From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 16): End of Marawi conflict dawns after death of Omar Maute, Hapilon
The head of the Prelature of Marawi believes the reported death of terrorist leaders Isnilon Hapilon and Omar Maute will pave the way to the end of the conflict in the city.
“Crumbling leadership signals the beginning of the end,” said Marawi City Bishop Edwin dela Peña in an interview.
With this, the Catholic prelate admitted that he is grateful about the development of the situation in the city.
“I'm beginning to feel relieved,” he said.
On Monday, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana confirmed reports from ground commanders claiming the death of Hapilon and Maute.
Fighting in Marawi City erupted between when government forces tried to arrest Hapilon who was declared as the 'emir' of the terror group ISIS in Southeast Asia last May 23.
This prompted President Rodrigo Duterte to declare martial law in Mindanao.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1012898
Monday, October 16, 2017
Death of top Maute leaders a ‘decisive victory’
From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 16): Death of top Maute leaders a ‘decisive victory’
Senators lauded the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for eliminating top terrorist leaders Isnilon Hapilon and Omar Maute in Marawi City on Monday.
Senator Antonio Trillanes IV, a former Navy officer, described the death of both Hapilon and Maute as a “decisive victory” which he said honored soldiers both fallen and living.
“I commend the AFP for neutralizing the Maute leaders -- Isnilon Hapilon and Omar Maute. Hopefully, this also signifies the end of the major hostilities of the siege,” Trillanes said in a statement.
Trillanes, meanwhile, said that it is now time to go all out in the rebuilding of Marawi City “to start the healing process for all those affected by the war.”
Senator Juan Edgardo Angara, for his part, said the death of both terrorist leaders means that the violence is Marawi is “almost over.”
Angara, like Trillanes, said the task of rebuilding Marawi City now becomes the next urgent responsibility going forward.
“We must do whatever it takes for the people of Marawi to safely return to their city the soonest possible time and for vital infrastructure to be restored. Only then can we bring justice to a city and its people whose hearts will bear the scars of grief for a long time,” he said.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian descibed building Marawi back as “the next battle” that needed to be faced.
“Once peace and order is restored in the city, the government can finally begin in earnest the next battle: the fight to build Marawi back better than it ever was before,” Gatchalian said.
Gatchalian said although the government has begun preparing for it, efforts to jump start Marawi’s economy must be doubled.
Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri also expressed his high respect for the forces who fought well and those sacrificed their lives.
With major terrorists eliminated, Zubiri said that rehabilitation, resettlement and development activities can go “full blast.”
Zubiri, meanwhile, vowed to support projects for the reign of peace, stability and development in the areas impacted by the Marawi conflict.
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, in a press conference in Camp Aguinaldo, confirmed the death of top terrorist leaders on Monday morning.
Lorenzana said the bodies of the two terrorist leaders would be subject to DNA test, noting that these two have bounties on their heads from foreign countries.
Government troops are currently chasing a foreign terrorist who is fighting on the side of the Maute group in the city.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1012913
Senators lauded the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for eliminating top terrorist leaders Isnilon Hapilon and Omar Maute in Marawi City on Monday.
Senator Antonio Trillanes IV, a former Navy officer, described the death of both Hapilon and Maute as a “decisive victory” which he said honored soldiers both fallen and living.
“I commend the AFP for neutralizing the Maute leaders -- Isnilon Hapilon and Omar Maute. Hopefully, this also signifies the end of the major hostilities of the siege,” Trillanes said in a statement.
Trillanes, meanwhile, said that it is now time to go all out in the rebuilding of Marawi City “to start the healing process for all those affected by the war.”
Senator Juan Edgardo Angara, for his part, said the death of both terrorist leaders means that the violence is Marawi is “almost over.”
Angara, like Trillanes, said the task of rebuilding Marawi City now becomes the next urgent responsibility going forward.
“We must do whatever it takes for the people of Marawi to safely return to their city the soonest possible time and for vital infrastructure to be restored. Only then can we bring justice to a city and its people whose hearts will bear the scars of grief for a long time,” he said.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian descibed building Marawi back as “the next battle” that needed to be faced.
“Once peace and order is restored in the city, the government can finally begin in earnest the next battle: the fight to build Marawi back better than it ever was before,” Gatchalian said.
Gatchalian said although the government has begun preparing for it, efforts to jump start Marawi’s economy must be doubled.
Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri also expressed his high respect for the forces who fought well and those sacrificed their lives.
With major terrorists eliminated, Zubiri said that rehabilitation, resettlement and development activities can go “full blast.”
Zubiri, meanwhile, vowed to support projects for the reign of peace, stability and development in the areas impacted by the Marawi conflict.
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, in a press conference in Camp Aguinaldo, confirmed the death of top terrorist leaders on Monday morning.
Lorenzana said the bodies of the two terrorist leaders would be subject to DNA test, noting that these two have bounties on their heads from foreign countries.
Government troops are currently chasing a foreign terrorist who is fighting on the side of the Maute group in the city.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1012913
Solons laud military’s gains vs top Marawi terror heads
From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 16): Solons laud military’s gains vs top Marawi terror heads
Lawmakers in the House of Representatives on Monday welcomed Defense Secretary Lorenzana’s confirmation of the deaths of top terrorist leaders Isnilon Hapilon and Omar Maute in Marawi City.
Quezon City Rep. Winston Castelo commended the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for its “noteworthy achievement” in flushing out the two remaining (IS)-inspired terror leaders in the besieged city.
