson, Sr. Insp. Maria Theresita Gaspan, told reporters yesterday during the AFP-PNP press conference held at Royal Mandaya hotel that the Intelligence Division confirmed the identity of the suspect who went by the name alias Bin Laden.
“However, we could not determine his identity as of now because no family has come forward to claim the body in the funeral parlor,” Gaspan said.
The suspect was said to have transported components of improvised explosive device (IED) into the city but was intercepted at checkpoint while on board a motorcycle along with another passenger. He was killed in a shootout with authorities around 3 a.m. on May 2 in Barangay Magtuod, Talomo District. A .38 revolver and grenade were recovered from his possession.
Gaspan said they are still conducting follow-up investigation if the attempt of the suspect to enter the city is related to the arrest of Supt. Maria Christina Nobleza, the police officer who allegedly tried to help her terrorist boyfriend evade authorities in Clarin, Bohol.
But she quickly added that they received information about members of the Abu Sayyaf group who will enter Davao City. These members were identified as Saqdat, Omar and Bin Laden. The slain suspect was accompanied by two others who managed to escape.
“However, we could not determine his identity as of now because no family has come forward to claim the body in the funeral parlor,” Gaspan said.
The suspect was said to have transported components of improvised explosive device (IED) into the city but was intercepted at checkpoint while on board a motorcycle along with another passenger. He was killed in a shootout with authorities around 3 a.m. on May 2 in Barangay Magtuod, Talomo District. A .38 revolver and grenade were recovered from his possession.
Gaspan said they are still conducting follow-up investigation if the attempt of the suspect to enter the city is related to the arrest of Supt. Maria Christina Nobleza, the police officer who allegedly tried to help her terrorist boyfriend evade authorities in Clarin, Bohol.
But she quickly added that they received information about members of the Abu Sayyaf group who will enter Davao City. These members were identified as Saqdat, Omar and Bin Laden. The slain suspect was accompanied by two others who managed to escape.
She said the successful operation was “a consequence of our intensified intelligence monitoring and the information gathering from other intelligence community.”
Meanwhile, Benito De Leon, chief of the Public Safety and Security Command Center (PSSCC), said they could not yet draw conclusions about the latest incident, specifically on whether or not Davao City is the target of Abu Sayyaf.
“Although the threats are there, and our police and military have been preparing for everything,” he said, adding that the intelligence community is also continuously monitoring internal and external threats.
Meanwhile, Capt. Rhyan Batchar, spokesperson of 10th Infantry Division, said that the terrorist group is always seeking to take advantage of any gaps in security mechanisms of the city. “The bottom line is how fast the security forces can react, of course, with the help of the community,” he added.
Meanwhile, Benito De Leon, chief of the Public Safety and Security Command Center (PSSCC), said they could not yet draw conclusions about the latest incident, specifically on whether or not Davao City is the target of Abu Sayyaf.
“Although the threats are there, and our police and military have been preparing for everything,” he said, adding that the intelligence community is also continuously monitoring internal and external threats.
Meanwhile, Capt. Rhyan Batchar, spokesperson of 10th Infantry Division, said that the terrorist group is always seeking to take advantage of any gaps in security mechanisms of the city. “The bottom line is how fast the security forces can react, of course, with the help of the community,” he added.
City on lockdown after rebel attack, slay of alleged terrorist
From the Mindanao Times (May 4): City on lockdown after rebel attack, slay of alleged terrorist
THE POLICE and military yesterday said they are strengthening security measures to prevent a repeat of what happened this past Saturday when New People’s Army torched equipment and structures of Lapanday.
Speaking in yesterday’s AFP-PNP press conference held at Royal Mandaya hotel, Benito De Leon, the chief of Public Safety and Security Command Center (PSSCC) , said the city has already crafted a new security plan .
“The military and police have already executed it like the redeployment of forces, augmentation of forces and you will note that part of it is additional personnel,” De Leon said.
“We review our security protocols continuously to find the gaps, and fill those (gaps),” he added, explaining that Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio has already given them the authority to put the city on lockdown.
The mayor wants an extensive security plan that will involve not only the law enforcement agencies, but also other stakeholders as well in order to “build resilient communities,” and not just focus on the security aspect.
“Like in the plantation, we can to involve them in coming up with appropriate security structures, and even their personnel have even tied up with us already,” De Leon said.
By involving the communities, the military and police can strengthen their reporting mechanisms coming from the communities themselves.
