From the Philippine Information Agency (May 29): AFP needs legal officers
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) through the Office of the Judge Advocate General Service is looking for members of the Bar to serve the country.
Interested applicants must be 25 to 35 years old, physically and mentally fit, and must be a graduate from a reputable school and member in good standing of the Philippine Bar.
The documentary requirements include: application form; whole body picture (colored); 2 pcs 2x2 picture; official transcript of record (TOR) and diploma; Bar certificate and Bar rating; physical and medical exam report; PSA birth certificate; marriage contract (if married); and clearances (barangay, police, mayor, RTC, MTC, NBI, J2 clearance).
For more details, please call at the following numbers: (02) 911-6001 loc 6117;
Mobile Nos: 0922-8671549, 0977-8516814, 0917-8537734, 0919-8363652, and 0947-8791311.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/241496020829/afp-needs-legal-officers
Monday, May 29, 2017
Duterte honors injured soldiers with visit
From the Philippine Information Agency (May 29): Duterte honors injured soldiers with visit
President Rodrigo Roa Duterte arrived here on Saturday, May 27 to visit and personally extend financial assistance to soldiers who were wounded in action following the clashes against the Abu Sayyaf Group in Patikul, Sulu.
Duterte met the wounded soldiers confined at Camp Teodulfo S. Bautista hospital and personally awarded the Wounded Personnel Medal to them.
The injured members of the Army's 10th Infantry Battalion were Corporal Rumy Dandoh, Roseller Olivar, Apidul Yahkob, Alkedin Abdurajik, Murphy Kasal, Sancho Antipolo Jr., and Rod Campion; Private Daryl Ando, and Alner Ronald Lacierda.
In his speech during the visit, the President appealed to all Muslims to join him in the fight against Islamic extremists in Mindanao, which he said are being financed by the drug trade.
And for those who are suffering the brunt of the war, the President expressed his gratitude to them.
"But we have to fight because it is the only country we have. Pagka nawala ito, ang Mindanao, pagka sumabog ito, wala na ang Pilipinas. Then it is a destroyed country. And, of course, we cannot allow that to happen," Duterte said.
However, he said that the crisis in Marawi City is not all created by ISIS members.
The root cause of the present crisis is illegal drugs, he said, noting Marawi is the hotbed of meth manufacturing and trade in Mindanao.
The Abu Sayyaf on the other hand is an spillover of the Misuari faction, he said.
At the same time, the President reiterated his continuing support to the members of the security forces particularly by providing them housing.
He specifically mentioned the housing project in Davao City for soldiers and urban poor.
"So bigyan lang ninyo ako ng konting panahon. Sana huwag ko na lang gastusin ‘yung pera ko sa giyera, sa bahay na lang," he told the soldiers.
"But as I promised you, I will give you everything you need. Lahat ng hiningi ng ospital ninyo, dinala ko," he said adding he will provide for all the needs of the soldiers in fighting the terror groups. (PND)
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2131496051229/duterte-honors-injured-soldiers-with-visit-
President Rodrigo Roa Duterte arrived here on Saturday, May 27 to visit and personally extend financial assistance to soldiers who were wounded in action following the clashes against the Abu Sayyaf Group in Patikul, Sulu.
Duterte met the wounded soldiers confined at Camp Teodulfo S. Bautista hospital and personally awarded the Wounded Personnel Medal to them.
The injured members of the Army's 10th Infantry Battalion were Corporal Rumy Dandoh, Roseller Olivar, Apidul Yahkob, Alkedin Abdurajik, Murphy Kasal, Sancho Antipolo Jr., and Rod Campion; Private Daryl Ando, and Alner Ronald Lacierda.
In his speech during the visit, the President appealed to all Muslims to join him in the fight against Islamic extremists in Mindanao, which he said are being financed by the drug trade.
And for those who are suffering the brunt of the war, the President expressed his gratitude to them.
"But we have to fight because it is the only country we have. Pagka nawala ito, ang Mindanao, pagka sumabog ito, wala na ang Pilipinas. Then it is a destroyed country. And, of course, we cannot allow that to happen," Duterte said.
However, he said that the crisis in Marawi City is not all created by ISIS members.
The root cause of the present crisis is illegal drugs, he said, noting Marawi is the hotbed of meth manufacturing and trade in Mindanao.
The Abu Sayyaf on the other hand is an spillover of the Misuari faction, he said.
At the same time, the President reiterated his continuing support to the members of the security forces particularly by providing them housing.
He specifically mentioned the housing project in Davao City for soldiers and urban poor.
"So bigyan lang ninyo ako ng konting panahon. Sana huwag ko na lang gastusin ‘yung pera ko sa giyera, sa bahay na lang," he told the soldiers.
"But as I promised you, I will give you everything you need. Lahat ng hiningi ng ospital ninyo, dinala ko," he said adding he will provide for all the needs of the soldiers in fighting the terror groups. (PND)
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2131496051229/duterte-honors-injured-soldiers-with-visit-
Government extends support to affected residents in Marawi City
From the Philippine Information Agency (May 30): Government extends support to affected residents in Marawi City
The government has been providing assistance to communities affected by the military operations against the Maute group in Mindanao, Presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella said today.
Abella, who launched the Mindanao Hour during the press briefing on Monday, told reporters that to date, a total of P1,172,725 worth of assistance has been provided to affected families in ARMM. The assistance was extended by the government through DSWD-FO X and XII.
“As of today, there have been 12,509 families or 59, 665 persons displaced in Regions X and ARMM. Of which, 1,018 families or 4,278 persons are still staying in 14 evacuation centers are staying outside the ECs with their relative or friends,” Abella said.
The DSWD Field Office Region 10 immediately placed a Disaster Operation Center in Iligan City on May 23 to augment the operation of the DSWD ARMM.
Also, the Department of Trade and Industry enforced a price freeze on basic necessities and prime commodities in Mindanao on May 25 after President Duterte declared martial law.
The price freeze covers Regions 9, 10, 11, 12 and Caraga and takes effect for 60 days, as indicated in the declaration.
There is also enough power supply in the region, Abella said citing NPC Mindanao Generation (NPC MinGen) declaration that the operations of power plants in the Marawi City and Lanao area are normal.
With regard to the security situation, Abella said the AFP and PNP belied reports of checkpoints being conducted by uniformed elements without badges or identifications.
Checkpoints follow strict protocols and are strictly complied with, he said encouraging the public to document and report unauthorized checkpoints in Mindanao.
Clearing of Marawi of militants still in the area, rescuing trapped residents, and recovering civilian casualties and victims are the security forces’ main objectives, according to Abella.
As of Monday morning, Abella reported that there are 15 soldiers and three policemen killed in action fighting the terrorists. There are 61 enemies killed, 42 of which are confirmed by body count and 19 of which are confirmed by eye witness.
Nineteen civilians were killed by the terrorist group and 390 were rescued by authorities, Abella said.
Padilla: Government in full control of Marawi City
Gen. Restituto Padilla Jr., AFP spokesman, said the security forces have complete control of Marawi City contrary to reports that it remains at the hands of the terrorists.
“It is not true that half of the city is controlled by the rebels. Totally untrue. The Armed Forces and the Police and all armed --- our forces are in complete control of the city, except for certain areas of the city where they continue to hold,” Padilla said.
These areas are subject of clearing operations that are continuously being conducted by the AFP, he said. Although there is no timeline set, Padilla said they are seeking to end the military operations in Mindanao as soon as possible.
President Duterte declared Martial law in Mindanao on May 23 through Proclamation No. 216 to quell the violence perpetrated by the Maute group, which is said to be aligned with ISIS. The Martial Law in Mindanao will last for 60 days.
Although there is Martial Law in Mindanao, Abella said it does not suspend the operation of the Constitution, does not supplement the functioning of the judicial and legislative assemblies, does not confer jurisdiction on military courts over civilian where civilian courts are able to function.
The Palace introduced the Mindanao Hour media briefing on Monday to provide the public with daily update on what is happening on the ground in Marawi City and relevant regions in Mindanao.
Mindanao Hour is spearheaded by the Office of the Presidential Spokesperson, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and the Presidential Communications Office. (PND)
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2131496051906/government-extends-support-to-affected-residents-in-marawi-city-
The government has been providing assistance to communities affected by the military operations against the Maute group in Mindanao, Presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella said today.
Abella, who launched the Mindanao Hour during the press briefing on Monday, told reporters that to date, a total of P1,172,725 worth of assistance has been provided to affected families in ARMM. The assistance was extended by the government through DSWD-FO X and XII.
“As of today, there have been 12,509 families or 59, 665 persons displaced in Regions X and ARMM. Of which, 1,018 families or 4,278 persons are still staying in 14 evacuation centers are staying outside the ECs with their relative or friends,” Abella said.
The DSWD Field Office Region 10 immediately placed a Disaster Operation Center in Iligan City on May 23 to augment the operation of the DSWD ARMM.
Also, the Department of Trade and Industry enforced a price freeze on basic necessities and prime commodities in Mindanao on May 25 after President Duterte declared martial law.
The price freeze covers Regions 9, 10, 11, 12 and Caraga and takes effect for 60 days, as indicated in the declaration.
There is also enough power supply in the region, Abella said citing NPC Mindanao Generation (NPC MinGen) declaration that the operations of power plants in the Marawi City and Lanao area are normal.
With regard to the security situation, Abella said the AFP and PNP belied reports of checkpoints being conducted by uniformed elements without badges or identifications.
Checkpoints follow strict protocols and are strictly complied with, he said encouraging the public to document and report unauthorized checkpoints in Mindanao.
Clearing of Marawi of militants still in the area, rescuing trapped residents, and recovering civilian casualties and victims are the security forces’ main objectives, according to Abella.
As of Monday morning, Abella reported that there are 15 soldiers and three policemen killed in action fighting the terrorists. There are 61 enemies killed, 42 of which are confirmed by body count and 19 of which are confirmed by eye witness.
Nineteen civilians were killed by the terrorist group and 390 were rescued by authorities, Abella said.
Padilla: Government in full control of Marawi City
Gen. Restituto Padilla Jr., AFP spokesman, said the security forces have complete control of Marawi City contrary to reports that it remains at the hands of the terrorists.