Castelo also acknowledged President Rodrigo Duterte’s declaration of martial law in Mindanao as essential in scuttling the IS’ plan to install a caliphate in Marawi.
“The determination of President Duterte along with his resolute actions primarily in imposing martial law on the entire Mindanao region at the start of the IS incursion cut short the ambitions of the dreaded fundamentalist group to relocate to Southeast Asia from the Middle East, where its strongholds were practically wiped out by the Western military coalition led by the United States,” Castelo said.
Castelo said this milestone marks the military’s effort to put an end to the five-month-long armed conflict and restore normalcy in the peace and order situation of the land.
“Freeing Marawi City from the clutches of the terror groups will also allow the Duterte administration to start the long-delayed rehabilitation program for the devastated city,” he added.
For his part, Muntinlupa City Rep. Ruffy Biazon said the neutralization of Hapilon and Maute is a significant blow dealt by the AFP to the terrorist groups.
“In eliminating the top leaders, the strategic decision making and direction of the terrorists will be impaired, giving the AFP an advantage in going after the rest of the group which may experience a setback due to the leadership vacuum. The AFP should exploit this opportunity,” Biazon said.
Biazon advised the government to prepare the return of the troops, paying particular attention to their mental health.
“The trauma and stress of the protracted battle the likes of which has never been seen before by our soldiers has surely taken its toll on those who fought against the terrorists,” Biazon said.
“Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder has surely afflicted many of our soldiers and they need the appropriate mental health care as they return from the conflict. Beyond giving them a hero’s welcome, we must ensure that they return to regular life with a normal state of mind,” he added.
Magdalo Rep. Gary Alejano, meanwhile, said the death of Maute and Hapilon is a clear victory for the military against terrorism.
Alejano expressed hope that the martial rule imposed in Southern Philippines would be lifted “sooner than later” and the rehabilitation of the besieged city be started at the “soonest possible time.”
“These are critical factors in restoring the normalcy in the area. Ang hangad po natin ay makabalik na ang ating mga kapatid na Maranao sa kanilang mga tahanan at makapagsimula ng bagong buhay,” Alejano said.
“The government should continue to support and equip our soldiers to lessen our casualties in battle. This is the time when we need all the support from our allies rather than isolate ourselves,” he added.
Fighting in Marawi City erupted when government forces tried to arrest Hapilon who was declared as the 'emir' of the terror group ISIS in Southeast Asia last May 23.
This prompted President Rodrigo Duterte to declare martial law in Mindanao.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1012944
Lawmakers in the House of Representatives on Monday welcomed Defense Secretary Lorenzana’s confirmation of the deaths of top terrorist leaders Isnilon Hapilon and Omar Maute in Marawi City.
Quezon City Rep. Winston Castelo commended the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for its “noteworthy achievement” in flushing out the two remaining (IS)-inspired terror leaders in the besieged city.
Castelo also acknowledged President Rodrigo Duterte’s declaration of martial law in Mindanao as essential in scuttling the IS’ plan to install a caliphate in Marawi.
“The determination of President Duterte along with his resolute actions primarily in imposing martial law on the entire Mindanao region at the start of the IS incursion cut short the ambitions of the dreaded fundamentalist group to relocate to Southeast Asia from the Middle East, where its strongholds were practically wiped out by the Western military coalition led by the United States,” Castelo said.
Castelo said this milestone marks the military’s effort to put an end to the five-month-long armed conflict and restore normalcy in the peace and order situation of the land.
“Freeing Marawi City from the clutches of the terror groups will also allow the Duterte administration to start the long-delayed rehabilitation program for the devastated city,” he added.
For his part, Muntinlupa City Rep. Ruffy Biazon said the neutralization of Hapilon and Maute is a significant blow dealt by the AFP to the terrorist groups.
“In eliminating the top leaders, the strategic decision making and direction of the terrorists will be impaired, giving the AFP an advantage in going after the rest of the group which may experience a setback due to the leadership vacuum. The AFP should exploit this opportunity,” Biazon said.
Biazon advised the government to prepare the return of the troops, paying particular attention to their mental health.
“The trauma and stress of the protracted battle the likes of which has never been seen before by our soldiers has surely taken its toll on those who fought against the terrorists,” Biazon said.
“Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder has surely afflicted many of our soldiers and they need the appropriate mental health care as they return from the conflict. Beyond giving them a hero’s welcome, we must ensure that they return to regular life with a normal state of mind,” he added.
Magdalo Rep. Gary Alejano, meanwhile, said the death of Maute and Hapilon is a clear victory for the military against terrorism.
Alejano expressed hope that the martial rule imposed in Southern Philippines would be lifted “sooner than later” and the rehabilitation of the besieged city be started at the “soonest possible time.”
“These are critical factors in restoring the normalcy in the area. Ang hangad po natin ay makabalik na ang ating mga kapatid na Maranao sa kanilang mga tahanan at makapagsimula ng bagong buhay,” Alejano said.
“The government should continue to support and equip our soldiers to lessen our casualties in battle. This is the time when we need all the support from our allies rather than isolate ourselves,” he added.
Fighting in Marawi City erupted when government forces tried to arrest Hapilon who was declared as the 'emir' of the terror group ISIS in Southeast Asia last May 23.
This prompted President Rodrigo Duterte to declare martial law in Mindanao.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1012944
Multi-sector groups back 2-day transport strike
From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 16): Multi-sector groups back 2-day transport strike
Various labor and student groups on Monday expressed their support to the two-day transport strike led by jeepney drivers and operators concerning the jeepney modernization program.
