From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (May 5): PAF release names of soldiers died in helicopter crash
The Philippine Air Force (PAF) released the names of soldiers who died in the helicopter crash in Sitio Hilltop, Barangay Sampaloc in Tanay, Rizal, yesterday, May 4.
The soldiers were identified as Captain Christian Paul T Litan, Pilot-in-command, 30 years old from Mataas na Kahoy, Batangas; Staff Sergeant Byron T. Tolosa, Crew Chief, 38 years old, from Barangay Villamor, Pasay City; and Airman First Class Joseph C . De Leon, gunner, 30 years old, from Lingayen, Pangasinan.
Meanwhile, first lieutenant Ceazar M. Rinas PAF the command pilot, 27 years old, from General Trias City, Cavite got injured and now in stable condition.
PAF Commanding General, LTGen. Edgar R Fallorina AFP ordered further investigation and assessment on the said incident.
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/05/05/paf-release-names-of-soldiers-died-in-helicopter-crash/
Friday, May 5, 2017
DWDD: NPA Tortures and Kills Motorcycle Driver in Bukidnon
From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (May 5): NPA Tortures and Kills Motorcycle Driver in Bukidnon
New Peoples Army (NPA) tortured and killed an innocent civilian last Wednesday, May 3, 2017, in San Fernando, Bukidnon to spread fear throughout the community and the province.
Communist Terrorists tortured and killed a motorcycle (habal-habal) driver last Wednesday at Sitio Salumayag Halapitan. The victim was a certain Aldrich Luther Agbayani, 19 years of age.
According to the police reports, the victim was found hogtied lying at the grassy portion of the said place.
The AFP condemns such acts of violence perpetrated by the NPA against the civilian populace. This cowardly act is fueled by terrorism to hasten their extortion and not ideology anymore for they have grown weak and they are now desperate. Killing one would send a message to everyone, forcing the whole community to give in to their demands. (8IB, 4ID, LT BUGARIN)
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/05/05/npa-tortures-and-kills-motorcycle-driver-in-bukidnon/
New Peoples Army (NPA) tortured and killed an innocent civilian last Wednesday, May 3, 2017, in San Fernando, Bukidnon to spread fear throughout the community and the province.
Communist Terrorists tortured and killed a motorcycle (habal-habal) driver last Wednesday at Sitio Salumayag Halapitan. The victim was a certain Aldrich Luther Agbayani, 19 years of age.
According to the police reports, the victim was found hogtied lying at the grassy portion of the said place.
The AFP condemns such acts of violence perpetrated by the NPA against the civilian populace. This cowardly act is fueled by terrorism to hasten their extortion and not ideology anymore for they have grown weak and they are now desperate. Killing one would send a message to everyone, forcing the whole community to give in to their demands. (8IB, 4ID, LT BUGARIN)
http://dwdd.com.ph/2017/05/05/npa-tortures-and-kills-motorcycle-driver-in-bukidnon/
MILF: Civil Society Organizations Call For Swift Creation Of NTJRCB
Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (May 5): Civil Society Organizations Call For Swift Creation Of NTJRCB
The conveners of the National Civil Society Platform for Transitional Justice (NCSPT) issued a statement of appeal and support for the immediate creation of National Transitional Justice and Reconciliation Commission on the Bangsamoro (NTJRCB).
In their statement, they strongly support the immediate creation of NTJRCB as recommended by the Transitional Justice and Reconciliation Commission (TJRC).
Furthermore, they said that they strongly believe that under the administration of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, who has vowed to address the historical injustice against the Bangsamoro and Mindanao, the golden opportunity of creating a more harmonious, peaceful, and inclusive Philippines have finally come.
The creation of NTJRCB is one of the recommendations of the TJRC cited in their report. The TJRC was created as part of the Normalization Annex of the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB) signed by the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
It was mandated to undertake a study and make recommendations with a view to promoting healing and reconciliation of the different communities that have been affected by the conflict in Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago.
In the TJRC report, it proposed appropriate mechanisms to address legitimate grievances of the Bangsamoro people, to correct historical injustices, to address human rights violations and marginalization through land dispossession.
It was stated in the statement that the NTJRCB is a national mechanism that shall oversee and support the operations of its four sub-commissions, ensure the implementation or adoption of the “Transitional Justice” and “Dealing with the Past” (TJ-DwP) strategies, and promote healing and reconciliation.
“We believe that this national mechanism will develop specific initiatives to address the root causes of violence and conflict in the Bangsamoro. Consequently, it will promote accountability and rule of law, prevent impunity, and guarantee that past atrocities will not recur in the future,” NCSPT conveners said in the statement.
The NCSPT conveners believed that the proposed NTJRB will pave the way for transforming harmonious relationships among the diverse peoples in Mindanao and the rest of the country who has gone through decades of enmity and animosities toward each other.
The NCSPT is compose of different CSOs coming from the different provinces and cities of Mindanao such as Maguindanao, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Basilan, Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, Tawi-Tawi, Sulu, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga Sibugay, Davao Oriental, Davao del Sur, Cotabato City, Gen. Santos City, Zamboanga City, Pagadian City and Davao City. It was formed during the TJDwP Deepening Workshop Activity facilitated by Independent Working Group on Transitional Justice-Dealing with the Past (IWG TJ-DwP) on April 23-24, 2017 held at Lispher Inn, Matina, Davao City.
http://www.luwaran.net/home/index.php/news/19-national/1174-civil-society-organizations-call-for-swift-creation-of-ntjrcb
The conveners of the National Civil Society Platform for Transitional Justice (NCSPT) issued a statement of appeal and support for the immediate creation of National Transitional Justice and Reconciliation Commission on the Bangsamoro (NTJRCB).
In their statement, they strongly support the immediate creation of NTJRCB as recommended by the Transitional Justice and Reconciliation Commission (TJRC).
Furthermore, they said that they strongly believe that under the administration of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, who has vowed to address the historical injustice against the Bangsamoro and Mindanao, the golden opportunity of creating a more harmonious, peaceful, and inclusive Philippines have finally come.
The creation of NTJRCB is one of the recommendations of the TJRC cited in their report. The TJRC was created as part of the Normalization Annex of the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB) signed by the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
It was mandated to undertake a study and make recommendations with a view to promoting healing and reconciliation of the different communities that have been affected by the conflict in Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago.
In the TJRC report, it proposed appropriate mechanisms to address legitimate grievances of the Bangsamoro people, to correct historical injustices, to address human rights violations and marginalization through land dispossession.
It was stated in the statement that the NTJRCB is a national mechanism that shall oversee and support the operations of its four sub-commissions, ensure the implementation or adoption of the “Transitional Justice” and “Dealing with the Past” (TJ-DwP) strategies, and promote healing and reconciliation.
“We believe that this national mechanism will develop specific initiatives to address the root causes of violence and conflict in the Bangsamoro. Consequently, it will promote accountability and rule of law, prevent impunity, and guarantee that past atrocities will not recur in the future,” NCSPT conveners said in the statement.
The NCSPT conveners believed that the proposed NTJRB will pave the way for transforming harmonious relationships among the diverse peoples in Mindanao and the rest of the country who has gone through decades of enmity and animosities toward each other.
The NCSPT is compose of different CSOs coming from the different provinces and cities of Mindanao such as Maguindanao, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Basilan, Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, Tawi-Tawi, Sulu, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga Sibugay, Davao Oriental, Davao del Sur, Cotabato City, Gen. Santos City, Zamboanga City, Pagadian City and Davao City. It was formed during the TJDwP Deepening Workshop Activity facilitated by Independent Working Group on Transitional Justice-Dealing with the Past (IWG TJ-DwP) on April 23-24, 2017 held at Lispher Inn, Matina, Davao City.
http://www.luwaran.net/home/index.php/news/19-national/1174-civil-society-organizations-call-for-swift-creation-of-ntjrcb
NDF: Lapanday attack an act of social justice — NDFP
Propaganda statement posted to the National Democratic Front Website (May 4): Lapanday attack an act of social justice — NDFP
NDFP Media Office
Press statement
May 4, 2017
The people deserve justice against the oppressive and exploitative practices of the local ruling classes. This was the reaction of NDFP panel chair Fidel Agcaoili to a statement by GRP panel chair Secretary Silvestre Bello III that he would confront the NDFP concerning last Saturday’s attack on Lapanday Food Corp. (LFC) in Davao City.