“It is not true that half of the city is controlled by the rebels. Totally untrue. The Armed Forces and the Police and all armed --- our forces are in complete control of the city, except for certain areas of the city where they continue to hold,” Padilla said.
These areas are subject of clearing operations that are continuously being conducted by the AFP, he said. Although there is no timeline set, Padilla said they are seeking to end the military operations in Mindanao as soon as possible.
President Duterte declared Martial law in Mindanao on May 23 through Proclamation No. 216 to quell the violence perpetrated by the Maute group, which is said to be aligned with ISIS. The Martial Law in Mindanao will last for 60 days.
Although there is Martial Law in Mindanao, Abella said it does not suspend the operation of the Constitution, does not supplement the functioning of the judicial and legislative assemblies, does not confer jurisdiction on military courts over civilian where civilian courts are able to function.
The Palace introduced the Mindanao Hour media briefing on Monday to provide the public with daily update on what is happening on the ground in Marawi City and relevant regions in Mindanao.
Mindanao Hour is spearheaded by the Office of the Presidential Spokesperson, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and the Presidential Communications Office. (PND)
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2131496051906/government-extends-support-to-affected-residents-in-marawi-city-
Army gathers 200 OSYs, students for 2017 YLS in AgSur town
From the Philippine Information Agency (May 29): Army gathers 200 OSYs, students for 2017 YLS in AgSur town
The 23rd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army and the local government unit of Esperanza, Agusan del Sur recently conducted the “1st Esperanza Youth Leadership Summit 2017” with some 200 out-of-school youth and students coming from the different barangays of Esperanza, Agusan del Sur.
The said YLS was held at the covered court of Esperanza National High School in Esperanza. This year's theme is “Transforming the Youth as Advocates of Peaceful Change.”
Mayor Leonida Manpatilan of Esperanza; LTC Licudine, 401st Deputy Brigade Commander; LTC Emil Cruz, 23IB Battalion Commander; Vice Mayor Victor Manpatilan of Esperanza; PInsp Geraldine Geraldino, deputy of Esperanza Municipal Police Station; and representatives from different local offices, YLS facilitators headed by Joshua Bebis, and other stakeholders were present during the opening ceremony.
The activity is aimed to inculcate positive values, attitudes and behavior to the participants that will ultimately develop a character based leadership among the youths. It also fostered unity of different communities and youth groups leading to synergy and commitment to community development, and enable the youths to discover, affirm and further use their inherent leadership attributes that will later create a positive impact to the society.
LTC Cruz underscored that the youth are the hope of our fatherland and the future of the nation. “They can also help our country in solving its social problems. He encouraged the youth to express their desires and aspirations for social reforms and change through peaceful means,” he said.
“It is very important to our youths to enhance their leadership capacity, motivate their selves on how to be a responsible and well-informed young adults of our society and community,” Mayor Manpatilan said.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2041495787088/army-gathers-200-osys-students-for-2017-yls-in-agsur-town
The 23rd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army and the local government unit of Esperanza, Agusan del Sur recently conducted the “1st Esperanza Youth Leadership Summit 2017” with some 200 out-of-school youth and students coming from the different barangays of Esperanza, Agusan del Sur.
The said YLS was held at the covered court of Esperanza National High School in Esperanza. This year's theme is “Transforming the Youth as Advocates of Peaceful Change.”
Mayor Leonida Manpatilan of Esperanza; LTC Licudine, 401st Deputy Brigade Commander; LTC Emil Cruz, 23IB Battalion Commander; Vice Mayor Victor Manpatilan of Esperanza; PInsp Geraldine Geraldino, deputy of Esperanza Municipal Police Station; and representatives from different local offices, YLS facilitators headed by Joshua Bebis, and other stakeholders were present during the opening ceremony.
The activity is aimed to inculcate positive values, attitudes and behavior to the participants that will ultimately develop a character based leadership among the youths. It also fostered unity of different communities and youth groups leading to synergy and commitment to community development, and enable the youths to discover, affirm and further use their inherent leadership attributes that will later create a positive impact to the society.
LTC Cruz underscored that the youth are the hope of our fatherland and the future of the nation. “They can also help our country in solving its social problems. He encouraged the youth to express their desires and aspirations for social reforms and change through peaceful means,” he said.
“It is very important to our youths to enhance their leadership capacity, motivate their selves on how to be a responsible and well-informed young adults of our society and community,” Mayor Manpatilan said.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2041495787088/army-gathers-200-osys-students-for-2017-yls-in-agsur-town
PRO 10 augments joint AFP, PNP operations in Marawi City
From the Philippine Information Agency (May 29): PRO 10 augments joint AFP, PNP operations in Marawi City
Police Regional Office (PRO) 10 has augmented one company of the Regional Public Safety Battalion (RPSB) for the Joint Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Philippine National Police (PNP) Operation Marawi City against Maute Group.
According to Police Chief Superintendent Agripino G Javier, PRO-10 regional director, PRO 10 personnel were deployed in different areas in Marawi City in joint operations of the AFP and other PNP units on the ground.
The office acknowledge the heroism and sacrifice of the police personnel in fighting against any forms of terroristic activities caused by the Group in Marawi City.
PRO 10 is closely coordinating with the AFP in all police operations in the area including Northern Mindanao in combatting terrorism in the region.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1461496071554/pro-10-augments-joint-afp-pnp-operations-in-marawi-city
Police Regional Office (PRO) 10 has augmented one company of the Regional Public Safety Battalion (RPSB) for the Joint Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Philippine National Police (PNP) Operation Marawi City against Maute Group.
According to Police Chief Superintendent Agripino G Javier, PRO-10 regional director, PRO 10 personnel were deployed in different areas in Marawi City in joint operations of the AFP and other PNP units on the ground.
The office acknowledge the heroism and sacrifice of the police personnel in fighting against any forms of terroristic activities caused by the Group in Marawi City.
PRO 10 is closely coordinating with the AFP in all police operations in the area including Northern Mindanao in combatting terrorism in the region.
Top of Form
The police office in the region also salutes all police personnel who get out in their comfort zones in order to regain peace and harmony in Marawi City and the entire northern Mindanao.http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1461496071554/pro-10-augments-joint-afp-pnp-operations-in-marawi-city
NDFP willing to cooperate in fighting terrorism, but asks for parameters and clarity
From InterAksyon (May 29): NDFP willing to cooperate in fighting terrorism, but asks for parameters and clarity
NPA leader Benito Tiamzon, with his wife, Wilma. Photographed by Miguel de Guzman/Philstar
In the wake of President Duterte’s pronouncement over the weekend asking rebels, including the communist movement, to join the fight against terrorist groups, Communist Party of the Philippines/New People’s Army (CPP/NPA) leader Benito Tiamzon said they are, in principle, open to extending cooperation but at the same time expressed concerns regarding the parameters on the ground that it would entail.
President Duterte called on Muslim separatist groups and the communist rebels to join his administration’s fight against militants apparently linked to the Jihadist Islamic State movement.
The Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, also known as the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, or Islamic State, is also known by its Arabic language acronym Daesh.
“I will hire you as soldiers – same pay, same privileges, and I will build houses for you in some areas,” Duterte had said. He also asked the NPA to abandon its guerrilla war and cooperate instead with the government.
“If this drags on, and you want to join, take your chance with the Republic,” Duterte said.
The NPA’s Tiamzon said, “in principle, hindi kami tutol. at bukas kami d’yan. Wala pa kaming natatanggap na kung ano ‘yong mga partikular na mga balangkas n’yan, mga parameters, ano ‘yong magiging kaayusan. ‘Yan ay mga bagay na maraming pasikot-sikot na dapat pag-usapan ng masinsinan (We are not against it and we are open to this. We have not received appropriate guidance, like the framework, the parameters, the organizational details. These are complicated matters that need to be discussed carefully),” he said.
“Kung laban sa terorismo, hindi kami tututol d’yan at handa kami kung mag-aalok ng pakikipagtulungan si Presidente Duterte … Pero maraming dapat linawin na mga parameters kaugnay d’yan (If it’s fighting terrorism, we’re not opposed toit and we’re ready to offer our help. But there are many parameters to clarify on the matter),” he added.
Tiamzon also said the movement would expect de-escalation or the lifting of the all-out war policy that Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana earlier declared against the NPA, since the communist armed wing was not included in the coverage of martial law.
He said there have been reports on the ground that the military was still launching offensives against the NPA in Mindanao.
The National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) over the weekend questioned the statements of Peace Adviser Jesus Dureza that the intensified offensives of the New People’s Army (NPA) against the government had put the quest for peace talks “in great jeopardy.”
In a statement, the NDFP pointed instead at the government’s “all-out war” against the NPA: “OPAPP Secretary Dureza’s assertion … totally obscures the fact that the GRP has been waging an “all-out-war” against the NPA, conducting offensive operations and aerial bombings of communities regardless of “collateral damage” – all on the direct and standing orders of President Duterte,” the NDFP said in a statement.
NPA leader Benito Tiamzon, with his wife, Wilma. Photographed by Miguel de Guzman/Philstar
In the wake of President Duterte’s pronouncement over the weekend asking rebels, including the communist movement, to join the fight against terrorist groups, Communist Party of the Philippines/New People’s Army (CPP/NPA) leader Benito Tiamzon said they are, in principle, open to extending cooperation but at the same time expressed concerns regarding the parameters on the ground that it would entail.
President Duterte called on Muslim separatist groups and the communist rebels to join his administration’s fight against militants apparently linked to the Jihadist Islamic State movement.
The Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, also known as the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, or Islamic State, is also known by its Arabic language acronym Daesh.
“I will hire you as soldiers – same pay, same privileges, and I will build houses for you in some areas,” Duterte had said. He also asked the NPA to abandon its guerrilla war and cooperate instead with the government.
“If this drags on, and you want to join, take your chance with the Republic,” Duterte said.
The NPA’s Tiamzon said, “in principle, hindi kami tutol. at bukas kami d’yan. Wala pa kaming natatanggap na kung ano ‘yong mga partikular na mga balangkas n’yan, mga parameters, ano ‘yong magiging kaayusan. ‘Yan ay mga bagay na maraming pasikot-sikot na dapat pag-usapan ng masinsinan (We are not against it and we are open to this. We have not received appropriate guidance, like the framework, the parameters, the organizational details. These are complicated matters that need to be discussed carefully),” he said.