In a press conference in UP Diliman, Confederate for Unity, Recognition and Advancement of Government Employees president Ferdinand Gaite said the plan to phase-out old-jeepneys would result in higher fares ranging from PHP12 to PHP20 from the current PHP8.
Gaite said that several government workers with their meager salaries could not afford the more expensive options of transportation such as taxis and transport network vehicle services (TNVS) like Grab and Uber.
“As it is, transportation expenses already eat up a substantial portion of employee’s salaries. Our take-home pay is not even enough to take us home,” Gaite said.
Gaite said that while he sees the need to improve the public transport system in the country, the modernization program should take into account the welfare of the affected sectors and not that of the private investors and capitalists.
“In many countries, a highly efficient publicly-owned mass transport system is operated not for profit but as a service of the state to bring the people to their destinations,” Gaite said.
For her part, Advocates of Science and Technology for the People (AGHAM) campaign officer Cleng Julve echoed Gaite’s sentiments, saying that the government should undertake schemes that would benefit drivers, operators, and the commuting public.
Julve suggested that the government grant subsidy to small and single-unit operators for rehabilitation and upgrading of technology of their vehicles.
She said the “palit-jeep” scheme should allow jeepney drivers and operators to swap their old jeepneys with new ones at a subsidized value instead of the current scrap value offered.
Other groups present during the press conference include the Crispin B. Beltran Research Center and All-Workers Unity.
The Department of Finance reported that the program would cost PHP417 billion for the next five years, including the PHP8 billion subsidy for the purchase of PUVs and PHP3.9 billion for the Office of Transport Cooperatives.
Under the PUV Modernization Program, jeepney units that are 15 years old will be replaced with Euro 4 engines or electrically-powered engines with solar panels for roofs. These will also be equipped with closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras, a GPS navigation system, an Automatic Fare Collection System (AFCS), speed limiters, dashboard cameras, and Wi-Fi.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1012910
Various labor and student groups on Monday expressed their support to the two-day transport strike led by jeepney drivers and operators concerning the jeepney modernization program.
In a press conference in UP Diliman, Confederate for Unity, Recognition and Advancement of Government Employees president Ferdinand Gaite said the plan to phase-out old-jeepneys would result in higher fares ranging from PHP12 to PHP20 from the current PHP8.
Gaite said that several government workers with their meager salaries could not afford the more expensive options of transportation such as taxis and transport network vehicle services (TNVS) like Grab and Uber.
“As it is, transportation expenses already eat up a substantial portion of employee’s salaries. Our take-home pay is not even enough to take us home,” Gaite said.
Gaite said that while he sees the need to improve the public transport system in the country, the modernization program should take into account the welfare of the affected sectors and not that of the private investors and capitalists.
“In many countries, a highly efficient publicly-owned mass transport system is operated not for profit but as a service of the state to bring the people to their destinations,” Gaite said.
For her part, Advocates of Science and Technology for the People (AGHAM) campaign officer Cleng Julve echoed Gaite’s sentiments, saying that the government should undertake schemes that would benefit drivers, operators, and the commuting public.
Julve suggested that the government grant subsidy to small and single-unit operators for rehabilitation and upgrading of technology of their vehicles.
She said the “palit-jeep” scheme should allow jeepney drivers and operators to swap their old jeepneys with new ones at a subsidized value instead of the current scrap value offered.
Other groups present during the press conference include the Crispin B. Beltran Research Center and All-Workers Unity.
The Department of Finance reported that the program would cost PHP417 billion for the next five years, including the PHP8 billion subsidy for the purchase of PUVs and PHP3.9 billion for the Office of Transport Cooperatives.
Under the PUV Modernization Program, jeepney units that are 15 years old will be replaced with Euro 4 engines or electrically-powered engines with solar panels for roofs. These will also be equipped with closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras, a GPS navigation system, an Automatic Fare Collection System (AFCS), speed limiters, dashboard cameras, and Wi-Fi.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1012910
PNP monitors scattered protest actions on 1st day of strike
From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 16): PNP monitors scattered protest actions on 1st day of strike
The Philippine National Police National Operations Center (PNP NOC) monitored scattered protest-actions on the start of the two-day nationwide transport strike on Monday.
In its report, the Northern Police District (NPD) has monitored rallyists who gathered in Monumento, Caloocan City; while there were 30 protesters who staged a rally along McArthur Highway, Malanday, Valenzuela City, 30 rallyists in Zabarte Road North, Caloocan City, and 25 participants in Caltex, Malinta, Valenzuela City.
At the Quezon City Police District (QCPD), 30 rallyists were monitored in Quirino Highway, Sarmiento, Barangay Nova Proper, Quezon City; 20 several others in E. Rodriguez Boulevard corner Araneta Avenue and 16 in Quirino Highway, Lagro, Quezon City.
In PRO 3 (Police Regional Office 3/Central Luzon), some 120 rallyists gathered in Dolores Intersection, San Fernando City, Pampanga.
In PRO4A (Cavite/Laguna/Batangas/Rizal/Quezon), some 20 drivers converged in Barangay Salasad, Sta. Cruz, Laguna.
In PRO 5 (Bicol Region), around 20 drivers also staged protest-action in Petron Gasoline Station, Barangay Sagpon, Daraga, Albay.
In PRO 10, some 20 drivers joined the protest in Cagayan de Oro City.
In PRO 13, some 30 rallyists were monitored in San Nicolas St., Barangay Washington, Surigao City, Surigao del Norte.