Agcaoili said that a statement issued on April 30 by Rigoberto Sanchez, spokesperson of the NPA Southern Mindanao Regional Operations Command has adequately explained the reasons for the punitive action against the cruel and anti-poor landlord-comprador Lorenzo clan, owner of LFC.
Agcaoili further said that the revolutionary movement stands for peace based on justice. “It abhors the extrajudicial killings of more than 51 peasants and Lumad leaders (as of 5 May 2017) under the Duterte administration, 25 of whom were killed in the Southern Mindanao Region; the continuing attacks on communities by the military, police and paramilitary forces of the regime, including the aerial and artillery bombardments of villages that have resulted in the destruction of crops and properties; as well as the harassment, surveillance and illegal arrest and detention of civilians and activists.”
“Cornered and pushed to the wall, the people have no other recourse but to resist and seek redress for their just grievances against the violence of the repressive instruments of the state that operate with impunity against the people,” Agcaoili added. “And the New People’s Army, as the army of the oppressed and exploited, metes punishment on those who harm the masses.”
In the case of Lapanday, Sanchez said that the coordinated tactical offensives at dawn on April 29 were punitive actions to hold the Lorenzo-owned companies accountable for their numerous crimes against their lowly-paid workers and against peasants and Lumad who were dispossessed of their lands.
Among the facilities attacked by the NPA was a heavily-guarded cattle ranch and banana plantation in Barangay Pangyan, Calinan district. Sanchez said the Pangyan ranch coddles criminal elements and counter-revolutionary fanatics who are employed by the despotic Lorenzo clan to protect its anti-people business interests.
Sanchez disclosed that this was the very same ranch where retired M/Sgt. Jose Manero, chief of security for Lapanday, was arrested by NPA leader Ka Parago on May 11, 2008. As a prisoner of war of the NPA, Manero divulged the company’s numerous violations of human rights, including the killing of several banana plantation workers, in its bid to ensure huge profits and the expansion of its operations.
Another facility in Mandug, Davao City attacked by the NPA last Saturday amassed its wealth from the outright exploitation and landgrabbing of many areas around the region through sheer intimidation and displacement of poor peasants and Lumad, said Sanchez. He added that Lapanday also engaged in wanton environmental plunder as communities around its plantations complain of poisoning through the company’s unrestrained use of aerial sprays and other harmful chemicals.
More recently, LFC figured in the news after its company guards blocked agrarian reform beneficiaries from claiming their land in a Lorenzo-owned plantation in Madaum, Tagum City despite an installation order by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) and the presence of police escorts. Last December, company guards also shot and wounded seven of the beneficiaries who tried to occupy the land. LFC has stubbornly defied orders from both the courts and the DAR to allow farm workers to occupy land that had already been awarded to them under the agrarian reform laws of the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP).
Agcaoili further quoted Sanchez, saying the Lapanday raid served as “just retribution” and “an act of social justice against a feudal lord and capitalist that continues to be protected by state instrumentalities, the AFP-PNP and the various Philippine governments since the 1980s.”
In a related development, Agcaoili said that the NDFP-Southern Mindanao has apologized to the family of a civilian injured during the attacks, and would provide them compensation. The NDFP-SMR explained that the civilian was positioned afar but was nonetheless injured by the shock waves and splinter from a land mine targeting reinforcing troops of Task Force Davao in Barangay Tigatto after the NPA assaulted the LFC box and plastic plants in nearby Barangay Mandug.###
Reference:
Fidel Agcaoili
NDFP Panel Chairperson
Contact No. Contact no. 0919-860-4324
https://www.ndfp.org/lapanday-attack-an-act-of-social-justice-ndfp/
NDFP Media Office
Press statement
May 4, 2017
The people deserve justice against the oppressive and exploitative practices of the local ruling classes. This was the reaction of NDFP panel chair Fidel Agcaoili to a statement by GRP panel chair Secretary Silvestre Bello III that he would confront the NDFP concerning last Saturday’s attack on Lapanday Food Corp. (LFC) in Davao City.
Agcaoili said that a statement issued on April 30 by Rigoberto Sanchez, spokesperson of the NPA Southern Mindanao Regional Operations Command has adequately explained the reasons for the punitive action against the cruel and anti-poor landlord-comprador Lorenzo clan, owner of LFC.
Agcaoili further said that the revolutionary movement stands for peace based on justice. “It abhors the extrajudicial killings of more than 51 peasants and Lumad leaders (as of 5 May 2017) under the Duterte administration, 25 of whom were killed in the Southern Mindanao Region; the continuing attacks on communities by the military, police and paramilitary forces of the regime, including the aerial and artillery bombardments of villages that have resulted in the destruction of crops and properties; as well as the harassment, surveillance and illegal arrest and detention of civilians and activists.”
“Cornered and pushed to the wall, the people have no other recourse but to resist and seek redress for their just grievances against the violence of the repressive instruments of the state that operate with impunity against the people,” Agcaoili added. “And the New People’s Army, as the army of the oppressed and exploited, metes punishment on those who harm the masses.”
In the case of Lapanday, Sanchez said that the coordinated tactical offensives at dawn on April 29 were punitive actions to hold the Lorenzo-owned companies accountable for their numerous crimes against their lowly-paid workers and against peasants and Lumad who were dispossessed of their lands.
Among the facilities attacked by the NPA was a heavily-guarded cattle ranch and banana plantation in Barangay Pangyan, Calinan district. Sanchez said the Pangyan ranch coddles criminal elements and counter-revolutionary fanatics who are employed by the despotic Lorenzo clan to protect its anti-people business interests.
Sanchez disclosed that this was the very same ranch where retired M/Sgt. Jose Manero, chief of security for Lapanday, was arrested by NPA leader Ka Parago on May 11, 2008. As a prisoner of war of the NPA, Manero divulged the company’s numerous violations of human rights, including the killing of several banana plantation workers, in its bid to ensure huge profits and the expansion of its operations.
Another facility in Mandug, Davao City attacked by the NPA last Saturday amassed its wealth from the outright exploitation and landgrabbing of many areas around the region through sheer intimidation and displacement of poor peasants and Lumad, said Sanchez. He added that Lapanday also engaged in wanton environmental plunder as communities around its plantations complain of poisoning through the company’s unrestrained use of aerial sprays and other harmful chemicals.
More recently, LFC figured in the news after its company guards blocked agrarian reform beneficiaries from claiming their land in a Lorenzo-owned plantation in Madaum, Tagum City despite an installation order by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) and the presence of police escorts. Last December, company guards also shot and wounded seven of the beneficiaries who tried to occupy the land. LFC has stubbornly defied orders from both the courts and the DAR to allow farm workers to occupy land that had already been awarded to them under the agrarian reform laws of the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP).
Agcaoili further quoted Sanchez, saying the Lapanday raid served as “just retribution” and “an act of social justice against a feudal lord and capitalist that continues to be protected by state instrumentalities, the AFP-PNP and the various Philippine governments since the 1980s.”