“Kung laban sa terorismo, hindi kami tututol d’yan at handa kami kung mag-aalok ng pakikipagtulungan si Presidente Duterte … Pero maraming dapat linawin na mga parameters kaugnay d’yan (If it’s fighting terrorism, we’re not opposed toit and we’re ready to offer our help. But there are many parameters to clarify on the matter),” he added.
Tiamzon also said the movement would expect de-escalation or the lifting of the all-out war policy that Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana earlier declared against the NPA, since the communist armed wing was not included in the coverage of martial law.
He said there have been reports on the ground that the military was still launching offensives against the NPA in Mindanao.
The National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) over the weekend questioned the statements of Peace Adviser Jesus Dureza that the intensified offensives of the New People’s Army (NPA) against the government had put the quest for peace talks “in great jeopardy.”
In a statement, the NDFP pointed instead at the government’s “all-out war” against the NPA: “OPAPP Secretary Dureza’s assertion … totally obscures the fact that the GRP has been waging an “all-out-war” against the NPA, conducting offensive operations and aerial bombings of communities regardless of “collateral damage” – all on the direct and standing orders of President Duterte,” the NDFP said in a statement.
NPA strikes first
From the Mindanao Times (May 29): NPA strikes first
2 cafgus wounded in ambush as peace talks suspended
HOURS before the suspension of the fifth round of peace talks, two militiamen were wounded following an ambush perpetrated by the communist rebels at Sitio Intavas, Barangay La Fortuna, Impasug-ong, Bukidnon on Saturday around 7:30 a.m.
Supt. Lemuel Gonda, spokesperson of Police Regional Office (PRO) 10, said troops of 1st Special Forces Battalion composed of eight cafgus and two enlisted personnel, led by Pfc Ruben B. Gomez, were going to Kitanglad relay station when they were landmined by rebels.
Accordingly, the troops were able to return fire after an explosion followed by gunfire, which lasted for 30 minutes before the rebels withdrew.
Gonda said the troops encountered about 40 members of Guerilla Front 68 of the NPA.
The two wounded CAAs were identified as Peter Nunez and Arcenio Macalam.
In a separate interview, Capt. Felecor Jumagdao, the civil-military operations officer of the 1st Special Forces Battalion, told TIMES that the wounded CAAs were brought to Camp Evangelista hospital in Cagayan de Oro city for further medical treatment.
On May 25, NPA Southern Command spokesperson Rigoberto Sanchez ordered the communist guerrillas to intensify their operations against military and police targets in response to President Duterte’s martial law declaration in Mindanao.
“Duterte attempts to consolidate his power, not by siding with the interest of the masses,” Sanchez said. “But by fulfilling the wishes of military generals to resurrect full-blown martial power over the civilian bureaucracy.”
Red fighters shall defend the masses in the offensive mode by launching tactical offensives against legitimate military targets,” he added. “All NPA units shall pre-empt abuses by military and police officers by imposing arrests and checkpoints against these Martial Law implementers.”
Earlier, National Democratic Front founder Joma Sison urged the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines to refrain from attacking government forces deep in battle against the Maute group.
On May 27, Sec. Jesus Dureza of the Office of the Presidential Peace Adviser on the Peace Process said the government has withdrawn from the fifth round of the peace talks with the National Democratic Front-Communist Party of the Philippines.
Among the reasons cited are:
- The noticeable upscale of incidents of offensive attacks by the NPAs throughout the country;
- The seeming perception of the bigger public that these NPA operations are in open and public defiance of president duterte who has consistently accommodated them in unprecedented ways;
- The renewed surfacing of public apprehension questioning the sincerity of the CPP/NPA/NDF in the peace talks;
- The public admissions of some panel members of the CPP/NPA NDF leaders that they have no control over their forces on the ground;
- The sudden and perceptible erosion of public support to the peace talks with strong messages received from the public to altogether stop peace negotiations;
- The clamor now to pursue instead localized peace talks;
- The latest and recent president’s public statements that he will no longer sign agreements with the CPP/NPA/NDF
AFP on offensive
Meanwhile, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) also ordered the troop to launch offensives against the communist guerrillas following the ambush.
“Its unfortunate that the CPP- NPA took advantage of the crisis that is ongoing in Marawi city by ordering the NPA to intensify their attacks against AFP and PNP,” Gen. Eduardo Año, chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), told TIMES yesterday.
Año said the CPP-NPA only showed its true colors with the order.
“We shall deal with them with more force and ensure that the community are protected from NPA atrocities and terroristic activities,” he said.
The chief of staff also said he already directed all military units to be alert and intensify their intelligence monitoring in their areas of responsibility.
2 cafgus wounded in ambush as peace talks suspended
HOURS before the suspension of the fifth round of peace talks, two militiamen were wounded following an ambush perpetrated by the communist rebels at Sitio Intavas, Barangay La Fortuna, Impasug-ong, Bukidnon on Saturday around 7:30 a.m.
Supt. Lemuel Gonda, spokesperson of Police Regional Office (PRO) 10, said troops of 1st Special Forces Battalion composed of eight cafgus and two enlisted personnel, led by Pfc Ruben B. Gomez, were going to Kitanglad relay station when they were landmined by rebels.
Accordingly, the troops were able to return fire after an explosion followed by gunfire, which lasted for 30 minutes before the rebels withdrew.
Gonda said the troops encountered about 40 members of Guerilla Front 68 of the NPA.
The two wounded CAAs were identified as Peter Nunez and Arcenio Macalam.
In a separate interview, Capt. Felecor Jumagdao, the civil-military operations officer of the 1st Special Forces Battalion, told TIMES that the wounded CAAs were brought to Camp Evangelista hospital in Cagayan de Oro city for further medical treatment.
On May 25, NPA Southern Command spokesperson Rigoberto Sanchez ordered the communist guerrillas to intensify their operations against military and police targets in response to President Duterte’s martial law declaration in Mindanao.
“Duterte attempts to consolidate his power, not by siding with the interest of the masses,” Sanchez said. “But by fulfilling the wishes of military generals to resurrect full-blown martial power over the civilian bureaucracy.”
Red fighters shall defend the masses in the offensive mode by launching tactical offensives against legitimate military targets,” he added. “All NPA units shall pre-empt abuses by military and police officers by imposing arrests and checkpoints against these Martial Law implementers.”
Earlier, National Democratic Front founder Joma Sison urged the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines to refrain from attacking government forces deep in battle against the Maute group.
On May 27, Sec. Jesus Dureza of the Office of the Presidential Peace Adviser on the Peace Process said the government has withdrawn from the fifth round of the peace talks with the National Democratic Front-Communist Party of the Philippines.
Among the reasons cited are:
- The noticeable upscale of incidents of offensive attacks by the NPAs throughout the country;
- The seeming perception of the bigger public that these NPA operations are in open and public defiance of president duterte who has consistently accommodated them in unprecedented ways;
- The renewed surfacing of public apprehension questioning the sincerity of the CPP/NPA/NDF in the peace talks;
- The public admissions of some panel members of the CPP/NPA NDF leaders that they have no control over their forces on the ground;
- The sudden and perceptible erosion of public support to the peace talks with strong messages received from the public to altogether stop peace negotiations;
- The clamor now to pursue instead localized peace talks;
- The latest and recent president’s public statements that he will no longer sign agreements with the CPP/NPA/NDF
AFP on offensive
Meanwhile, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) also ordered the troop to launch offensives against the communist guerrillas following the ambush.
“Its unfortunate that the CPP- NPA took advantage of the crisis that is ongoing in Marawi city by ordering the NPA to intensify their attacks against AFP and PNP,” Gen. Eduardo Año, chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), told TIMES yesterday.
Año said the CPP-NPA only showed its true colors with the order.
“We shall deal with them with more force and ensure that the community are protected from NPA atrocities and terroristic activities,” he said.
The chief of staff also said he already directed all military units to be alert and intensify their intelligence monitoring in their areas of responsibility.
Sema files plea for case in Roxas night market attack
From the Mindanao Times (May 29): Sema files plea for case in Roxas night market attack
THE SON of a ranking Moro National Liberation Front (MILF) leader has filed a motion for reconsideration on the multiple murder with multiple attempted murder lodged against him in connection to the Roxas night market blast.
According to City Prosecutor Nestor Ledesma, Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 33 Judge Lope Callo has granted the motion for reinvestigation of Mohammad Abdul Jabbar Sema based on the grounds that the suspect was not given the opportunity to submit his counter-affidavit.
“The judge already granted the reinvestigation but we cannot understand why he doesn’t want to be reinvestigated. Maybe he wants the case against him dismissed,” Ledesma said.
He added that the respondent disagreed with the order of the judge for a reinvestigation, which is why he’s filing a motion for reconsideration.
Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio, in a chance interview on May 26, revealed that the local government will ask the help of Solicitor General Jose Calida to petition for the transfer of the five detained Roxas night market respondents, alleged to be members of the Maute group
Of the 14 indicted individual, only seven are detained. However, two of the suspects were placed under the Witness Protection Program because they executed extra-judicial confessions, which became the basis of prosecutors to recommend for violation of Sec. 3 (terrorism) of Republic Act 9374 (Human Security Act) and multiple murder with multiple attempted murder under the Revised Penal Code against the rest of the accused.
He added that the respondent disagreed with the order of the judge for a reinvestigation, which is why he’s filing a motion for reconsideration.
Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio, in a chance interview on May 26, revealed that the local government will ask the help of Solicitor General Jose Calida to petition for the transfer of the five detained Roxas night market respondents, alleged to be members of the Maute group
Of the 14 indicted individual, only seven are detained. However, two of the suspects were placed under the Witness Protection Program because they executed extra-judicial confessions, which became the basis of prosecutors to recommend for violation of Sec. 3 (terrorism) of Republic Act 9374 (Human Security Act) and multiple murder with multiple attempted murder under the Revised Penal Code against the rest of the accused.
According to the extra-judicial confessions of the two witnesses, Sema was the one who suggested to bomb Davao City because the incumbent President is from the said city, and to compel the government to reduce the military forces in Basilan to fight the Abu Sayyaf group.