Meanwhile, NPD director Chief Superintendent Clifton Empiso said they have proper coordination with the PISTON (Pambansang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Opereytor Nationwide) for the conduct of their nationwide strike on Monday.
Empiso made the statement as PISTON members and supporters temporarily stopped the conduct of their protest-action in Monumento, Caloocan City due to a downpour.
The nationwide transport strike of PISTON was in connection with their disagreement to the plan of the government for the jeepney modernization program.
There were only a small number of rallyists who gathered at the Monumento Circle, who are all members of the Piston-Camanava (Caloocan/Malabon/Navotas/Valenzuela) chapter, despite the presence of some members of Kilusang Mayo Uo (KMU) who provided support to them.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1012937
The Philippine National Police National Operations Center (PNP NOC) monitored scattered protest-actions on the start of the two-day nationwide transport strike on Monday.
In its report, the Northern Police District (NPD) has monitored rallyists who gathered in Monumento, Caloocan City; while there were 30 protesters who staged a rally along McArthur Highway, Malanday, Valenzuela City, 30 rallyists in Zabarte Road North, Caloocan City, and 25 participants in Caltex, Malinta, Valenzuela City.
At the Quezon City Police District (QCPD), 30 rallyists were monitored in Quirino Highway, Sarmiento, Barangay Nova Proper, Quezon City; 20 several others in E. Rodriguez Boulevard corner Araneta Avenue and 16 in Quirino Highway, Lagro, Quezon City.
In PRO 3 (Police Regional Office 3/Central Luzon), some 120 rallyists gathered in Dolores Intersection, San Fernando City, Pampanga.
In PRO4A (Cavite/Laguna/Batangas/Rizal/Quezon), some 20 drivers converged in Barangay Salasad, Sta. Cruz, Laguna.
In PRO 5 (Bicol Region), around 20 drivers also staged protest-action in Petron Gasoline Station, Barangay Sagpon, Daraga, Albay.
In PRO 10, some 20 drivers joined the protest in Cagayan de Oro City.
In PRO 13, some 30 rallyists were monitored in San Nicolas St., Barangay Washington, Surigao City, Surigao del Norte.
Meanwhile, NPD director Chief Superintendent Clifton Empiso said they have proper coordination with the PISTON (Pambansang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Opereytor Nationwide) for the conduct of their nationwide strike on Monday.
Empiso made the statement as PISTON members and supporters temporarily stopped the conduct of their protest-action in Monumento, Caloocan City due to a downpour.
The nationwide transport strike of PISTON was in connection with their disagreement to the plan of the government for the jeepney modernization program.
There were only a small number of rallyists who gathered at the Monumento Circle, who are all members of the Piston-Camanava (Caloocan/Malabon/Navotas/Valenzuela) chapter, despite the presence of some members of Kilusang Mayo Uo (KMU) who provided support to them.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1012937
Martial law in Mindanao stays despite death of Maute leaders: DND
From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 16): Martial law in Mindanao stays despite death of Maute leaders: DND
The Department of National Defense (DND) on Monday said martial law would remain in effect in Mindanao despite the death of top terrorist leaders Isnilon Hapilon and Omar Maute in Marawi City.
“No, we are not talking about lifting martial law yet, tingnan pa natin, we are only looking in the immediate aftermath of the killing of these two leaders, we may, sabi ko nga we may be lifting, I mean announcing the cessation of hostilities within this week and then after that we will find out,” Lorenzana told reporters during the press conference.
President Rodrigo Duterte issued Proclamation No. 216 on May 23 declaring martial law and suspending the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus in the whole of Mindanao. This was a result of the attack of the Maute groupin Marawi City, which is still ongoing and is subject to military operations.
The DND chief said they had yet to assess the situation in order for them to determine whether they can recommend the lifting of martial law to President Rodrigo Duterte.
“We will find out, we will assess the entire Mindanao if there is a need to recommend to the President the lifting of martial law,” he noted.
When asked on the possible retaliation of Maute remnants, Lorenzana said “We are prepared, our troops are prepared, alam naman natin that it is the modus operandi of the enemy to make, to create diversion dito, diversion dyan, retaliation din, so our troops are prepared.”
As of Monday, the number of slain Maute terrorists are placed at 822 along with 162 troops killed-in-action.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1012922
The Department of National Defense (DND) on Monday said martial law would remain in effect in Mindanao despite the death of top terrorist leaders Isnilon Hapilon and Omar Maute in Marawi City.
“No, we are not talking about lifting martial law yet, tingnan pa natin, we are only looking in the immediate aftermath of the killing of these two leaders, we may, sabi ko nga we may be lifting, I mean announcing the cessation of hostilities within this week and then after that we will find out,” Lorenzana told reporters during the press conference.
President Rodrigo Duterte issued Proclamation No. 216 on May 23 declaring martial law and suspending the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus in the whole of Mindanao. This was a result of the attack of the Maute groupin Marawi City, which is still ongoing and is subject to military operations.
The DND chief said they had yet to assess the situation in order for them to determine whether they can recommend the lifting of martial law to President Rodrigo Duterte.
“We will find out, we will assess the entire Mindanao if there is a need to recommend to the President the lifting of martial law,” he noted.
When asked on the possible retaliation of Maute remnants, Lorenzana said “We are prepared, our troops are prepared, alam naman natin that it is the modus operandi of the enemy to make, to create diversion dito, diversion dyan, retaliation din, so our troops are prepared.”