In a related development, Agcaoili said that the NDFP-Southern Mindanao has apologized to the family of a civilian injured during the attacks, and would provide them compensation. The NDFP-SMR explained that the civilian was positioned afar but was nonetheless injured by the shock waves and splinter from a land mine targeting reinforcing troops of Task Force Davao in Barangay Tigatto after the NPA assaulted the LFC box and plastic plants in nearby Barangay Mandug.###
Reference:
Fidel Agcaoili
NDFP Panel Chairperson
Contact No. Contact no. 0919-860-4324
https://www.ndfp.org/lapanday-attack-an-act-of-social-justice-ndfp/
CPP: Celebrate Karl Marx’s 200th birth anniversary on May 5, 2018
Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines Website (May 5):
Celebrate Karl Marx’s 200th birth anniversary on May 5, 2018
Communist Party of the Philippines
5 May 2017
Workers of the whole world commemorate today the 199th birthday of Karl Marx, great teacher and communist leader. Today, the Communist Party of the Philippines calls on all Filipino workers to start a year-long commemoration and celebration of Marx’s 200th birthday on May 5, 2018.
The whole revolutionary movement must salute Karl Marx’ and Marxism’s great role in history and in the continuing world struggle for the emancipation of the proletariat and the entire humanity.
Use this celebration as an opportunity to study Marxism and use this to examine the country’s and the world’s present conditions and crises. Reproduce baooks, articles and other readings by Marx, likewise those of other great communist teachers who developed Marxism.
Regularly hold seminars, classes and discussions to study Marxism. Apply Marxism creatively to investigate, research and analyze the present national and world situation, sum up experiences and lay down the tasks of the working class in advancing socialist revolution across different parts of the world.
This celebration is of great relevance to the working class. This is an opportunity to raise the torch of Marxism in order to bring to light and extricate the roots one of the world capitalist system’s worst and longest crisis and the continuing decay of semicolonial and semifeudal countries such as the Philippines.
Marx is the most important teacher of the working class. He created the Marxist theory that shook the foundations of the capitalist world and initiated a new epoch in revolutionary history. He gave birth to materialist dialectics and used this to study history and follow the development of social systems and the history of class struggle. He studied the foundation of the capitalist system and provided a scientific basis to the proletariat’s aspiration for freedom from capitalist exploitation.
In his time, Marx participated in arousing, organizing and advancing the workers movement in different countries in Europe. While in Belgium, he helped found the Communist League in 1847. Because of his revolutionary activities, Marx became one of the most hated by the bourgeoisie. Governments–Germany, Belgium at France–deported him from their territories. On the other hand, he was beloved and revered by millions of revolutionary fellow workers–from the mines of Siberia to California, in all parts of Europe and America.
Marx declared in 1845: “philosophers have hitherto tried to interpret the world. The point, however, is to change it.” Despite persecution by different states, Marx founded the International Workingmen’s Association (the First Internationale) in 1864 that made way for an unprecedented growth in breadth and strength in all countries of the world and the creation of socialist labor parties in individual national states.
The Communist Manifesto which he co-wrote with Frederick Engels in 1848 became the guide of communist movements all over the world. The Manifesto outlined the world– historic role of the proletariat as creators of the new communist society. It was here that he first declared the now-famous call: “Workers of all countries, unite! You have nothing to lose but your chains!”
https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statements/20170505-celebrate-karl-marxs-200th-birth-anniversary-on-may-5-2018
Celebrate Karl Marx’s 200th birth anniversary on May 5, 2018
Communist Party of the Philippines
5 May 2017
Workers of the whole world commemorate today the 199th birthday of Karl Marx, great teacher and communist leader. Today, the Communist Party of the Philippines calls on all Filipino workers to start a year-long commemoration and celebration of Marx’s 200th birthday on May 5, 2018.
The whole revolutionary movement must salute Karl Marx’ and Marxism’s great role in history and in the continuing world struggle for the emancipation of the proletariat and the entire humanity.
Use this celebration as an opportunity to study Marxism and use this to examine the country’s and the world’s present conditions and crises. Reproduce baooks, articles and other readings by Marx, likewise those of other great communist teachers who developed Marxism.
Regularly hold seminars, classes and discussions to study Marxism. Apply Marxism creatively to investigate, research and analyze the present national and world situation, sum up experiences and lay down the tasks of the working class in advancing socialist revolution across different parts of the world.
This celebration is of great relevance to the working class. This is an opportunity to raise the torch of Marxism in order to bring to light and extricate the roots one of the world capitalist system’s worst and longest crisis and the continuing decay of semicolonial and semifeudal countries such as the Philippines.
Marx is the most important teacher of the working class. He created the Marxist theory that shook the foundations of the capitalist world and initiated a new epoch in revolutionary history. He gave birth to materialist dialectics and used this to study history and follow the development of social systems and the history of class struggle. He studied the foundation of the capitalist system and provided a scientific basis to the proletariat’s aspiration for freedom from capitalist exploitation.
In his time, Marx participated in arousing, organizing and advancing the workers movement in different countries in Europe. While in Belgium, he helped found the Communist League in 1847. Because of his revolutionary activities, Marx became one of the most hated by the bourgeoisie. Governments–Germany, Belgium at France–deported him from their territories. On the other hand, he was beloved and revered by millions of revolutionary fellow workers–from the mines of Siberia to California, in all parts of Europe and America.
Marx declared in 1845: “philosophers have hitherto tried to interpret the world. The point, however, is to change it.” Despite persecution by different states, Marx founded the International Workingmen’s Association (the First Internationale) in 1864 that made way for an unprecedented growth in breadth and strength in all countries of the world and the creation of socialist labor parties in individual national states.
The Communist Manifesto which he co-wrote with Frederick Engels in 1848 became the guide of communist movements all over the world. The Manifesto outlined the world– historic role of the proletariat as creators of the new communist society. It was here that he first declared the now-famous call: “Workers of all countries, unite! You have nothing to lose but your chains!”
https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statements/20170505-celebrate-karl-marxs-200th-birth-anniversary-on-may-5-2018
Female NPA left behind by comrades, captured
From Update Philippines (May 5): Female NPA left behind by comrades, captured
A female political guide and medic of the NPA’s Section Committee (SECOM) 27, Divina Canoy, was captured during a joint police-military operation at Brgy Mainit, Nabunturan, Compostela Valley Province at around 9 pm Thursday, May 4.
Police and military operatives conducted the operation during NPA Special Partisan Unit (SPARU) meeting.
“Canoy was left behind by her comrades who scampered when the soldiers and police arrived at their meeting place,” the 10th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army said.
In Canoy’s possession when she was apprehended are two M16 Armalite Rifles, an M4 Rifle, a Carbine Rifle, an improvised explosive device (IED), 30 kgs of cut 10mm round bars used as IED shrapnels, electrical wires and several subversive documents.
She was immediately turned-over to Nabunturan Police Station for filing of appropriate charges, 10ID said.
“The arrest and recovery of NPA war materiel show that ultimately the long arms of the law will catch up with these communist terrorists,” 10ID commander Major General Rafael Valencia said.
http://www.update.ph/2017/05/female-npa-left-behind-by-comrades-captured/17185
A female political guide and medic of the NPA’s Section Committee (SECOM) 27, Divina Canoy, was captured during a joint police-military operation at Brgy Mainit, Nabunturan, Compostela Valley Province at around 9 pm Thursday, May 4.
Police and military operatives conducted the operation during NPA Special Partisan Unit (SPARU) meeting.
“Canoy was left behind by her comrades who scampered when the soldiers and police arrived at their meeting place,” the 10th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army said.
In Canoy’s possession when she was apprehended are two M16 Armalite Rifles, an M4 Rifle, a Carbine Rifle, an improvised explosive device (IED), 30 kgs of cut 10mm round bars used as IED shrapnels, electrical wires and several subversive documents.
She was immediately turned-over to Nabunturan Police Station for filing of appropriate charges, 10ID said.
“The arrest and recovery of NPA war materiel show that ultimately the long arms of the law will catch up with these communist terrorists,” 10ID commander Major General Rafael Valencia said.
http://www.update.ph/2017/05/female-npa-left-behind-by-comrades-captured/17185
Tourists safe in Visayas
From the Visayas Daily Star (May 5): Tourists safe in Visayas
Tourists visiting prime tourist destination areas in the Visayas region need not worry about security, after another member of the Abu Sayyaf Group was captured yesterday by the military and police in Tubigon town, Bohol.