“The military and police have already executed it like the redeployment of forces, augmentation of forces and you will note that part of it is additional personnel,” De Leon said.
“We review our security protocols continuously to find the gaps, and fill those (gaps),” he added, explaining that Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio has already given them the authority to put the city on lockdown.
The mayor wants an extensive security plan that will involve not only the law enforcement agencies, but also other stakeholders as well in order to “build resilient communities,” and not just focus on the security aspect.
“Like in the plantation, we can to involve them in coming up with appropriate security structures, and even their personnel have even tied up with us already,” De Leon said.
By involving the communities, the military and police can strengthen their reporting mechanisms coming from the communities themselves.
De Leon said they will also help the companies to I improve their facilities in terms of security measures to resist any attacks.
The private security of plantations and businesses that are vulnerable to attacks will be retrained on firearm handling and security tactics.
Capt. Rhyan Batchar, spokesperson of 10th Infantry Division, said that they are still waiting for the result of joint briefing of military and police officials for additional deployment of troops in the city.
“These bad elements are always seeking gaps where they can take advantage,” he said. “We are already strengthening our security measures with the help of the Police.”
He also cited the recovery of the improvised explosive device on Tuesday in Barangay Malagos as a foiled attempt of the armed group.
The private security of plantations and businesses that are vulnerable to attacks will be retrained on firearm handling and security tactics.
Capt. Rhyan Batchar, spokesperson of 10th Infantry Division, said that they are still waiting for the result of joint briefing of military and police officials for additional deployment of troops in the city.
“These bad elements are always seeking gaps where they can take advantage,” he said. “We are already strengthening our security measures with the help of the Police.”
He also cited the recovery of the improvised explosive device on Tuesday in Barangay Malagos as a foiled attempt of the armed group.
“It is another attempt of the lawless elements to conduct another atrocity here in the city but a civilian gave information to recover the items,” he said. “Even very little information is vital.”
Cop killed in Maguindanao province
From the Mindanao Examiner (May 4): Cop killed in Maguindanao province
Motorcycle gunmen shot dead a police officer in a broad daylight attack in the troubled province of Maguindanao in southern Philippines, officials said Thursday.
Officials said PO2 Jonald Clarino was driving his motorcycle when the assailants, who were tailing him, shot him repeatedly in the village of Simuay around 1.30 p.m. on Wednesday.
The 24-year old policeman, assigned with the 15th Regional Public Safety Battalion, was killed on the spot, according to Inspector Razul Pandulo, a spokesman for the provincial police force.
No individual or group claimed responsibility for the murder.
Gun attacks and killings are not uncommon in Maguindanao, one of 5 provinces under the Muslim autonomous region. Police said it is investigating the killing.
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/cop-killed-in-maguindanao-province/
Motorcycle gunmen shot dead a police officer in a broad daylight attack in the troubled province of Maguindanao in southern Philippines, officials said Thursday.
Officials said PO2 Jonald Clarino was driving his motorcycle when the assailants, who were tailing him, shot him repeatedly in the village of Simuay around 1.30 p.m. on Wednesday.
The 24-year old policeman, assigned with the 15th Regional Public Safety Battalion, was killed on the spot, according to Inspector Razul Pandulo, a spokesman for the provincial police force.
No individual or group claimed responsibility for the murder.
Gun attacks and killings are not uncommon in Maguindanao, one of 5 provinces under the Muslim autonomous region. Police said it is investigating the killing.
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/cop-killed-in-maguindanao-province/
Sultan Kudarat coastal towns get P39.5 M DSWD Kalahi-CIDSS projects
From the Philippine Information Agency (May 4): Sultan Kudarat coastal towns get P39.5 M DSWD Kalahi-CIDSS projects
Dahil sa layo ng aming lugar sa bayan, hindi na umabot ng buhay ang aking isang anak habang papunta kami sa pinakamalapit na ospital dahil sa sakit na diarrhea,” says Aurelio C. Candado, 56, a resident of Barangay Villamonte, Lebak, Sultan Kudarat. (Because our village is far from the town proper, I lost my child while on our way to the nearest hospital.)
Villamonte is located in the northeastern part of town, which is 42 kilometers from the town proper and considered as the farthest and hardest-to-reach village among 27 barangays of Lebak.
Aggravating the situation of Candado and the rest of the villagers of Villamonte, is the fact that they need a huge amount for vehicle rental -- ranging from P6, 000 to P7, 000 -- to bring a person who needs immediate medical care to the nearest hospital.