Military welcomes support from rebel groups in fight vs terrorism
From MindaNews (May 29): Military welcomes support from rebel groups in fight vs terrorism
The Eastern Mindanao Command (EMC) is willing to accept support from the Moro rebels and even from the New People’s Army (NPA) should the military need reinforcement to combat the Abu Sayyaf and Maute group in Mindanao.
EMC commander Lt. General Rey Leonardo B. Guerrero told a press conference Monday they welcome any support that would help the military’s fight against terrorism.
Guerrero issued the statement after President Rodrigo R. Duterte announced during his visit in Sulu Saturday that he is willing to recruit the rebels and give them the same benefits government soldiers are getting.
“We really welcome any form of support or assistance that could be provided to the Armed Forces of the Philippines to quell terrorism and rebellion that’s taking place in Marawi City. As to how these forces – MILF (Moro Islamic Liberation Front) and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) – will be operationalized, it is up to the operational commander in the area,” Guerrero said.
During the “Mindanao Hour” at the Press Briefing Room in Malacanang Monday, Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla, spokesperson of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, said there are protocols and procedures that have to be followed in integrating former rebels into the AFP.
Marawi City falls under the jurisdiction of the Western Mindanao Command under Maj. Gen. Carlito Galvez.
Guerrero said they requested for additional battalions to secure Davao City.
But he added it may take awhile before their request would be granted due to the current situation in Marawi City, where government troops were still battling the Maute group.
The siege in Marawi erupted on May 23 and was used by the President to declare martial law in Mindanao.
During the second week of May, the 16th Infantry Battalion arrived in Davao from Sulu, supposedly to join the counterinsurgency operations of the military in the outskirts of the city.
“In the meantime, we are making do with the available units that we have here. And in fact, we are just trying to realign our forces here to e able to adequately cover the security requirements of the city,” Guerrero said.
He said that they would also bank on the support of the people in monitoring and reporting “suspicious development taking place in the peripheral barangays most especially coastal barangays.”
“Very porous ang borders natin. What is more important is for us to be mindful of the fact that we need to work together to make sure that Davao City remains safe and secure,” he said.
He said the AFP has maximized its visibility in Davao City through checkpoints and patrols in hope of deterring “enemy plans to stage terroristic action in the city.”
City Mayor Sara Duterte ordered a lockdown in the city immediately after the declaration of martial but later replaced it with a “hold and secure” order with an accompanying 30-point guideline to residents.
She said the guidelines are necessary to prevent the possible entry of terrorists.
“Hindi natin alam kung sino ang kalaban natin sa loob. (We do not who our enemies are inside Davao) Violence may escalate inside Davao City or problems may come in to Davao City,” she said.
The guidelines cover the activities of residents and tourists, and new requirements for business establishments.
http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2017/05/military-welcomes-support-from-rebel-groups-in-fight-vs-terrorism/
The Eastern Mindanao Command (EMC) is willing to accept support from the Moro rebels and even from the New People’s Army (NPA) should the military need reinforcement to combat the Abu Sayyaf and Maute group in Mindanao.
EMC commander Lt. General Rey Leonardo B. Guerrero told a press conference Monday they welcome any support that would help the military’s fight against terrorism.
Guerrero issued the statement after President Rodrigo R. Duterte announced during his visit in Sulu Saturday that he is willing to recruit the rebels and give them the same benefits government soldiers are getting.
“We really welcome any form of support or assistance that could be provided to the Armed Forces of the Philippines to quell terrorism and rebellion that’s taking place in Marawi City. As to how these forces – MILF (Moro Islamic Liberation Front) and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) – will be operationalized, it is up to the operational commander in the area,” Guerrero said.
During the “Mindanao Hour” at the Press Briefing Room in Malacanang Monday, Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla, spokesperson of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, said there are protocols and procedures that have to be followed in integrating former rebels into the AFP.
Marawi City falls under the jurisdiction of the Western Mindanao Command under Maj. Gen. Carlito Galvez.
Guerrero said they requested for additional battalions to secure Davao City.
But he added it may take awhile before their request would be granted due to the current situation in Marawi City, where government troops were still battling the Maute group.
The siege in Marawi erupted on May 23 and was used by the President to declare martial law in Mindanao.
During the second week of May, the 16th Infantry Battalion arrived in Davao from Sulu, supposedly to join the counterinsurgency operations of the military in the outskirts of the city.
“In the meantime, we are making do with the available units that we have here. And in fact, we are just trying to realign our forces here to e able to adequately cover the security requirements of the city,” Guerrero said.
He said that they would also bank on the support of the people in monitoring and reporting “suspicious development taking place in the peripheral barangays most especially coastal barangays.”
“Very porous ang borders natin. What is more important is for us to be mindful of the fact that we need to work together to make sure that Davao City remains safe and secure,” he said.
He said the AFP has maximized its visibility in Davao City through checkpoints and patrols in hope of deterring “enemy plans to stage terroristic action in the city.”
City Mayor Sara Duterte ordered a lockdown in the city immediately after the declaration of martial but later replaced it with a “hold and secure” order with an accompanying 30-point guideline to residents.
She said the guidelines are necessary to prevent the possible entry of terrorists.
“Hindi natin alam kung sino ang kalaban natin sa loob. (We do not who our enemies are inside Davao) Violence may escalate inside Davao City or problems may come in to Davao City,” she said.
The guidelines cover the activities of residents and tourists, and new requirements for business establishments.
http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2017/05/military-welcomes-support-from-rebel-groups-in-fight-vs-terrorism/
COMMENTARY: Addressing challenges posed by the Abu Sayyaf Group (10): The Role of Religious Leaders
From MindaNews (May 29): COMMENTARY: Addressing challenges posed by the Abu Sayyaf Group (10): The Role of Religious Leaders
Last of 10 parts
29 May 2017
By definition, the majority of the population of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) are Muslims – 98% in Sulu, 97% in Tawi-Tawi, 94% in Lanao del Sur, 82% in Maguindanao and 80% in Basilan. As anyone who is even slightly familiar with the Muslim faith knows, Islam is a religion that touches every aspect of a person’s life. From the moment a faithful adherent wakes in the morning to the last moment before retiring in the evening, from the simple greetings of peace which precede all communications to his conduct of business transactions, Islam influences the actions of the faithful.
For this reason, religious leaders carry great weight in the societies they live in, since they serve to counsel and guide the members of the ummah, the community of the faithful, on which actions accord with the will of Allah and which do not. They are persons of great influence in their communities.
However, in the author’s view, it is puzzling why, in the face of the unrelenting violence and even the barbaric actions undertaken by the Abu Sayyaf Group – particularly in recent years – the religious leaders of the area have been relatively silent. One has yet to hear the religious leaders of Sulu or Basilan take a clear and unequivocal position regarding the activities of the Abu Sayyaf in their respective provinces.
True, the National Ulama Conference of the Philippines (NUCP), an organization which has over 1,000 religious leaders as members, has spoken out. For example, after Robert Hall, a Canadian kidnap victim, was executed by the ASG in June 2016, the NUCP issued a statement, branding the Abu Sayyaf’s act as “un-Islamic, inhuman, and condemnable”.[1] But the NUCP, as an umbrella organization, serves to hide the positions of individual members or member organizations. Organizational statements or positions are not necessarily unanimously supported by its members.
When Jurgen Kantner, a German, was killed by the Abu Sayyaf in February 2017, Muslim legislators likewise issued a statement condemning the act as “not [being] in accordance with Islamic religion or way of life”.[2] The leadership of the ARMM and even of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) condemned this barbarous act.
But, to the author’s knowledge, the religious leaders of Sulu — those closest to the battlefront, as it were, where these and other killings took place, where the bulk of kidnap victims have been held captive over the last six years – have themselves not taken a public stand on the actions of the ASG.
The same observation can be made about the religious leaders of Basilan, the other area where the Abu Sayyaf is deeply entrenched.
Sometime within the last three years, the author was asked to help a family explore options to secure the release of their sibling who had been kidnapped by the ASG. Thinking that perhaps some of the religious leaders could convince the kidnappers to release their sibling, the family asked for an opportunity to speak to some religious leaders who would be willing to consider this. Through friends who were close to a number of religious leaders, the author conveyed the request of the victim’s family to some Ulama, but unfortunately the Ulama contacted declined to even speak with the family.
What is behind this seeming reluctance to confront the issue of the Abu Sayyaf frontally? One realizes that this is a sensitive issue which entails security risks for anyone who delves into it. And the security risks come from both sides of the conflict. While there is the possibility of retaliation on the part of the ASG against anyone speaking out against them, there is also the possibility of the government security agencies looking with suspicion on parties delving into issues involving the ASG.
In fact, one of the reasons given by one of the Ulama contacted was precisely this: that they may be misconstrued by the military for involving themselves in matters concerning the ASG. An unfortunate incident in the past was brought up as an example. In 2007, the AFP distributed posters of ASG commanders who were being pursued. One of those included was Yasser Igasan, also known as Tuan Ya, who at one point was considered as the possible successor of Khadaffy Janjalani as Amir of the ASG following Khadaffy’s death in 2006. Unfortunately, the poster showed the picture of another person, Ustadz Yahya Abdulla, a member of the Sulu Ulama Council for Peace and Development, as being Yasser Igasan, who is also a religious scholar. While this was an obvious mistake, it created serious problems for Ustadz Abdulla who had to go to the military authorities to clear the matter up lest someone, not knowing him personally but seeing his picture, mistake him for a wanted person and attempt to either capture or, worse, kill him for whatever reward may have been offered for Igasan.
But is there something deeper than concern for one’s security? A close friend, a native of Sulu, highly educated and deeply religious, whom the author consulted on this issue opined that there may still be a residue of bias or even resentment among Suluanos against Christians due to the history of the struggle between Muslims and colonial powers, despite decades of efforts on the part of Christians to reach out to Muslims, inter-faith dialogues, and despite the veneer of civility that educated Muslims may display toward Christians. In the deepest recesses of the psyche of some Muslims, perhaps below the levels of conscious thought, at the levels of the subconscious that are the real influences of one’s thoughts and actions, the resentment may still exist. This was discussed in the second article in this series.