Maj. Gen. Jon Aying, commanding general of the Army's 3rd Infantry Division, disclosed yesterday that they have not monitored any movements of Abu Sayyaf bandits from Mindanao to Visayas, except for those they had encountered and killed in Bohol last month.
Lt. Gen. Oscar Lactao, AFP Central Command chief, alsoconfirmed yesterdaythe capture of SaadSamadKiram. His arrest yielded a.45 caliber pistol with two magazines containing 12 rounds of ammunition, and a cellular phone.
Meanwhile, Aying said they have not received reports, as of this time,that ASG have supporters or contacts in the three Visayasregions, that include the Negros Island, Western and Central Visayas, except for JoselitoMilloria, who was killed with three other ASG bandits in Clarin town, Bohol on April 22.
He also dismissed the alleged involvement of Police Supt. Superintendent Maria Cristina Nobleza with the ASG, who,with her three companions, were intercepted at a military checkpoint in Bohol, as an isolated case.
Nobleza, and RenierloDongon, a suspected ASG bomb maker, who were on board a pick-up vehicle, were arrested April 29 when they tried to evade a military checkpoint laid out by government troops at the height of the pursuit operations that led to the death of four ASG bandits in Clarin town.
Milloria and the three others killed in Clarin town were remnants of a group of Sulu-based ASG bandits led by Abu Rami who sailed to Inabanga town in Bohol to join ASG sympathizers, who eventually died in the initial skirmish with government troops, whohad been alerted by civilians about the arrival of armed men on board three motorboats in the coastal town of Inabanga.
Aying said he believes that Nobleza has links to the ASG, and also raised the possibility that she could alsobe involved in the bombings in Davao and in some areas of Mindanao.
He added that Noblezawas being used as “security pass” by the ASG, considering that she is a police superintendent, who can easily penetrate an area without being questioned.
If the ASG, who managed to penetrate Bohol, with the help of Milloria, did not encounter the 3ID troops and the police, Aying said they may have also reached other tourist destinationsin Negros and Panay,
He again stressed the importance of mobilization of the community, not only against ASG, but other anti-peace and development lawless groups, in preventing violence extremism, citing as an example what Boholanos did.
At least 9 Abu Sayyaf members have since been killed in operations in the province, including Milloria.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines recently rewarded three Boholanons P4 million for tipping off authorities about the whereabouts of the Abu Sayyaf Group members, that resulted in the death of Milloria — alias Abu Alih — and three others.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2017/May/05/topstory1.htm
Tourists visiting prime tourist destination areas in the Visayas region need not worry about security, after another member of the Abu Sayyaf Group was captured yesterday by the military and police in Tubigon town, Bohol.
Maj. Gen. Jon Aying, commanding general of the Army's 3rd Infantry Division, disclosed yesterday that they have not monitored any movements of Abu Sayyaf bandits from Mindanao to Visayas, except for those they had encountered and killed in Bohol last month.
Lt. Gen. Oscar Lactao, AFP Central Command chief, alsoconfirmed yesterdaythe capture of SaadSamadKiram. His arrest yielded a.45 caliber pistol with two magazines containing 12 rounds of ammunition, and a cellular phone.
Meanwhile, Aying said they have not received reports, as of this time,that ASG have supporters or contacts in the three Visayasregions, that include the Negros Island, Western and Central Visayas, except for JoselitoMilloria, who was killed with three other ASG bandits in Clarin town, Bohol on April 22.
He also dismissed the alleged involvement of Police Supt. Superintendent Maria Cristina Nobleza with the ASG, who,with her three companions, were intercepted at a military checkpoint in Bohol, as an isolated case.
Nobleza, and RenierloDongon, a suspected ASG bomb maker, who were on board a pick-up vehicle, were arrested April 29 when they tried to evade a military checkpoint laid out by government troops at the height of the pursuit operations that led to the death of four ASG bandits in Clarin town.
Milloria and the three others killed in Clarin town were remnants of a group of Sulu-based ASG bandits led by Abu Rami who sailed to Inabanga town in Bohol to join ASG sympathizers, who eventually died in the initial skirmish with government troops, whohad been alerted by civilians about the arrival of armed men on board three motorboats in the coastal town of Inabanga.
Aying said he believes that Nobleza has links to the ASG, and also raised the possibility that she could alsobe involved in the bombings in Davao and in some areas of Mindanao.
He added that Noblezawas being used as “security pass” by the ASG, considering that she is a police superintendent, who can easily penetrate an area without being questioned.
If the ASG, who managed to penetrate Bohol, with the help of Milloria, did not encounter the 3ID troops and the police, Aying said they may have also reached other tourist destinationsin Negros and Panay,
He again stressed the importance of mobilization of the community, not only against ASG, but other anti-peace and development lawless groups, in preventing violence extremism, citing as an example what Boholanos did.
At least 9 Abu Sayyaf members have since been killed in operations in the province, including Milloria.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines recently rewarded three Boholanons P4 million for tipping off authorities about the whereabouts of the Abu Sayyaf Group members, that resulted in the death of Milloria — alias Abu Alih — and three others.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2017/May/05/topstory1.htm
Peace and dev't community sites, new DENR-NIR chief's priorities
From the Visayan Daily Star (May 5): Peace and dev't community sites, new DENR-NIR chief's priorities
Newly-appointed OIC- Negros Island Regional Director Livino Duran of the Department of Natural Resources said he will makethe development of Peace and Development Community Sites in the region one of his priority programs to highlight the agency's commitment to rebel returnees in Negros.
In an interview with the DAILY STARyesterday, Duransaid he will re-strengthen these peace and development areas through the Payapa and MasaganangPamayanan (PAMANA) program of DENR to create settlement and production areas for the RebolusyonaryongPartidongManggagawaPilipinas-Revolutionary Proletarian Army-Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPM-RPA-ABB).
“This is a commitment of the agency, and I want to look into updates and developments about this program and take necessary actions to improve it,” Duran said, adding that the project was not updated since he was transferred in Western Visayas in 2009.
Yesterday,he said that he ordered the rehiring of the members of the organization as forest guards, specifically in the forest cover areas of the cities of Kabankalan, Cadiz and San Carlos and an area in Negros Oriental.
PAMANA is a government peace and development program and framework aiming to reduce poverty, improve governance and empower communities through community-driven projects that address people's needs while promoting peace.
“If this is fully implemented, it will affect positively other DENR programs here in the region,” Duran said, adding that it is a way of peace?building through pushing partnership on environmental advocacies with the people's organizations.
Aside from the Peace and Development Community Sites, he will also continue the programs emphasized by former secretary Gina Lopez on Sustainable Integrated Area Development that include the green economy model and WOW program, which,he pointed out, are the programs with the best practices in the agency.
At the local level, Duran said he will pursue the enhanced National Greening Program and the rehabilitation and protection of the Northern Negros Natural Park and Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park in Negros Oriental.
“These programs are in line with the commitment of the country to the United Nations to mitigate climate change to increase the forest cover,” Duran said adding, “and further sustain biodiversity to boost the ecotourism in NIR.”
In his comment to the realization of the Negros Island Region, he said that NIR has already proved its strategic importance and they will continue to implement environmental programs even if the region will bedissolved or not after the decision.
“The expectations of the people and the administration are high, and we should keep up through having more responsible services,” Duran also said.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2017/May/05/topstory5.htm
Newly-appointed OIC- Negros Island Regional Director Livino Duran of the Department of Natural Resources said he will makethe development of Peace and Development Community Sites in the region one of his priority programs to highlight the agency's commitment to rebel returnees in Negros.
In an interview with the DAILY STARyesterday, Duransaid he will re-strengthen these peace and development areas through the Payapa and MasaganangPamayanan (PAMANA) program of DENR to create settlement and production areas for the RebolusyonaryongPartidongManggagawaPilipinas-Revolutionary Proletarian Army-Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPM-RPA-ABB).