As of Monday, the number of slain Maute terrorists are placed at 822 along with 162 troops killed-in-action.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1012922
Philippines: 3 Soldiers Killed as Deadline to End Marawi Fighting Passes
From BenarNews (Oct 15): Philippines: 3 Soldiers Killed as Deadline to End Marawi Fighting Passes
The main battle area in Marawi city is engulfed in black smoke during fighting between government troops and Islamic State-inspired militants, Oct. 15, 2017.
Three Filipino soldiers were killed and 20 others, including a battalion commander, were injured in clashes with militants backed by the Islamic State (IS) as the government failed to end the Marawi siege as promised, the military said Sunday.
Col. Romeo Brawner Jr., deputy commander of Joint Task Group Ranao, said the military had tried to retake a portion of the city controlled by the gunmen late Saturday but was repulsed by heavy enemy fire.
He said Abu Sayyaf Group and Maute militants were forcing hostages to fight alongside them. Among them was a 16-year-old girl who was rescued amid the pitched battles.
“The officer was hit in the lower extremities of his body. The hostage, meanwhile is OK and was able to provide us with critical information,” Brawner said. Officials did not release details of the soldiers who were killed.
BenarNews reporters on the ground said aerial bombing runs and mortar fire have been continuous as the military pushed to end the siege by the weekend as promised. But the remaining militants have dug in and slowed the government advance.
Brawner said troops were working overtime to dislodge the gunmen hidden in dilapidated buildings and basements of structures.
“Until now we are still assaulting the defensive positions of the (enemy) despite the fact we have set today, this day, as target date for finishing the armed conflict,” Brawner said.
President Rodrigo Duterte and other officials have set at least nine deadlines in the past but the tenacity of the militants has thwarted all attempts to end fighting.
“Our troops are really fighting hard,” Brawner said. “Based on the revelation of rescued female hostage, it is unfortunate the women and the children are now forced to fight together with the militants.”
“These are desperate measures that they are doing because it’s their last defensive stand,” Brawner told reporters here.
“The fighting is not yet over. Our troops are still fighting. This shows how dedicated they are. The enemies have established very strong positions,” he stressed.
Since May 23 when militants launched their attacks, the government reported 163 troops, 822 militants and 47 civilians have died.
“Our soldiers are looking forward to end the fighting. They want to go home. Many of them were already here since day one. They long to be with their families,” Brawner said.
Martial law to stay
Regional military chief Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr. said officials were assessing which parts of the south would remain under martial law.
“But I believe a lot of government officials … wanted to maintain the status of military rule here in Marawi and in Lanao del Sur,” he said.
Meanwhile, Suara Bangsamoro National Chairman Jerome Succor said in statement that martial law had heightened instability in the south, adding that the declaration had intensified military operations in the region.
“We fear for the effects of war to the civilian population,” said Aba, who leads the political party representing Muslim interests.
“Our utmost concern is the lives and livelihoods of the civilians, if the Duterte administration should choose to pursue with urban militarization and aerial bombings. War in this context is unnecessary and solves nothing,” Aba said.
http://www.benarnews.org/english/news/philippine/marawi-deaths-10152017095638.html
The main battle area in Marawi city is engulfed in black smoke during fighting between government troops and Islamic State-inspired militants, Oct. 15, 2017.
Three Filipino soldiers were killed and 20 others, including a battalion commander, were injured in clashes with militants backed by the Islamic State (IS) as the government failed to end the Marawi siege as promised, the military said Sunday.
Col. Romeo Brawner Jr., deputy commander of Joint Task Group Ranao, said the military had tried to retake a portion of the city controlled by the gunmen late Saturday but was repulsed by heavy enemy fire.
He said Abu Sayyaf Group and Maute militants were forcing hostages to fight alongside them. Among them was a 16-year-old girl who was rescued amid the pitched battles.
“The officer was hit in the lower extremities of his body. The hostage, meanwhile is OK and was able to provide us with critical information,” Brawner said. Officials did not release details of the soldiers who were killed.
BenarNews reporters on the ground said aerial bombing runs and mortar fire have been continuous as the military pushed to end the siege by the weekend as promised. But the remaining militants have dug in and slowed the government advance.
Brawner said troops were working overtime to dislodge the gunmen hidden in dilapidated buildings and basements of structures.
“Until now we are still assaulting the defensive positions of the (enemy) despite the fact we have set today, this day, as target date for finishing the armed conflict,” Brawner said.
President Rodrigo Duterte and other officials have set at least nine deadlines in the past but the tenacity of the militants has thwarted all attempts to end fighting.
“Our troops are really fighting hard,” Brawner said. “Based on the revelation of rescued female hostage, it is unfortunate the women and the children are now forced to fight together with the militants.”
“These are desperate measures that they are doing because it’s their last defensive stand,” Brawner told reporters here.
“The fighting is not yet over. Our troops are still fighting. This shows how dedicated they are. The enemies have established very strong positions,” he stressed.
Since May 23 when militants launched their attacks, the government reported 163 troops, 822 militants and 47 civilians have died.
“Our soldiers are looking forward to end the fighting. They want to go home. Many of them were already here since day one. They long to be with their families,” Brawner said.
Martial law to stay
Regional military chief Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr. said officials were assessing which parts of the south would remain under martial law.
“But I believe a lot of government officials … wanted to maintain the status of military rule here in Marawi and in Lanao del Sur,” he said.
Meanwhile, Suara Bangsamoro National Chairman Jerome Succor said in statement that martial law had heightened instability in the south, adding that the declaration had intensified military operations in the region.