Major efforts were exerted in the past to explore innovative ways by which tenets of Islam could help shape development efforts. There was, for example, a program some ten years ago, the Local Government Support Program in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (LGSPA) funded by the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) which aimed at upgrading the quality of governance in the ARMM. One of the components of the project attempted to harness Islamic teachings for social development and produced guidelines for khutbas, the sermon during the noontime worship on Fridays, covering such topics as leadership in Islam, addressing graft and corruption, eliminating a contaminated political system, addressing social concerns like health and the protection of the environment, preservation of Islamic culture, promotion of law and order, the effects of violence and war in the lives of people, and others. These guidelines were produced by the Muftis of the five provinces in the ARMM assisted by their Shari’a advisers.[3]
We described in a previous article another program, the EcoGov program, which utilized Islamic precepts to describe how the environment should be protected and preserved.
These would be examples of how the tenets of the Islamic faith can guide the faithful in different aspects of their lives.
The guidance of the religious leaders is needed much more today given the inroads that the Islamic State has made among militant groups in the region. The IS claims that they are
“…reviving Islam, returning it to its pure form, uniting the Muslim world under truly Islamic rule, and so restoring the dignity and greatness of its people.”[4]
It aims to “re-establish” a global caliphate but in doing so it espouses the intolerance of Jihadi-Salafism. Comparing the IS with al-Qaeda, Bunzel says that
“In contrast with al-Qaeda, [the IS] is absolutely uncompromising on doctrinal matters, prioritizing the promotion of an unforgiving strain of Salafi thought.”[5]
The IS views even other Muslims who do not agree with its views as being unbelievers or apostates, deserving death. Moreover, while Abubakar Janjalani emphasized defensive Jihad or Jihad Deefa, defending Muslim homelands from the invasion of the kafir or unbelievers, the IS places equal emphasis on offensive Jihad or Jihad Talab, attacking the kafir in their homelands. As Abu Mohammed al-Adnani, the official spokesman of the IS (until his death in August 2016), urged IS supporters in September 2014:
“If you can kill a disbelieving American or European – especially the spiteful and filthy French – or an Australian, or a Canadian, or any other disbeliever from the disbelievers waging war, including the citizens of the countries that entered into a coalition against the Islamic State, then rely upon Allah, and kill him in any manner or way, however it may be.
“Smash his head with a rock, or slaughter him with a knife, or run him over with your car, or throw him down from a high place, or choke him, or poison him.”[6]
This call of al-Adnani echoed the threat of the ASG’s Abu Solaiman in 2005 following the police raid on the high security prison Camp Bagong Diwa which resulted in the death of a number of ASG commanders,
“To you people [referring to then President Gloria Arroyo and the Philippine government], you don’t have to bring the war to Mindanao. We will bring it right into your doorstep.”[7]
It is good to note that in recent weeks there have been two Ulama Summits held to address the issue of terrorism, the first being the ARMM Ulama Summit Against Terrorism sponsored by the ARMM Darul Ifta, held from May 12-14, and the second being the 1st Muslim Religious Summit for Peace and Security sponsored by Joint Task Force Central, held from May 17-19. This is certainly a good start. However, as of this writing, the results or specific resolutions/agreements reached during these two Summits have not been publicly announced. Whatever the resolutions or agreements are, what will be important will be how these will be translated into concrete actions taken by the Ulama on the ground.
Can the Muftis and Ulama in the concerned areas of Mindanao take the lead in guiding the Muslim faithful in addressing the issue of terrorism posed by the Abu Sayyaf and other militant groups in their respective areas? In the face of a movement which uses religion to promote hate and violence, can they remind the Muslim faithful in the Philippines that in fact their religion is a religion of tolerance and peace? Can they provide the Muslim faithful the resolve to stand up to the many challenges facing them today? This is a question that only Muslims from the area and their religious leaders can answer.
(The author is writing a postscript to this series)
[Vic M. Taylor, originally from Cebu, has been involved in various peace and development activities in Mindanao, particularly in Basilan-Sulu-Tawi-Tawi (BaSulTa) in the different positions he has held in government and the private sector over the last 50 years.
He started as an instructor at the Notre Dame of Jolo College after his graduation from the Ateneo de Manila University in the late 1960s. Subsequently, he oversaw the Rehabilitation and Development Program for Muslim Mindanao during the early years of martial law under the Office of the President.
Within the last 16 years and upon the request of the families of some kidnap victims, Mr. Taylor assisted these families to help secure the safe release of five victims from the ASG.
Recently, he has been working with a private group that is assisting a community of the Moro National Liberation Front in the Zamboanga peninsula in bringing development projects to their area.
This series is a revised version of a paper written by the author for the Mackenzie Institute, a Canadian security think tank, in light of the execution of two Canadian hostages by the Abu Sayyaf last year]
[1] Karlos Manlupig, “Muslim leader condemns Abu’s beheading of 2nd Canadian hostage”, Inquirer.Net, June 13, 2016, globalnation.inquirer.net/140103/muslim-leaders-condemn-abu-sayyafs-beheading-of-canadian-hostage.
[2] Mara Cepeda, “Muslim lawmakers denounce beheading of German national”, Rappler, March 1, 2017, www.rappler.com/nation/162914-muslim-lawmakers-denounce-beheading-german-national.
[3] A copy of the publication containing the khutba guidelines can be found in https://www.scribd.com/document/38725567/Selected-Khutba.
[4] Richard Barrett, “The Islamic State”, The Soufan Group, November 2014, quoted in Thomas Koruth Samuel, “Radicalisation in Southeast Asia: A Selected Case Study of Daesh in Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines”, (Kuala Lumpur: The Southeast Asia Regional Centre for Counter-Terrorism, 2016), page 13.
[5] Cole Bunzel, “From Paper State to Caliphate: The Ideology of the Islamic State”, (Center for Middle East Policy, Brookings Institution, March 2015), page 9.
[6] Yara Bayoumy, “Isis urges more attacks on Western ‘disbelievers’ “, Independent, September 22, 2014, www.independent.co.uk/news/world/middle-east/isis-urges-more-attacks-on-western-disbelievers-9749512.html. Also, Cole Bunzel, ibid., page 36.
[7] Associated Press, “Philippine Cops Raid Prison; 28 Dead”, Fox News, March 15, 2005, www.foxnews.com/story/2005/03/15/philippine-cops-raid-prison-28-dead.html.
http://www.mindanews.com/mindaviews/2017/05/commentary-addressing-challenges-posed-by-the-abu-sayyaf-group-10-the-role-of-religious-leaders/
Last of 10 parts
29 May 2017
By definition, the majority of the population of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) are Muslims – 98% in Sulu, 97% in Tawi-Tawi, 94% in Lanao del Sur, 82% in Maguindanao and 80% in Basilan. As anyone who is even slightly familiar with the Muslim faith knows, Islam is a religion that touches every aspect of a person’s life. From the moment a faithful adherent wakes in the morning to the last moment before retiring in the evening, from the simple greetings of peace which precede all communications to his conduct of business transactions, Islam influences the actions of the faithful.
For this reason, religious leaders carry great weight in the societies they live in, since they serve to counsel and guide the members of the ummah, the community of the faithful, on which actions accord with the will of Allah and which do not. They are persons of great influence in their communities.
However, in the author’s view, it is puzzling why, in the face of the unrelenting violence and even the barbaric actions undertaken by the Abu Sayyaf Group – particularly in recent years – the religious leaders of the area have been relatively silent. One has yet to hear the religious leaders of Sulu or Basilan take a clear and unequivocal position regarding the activities of the Abu Sayyaf in their respective provinces.
True, the National Ulama Conference of the Philippines (NUCP), an organization which has over 1,000 religious leaders as members, has spoken out. For example, after Robert Hall, a Canadian kidnap victim, was executed by the ASG in June 2016, the NUCP issued a statement, branding the Abu Sayyaf’s act as “un-Islamic, inhuman, and condemnable”.[1] But the NUCP, as an umbrella organization, serves to hide the positions of individual members or member organizations. Organizational statements or positions are not necessarily unanimously supported by its members.
When Jurgen Kantner, a German, was killed by the Abu Sayyaf in February 2017, Muslim legislators likewise issued a statement condemning the act as “not [being] in accordance with Islamic religion or way of life”.[2] The leadership of the ARMM and even of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) condemned this barbarous act.
But, to the author’s knowledge, the religious leaders of Sulu — those closest to the battlefront, as it were, where these and other killings took place, where the bulk of kidnap victims have been held captive over the last six years – have themselves not taken a public stand on the actions of the ASG.
The same observation can be made about the religious leaders of Basilan, the other area where the Abu Sayyaf is deeply entrenched.
Sometime within the last three years, the author was asked to help a family explore options to secure the release of their sibling who had been kidnapped by the ASG. Thinking that perhaps some of the religious leaders could convince the kidnappers to release their sibling, the family asked for an opportunity to speak to some religious leaders who would be willing to consider this. Through friends who were close to a number of religious leaders, the author conveyed the request of the victim’s family to some Ulama, but unfortunately the Ulama contacted declined to even speak with the family.
What is behind this seeming reluctance to confront the issue of the Abu Sayyaf frontally? One realizes that this is a sensitive issue which entails security risks for anyone who delves into it. And the security risks come from both sides of the conflict. While there is the possibility of retaliation on the part of the ASG against anyone speaking out against them, there is also the possibility of the government security agencies looking with suspicion on parties delving into issues involving the ASG.
In fact, one of the reasons given by one of the Ulama contacted was precisely this: that they may be misconstrued by the military for involving themselves in matters concerning the ASG. An unfortunate incident in the past was brought up as an example. In 2007, the AFP distributed posters of ASG commanders who were being pursued. One of those included was Yasser Igasan, also known as Tuan Ya, who at one point was considered as the possible successor of Khadaffy Janjalani as Amir of the ASG following Khadaffy’s death in 2006. Unfortunately, the poster showed the picture of another person, Ustadz Yahya Abdulla, a member of the Sulu Ulama Council for Peace and Development, as being Yasser Igasan, who is also a religious scholar. While this was an obvious mistake, it created serious problems for Ustadz Abdulla who had to go to the military authorities to clear the matter up lest someone, not knowing him personally but seeing his picture, mistake him for a wanted person and attempt to either capture or, worse, kill him for whatever reward may have been offered for Igasan.