“This is a commitment of the agency, and I want to look into updates and developments about this program and take necessary actions to improve it,” Duran said, adding that the project was not updated since he was transferred in Western Visayas in 2009.
Yesterday,he said that he ordered the rehiring of the members of the organization as forest guards, specifically in the forest cover areas of the cities of Kabankalan, Cadiz and San Carlos and an area in Negros Oriental.
PAMANA is a government peace and development program and framework aiming to reduce poverty, improve governance and empower communities through community-driven projects that address people's needs while promoting peace.
“If this is fully implemented, it will affect positively other DENR programs here in the region,” Duran said, adding that it is a way of peace?building through pushing partnership on environmental advocacies with the people's organizations.
Aside from the Peace and Development Community Sites, he will also continue the programs emphasized by former secretary Gina Lopez on Sustainable Integrated Area Development that include the green economy model and WOW program, which,he pointed out, are the programs with the best practices in the agency.
At the local level, Duran said he will pursue the enhanced National Greening Program and the rehabilitation and protection of the Northern Negros Natural Park and Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park in Negros Oriental.
“These programs are in line with the commitment of the country to the United Nations to mitigate climate change to increase the forest cover,” Duran said adding, “and further sustain biodiversity to boost the ecotourism in NIR.”
In his comment to the realization of the Negros Island Region, he said that NIR has already proved its strategic importance and they will continue to implement environmental programs even if the region will bedissolved or not after the decision.
“The expectations of the people and the administration are high, and we should keep up through having more responsible services,” Duran also said.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2017/May/05/topstory5.htm
Duterte 'a bit pessimistic' about Mindanao peace talks
From Rappler (May 5): Duterte 'a bit pessimistic' about Mindanao peace talks
'I'm not nervous but I’m a little bit worried that nothing will come of it,' says Duterte about government talks with the MILF and MNLF
OUTLOOK FOR PEACE. President Rodrigo Duterte introduces MNLF chairman Nur Misuari to his Secretaries during a Cabinet meeting in Malacañang. Photo by King Rodriguez/Presidential photo
He used to be full of hope about Mindanao peace talks, but now he's not so sure.
President Rodrigo Duterte admitted this to policemen on Friday, May 5, at Camp Pendutan in Maguindanao.
"I am talking to the MI(LF) and MN(LF), but apparently you’d notice they are grabbing each others' camps now. So I [am] at a loss even. I was very optimistic before. But I’m a bit pessimistic now," he said.
Duterte's pessimism seems to stem from the persistent tensions between the rival groups Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF).
Duterte said MNLF chairman Nur Misuari is "keeping his silence" about his concerns with the MILF but still talks to the President about them.
"He talks to me in private. But his misgivings about the other group, it used to be MN(LF) tapos this sprouting up of MI(LF), BI(FF), everything, it seems to be a convoluted thing," said Duterte.
"So even me, I'm not nervous but I’m a little bit worried that nothing will come of it," said Duterte.
The MNLF and MILF, both Islamist separatist groups are rivals. The MNLF, led by Nur Misuari, is an older group that succeeded in getting the Philippine government to sign the Tripoli Agreement in 1974 which would have established an autonomous region composed of Sulu, Basilan, other provinces in Mindanao, and Palawan.
But a group of MNLF members critical of Misuari's leadership broke off to form the MILF in the late 1970s.
It was with the MILF that the Philippine government, under Benigno Aquino III, signed the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro in 2012.
The passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law, however, did not push through after the Mamasapano clash which sowed doubt in the sincerity of the MILF.
The Duterte administration renewed Mindanao peace talks, this time promising to engage not only MILF but also Misuari's MNLF.
The government is creating two separate panels to engage the two groups. Misuari will be drafting his own proposal to amend the powers and territory of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/169023-duterte-pessimistic-mindanao-peace-talks
'I'm not nervous but I’m a little bit worried that nothing will come of it,' says Duterte about government talks with the MILF and MNLF
OUTLOOK FOR PEACE. President Rodrigo Duterte introduces MNLF chairman Nur Misuari to his Secretaries during a Cabinet meeting in Malacañang. Photo by King Rodriguez/Presidential photo
He used to be full of hope about Mindanao peace talks, but now he's not so sure.
President Rodrigo Duterte admitted this to policemen on Friday, May 5, at Camp Pendutan in Maguindanao.
"I am talking to the MI(LF) and MN(LF), but apparently you’d notice they are grabbing each others' camps now. So I [am] at a loss even. I was very optimistic before. But I’m a bit pessimistic now," he said.
Duterte's pessimism seems to stem from the persistent tensions between the rival groups Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF).
Duterte said MNLF chairman Nur Misuari is "keeping his silence" about his concerns with the MILF but still talks to the President about them.
"He talks to me in private. But his misgivings about the other group, it used to be MN(LF) tapos this sprouting up of MI(LF), BI(FF), everything, it seems to be a convoluted thing," said Duterte.
"So even me, I'm not nervous but I’m a little bit worried that nothing will come of it," said Duterte.
The MNLF and MILF, both Islamist separatist groups are rivals. The MNLF, led by Nur Misuari, is an older group that succeeded in getting the Philippine government to sign the Tripoli Agreement in 1974 which would have established an autonomous region composed of Sulu, Basilan, other provinces in Mindanao, and Palawan.
But a group of MNLF members critical of Misuari's leadership broke off to form the MILF in the late 1970s.
It was with the MILF that the Philippine government, under Benigno Aquino III, signed the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro in 2012.
The passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law, however, did not push through after the Mamasapano clash which sowed doubt in the sincerity of the MILF.
The Duterte administration renewed Mindanao peace talks, this time promising to engage not only MILF but also Misuari's MNLF.
The government is creating two separate panels to engage the two groups. Misuari will be drafting his own proposal to amend the powers and territory of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/169023-duterte-pessimistic-mindanao-peace-talks
U.S. bill filed to restrict arms exports to PNP
From Rappler (May 5): U.S. bill filed to restrict arms exports to PNP
US Senator Benjamin Cardin says this proposed law shows the 'consequences' if President Rodrigo Duterte's bloody war on drugs continues
WAR ON DRUGS. President Rodrigo Duterte remains under fire for his war on drugs that has killed thousands in the Philippines. Malacañang file photo
Two US senators filed a bill restricting the export of certain weapons and equipment from the United States to the Philippine National Police (PNP) as a consequence of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte's war on drugs.
The proposed Philippines Human Rights Accountability and Counternarcotics Act of 2017 was filed by Democratic Senator Benjamin Cardin and Republican Senator Marco Rubio on Thursday, May 4.
This is a bill "to restrict the exportation of certain defense articles to the Philippine National Police, to work with the Philippines to support civil society and a public health approach to substance abuse, to report on Chinese and other sources of narcotics to the Republic of the Philippines, and for other purposes."
Cardin is a ranking member of the US Senate foreign relations committee.
"President Duterte has unleashed a campaign of extrajudicial killings in his country that has horrified the international community," the senator said.
"Mr Duterte must handle criminal issues through the rule of law and allow drug addicts access to the public health services and treatment they deserve. In the absence of such actions, this legislation is clear in its support for the Filipino people and the importance of our alliance, but also the consequences if Mr Duterte's actions continue," he added.
Cardin earlier said, as well, that he was "deeply disturbed" by US President Donald Trump's "cavalier" invitation to Duterte to visit the US.
Rubio meanwhile described the war on drugs implemented by the PNP as "deeply alarming."
"This is not the right way to conduct an anti-drug campaign, and our legislation reflects our sincere desire to work with the Philippines to support human rights, expose narcotics networks emanating from mainland China and other countries, and use a public health approach to responsibly counter the dangers that drugs pose to our societies," Rubio said.