“We fear for the effects of war to the civilian population,” said Aba, who leads the political party representing Muslim interests.
“Our utmost concern is the lives and livelihoods of the civilians, if the Duterte administration should choose to pursue with urban militarization and aerial bombings. War in this context is unnecessary and solves nothing,” Aba said.
http://www.benarnews.org/english/news/philippine/marawi-deaths-10152017095638.html
Abu Asrie case transferred to High Court
From The Star Online (Oct 16): Abu Asrie case transferred to High Court
The case of Hajar Abdul Mubin, who is charged with being a member of the Abu Sayyaf militant group, has been transferred to the High Court.
Hajar, 25, also known as Abu Asrie, is accused of being a member of the group since 2010.
He was charged under Section 130KA of the Penal Code and faces life imprisonment and a fine.
Sessions Court Judge Surita Budin also transferred the case involving Abdul Syamir Dabilin, 25, who was charged with the intentional omission of information regarding a terrorist act, to the High Court.
The case involving two other men — Ahmad Abdul Omar, 52, and Jaffar Ahmad, 26 — who were charged with intentionally omitting information regarding a terrorist act, was set for mention at the Sessions Court here on Nov 16.
Abdul Syamir, Ahmad and Jaffar were charged under Section 130M of the Penal Code and face up to seven years in jail, a fine, or both.
Abdul Syamir is a Philippine national, while the three other accused are Malaysians
All four were arrested on Aug 30.
ttp://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2017/10/16/abu-asrie-case-transferred-to-high-court/
Hajar, 25, also known as Abu Asrie, is accused of being a member of the group since 2010.
He was charged under Section 130KA of the Penal Code and faces life imprisonment and a fine.
Sessions Court Judge Surita Budin also transferred the case involving Abdul Syamir Dabilin, 25, who was charged with the intentional omission of information regarding a terrorist act, to the High Court.
Abdul Syamir, Ahmad and Jaffar were charged under Section 130M of the Penal Code and face up to seven years in jail, a fine, or both.
Abdul Syamir is a Philippine national, while the three other accused are Malaysians
All four were arrested on Aug 30.
ttp://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2017/10/16/abu-asrie-case-transferred-to-high-court/
Armed men abduct 5 fishermen in southern Philippines
From the Anadolu Agency (Oct 15): Armed men abduct 5 fishermen in southern Philippines
Southern Sulu province is safe haven for Daesh-linked Abu Sayyaf group
Southern Sulu province is safe haven for Daesh-linked Abu Sayyaf group
At least five fishermen were abducted in southern Philippines’ Sulu province on Saturday evening, according to local media reports.
The fishermen were seized by armed men at Simbahan village at 8:15 p.m. (12:15 GMT), according to a report by GMA News.
Local police said the aducted fishermen were Filipino nationals.
Sulu is one of the havens of the Abu Sayyaf group, one of the four terror groups in the Philippines that has pledged allegiance to Daesh and is notorious for repeated kidnappings in waters between Malaysia and the Philippines.
Phillippine forces continue to carry out operations in the provinces of Basilan and Sulu to locate and rescue at least 20 Indonesian, Malaysian, Vietnamese and Filipino citizens abducted by the group.
Cafgu dies in clash with NPAs in Davao City
From the often pro-CPP online publication the Davao Today (Oct 16): Cafgu dies in clash with NPAs in Davao City
A member of the Cafgu Active Auxiliary (CAA) was killed in an encounter with the New People’s Army in Paquibato District here over the weekend.
Major Ezra Balagtey, Joint Task Force Haribon civil-military officer on Monday, October 16, said CAA Allan Macla Lausan was killed in an encounter with an undetermined number of NPAs in the Damilag Patrol Base located in Sitio Damilag, Barangay Mapula on Saturday, October 14.
CAAs are part of the Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU), a reserve program of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
Major General Noel Clement, Commander Joint Task Force Haribon, said they mourn for the loss of Lausan.
Meanwhile, Balagtey said the military were able to seize six firearms in Sitio Ventura in Barangay Wines, Baguio District on Friday evening, October 13.
He said the recovery of the Barrett rifle, an M14 rifle, a Garand rifle, a Thompson submachine gun, two shotguns and ammunition, came following a report from a military asset about the location of the NPAs in Barangay Gumalang in Baguio District, this city.
http://davaotoday.com/main/politics/cafgu-dies-in-clash-with-npas-in-davao-city/
A member of the Cafgu Active Auxiliary (CAA) was killed in an encounter with the New People’s Army in Paquibato District here over the weekend.
Major Ezra Balagtey, Joint Task Force Haribon civil-military officer on Monday, October 16, said CAA Allan Macla Lausan was killed in an encounter with an undetermined number of NPAs in the Damilag Patrol Base located in Sitio Damilag, Barangay Mapula on Saturday, October 14.
CAAs are part of the Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU), a reserve program of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
Major General Noel Clement, Commander Joint Task Force Haribon, said they mourn for the loss of Lausan.
Meanwhile, Balagtey said the military were able to seize six firearms in Sitio Ventura in Barangay Wines, Baguio District on Friday evening, October 13.
He said the recovery of the Barrett rifle, an M14 rifle, a Garand rifle, a Thompson submachine gun, two shotguns and ammunition, came following a report from a military asset about the location of the NPAs in Barangay Gumalang in Baguio District, this city.
http://davaotoday.com/main/politics/cafgu-dies-in-clash-with-npas-in-davao-city/
Suspected rebels kill cop as they attack police outpost in Sorsogon
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Oct 15): Suspected rebels kill cop as they attack police outpost in Sorsogon
NAGA CITY — A police officer died in an attack by suspected New People’s Army (NPA) in a police outpost in Gubat town in Sorsogon province Sunday night.