But is there something deeper than concern for one’s security? A close friend, a native of Sulu, highly educated and deeply religious, whom the author consulted on this issue opined that there may still be a residue of bias or even resentment among Suluanos against Christians due to the history of the struggle between Muslims and colonial powers, despite decades of efforts on the part of Christians to reach out to Muslims, inter-faith dialogues, and despite the veneer of civility that educated Muslims may display toward Christians. In the deepest recesses of the psyche of some Muslims, perhaps below the levels of conscious thought, at the levels of the subconscious that are the real influences of one’s thoughts and actions, the resentment may still exist. This was discussed in the second article in this series.
Major efforts were exerted in the past to explore innovative ways by which tenets of Islam could help shape development efforts. There was, for example, a program some ten years ago, the Local Government Support Program in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (LGSPA) funded by the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) which aimed at upgrading the quality of governance in the ARMM. One of the components of the project attempted to harness Islamic teachings for social development and produced guidelines for khutbas, the sermon during the noontime worship on Fridays, covering such topics as leadership in Islam, addressing graft and corruption, eliminating a contaminated political system, addressing social concerns like health and the protection of the environment, preservation of Islamic culture, promotion of law and order, the effects of violence and war in the lives of people, and others. These guidelines were produced by the Muftis of the five provinces in the ARMM assisted by their Shari’a advisers.[3]
We described in a previous article another program, the EcoGov program, which utilized Islamic precepts to describe how the environment should be protected and preserved.
These would be examples of how the tenets of the Islamic faith can guide the faithful in different aspects of their lives.
The guidance of the religious leaders is needed much more today given the inroads that the Islamic State has made among militant groups in the region. The IS claims that they are
“…reviving Islam, returning it to its pure form, uniting the Muslim world under truly Islamic rule, and so restoring the dignity and greatness of its people.”[4]
It aims to “re-establish” a global caliphate but in doing so it espouses the intolerance of Jihadi-Salafism. Comparing the IS with al-Qaeda, Bunzel says that
“In contrast with al-Qaeda, [the IS] is absolutely uncompromising on doctrinal matters, prioritizing the promotion of an unforgiving strain of Salafi thought.”[5]
The IS views even other Muslims who do not agree with its views as being unbelievers or apostates, deserving death. Moreover, while Abubakar Janjalani emphasized defensive Jihad or Jihad Deefa, defending Muslim homelands from the invasion of the kafir or unbelievers, the IS places equal emphasis on offensive Jihad or Jihad Talab, attacking the kafir in their homelands. As Abu Mohammed al-Adnani, the official spokesman of the IS (until his death in August 2016), urged IS supporters in September 2014:
“If you can kill a disbelieving American or European – especially the spiteful and filthy French – or an Australian, or a Canadian, or any other disbeliever from the disbelievers waging war, including the citizens of the countries that entered into a coalition against the Islamic State, then rely upon Allah, and kill him in any manner or way, however it may be.
“Smash his head with a rock, or slaughter him with a knife, or run him over with your car, or throw him down from a high place, or choke him, or poison him.”[6]
This call of al-Adnani echoed the threat of the ASG’s Abu Solaiman in 2005 following the police raid on the high security prison Camp Bagong Diwa which resulted in the death of a number of ASG commanders,
“To you people [referring to then President Gloria Arroyo and the Philippine government], you don’t have to bring the war to Mindanao. We will bring it right into your doorstep.”[7]
It is good to note that in recent weeks there have been two Ulama Summits held to address the issue of terrorism, the first being the ARMM Ulama Summit Against Terrorism sponsored by the ARMM Darul Ifta, held from May 12-14, and the second being the 1st Muslim Religious Summit for Peace and Security sponsored by Joint Task Force Central, held from May 17-19. This is certainly a good start. However, as of this writing, the results or specific resolutions/agreements reached during these two Summits have not been publicly announced. Whatever the resolutions or agreements are, what will be important will be how these will be translated into concrete actions taken by the Ulama on the ground.
Can the Muftis and Ulama in the concerned areas of Mindanao take the lead in guiding the Muslim faithful in addressing the issue of terrorism posed by the Abu Sayyaf and other militant groups in their respective areas? In the face of a movement which uses religion to promote hate and violence, can they remind the Muslim faithful in the Philippines that in fact their religion is a religion of tolerance and peace? Can they provide the Muslim faithful the resolve to stand up to the many challenges facing them today? This is a question that only Muslims from the area and their religious leaders can answer.
(The author is writing a postscript to this series)
[Vic M. Taylor, originally from Cebu, has been involved in various peace and development activities in Mindanao, particularly in Basilan-Sulu-Tawi-Tawi (BaSulTa) in the different positions he has held in government and the private sector over the last 50 years.
He started as an instructor at the Notre Dame of Jolo College after his graduation from the Ateneo de Manila University in the late 1960s. Subsequently, he oversaw the Rehabilitation and Development Program for Muslim Mindanao during the early years of martial law under the Office of the President.
Within the last 16 years and upon the request of the families of some kidnap victims, Mr. Taylor assisted these families to help secure the safe release of five victims from the ASG.
Recently, he has been working with a private group that is assisting a community of the Moro National Liberation Front in the Zamboanga peninsula in bringing development projects to their area.
This series is a revised version of a paper written by the author for the Mackenzie Institute, a Canadian security think tank, in light of the execution of two Canadian hostages by the Abu Sayyaf last year]
[1] Karlos Manlupig, “Muslim leader condemns Abu’s beheading of 2nd Canadian hostage”, Inquirer.Net, June 13, 2016, globalnation.inquirer.net/140103/muslim-leaders-condemn-abu-sayyafs-beheading-of-canadian-hostage.
[2] Mara Cepeda, “Muslim lawmakers denounce beheading of German national”, Rappler, March 1, 2017, www.rappler.com/nation/162914-muslim-lawmakers-denounce-beheading-german-national.
[3] A copy of the publication containing the khutba guidelines can be found in https://www.scribd.com/document/38725567/Selected-Khutba.
[4] Richard Barrett, “The Islamic State”, The Soufan Group, November 2014, quoted in Thomas Koruth Samuel, “Radicalisation in Southeast Asia: A Selected Case Study of Daesh in Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines”, (Kuala Lumpur: The Southeast Asia Regional Centre for Counter-Terrorism, 2016), page 13.
[5] Cole Bunzel, “From Paper State to Caliphate: The Ideology of the Islamic State”, (Center for Middle East Policy, Brookings Institution, March 2015), page 9.
[6] Yara Bayoumy, “Isis urges more attacks on Western ‘disbelievers’ “, Independent, September 22, 2014, www.independent.co.uk/news/world/middle-east/isis-urges-more-attacks-on-western-disbelievers-9749512.html. Also, Cole Bunzel, ibid., page 36.
[7] Associated Press, “Philippine Cops Raid Prison; 28 Dead”, Fox News, March 15, 2005, www.foxnews.com/story/2005/03/15/philippine-cops-raid-prison-28-dead.html.
http://www.mindanews.com/mindaviews/2017/05/commentary-addressing-challenges-posed-by-the-abu-sayyaf-group-10-the-role-of-religious-leaders/
ARMM steps up humanitarian interventions in Marawi crisis
From the Mindanao Examiner (May 29): ARMM steps up humanitarian interventions in Marawi crisis
The incursion of the local terror group Maute and elements of the Abu Sayyaf into Marawi City has inflicted immense sufferings to residents in the city that are bound to persist long after the end of the siege.
The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) has recorded nearly 85,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) who are either staying in designated evacuation centers or in their relative’s houses in nearby towns in Lanao del Sur or Iligan City. Its crisis management center has also confirmed at least 3,717 stranded individuals and 59 missing persons in the city.
ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman immediately activated and convened the region’s Crisis Management Committee to plan and evaluate the region’s response upon confirmation of the crisis. He called for the establishment of a crisis management center at the region’s seat in Cotabato City with emergency hotlines to facilitate assistance to affected residents.
Meanwhile, Regional Vice-Governor and concurrent secretary of the region’s Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) headed to Marawi City to lead the ARMM’s emergency response on the ground.
The ARMM government through its Humanitarian and Emergency Action and Response Team (HEART) has already provided help to 13,522 internally displaced families and will be dispatching more relief operations to identified evacuation centers.
The Islamic City of Marawi
Marawi is one of the only two cities in the ARMM. It is situated in the province of Lanao del Sur and has a population of more than 200,000 based on the 2015 census, a vast majority of whom are Muslims.
It is home to the main campus of the Mindanao State University (MSU), a premier state university that attracts thousands of students all over Mindanao and the rest of the country.
The terror and displacement have made the observance of Ramadan unusually sombre and taxing for the city’s vastly Muslim population.
Halfway Home
It was a typical afternoon of May 23 at the MSU Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU IIT) campus in Iligan City when Dr. Marie Joy Banawa, dean of the school’s College of Arts and Social Sciences (CASS), heard news of the unfolding crisis in Marawi City. She was alarmed upon seeing a post of MSU students in distress in her social media feed.
Dean Joy said she didn’t know then where to get the resources or how to mobilize support, but she was determined that her campus must help. With the support of MSU IIT’s chancellor, her fellow faculty and student volunteers, Dean Joy established a halfway center at the CASS building for MSU students caught in the fighting.
She said through the donations and student volunteers, they were able to provide food, shelter, minimal financial assistance and psychosocial aid to the affected students. Dean Joy said they have already catered to approximately 800 students.
Among those they’ve assisted are the Altorino siblings Francis, Janelli and Joseph who hail from Butuan City. The eldest, Francis, 24, a first year law student in MSU Marawi City said they were initially reluctant to evacuate.
“Medyo sanay na po kami kung barilan lang ang naririnig. Di lang namin inexpect na ganito kalala. (We were used to hearing gunfights. We didn’t expect that it would get this worse),” Francis said.
He said they were alarmed about reports that the terrorist group only targets Christians like them, but they worry more for the people trapped in their homes amidst the gunfight and airstrikes. The siblings are confident that the crisis will not erode the bond among people of different faiths in Marawi City.