The struggles of Villamonte’s villagers will soon to be a thing in the past after their proposed one unit rescue vehicle with amenities amounting to P1.35 million was chosen as one of prioritized projects during the town’s recent municipal inter-barangay forum (MIBF) conducted under DSWD-Kalahi-CIDSS Program in towns of Lebak and Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat.
MIBF is a prioritization process employed by DSWD Kalahi-CIDSS in which instead of local officials that determine which villages will avail the funds and projects; it is given in the hands of ordinary people of barangays.
Other community projects that will be funded under the Program in Lebak town include garbage compactor truck of Poblacion III (P.62 M), T-breakwater inTibpuan (P4.24 M), health centers of Christiannuevo (P1.2 M) and Bolebak (P1.57 M) and an evacuation center in Barurao 1 (P1.87 M).
Village of Poloy-Poloy will also soon have rescue vehicle (P1.35M), solar street lights for Pasandalan (P2.22 M) and Pansud (P1.71 M) while Purikay villagers will soon have water refilling station (P1.31 M) and water system for Nuling amounting to P502,000.
Pearly Santillana, the town’s area coordinator said that these projects, which are in far-flung communities , are considered to be most pressing needs with the total amount of P20.65 million.
“We hope that these projects will address the struggles of villagers and be the vehicles to access other government services and programs,” Santillana said.
Meanwhile, Genelyn Concemino, the town’s program area coordinator in Kalamansig said that some P18.85 million of community projects will be benefited by 11 villages under DSWD Kalahi-CIDSS Program.
Concemino said that villagers of Santa Maria will soon have training center with amenities (P2.10 M), a rescue vehicle with amenities (P1.34 M) for Hinalaan, while darkness will soon to be thing in the past for villagers of Obial and Cadiz with solar street lights amounting to P1.69 M and P1.68 M, respectively.
Solar driers will also be constructed in villages of Datu Wasay (P2.05 million) and Sangay (P2.95 M), birthing clinic in Limulan (P1.49 M), sanitary toilets and pitcher pumps in Dumanggas Nuevo (P1.47 M), and nutrition health posts with amenities in Datu Ito Andong (P1.29 M).
Concemino added that villagers of Nalilidan and Santa Clara will have potable water system amounting to P1.44 M and 1.30 M, respectively.
Kalahi-CIDSS, which stands for Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-A Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services, is a national community-driven development program of DSWD in partnership with the local government units.
The program aims to bring together different stakeholders so that grassroots communities work cohesively and transparently to move toward progress, leaving no one behind in terms of development.
Like in Candado village, their long-awaited rescue vehicle has finally come into reality. At the least, he hopes that no more father to feel the excruciating pain he experienced because of the absence or lack of government project to help them.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1611493860620/sultan-kudarat-coastal-towns-get-p39-5-m-dswd-kalahi-cidss-projects
Dahil sa layo ng aming lugar sa bayan, hindi na umabot ng buhay ang aking isang anak habang papunta kami sa pinakamalapit na ospital dahil sa sakit na diarrhea,” says Aurelio C. Candado, 56, a resident of Barangay Villamonte, Lebak, Sultan Kudarat. (Because our village is far from the town proper, I lost my child while on our way to the nearest hospital.)
Villamonte is located in the northeastern part of town, which is 42 kilometers from the town proper and considered as the farthest and hardest-to-reach village among 27 barangays of Lebak.
Aggravating the situation of Candado and the rest of the villagers of Villamonte, is the fact that they need a huge amount for vehicle rental -- ranging from P6, 000 to P7, 000 -- to bring a person who needs immediate medical care to the nearest hospital.
The struggles of Villamonte’s villagers will soon to be a thing in the past after their proposed one unit rescue vehicle with amenities amounting to P1.35 million was chosen as one of prioritized projects during the town’s recent municipal inter-barangay forum (MIBF) conducted under DSWD-Kalahi-CIDSS Program in towns of Lebak and Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat.
MIBF is a prioritization process employed by DSWD Kalahi-CIDSS in which instead of local officials that determine which villages will avail the funds and projects; it is given in the hands of ordinary people of barangays.
Other community projects that will be funded under the Program in Lebak town include garbage compactor truck of Poblacion III (P.62 M), T-breakwater inTibpuan (P4.24 M), health centers of Christiannuevo (P1.2 M) and Bolebak (P1.57 M) and an evacuation center in Barurao 1 (P1.87 M).