In a telephone interview, PO2 Ricky Ofalsa of Gubat Municipal Police Station said PO2 Dennis Garbida, who was with him when the attack happened, was killed when an undetermined number of rebels attacked the outpost at the center of the business district of the town at around 6 p.m.
“They were so many,” Ofalsa said. “They are all in camouflage uniform. I don’t even know what and how many vehicles they were riding on.”
Ofalsa said they were still investigating the incident, which shocked the police force in the town.
Gubat is located 19 kilometers from Sorsogon City, the provincial capital.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/938106/suspected-rebels-kill-cop-as-they-attack-police-outpost-in-sorsogon
In a telephone interview, PO2 Ricky Ofalsa of Gubat Municipal Police Station said PO2 Dennis Garbida, who was with him when the attack happened, was killed when an undetermined number of rebels attacked the outpost at the center of the business district of the town at around 6 p.m.
“They were so many,” Ofalsa said. “They are all in camouflage uniform. I don’t even know what and how many vehicles they were riding on.”
Ofalsa said they were still investigating the incident, which shocked the police force in the town.
Gubat is located 19 kilometers from Sorsogon City, the provincial capital.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/938106/suspected-rebels-kill-cop-as-they-attack-police-outpost-in-sorsogon
1 soldier killed, another hurt in firefight vs. NPA rebels
From the Manila Bulletin (Oct 16): 1 soldier killed, another hurt in firefight vs. NPA rebels
Camp President Quirino, Ilocos Sur — An army soldier was killed while another was seriously wounded Sunday afternoon when the government troops encountered suspected members of the New People’s Army at the vicinity of Barangay Patiacan, Quirino.
MB File — Government troops (MANILA BULLETIN)
Reports said the government troops were then on patrol along the area when they encountered the rebels, and firefight erupted resulting in the killing of Private First Class Peter John Ramos Villanueva of Macabebe, Pampanga and wounding PFC Esmael Michael Mama, 27 of Barangay Santiago,Butulan, Zambales.
According to the report, right after the gunfight, the victims were at Primary Health Care Facility, Poblacion, Quirino, Ilocos Sur but Villanueva was declared dead on arrival by the attending physician, Dr. Ringo George B Querer, while Mama was transferred to the Ilocos Training Regional Medical Center, Parian, San Fernando City, La Union for further treatment.
The firefight came few days after an improvised explosive device (IED) was thrown at the second floor of the barangay hall of Patungcaleo, Quirino, Ilocos Sur in the evening of October 9.
The IED did not explode but caused fear among civilians in the area.
Civilian witnesses living beside the barangay hall earlier saw two men ran toward the eastern direction of the barangay after an explosion which partially damaged the window of the house owned by Jommar Umawis located some 20 meters from the barangay hall.
Police said the two were the same suspects who brought the recovered IED in the barangay hall.
1Lt. Jonald B. Ramos, AGS (Adjutant General’s Service) of Charlie Company, 81st Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army proceeded to Barangay Patungcaleo and patrolled around the vicinity of the barangay.
“The AFP, along with the PNP, is continuously monitoring the area to ensure the safety of the residents and to pursue the perpetrators,” said Col. Isagani Nato, public information officer in Camp Aquino.
https://news.mb.com.ph/2017/10/16/1-soldier-killed-another-hurt-in-firefight-vs-npa-rebels/
Camp President Quirino, Ilocos Sur — An army soldier was killed while another was seriously wounded Sunday afternoon when the government troops encountered suspected members of the New People’s Army at the vicinity of Barangay Patiacan, Quirino.
MB File — Government troops (MANILA BULLETIN)
Reports said the government troops were then on patrol along the area when they encountered the rebels, and firefight erupted resulting in the killing of Private First Class Peter John Ramos Villanueva of Macabebe, Pampanga and wounding PFC Esmael Michael Mama, 27 of Barangay Santiago,Butulan, Zambales.
According to the report, right after the gunfight, the victims were at Primary Health Care Facility, Poblacion, Quirino, Ilocos Sur but Villanueva was declared dead on arrival by the attending physician, Dr. Ringo George B Querer, while Mama was transferred to the Ilocos Training Regional Medical Center, Parian, San Fernando City, La Union for further treatment.
The firefight came few days after an improvised explosive device (IED) was thrown at the second floor of the barangay hall of Patungcaleo, Quirino, Ilocos Sur in the evening of October 9.
The IED did not explode but caused fear among civilians in the area.
Civilian witnesses living beside the barangay hall earlier saw two men ran toward the eastern direction of the barangay after an explosion which partially damaged the window of the house owned by Jommar Umawis located some 20 meters from the barangay hall.
Police said the two were the same suspects who brought the recovered IED in the barangay hall.
1Lt. Jonald B. Ramos, AGS (Adjutant General’s Service) of Charlie Company, 81st Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army proceeded to Barangay Patungcaleo and patrolled around the vicinity of the barangay.
“The AFP, along with the PNP, is continuously monitoring the area to ensure the safety of the residents and to pursue the perpetrators,” said Col. Isagani Nato, public information officer in Camp Aquino.
https://news.mb.com.ph/2017/10/16/1-soldier-killed-another-hurt-in-firefight-vs-npa-rebels/
Lorenzana confirms killing of Hapilon and Omar Maute
From GMA News Online (Oct 16): Lorenzana confirms killing of Hapilon and Omar Maute
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana confirmed Monday the deaths of Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon and Maute group leader Omar Maute.