Student Volunteer
MSU IIT’s halfway center has also attracted volunteer students like 19-year old Esnaira Tambie, a junior high student from Marawi City who herself is an evacuee. She and her family now stay at a relative’s house in Iligan City after making an arduous 12-hour travel to escape the fighting.
Esnairah said she feels heartbroken for what’s happened to her city and for the families who might have to spend the entire month of Ramadan away from home.
Despite her personal ordeal, Esnairah keenly volunteered to assist in the halfway center for the distress students.
ARMM is ready
Marawi City has never faced a crisis of this extent which threatens to break not just its thriving infrastructures but also the spirit of its people.
The ARMM government, on the other hand, is expecting a drawn-out crisis and is preparing for a comprehensive humanitarian intervention.
Governor Hataman assured residents that the regional government is ready to respond to their needs and is working closely with other government agencies and private institutions to ensure the safety and well-being of civilians. (Bureau of Public Information)
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/armm-steps-up-humanitarian-interventions-in-marawi-crisis/
The incursion of the local terror group Maute and elements of the Abu Sayyaf into Marawi City has inflicted immense sufferings to residents in the city that are bound to persist long after the end of the siege.
The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) has recorded nearly 85,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) who are either staying in designated evacuation centers or in their relative’s houses in nearby towns in Lanao del Sur or Iligan City. Its crisis management center has also confirmed at least 3,717 stranded individuals and 59 missing persons in the city.
ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman immediately activated and convened the region’s Crisis Management Committee to plan and evaluate the region’s response upon confirmation of the crisis. He called for the establishment of a crisis management center at the region’s seat in Cotabato City with emergency hotlines to facilitate assistance to affected residents.
Meanwhile, Regional Vice-Governor and concurrent secretary of the region’s Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) headed to Marawi City to lead the ARMM’s emergency response on the ground.
The ARMM government through its Humanitarian and Emergency Action and Response Team (HEART) has already provided help to 13,522 internally displaced families and will be dispatching more relief operations to identified evacuation centers.
The Islamic City of Marawi
Marawi is one of the only two cities in the ARMM. It is situated in the province of Lanao del Sur and has a population of more than 200,000 based on the 2015 census, a vast majority of whom are Muslims.
It is home to the main campus of the Mindanao State University (MSU), a premier state university that attracts thousands of students all over Mindanao and the rest of the country.
The terror and displacement have made the observance of Ramadan unusually sombre and taxing for the city’s vastly Muslim population.
Halfway Home
It was a typical afternoon of May 23 at the MSU Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU IIT) campus in Iligan City when Dr. Marie Joy Banawa, dean of the school’s College of Arts and Social Sciences (CASS), heard news of the unfolding crisis in Marawi City. She was alarmed upon seeing a post of MSU students in distress in her social media feed.
Dean Joy said she didn’t know then where to get the resources or how to mobilize support, but she was determined that her campus must help. With the support of MSU IIT’s chancellor, her fellow faculty and student volunteers, Dean Joy established a halfway center at the CASS building for MSU students caught in the fighting.
She said through the donations and student volunteers, they were able to provide food, shelter, minimal financial assistance and psychosocial aid to the affected students. Dean Joy said they have already catered to approximately 800 students.
Among those they’ve assisted are the Altorino siblings Francis, Janelli and Joseph who hail from Butuan City. The eldest, Francis, 24, a first year law student in MSU Marawi City said they were initially reluctant to evacuate.
“Medyo sanay na po kami kung barilan lang ang naririnig. Di lang namin inexpect na ganito kalala. (We were used to hearing gunfights. We didn’t expect that it would get this worse),” Francis said.
He said they were alarmed about reports that the terrorist group only targets Christians like them, but they worry more for the people trapped in their homes amidst the gunfight and airstrikes. The siblings are confident that the crisis will not erode the bond among people of different faiths in Marawi City.
Student Volunteer
MSU IIT’s halfway center has also attracted volunteer students like 19-year old Esnaira Tambie, a junior high student from Marawi City who herself is an evacuee. She and her family now stay at a relative’s house in Iligan City after making an arduous 12-hour travel to escape the fighting.
Esnairah said she feels heartbroken for what’s happened to her city and for the families who might have to spend the entire month of Ramadan away from home.
Despite her personal ordeal, Esnairah keenly volunteered to assist in the halfway center for the distress students.
ARMM is ready
Marawi City has never faced a crisis of this extent which threatens to break not just its thriving infrastructures but also the spirit of its people.
The ARMM government, on the other hand, is expecting a drawn-out crisis and is preparing for a comprehensive humanitarian intervention.
Governor Hataman assured residents that the regional government is ready to respond to their needs and is working closely with other government agencies and private institutions to ensure the safety and well-being of civilians. (Bureau of Public Information)
http://mindanaoexaminer.com/armm-steps-up-humanitarian-interventions-in-marawi-crisis/
AFP assures control of Marawi as clearing ops continue
From CNN Philippines (May 29): AFP assures control of Marawi as clearing ops continue
The military on Monday refuted claims that Maute forces were in control of half of Marawi, saying it had near "complete control" of the city, with the exception of certain Maute-held areas where clearing operations continue.
"It is not true that half of the city is controlled by the rebels. Totally untrue. The Armed Forces and the Police... our forces are in complete control of the city, except for certain areas of the city where they continue to hold," Armed Forces of The Philippines (AFP) Spokesman Bgen. Restituto Padilla said Monday.
Speaking at the first-ever "Mindanao Hour" briefing, Padilla denied reports that the Maute group, which last Tuesday stormed Marawi, had a hold of the key Mindanao city.
Padilla added, military forces have secured movement within the conflict zone, although he admitted it still needed to isolate "pockets of resistance" within the Marawi.
"We are in full control, meaning to say we can control who comes in and who comes out, who moves around and who doesn't," he said.
Padilla said, the military does not have a definite timeline for when military operations will end, but ensured "our ground commanders have assured that the end is almost there."
He added, the military has reason to believe target Abu Sayyaf Leader Isnilon Hapilon, who Solicitor General Jose Calida claims has been declared the emir or leader of ISIS in the country, is still in Marawi.
"Naniniwala kami na nariyan pa siya at maaaring ito ang dahilan kaya ang pag-depensa sa mga ilang lugar ay nagiging matindi. So 'yun lang po ang masasabi ko sa ngayon," he said.
61 terrorists, 18 government forces killed
Padilla's statement comes as the clash between government troops and Maute forces approaches its seventh day.
Since starting last May 23, Presidential Spokesman Ernesto Abella said the crisis has left 61 terrorists, 15 AFP troops, 3 policemen, and 19 civilians dead.
It has also prompted the evacuation of thousands of Marawi residents and has displaced more than 12,509 families within Region 10 and the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).
This, as residents flee from the firefight and airstrikes in Marawi city.
At the Mindanao Hour briefing, Abella said along with clearing Marawi of militants, the government is prioritizing the rescue of trapped residents and recovery of civilian victims area.
As of 6 p.m. on May 28, Abella said the government has rescued around 390 civilians in clearing operations.
He added, the government has provided some P1,172,725 in assistance for affected families in ARMM via the Department of Social Welfare and Development.
The Department of Trade and Industry also enforced a price freeze on basic necessities in Mindanao, two days after President Rodrigo Duterte declared martial law in the region on May 23.
The price freeze covers Regions 9, 10, 11, 12 and Caraga and is valid for a period of 60 days.
Reported lockdown
Padilla also clarified reports of a lockdown in Marawi City's neigboring province, Lanao del Norte.
"So far 'yung terminong lockdown naman ay hindi naman talaga lockdown na wala nang makapasok, wala nang makalabas," he said. [Translation: The term 'lockdown' doesn't really mean lockdown, wherein nobody can go in and out.]
Padilla said security forces merely ensured that no dangerous forces citizens would be able to move to and from the area.
He added citizens who could prove they followed the law would not be blocked from travelling and have nothing to fear.
Iligan City Mayor Celso Regencia likewise explained the reported lockdown in Marawi's neighboring City.
Speaking to CNN Philippines' Balitaan, Regencia confirmed there was a lockdown from 12 midnight to 4a.m. in Iligan City on Sunday, but added that this was only during select AFP and PNP operations.
"Ang ibig kasi sabihin nun, hindi yung tuloy tuloy ma'am kasi kung sa loob ng city mag-conduct ng operations eh sarado talaga yung mga exit tsaka mga entrance po ma'am para kung magkaroon man ng habulan, hindi maka-reinforce yung mga kasama ng lawless elements," he said.
[Translation: It doesn't mean it's continuous, ma'am. It's because if there are operations inside the city, they will really close the exit and entrance so if there's a chase, allies of the lawless elements won't be able to reinforce them.]
"Yung lockdown kung may operations lang po ang AFP natin at PNP, ay papayag din tayo na i-lockdown para po sa seguridad ng ating mga tauhan po dito sa Iligan City," he added. [Translation: The lockdown will only happen if AFP and PNP has operations, we'll allow the lockdown for the security of residents of Iligan City.]
He said it was business as usual in Iligan City following this lockdown, which has since been lifted.
He added so far there's enough food, water, and medicine supplies for the 17,720 Marawi residents in evacuation centers in Iligan City.
http://cnnphilippines.com/news/2017/05/29/AFP-Marawi-control-clearing-ops.html
The military on Monday refuted claims that Maute forces were in control of half of Marawi, saying it had near "complete control" of the city, with the exception of certain Maute-held areas where clearing operations continue.
"It is not true that half of the city is controlled by the rebels. Totally untrue. The Armed Forces and the Police... our forces are in complete control of the city, except for certain areas of the city where they continue to hold," Armed Forces of The Philippines (AFP) Spokesman Bgen. Restituto Padilla said Monday.
Speaking at the first-ever "Mindanao Hour" briefing, Padilla denied reports that the Maute group, which last Tuesday stormed Marawi, had a hold of the key Mindanao city.
Padilla added, military forces have secured movement within the conflict zone, although he admitted it still needed to isolate "pockets of resistance" within the Marawi.
"We are in full control, meaning to say we can control who comes in and who comes out, who moves around and who doesn't," he said.
Padilla said, the military does not have a definite timeline for when military operations will end, but ensured "our ground commanders have assured that the end is almost there."