In November 2016, Duterte ordered the PNP to cancel the purchase of assault rifles from the US after Cardin reportedly wanted to block their sale.
In the same month, however, PNP chief chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa said that the PNP has "the blessing of the President to continue the transaction as long as it's not barred."
Duterte's war on drugs has killed at least 7,000 people, from both legitimate police operations and vigilante-style killings.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/168973-us-bill-restrictions-weapons-exports-pnp
US Senator Benjamin Cardin says this proposed law shows the 'consequences' if President Rodrigo Duterte's bloody war on drugs continues
WAR ON DRUGS. President Rodrigo Duterte remains under fire for his war on drugs that has killed thousands in the Philippines. Malacañang file photo
Two US senators filed a bill restricting the export of certain weapons and equipment from the United States to the Philippine National Police (PNP) as a consequence of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte's war on drugs.
The proposed Philippines Human Rights Accountability and Counternarcotics Act of 2017 was filed by Democratic Senator Benjamin Cardin and Republican Senator Marco Rubio on Thursday, May 4.
This is a bill "to restrict the exportation of certain defense articles to the Philippine National Police, to work with the Philippines to support civil society and a public health approach to substance abuse, to report on Chinese and other sources of narcotics to the Republic of the Philippines, and for other purposes."
Cardin is a ranking member of the US Senate foreign relations committee.
"President Duterte has unleashed a campaign of extrajudicial killings in his country that has horrified the international community," the senator said.
"Mr Duterte must handle criminal issues through the rule of law and allow drug addicts access to the public health services and treatment they deserve. In the absence of such actions, this legislation is clear in its support for the Filipino people and the importance of our alliance, but also the consequences if Mr Duterte's actions continue," he added.
Cardin earlier said, as well, that he was "deeply disturbed" by US President Donald Trump's "cavalier" invitation to Duterte to visit the US.
Rubio meanwhile described the war on drugs implemented by the PNP as "deeply alarming."
"This is not the right way to conduct an anti-drug campaign, and our legislation reflects our sincere desire to work with the Philippines to support human rights, expose narcotics networks emanating from mainland China and other countries, and use a public health approach to responsibly counter the dangers that drugs pose to our societies," Rubio said.
In November 2016, Duterte ordered the PNP to cancel the purchase of assault rifles from the US after Cardin reportedly wanted to block their sale.
In the same month, however, PNP chief chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa said that the PNP has "the blessing of the President to continue the transaction as long as it's not barred."
Duterte's war on drugs has killed at least 7,000 people, from both legitimate police operations and vigilante-style killings.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/168973-us-bill-restrictions-weapons-exports-pnp
NPA rebel recovering at SPMC identified by army
From the Mindanao Times (May 5): NPA rebel recovering at SPMC identified by army
THE MILITARY yesterday already identified the wounded member of the New People’s Army (NPA) who was brought to the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) following a clash with troops on Saturday.
Meanwhile, two other NPAs were killed during the same encounter with the troops of 3rd Infantry Battalion in Barangay Pangyan, Calinan District on Saturday.
Speaking on Wednesday’s AFP-PNP press conference held at Royal Mandaya hotel, Capt. Rhyan Batchar, spokesperson of 10th Infantry Division, identified the wounded rebel as Constancio V. Encargues, 50, resident of of Sitio Lubas, Paquibato District.
Batchar said Encargues was turned over by the Barangay Captain of Dominga to the troops of 3rd IB.
The slain rebels were also identified as Alvin C. Meir, 28, and Marold R. Cabaluna, 20, both residents of Purok 12, Barangay Panalum.
The body of Meir was found in Purok 1-B, Barangay Lamanan, Calinan and was claimed by his father Alberto, 65, farmer.
Meanwhile, Cabaluna’s body was claimed by his father Rolando, 43, farmer.
The rebels were killed during the attack at Lorenzo plantation in Barangay Pangyan on Saturday. The NPA carried simultaneous attacks on the company’s farms in Calinan, Barangay Mandug in Buhangin District and Bunawan in Bunawan District.
Meanwhile, two other NPAs were killed during the same encounter with the troops of 3rd Infantry Battalion in Barangay Pangyan, Calinan District on Saturday.
Speaking on Wednesday’s AFP-PNP press conference held at Royal Mandaya hotel, Capt. Rhyan Batchar, spokesperson of 10th Infantry Division, identified the wounded rebel as Constancio V. Encargues, 50, resident of of Sitio Lubas, Paquibato District.
Batchar said Encargues was turned over by the Barangay Captain of Dominga to the troops of 3rd IB.
The slain rebels were also identified as Alvin C. Meir, 28, and Marold R. Cabaluna, 20, both residents of Purok 12, Barangay Panalum.
The body of Meir was found in Purok 1-B, Barangay Lamanan, Calinan and was claimed by his father Alberto, 65, farmer.
Meanwhile, Cabaluna’s body was claimed by his father Rolando, 43, farmer.
The rebels were killed during the attack at Lorenzo plantation in Barangay Pangyan on Saturday. The NPA carried simultaneous attacks on the company’s farms in Calinan, Barangay Mandug in Buhangin District and Bunawan in Bunawan District.
Military says 27 Sayyafs yield in South, but cops kill captured Sayyaf militant in Bohol
From the Mindanao Examiner (May 5): Military says 27 Sayyafs yield in South, but cops kill captured Sayyaf militant in Bohol
The Philippine military announced Friday the surrender of 27 alleged Abu Sayyaf militants, including three sub-leaders, in Basilan and Sulu provinces in the Muslim autonomous region in Mindanao.
The announcement of their surrender came the same day that policemen killed a captured Abu Sayyaf militant, Saad Samad Kiram, in Bohol province in central Philippines. The 36-year old militant was arrested on Thursday in the village of Tanawan in Tubigon town after he asked a civilian for food and clothing.
Kiram, who was among a group of Abu Sayyaf fighters, who went to Bohol to kidnap tourists early this month, allegedly tried to escape from his police escorts while being transported to a prison facility in Tagbilaran City.
He was believed silenced for a still unknown reason, but Kiram was the target of a daring rescue operation recently by a police intelligence officer, Superintendent Maria Cristina Nobleza, who was clandestinely working for the Abu Sayyaf. Nobleza was eventually arrested by authorities along with a militant, Reneer Lou Dongon, who turned out to be her husband; and several others during a car chase in Tubigon. Nobleza said she was working undercover to be able to penetrate the Abu Sayyaf.
Captain Jo-ann Petinglay, a spokeswoman for the Western Mindanao Command based in Zamboanga City, said the militants belonged to different commanders and are currently being interrogated. She said the militants also surrendered assorted automatic rifles, grenade launchers.
She said 19 of those who surrendered came from Basilan and identified them as sub-leaders Nur Hassan Lahaman and Mudz-Ar Angkun. They surrendered to the 64th Infantry Battalion in Sumisip town’s Tumahubong village.
Four others – Patta Salapuddin, Asbi Salapuddin, Sayyadi Salapuddin, and Arci Salapuddin – all of Basakan village in Basilan’s Hadji Mohammad Ajul town also surrendered separately to the military. They were involved in the March 23 hijacking of the cargo ship Super Shuttle off Basilan.
And four militants – Husain Nasirin, Hasir Asara, Udon Hussiem, a sub-leader of the Abu Sayyaf, and Haidal Kimar – also surrendered to the military in Sulu’s Indanan town. Petinglay said 40 other militants surrendered in Basilan and Tawi-Tawi since January this year, but all of them were eventually released by the military because of lack of arrest warrants for their notorious crimes – from ransom kidnappings, piracy and murders.
She did not say whether those who surrendered will also be freed. The government has not offered any amnesty to the Abu Sayyaf group tied with the Islamic State and blamed by Philippine authorities to the spate of terrorism, ransom kidnappings and piracy.