Village of Poloy-Poloy will also soon have rescue vehicle (P1.35M), solar street lights for Pasandalan (P2.22 M) and Pansud (P1.71 M) while Purikay villagers will soon have water refilling station (P1.31 M) and water system for Nuling amounting to P502,000.
Pearly Santillana, the town’s area coordinator said that these projects, which are in far-flung communities , are considered to be most pressing needs with the total amount of P20.65 million.
“We hope that these projects will address the struggles of villagers and be the vehicles to access other government services and programs,” Santillana said.
Meanwhile, Genelyn Concemino, the town’s program area coordinator in Kalamansig said that some P18.85 million of community projects will be benefited by 11 villages under DSWD Kalahi-CIDSS Program.
Concemino said that villagers of Santa Maria will soon have training center with amenities (P2.10 M), a rescue vehicle with amenities (P1.34 M) for Hinalaan, while darkness will soon to be thing in the past for villagers of Obial and Cadiz with solar street lights amounting to P1.69 M and P1.68 M, respectively.
Solar driers will also be constructed in villages of Datu Wasay (P2.05 million) and Sangay (P2.95 M), birthing clinic in Limulan (P1.49 M), sanitary toilets and pitcher pumps in Dumanggas Nuevo (P1.47 M), and nutrition health posts with amenities in Datu Ito Andong (P1.29 M).
Concemino added that villagers of Nalilidan and Santa Clara will have potable water system amounting to P1.44 M and 1.30 M, respectively.
Kalahi-CIDSS, which stands for Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-A Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services, is a national community-driven development program of DSWD in partnership with the local government units.
The program aims to bring together different stakeholders so that grassroots communities work cohesively and transparently to move toward progress, leaving no one behind in terms of development.
Like in Candado village, their long-awaited rescue vehicle has finally come into reality. At the least, he hopes that no more father to feel the excruciating pain he experienced because of the absence or lack of government project to help them.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1611493860620/sultan-kudarat-coastal-towns-get-p39-5-m-dswd-kalahi-cidss-projects
NPA attack incurs P2-billion losses, hundreds of workers displaced
From the Philippine Information Agency (May 4): NPA attack incurs P2-billion losses, hundreds of workers displaced
The New People’s Army attack last April 29 on Lapanday’s box and manufacturing plant in Mandug destroyed about P2-billion worth of investment and displaced 700 to 1000 workers.
The rebels simultaneously attacked the box and plastic plant in Mandug, the Lapanday ranch in Calinan and the Macondray Plastic Plant in Bunawan.
In a press conference held by the company last May 3, Manolito Dangatan chief financial officer of Lapanday Foods Corporation said the destroyed facilities was the company’s biggest investment in Davao City and will take two to three years to rebuild the plant.
The boxing plant has about 20,000 square meters of floor area and is said to cost P1.5-biliion to P2-billion.
Dangatan said the company has contributed P600-million to various stakeholders for the last five years, including P130-million to its employees.
“It’s really unfortunate that this investment in Davao City will suffer in this damage,” Dangatan said.
“The fact that they become jobless, this made it more difficult for them now, give that in a next couple of weeks school time opens.” Says Hernani Geronimo strategic and shared human resource services officer of Lapanday.
“We will do everything we can to help cushion the impact as we have done in other instances where calamities have struck we were there to provide not just to the workers but also the community.” Geronimo added.
Meanwhile the City Government of Davao has promised aid to the displaced workers like providing skills training to the employees. The Davao City Police Office had also distributed relief goods to the families of affected workers.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1541493885655/npa-attack-incurs-p2-billion-losses-hundreds-of-workers-displaced
The New People’s Army attack last April 29 on Lapanday’s box and manufacturing plant in Mandug destroyed about P2-billion worth of investment and displaced 700 to 1000 workers.
The rebels simultaneously attacked the box and plastic plant in Mandug, the Lapanday ranch in Calinan and the Macondray Plastic Plant in Bunawan.
In a press conference held by the company last May 3, Manolito Dangatan chief financial officer of Lapanday Foods Corporation said the destroyed facilities was the company’s biggest investment in Davao City and will take two to three years to rebuild the plant.
The boxing plant has about 20,000 square meters of floor area and is said to cost P1.5-biliion to P2-billion.
Dangatan said the company has contributed P600-million to various stakeholders for the last five years, including P130-million to its employees.
“It’s really unfortunate that this investment in Davao City will suffer in this damage,” Dangatan said.
“The fact that they become jobless, this made it more difficult for them now, give that in a next couple of weeks school time opens.” Says Hernani Geronimo strategic and shared human resource services officer of Lapanday.