He added, the military has reason to believe target Abu Sayyaf Leader Isnilon Hapilon, who Solicitor General Jose Calida claims has been declared the emir or leader of ISIS in the country, is still in Marawi.
"Naniniwala kami na nariyan pa siya at maaaring ito ang dahilan kaya ang pag-depensa sa mga ilang lugar ay nagiging matindi. So 'yun lang po ang masasabi ko sa ngayon," he said.
61 terrorists, 18 government forces killed
Padilla's statement comes as the clash between government troops and Maute forces approaches its seventh day.
Since starting last May 23, Presidential Spokesman Ernesto Abella said the crisis has left 61 terrorists, 15 AFP troops, 3 policemen, and 19 civilians dead.
It has also prompted the evacuation of thousands of Marawi residents and has displaced more than 12,509 families within Region 10 and the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).
This, as residents flee from the firefight and airstrikes in Marawi city.
At the Mindanao Hour briefing, Abella said along with clearing Marawi of militants, the government is prioritizing the rescue of trapped residents and recovery of civilian victims area.
As of 6 p.m. on May 28, Abella said the government has rescued around 390 civilians in clearing operations.
He added, the government has provided some P1,172,725 in assistance for affected families in ARMM via the Department of Social Welfare and Development.
The Department of Trade and Industry also enforced a price freeze on basic necessities in Mindanao, two days after President Rodrigo Duterte declared martial law in the region on May 23.
The price freeze covers Regions 9, 10, 11, 12 and Caraga and is valid for a period of 60 days.
Reported lockdown
Padilla also clarified reports of a lockdown in Marawi City's neigboring province, Lanao del Norte.
"So far 'yung terminong lockdown naman ay hindi naman talaga lockdown na wala nang makapasok, wala nang makalabas," he said. [Translation: The term 'lockdown' doesn't really mean lockdown, wherein nobody can go in and out.]
Padilla said security forces merely ensured that no dangerous forces citizens would be able to move to and from the area.
He added citizens who could prove they followed the law would not be blocked from travelling and have nothing to fear.
Iligan City Mayor Celso Regencia likewise explained the reported lockdown in Marawi's neighboring City.
Speaking to CNN Philippines' Balitaan, Regencia confirmed there was a lockdown from 12 midnight to 4a.m. in Iligan City on Sunday, but added that this was only during select AFP and PNP operations.
"Ang ibig kasi sabihin nun, hindi yung tuloy tuloy ma'am kasi kung sa loob ng city mag-conduct ng operations eh sarado talaga yung mga exit tsaka mga entrance po ma'am para kung magkaroon man ng habulan, hindi maka-reinforce yung mga kasama ng lawless elements," he said.
[Translation: It doesn't mean it's continuous, ma'am. It's because if there are operations inside the city, they will really close the exit and entrance so if there's a chase, allies of the lawless elements won't be able to reinforce them.]
"Yung lockdown kung may operations lang po ang AFP natin at PNP, ay papayag din tayo na i-lockdown para po sa seguridad ng ating mga tauhan po dito sa Iligan City," he added. [Translation: The lockdown will only happen if AFP and PNP has operations, we'll allow the lockdown for the security of residents of Iligan City.]
He said it was business as usual in Iligan City following this lockdown, which has since been lifted.
He added so far there's enough food, water, and medicine supplies for the 17,720 Marawi residents in evacuation centers in Iligan City.
http://cnnphilippines.com/news/2017/05/29/AFP-Marawi-control-clearing-ops.html
Final 2 FA-50PHs arriving on Wednesday
From Update Philippines (May 29): Final 2 FA-50PHs arriving on Wednesday
The Philippine Air Force (PAF) will be receiving its last two FA-50PH “Fighting Eagle” jet aircraft on May 31. These jets, with tail numbers 011 and 012, will be arriving at Clark Air Base, Pampanga around 11 a.m., said PAF spokesperson Col. Antonio Francisco on Monday.
The jets will be formally received by PAF Air Logistics Command head Major Gen. Arnold A. Mancita, he added.
FA-50PHs with tail numbers 009 and 010 arrived in the Philippines last April 26.
While FA-50PHs with tail numbers 007 and 008, fourth batch, arrived in the country last March 29 and were commissioned into service last April 6.
Francisco said the FA-50PHs are very useful for the PAF as it can be used for territorial defense and pilot training which is important as they are now focusing on the “generation” of pilots capable of manning sophisticated jet fighters which the country is planning to acquire for its military modernization program.
The first two FA-50PH units were delivered last November 28, 2015 while the second batch was handed over last December 8, 2016.
While the third batch was turned over to the PAF last February 22.
https://www.update.ph/2017/05/final-2-fa-50phs-arriving-on-wednesday/17816
The Philippine Air Force (PAF) will be receiving its last two FA-50PH “Fighting Eagle” jet aircraft on May 31. These jets, with tail numbers 011 and 012, will be arriving at Clark Air Base, Pampanga around 11 a.m., said PAF spokesperson Col. Antonio Francisco on Monday.
The jets will be formally received by PAF Air Logistics Command head Major Gen. Arnold A. Mancita, he added.
FA-50PHs with tail numbers 009 and 010 arrived in the Philippines last April 26.
While FA-50PHs with tail numbers 007 and 008, fourth batch, arrived in the country last March 29 and were commissioned into service last April 6.
Francisco said the FA-50PHs are very useful for the PAF as it can be used for territorial defense and pilot training which is important as they are now focusing on the “generation” of pilots capable of manning sophisticated jet fighters which the country is planning to acquire for its military modernization program.
The first two FA-50PH units were delivered last November 28, 2015 while the second batch was handed over last December 8, 2016.
While the third batch was turned over to the PAF last February 22.
https://www.update.ph/2017/05/final-2-fa-50phs-arriving-on-wednesday/17816
18 troopers killed, 64 wounded in Marawi City crisis
From Update Philippines (May 29): 18 troopers killed, 64 wounded in Marawi City crisis
As of early Sunday evening, 18 government troopers have been killed and 64 others wounded in the ongoing clearing operations to dislodge Maute Group terrorists in Marawi City, Lanao Del Sur.
This was confirmed by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla in a message to the PNA Monday morning.
Padilla said 15 military personnel were killed in action along with three Philippine National Police (PNP) operatives.
Reported wounded as of this posting are 61 soldiers and three policemen.
The AFP spokesperson added that Maute Group losses are placed at 61 with 42 of these being confirmed through body count and the remaining 19 by eye witness reports.
Captured firearms are placed at 41 including 37 high-powered ones.
Civilians executed by the Maute Group are placed at 19, Padilla said, while placing those rescued at 390.
“Clearing of Marawi City of militants still and rescue of trapped civilians and recovery of civilian casualties and victims are the current focus of the ongoing operations,” he said.
Fighting started when government security forces tried to arrest Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon, a known ally of the group and designated ISIS leader, last May 23.
https://www.update.ph/2017/05/18-troopers-killed-64-wounded-in-marawi-city-crisis/17818
As of early Sunday evening, 18 government troopers have been killed and 64 others wounded in the ongoing clearing operations to dislodge Maute Group terrorists in Marawi City, Lanao Del Sur.
This was confirmed by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla in a message to the PNA Monday morning.
Padilla said 15 military personnel were killed in action along with three Philippine National Police (PNP) operatives.
Reported wounded as of this posting are 61 soldiers and three policemen.
The AFP spokesperson added that Maute Group losses are placed at 61 with 42 of these being confirmed through body count and the remaining 19 by eye witness reports.
Captured firearms are placed at 41 including 37 high-powered ones.
Civilians executed by the Maute Group are placed at 19, Padilla said, while placing those rescued at 390.
“Clearing of Marawi City of militants still and rescue of trapped civilians and recovery of civilian casualties and victims are the current focus of the ongoing operations,” he said.
Fighting started when government security forces tried to arrest Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon, a known ally of the group and designated ISIS leader, last May 23.
https://www.update.ph/2017/05/18-troopers-killed-64-wounded-in-marawi-city-crisis/17818
BRP Tarlac en route to deliver essential supply for Marawi operation
From Update Philippines (May 29): BRP Tarlac en route to deliver essential supply for Marawi operation
Full speed ahead. This was the apparent message of the Philippine Navy (PN) as it dispatched Monday the BRP Tarlac (LD-601), its first strategic sealift vessel, to transport military vehicles and other supplies which is essential to dislodging the Maute Group terrorists in Marawi City, Lanao Del Sur.
PN spokesperson Capt. Lued Lincuna said the ship sailed from Subic Bay, Zambales carrying 30 military vehicles and 253 tons of essential supplies.
These cargos will be distributed to the different AFP units in Mindanao to cater to the transport and logistical requirements of the ongoing military operations against terrorists.
The ship, with its capability to accommodate more than 4,000 tons of cargo and 500 personnel onboard, is utilized not only to support military operations, but also for mass evacuation and even international humanitarian assistance during disasters and crisis.
Another strategic sealift vessel, the BRP Davao Del Sur (LD-602), is expected to be commissioned on May 31, the Navy’s 119th founding anniversary which will be held at Sasa Wharf, Davao City.
https://www.update.ph/2017/05/brp-tarlac-en-route-to-deliver-essential-supply-for-marawi-operation/17822
Full speed ahead. This was the apparent message of the Philippine Navy (PN) as it dispatched Monday the BRP Tarlac (LD-601), its first strategic sealift vessel, to transport military vehicles and other supplies which is essential to dislodging the Maute Group terrorists in Marawi City, Lanao Del Sur.
PN spokesperson Capt. Lued Lincuna said the ship sailed from Subic Bay, Zambales carrying 30 military vehicles and 253 tons of essential supplies.
These cargos will be distributed to the different AFP units in Mindanao to cater to the transport and logistical requirements of the ongoing military operations against terrorists.
The ship, with its capability to accommodate more than 4,000 tons of cargo and 500 personnel onboard, is utilized not only to support military operations, but also for mass evacuation and even international humanitarian assistance during disasters and crisis.
Another strategic sealift vessel, the BRP Davao Del Sur (LD-602), is expected to be commissioned on May 31, the Navy’s 119th founding anniversary which will be held at Sasa Wharf, Davao City.
https://www.update.ph/2017/05/brp-tarlac-en-route-to-deliver-essential-supply-for-marawi-operation/17822
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)