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/military-says-27-sayyafs-yield-in-south-but-cops-kill-captured-sayyaf-militant-in-bohol/
The Philippine military announced Friday the surrender of 27 alleged Abu Sayyaf militants, including three sub-leaders, in Basilan and Sulu provinces in the Muslim autonomous region in Mindanao.
The announcement of their surrender came the same day that policemen killed a captured Abu Sayyaf militant, Saad Samad Kiram, in Bohol province in central Philippines. The 36-year old militant was arrested on Thursday in the village of Tanawan in Tubigon town after he asked a civilian for food and clothing.
Kiram, who was among a group of Abu Sayyaf fighters, who went to Bohol to kidnap tourists early this month, allegedly tried to escape from his police escorts while being transported to a prison facility in Tagbilaran City.
He was believed silenced for a still unknown reason, but Kiram was the target of a daring rescue operation recently by a police intelligence officer, Superintendent Maria Cristina Nobleza, who was clandestinely working for the Abu Sayyaf. Nobleza was eventually arrested by authorities along with a militant, Reneer Lou Dongon, who turned out to be her husband; and several others during a car chase in Tubigon. Nobleza said she was working undercover to be able to penetrate the Abu Sayyaf.
Captain Jo-ann Petinglay, a spokeswoman for the Western Mindanao Command based in Zamboanga City, said the militants belonged to different commanders and are currently being interrogated. She said the militants also surrendered assorted automatic rifles, grenade launchers.
She said 19 of those who surrendered came from Basilan and identified them as sub-leaders Nur Hassan Lahaman and Mudz-Ar Angkun. They surrendered to the 64th Infantry Battalion in Sumisip town’s Tumahubong village.
Four others – Patta Salapuddin, Asbi Salapuddin, Sayyadi Salapuddin, and Arci Salapuddin – all of Basakan village in Basilan’s Hadji Mohammad Ajul town also surrendered separately to the military. They were involved in the March 23 hijacking of the cargo ship Super Shuttle off Basilan.
And four militants – Husain Nasirin, Hasir Asara, Udon Hussiem, a sub-leader of the Abu Sayyaf, and Haidal Kimar – also surrendered to the military in Sulu’s Indanan town. Petinglay said 40 other militants surrendered in Basilan and Tawi-Tawi since January this year, but all of them were eventually released by the military because of lack of arrest warrants for their notorious crimes – from ransom kidnappings, piracy and murders.
She did not say whether those who surrendered will also be freed. The government has not offered any amnesty to the Abu Sayyaf group tied with the Islamic State and blamed by Philippine authorities to the spate of terrorism, ransom kidnappings and piracy.
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/military-says-27-sayyafs-yield-in-south-but-cops-kill-captured-sayyaf-militant-in-bohol/
Alleged terror group member killed in Sarangani raid
From the Philippine News Agency (May 5): Alleged terror group member killed in Sarangani raid
A suspected member of an armed group sympathetic with the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) was killed in a police operation in Kiamba town in Sarangani province, a belated report reaching here Friday said.
Sr. Insp. Ruben Lambago, deputy chief of the Kiamba municipal police station, said that suspect Jukarno Espadilla was gunned down Wednesday by joint operatives after resisting arrest during a raid at his home in Barangay Badtasan, Kiamba.
He said the operation was joined by elements from Sarangani police’s drug enforcement unit, provincial intelligence branch, regional police public safety battalion and the Kiamba municipal police station.
Armed with a search warrant, he said the raiding team swooped down on the suspect’s house and another target, Basir Saha, at around 3:30 a.m.
After the warrant was served, the police official said Espadilla run inside his house, took a grenade and attempted to hurl it towards the operatives.
Lambago said the team was forced to shoot the suspect in the process while Saha managed to escape.
The suspect was rushed to a local hospital but was declared dead upon arrival by the physicians, he said.
Recovered from Espadilla’s house were suspected bomb-making materials, a fragmentation grenade and several sachets of suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride or shabu.
The operatives also seized a motorcycle that was supposedly used by slain terror group leader Mohammad Jaafar Sabewang Maguid alias Tokboy.
Maguid, the founder and leader of the Ansar Al-Khilafah Philippines (AKP), was killed in an encounter at past midnight on Jan. 5 at Angel Beach Resort in Barangay Kitagas, Kiamba.
AKP, which pledged support to the ISIS, had been blamed over a string of terror attacks in Sarangani and the neighboring areas these past years.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/985247
A suspected member of an armed group sympathetic with the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) was killed in a police operation in Kiamba town in Sarangani province, a belated report reaching here Friday said.
Sr. Insp. Ruben Lambago, deputy chief of the Kiamba municipal police station, said that suspect Jukarno Espadilla was gunned down Wednesday by joint operatives after resisting arrest during a raid at his home in Barangay Badtasan, Kiamba.
He said the operation was joined by elements from Sarangani police’s drug enforcement unit, provincial intelligence branch, regional police public safety battalion and the Kiamba municipal police station.
Armed with a search warrant, he said the raiding team swooped down on the suspect’s house and another target, Basir Saha, at around 3:30 a.m.
After the warrant was served, the police official said Espadilla run inside his house, took a grenade and attempted to hurl it towards the operatives.
Lambago said the team was forced to shoot the suspect in the process while Saha managed to escape.
The suspect was rushed to a local hospital but was declared dead upon arrival by the physicians, he said.
Recovered from Espadilla’s house were suspected bomb-making materials, a fragmentation grenade and several sachets of suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride or shabu.
The operatives also seized a motorcycle that was supposedly used by slain terror group leader Mohammad Jaafar Sabewang Maguid alias Tokboy.
Maguid, the founder and leader of the Ansar Al-Khilafah Philippines (AKP), was killed in an encounter at past midnight on Jan. 5 at Angel Beach Resort in Barangay Kitagas, Kiamba.
AKP, which pledged support to the ISIS, had been blamed over a string of terror attacks in Sarangani and the neighboring areas these past years.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/985247
23 Abu Sayyaf bandits yield in a week's time in Basilan, Sulu
From the Philippine News Agency (May 5): 23 Abu Sayyaf bandits yield in a week's time in Basilan, Sulu
Twenty-three members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) surrendered in week's time due to the relentless military operations against the bandits in the provinces of Basilan and Sulu, a top military commander here said Friday.
Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), on Friday announced that 19 Abu Sayyaf bandits surrendered in Basilan while the remaining four yielded in Sulu.
“We expect to receive more Abu Sayyaf members who will surrender in the coming days, as even top leaders of the group are already sending feelers for their possible surrender,” Galvez said.
“We will continue to pound on the remaining Abu Sayyaf members until we get the last of them. With the solid support and backing we are getting from the local government units, the traditional and religious leaders, from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and the Moro National Liberation Front, we are positive that we will all be successful in this fight against terrorism,” he added.
The 19 Basilan-based Abu Sayyaf bandits, including two sub-leaders, surrendered on Thursday in two separate groups.
Col. Juvymax Uy, commander of the Joint Task Force Basilan, said the two sub-leaders namely Nur Hassan Lahaman alias Hassan and Mudz-Ar Angkun alias Mapad Ladjaman surrendered along with 13 followers to the 64th Infantry Battalion in Barangay Tumahubong, Sumisip, Basilan.
Uy said Hassan is based in the municipality of Tuburan while Mapad in Sumisip. They turned over nine high-powered firearms.
Another four ASG members, who are based in Hadji Mohammad Ajul town, also surrendered on Thursday, he said.
They were identified as Patta Salapuddin alias Patta, 53; Asbi Salapuddin alias Asbi, 32; Sayyadi Salapuddin alias Saya, 31; and, Arci Salapuddin alias Arc, 20.
They were allegedly involved in the March 23 hijacking and abduction of two crew members of M/T Tug R9 towing Super Shuttle Roro 9 off Basilan province. The two were rescued separately.
All the 19 Basilan-based Abu Sayyaf surrenderers are now undergoing processing and debriefing at the provincial police headquarters.
In Sulu, four ASG members also surrendered last week to the government authorities.