“We will do everything we can to help cushion the impact as we have done in other instances where calamities have struck we were there to provide not just to the workers but also the community.” Geronimo added.
Meanwhile the City Government of Davao has promised aid to the displaced workers like providing skills training to the employees. The Davao City Police Office had also distributed relief goods to the families of affected workers.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1541493885655/npa-attack-incurs-p2-billion-losses-hundreds-of-workers-displaced
Free tuli benefits 107 boys in SurSur town
From the Philippine Information Agency (May 4): Free tuli benefits 107 boys in SurSur town
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – One hundred seven (107) school-aged boys benefited a free circumcision dubbed "summer operation tuli" held on Tuesday at the Cagwait Elementary School in Cagwait town of this province.
According to 36th Infantry Battalion spokesperson Captain Al Anthony Pueblas, aside from circumcision, other services such as shoe repair and haircut were also offered to the local residents.
Pueblas said the activity was aimed to cater to the physical needs and holistic development of school-aged boys.
Pueblas added that it was realized thru the sponsorship of the Cagwait Teachers and Employees Cooperative (CAGTEC) in collaboration with the 402nd Brigade and the 36th Infantry Battalion, Phil. Army.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1741493854742/free-tuli-benefits-107-boys-in-sursur-town
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur – One hundred seven (107) school-aged boys benefited a free circumcision dubbed "summer operation tuli" held on Tuesday at the Cagwait Elementary School in Cagwait town of this province.
According to 36th Infantry Battalion spokesperson Captain Al Anthony Pueblas, aside from circumcision, other services such as shoe repair and haircut were also offered to the local residents.
Pueblas said the activity was aimed to cater to the physical needs and holistic development of school-aged boys.
Pueblas added that it was realized thru the sponsorship of the Cagwait Teachers and Employees Cooperative (CAGTEC) in collaboration with the 402nd Brigade and the 36th Infantry Battalion, Phil. Army.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1741493854742/free-tuli-benefits-107-boys-in-sursur-town
U.S. Embassy, CHED renew scholarship agreement
From the Philippine Information Agency (May 4): U.S. Embassy, CHED renew scholarship agreement
The United States Embassy in the Philippines and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) recently renewed its agreement for the Fulbright-CHED Scholarship Program.
United States Ambassador to the Philippines, Ambassador Sung Kim, an honorary Philippine-American Educational Foundation Board Chairperson and CHED Chairperson Patricia Licuanan led the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) that continues the Fulbright-CHED Scholarship Program for Graduate Studies in the United States.
Fulbright-CHED Scholarships enable faculty and staff from higher education institutions to pursue masters and doctoral studies, including thesis or dissertation research, in higher education institutions in the United States.
In 2016, CHED and the Philippine-American Educational Foundation (PAEF) formally established the Fulbright-CHED Scholarship to build capacity for higher education in the Philippines and strengthen people-to-people ties between our two countries. The 2016 MOA provided scholarships for 17 faculty and staff to pursue graduate degrees in fields including Socio-Cultural Anthropology, Agricultural Education, Fisheries Technology, and Maritime Law and Policy in the United States during the 2017-2018 academic year.
The renewed MOA will offer additional graduate education scholarships to college faculty for the academic year 2018-2019.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/241493800731/u-s-embassy-ched-renew-scholarship-agreement
The United States Embassy in the Philippines and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) recently renewed its agreement for the Fulbright-CHED Scholarship Program.
United States Ambassador to the Philippines, Ambassador Sung Kim, an honorary Philippine-American Educational Foundation Board Chairperson and CHED Chairperson Patricia Licuanan led the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) that continues the Fulbright-CHED Scholarship Program for Graduate Studies in the United States.
Fulbright-CHED Scholarships enable faculty and staff from higher education institutions to pursue masters and doctoral studies, including thesis or dissertation research, in higher education institutions in the United States.
In 2016, CHED and the Philippine-American Educational Foundation (PAEF) formally established the Fulbright-CHED Scholarship to build capacity for higher education in the Philippines and strengthen people-to-people ties between our two countries. The 2016 MOA provided scholarships for 17 faculty and staff to pursue graduate degrees in fields including Socio-Cultural Anthropology, Agricultural Education, Fisheries Technology, and Maritime Law and Policy in the United States during the 2017-2018 academic year.
The renewed MOA will offer additional graduate education scholarships to college faculty for the academic year 2018-2019.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/241493800731/u-s-embassy-ched-renew-scholarship-agreement
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