Husain Nasirin and Hasir Asara of Patikul, Sulu surrendered to the 501st Infantry Brigade under Brig. Gen. Jose Faustino Jr. in Bud Datu, Barangay Tagbak, Indanan.
The two others who surrendered in Sulu were identified as Udon Hussein alias Udon Hasim, 40, and Haidal Kimar, 25. Both are residents of Panglima Estino.
“The Abu Sayyaf members from Sulu are among the most notorious and among the most difficult to go after. However, this recent accomplishment only proves that the landscape in the area is indeed changing,” Galvez said.
At least 40 Abu Sayyaf members have already surrendered to the government since January this year.
Most of them have yielded high-powered firearms and ammunition.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/985288
Twenty-three members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) surrendered in week's time due to the relentless military operations against the bandits in the provinces of Basilan and Sulu, a top military commander here said Friday.
Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), on Friday announced that 19 Abu Sayyaf bandits surrendered in Basilan while the remaining four yielded in Sulu.
“We expect to receive more Abu Sayyaf members who will surrender in the coming days, as even top leaders of the group are already sending feelers for their possible surrender,” Galvez said.
“We will continue to pound on the remaining Abu Sayyaf members until we get the last of them. With the solid support and backing we are getting from the local government units, the traditional and religious leaders, from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and the Moro National Liberation Front, we are positive that we will all be successful in this fight against terrorism,” he added.
The 19 Basilan-based Abu Sayyaf bandits, including two sub-leaders, surrendered on Thursday in two separate groups.
Col. Juvymax Uy, commander of the Joint Task Force Basilan, said the two sub-leaders namely Nur Hassan Lahaman alias Hassan and Mudz-Ar Angkun alias Mapad Ladjaman surrendered along with 13 followers to the 64th Infantry Battalion in Barangay Tumahubong, Sumisip, Basilan.
Uy said Hassan is based in the municipality of Tuburan while Mapad in Sumisip. They turned over nine high-powered firearms.
Another four ASG members, who are based in Hadji Mohammad Ajul town, also surrendered on Thursday, he said.
They were identified as Patta Salapuddin alias Patta, 53; Asbi Salapuddin alias Asbi, 32; Sayyadi Salapuddin alias Saya, 31; and, Arci Salapuddin alias Arc, 20.
They were allegedly involved in the March 23 hijacking and abduction of two crew members of M/T Tug R9 towing Super Shuttle Roro 9 off Basilan province. The two were rescued separately.
All the 19 Basilan-based Abu Sayyaf surrenderers are now undergoing processing and debriefing at the provincial police headquarters.
In Sulu, four ASG members also surrendered last week to the government authorities.
Husain Nasirin and Hasir Asara of Patikul, Sulu surrendered to the 501st Infantry Brigade under Brig. Gen. Jose Faustino Jr. in Bud Datu, Barangay Tagbak, Indanan.
The two others who surrendered in Sulu were identified as Udon Hussein alias Udon Hasim, 40, and Haidal Kimar, 25. Both are residents of Panglima Estino.
“The Abu Sayyaf members from Sulu are among the most notorious and among the most difficult to go after. However, this recent accomplishment only proves that the landscape in the area is indeed changing,” Galvez said.
At least 40 Abu Sayyaf members have already surrendered to the government since January this year.
Most of them have yielded high-powered firearms and ammunition.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/985288
Highest ranking CPP/NPA official in Region 2 captured
From the Philippine News Agency (May 5): Highest ranking CPP/NPA official in Region 2 captured
Cagayan Valley's highest ranking official of the Communist Party of the Philippines/New People's Army/National Democratic Front (CNN) and most wanted person was arrested on Thursday in the municipality of Penablanca, Cagayan province by the joint operatives of police and military.
Personnel of the Police Regional Office 2 and soldiers from the 17th IB, 502 Brigade, 5th ID, PA apprehended David Soriano, regional secretary of the Komiteng Rehiyon ng Hilagang Silangan ng Luzon of the CNN’s Northern Front, at Barangay Kamasi, Penablanca, Cagayan.
Also arrested with Soriano was Jude Malana Cipriano, the driver of the Starex van with plate no. WML 500. They were traversing the provincial road in Penablanca when intercepted by the joint police and military operatives who were tailing them.
Seized from the duo were two 9mm pistols, found to be PNP-issued properties; a fragmentation grenade; a rifle grenade and various subversive documents.
Soriano is Cagayan Valley’s top most wanted person owing to his involvement in several high-profile crimes in the region. He was one of the suspected masterminds in the ambush of police personnel in Baggao in February 2016. At least six policemen, who were on their way to investigate CNN atrocities in Bagga-o, including the burning by rebels of heavy equipment in the area, were killed while 10 others were wounded in that incident. Soriano was also the principal suspect in the murder of Gonzaga, Cagayan Mayor Carlito Pentecostes, Jr. in April 2014.
However, one of his most notorious crimes against the police happened in May 2013, when his rebel unit waylaid a platoon of unarmed policemen on their way to their annual physical fitness test. At least eight police officers were killed in the ambush, while seven others have been wounded.
In an apparent diversionary move by the CNN in the region, a posse of around 30 rebels attacked a police sub-station in nearby Amulung town in Cagayan, almost simultaneously with the arrest of Soriano.
The armed men took away four M16s and two PNP-issued 9mm pistols. The armed men also burned the police Mahindra patrol vehicle before escaping towards an unspecified direction.
Reports revealed that the armed men also tortured the police personnel of the sub-station before escaping.
Police regional Office 2 (PRO2) Regional Director PCSupt. eliseo T. Rasco, ordered for all personnel to be vigilant as ever in the wake of CNN atrocities in the region, which target police stations.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/985335
Cagayan Valley's highest ranking official of the Communist Party of the Philippines/New People's Army/National Democratic Front (CNN) and most wanted person was arrested on Thursday in the municipality of Penablanca, Cagayan province by the joint operatives of police and military.
Personnel of the Police Regional Office 2 and soldiers from the 17th IB, 502 Brigade, 5th ID, PA apprehended David Soriano, regional secretary of the Komiteng Rehiyon ng Hilagang Silangan ng Luzon of the CNN’s Northern Front, at Barangay Kamasi, Penablanca, Cagayan.
Also arrested with Soriano was Jude Malana Cipriano, the driver of the Starex van with plate no. WML 500. They were traversing the provincial road in Penablanca when intercepted by the joint police and military operatives who were tailing them.
Seized from the duo were two 9mm pistols, found to be PNP-issued properties; a fragmentation grenade; a rifle grenade and various subversive documents.
Soriano is Cagayan Valley’s top most wanted person owing to his involvement in several high-profile crimes in the region. He was one of the suspected masterminds in the ambush of police personnel in Baggao in February 2016. At least six policemen, who were on their way to investigate CNN atrocities in Bagga-o, including the burning by rebels of heavy equipment in the area, were killed while 10 others were wounded in that incident. Soriano was also the principal suspect in the murder of Gonzaga, Cagayan Mayor Carlito Pentecostes, Jr. in April 2014.
However, one of his most notorious crimes against the police happened in May 2013, when his rebel unit waylaid a platoon of unarmed policemen on their way to their annual physical fitness test. At least eight police officers were killed in the ambush, while seven others have been wounded.
In an apparent diversionary move by the CNN in the region, a posse of around 30 rebels attacked a police sub-station in nearby Amulung town in Cagayan, almost simultaneously with the arrest of Soriano.
The armed men took away four M16s and two PNP-issued 9mm pistols. The armed men also burned the police Mahindra patrol vehicle before escaping towards an unspecified direction.
Reports revealed that the armed men also tortured the police personnel of the sub-station before escaping.
Police regional Office 2 (PRO2) Regional Director PCSupt. eliseo T. Rasco, ordered for all personnel to be vigilant as ever in the wake of CNN atrocities in the region, which target police stations.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/985335
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