"I confirm the killing of Isnilon Hapilon at saka Omar Maute early this morning," Lorenzana said in a press briefing.
He said the bodies will be subjected to DNA test.
"Yes they will be subjected to DNA test because there are rewards coming from (a) foreign country and also from us. I think Maute has a P5 million reward on his head, Isnilon has a $5 million reward on his head plus another P10 million yata from the government, so it’s a huge money," he said.
Lorenzana said they were supposed to go to Marawi on Monday but they were dissuaded by ground commanders as they were about to conduct operations against the two terrorist leaders.
"So following their operational plan, they were able to do it this morning. They were able to get Isnilon Hapilon and Omar Maute. They were both killed," he said.
He added government troops were able to rescue 17 hostages.
Hostage's testimony
Lorenzana said the operation was based on the testimony of a female hostage who was able to escape.
"She was able to confirm the presence of Isnilon and Maute in that particular building, so that’s the building that we assaulted early this morning," he said.
The Defense chief said government troops are still running after alleged Maute financier Dr. Mahmoud Ahmad.
"According to some reports, he is still hiding in one of the buildings there and that’s what they are trying to do now," he said.
He said the killing of the Maute leaders means the ending of hostilities soon but not the lifting of martial law in Mindanao.
"Ang implication nito ay malapit nang matapos yung Marawi incident natin and we may announce the termination of hostilities in a couple of days," he said.
"We are not talking about lifting martial law yet, tingnan pa natin. We are only looking in the immediate aftermath of the killing of these two leaders," he added.
Lorenzana said they need to assess the situation in Mindanao first before recommending to the President the lifting of martial law.
"We may be announcing the cessation of hostilities within this week and then after that we will find out, we will assess what the entire Mindanao if there is a need to recommend to the President the lifting of martial law," he said.
He expressed hope the deaths of the two leaders will help finish ISIS in Southeast Asia.
"That will help eradicate them once and for all. Meron pa silang mga cells diyan, we believe that they still have cells in Basilan, Sulu, also in Central Mindanao but we will also get them," he said.
He said there were other Maute members killed aside from Hapilon and Maute during the operations but no details were provided yet.
"Meron(g ibang namatay) pero hindi na nila sinabi kung sino sino at saka number, they just concentrated on these two high value targets," he said.
Lorenzana further said the troops are ready if ever the other members of Maute group stage retaliatory attacks.
"We are prepared, our troops are prepared. Alam naman natin that it is the modus operandi of the enemy to make, to create diversion dito, diversion diyan, retaliation din, so our troops are prepared," he said.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/nation/629655/lorenzana-confirms-killing-of-hapilon-and-omar-maute/story/
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana confirmed Monday the deaths of Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon and Maute group leader Omar Maute.
"I confirm the killing of Isnilon Hapilon at saka Omar Maute early this morning," Lorenzana said in a press briefing.
He said the bodies will be subjected to DNA test.
"Yes they will be subjected to DNA test because there are rewards coming from (a) foreign country and also from us. I think Maute has a P5 million reward on his head, Isnilon has a $5 million reward on his head plus another P10 million yata from the government, so it’s a huge money," he said.
Lorenzana said they were supposed to go to Marawi on Monday but they were dissuaded by ground commanders as they were about to conduct operations against the two terrorist leaders.
"So following their operational plan, they were able to do it this morning. They were able to get Isnilon Hapilon and Omar Maute. They were both killed," he said.
He added government troops were able to rescue 17 hostages.
Hostage's testimony
Lorenzana said the operation was based on the testimony of a female hostage who was able to escape.
"She was able to confirm the presence of Isnilon and Maute in that particular building, so that’s the building that we assaulted early this morning," he said.
The Defense chief said government troops are still running after alleged Maute financier Dr. Mahmoud Ahmad.
"According to some reports, he is still hiding in one of the buildings there and that’s what they are trying to do now," he said.
He said the killing of the Maute leaders means the ending of hostilities soon but not the lifting of martial law in Mindanao.
"Ang implication nito ay malapit nang matapos yung Marawi incident natin and we may announce the termination of hostilities in a couple of days," he said.
"We are not talking about lifting martial law yet, tingnan pa natin. We are only looking in the immediate aftermath of the killing of these two leaders," he added.
Lorenzana said they need to assess the situation in Mindanao first before recommending to the President the lifting of martial law.
"We may be announcing the cessation of hostilities within this week and then after that we will find out, we will assess what the entire Mindanao if there is a need to recommend to the President the lifting of martial law," he said.
He expressed hope the deaths of the two leaders will help finish ISIS in Southeast Asia.
"That will help eradicate them once and for all. Meron pa silang mga cells diyan, we believe that they still have cells in Basilan, Sulu, also in Central Mindanao but we will also get them," he said.
He said there were other Maute members killed aside from Hapilon and Maute during the operations but no details were provided yet.
"Meron(g ibang namatay) pero hindi na nila sinabi kung sino sino at saka number, they just concentrated on these two high value targets," he said.
Lorenzana further said the troops are ready if ever the other members of Maute group stage retaliatory attacks.
"We are prepared, our troops are prepared. Alam naman natin that it is the modus operandi of the enemy to make, to create diversion dito, diversion diyan, retaliation din, so our troops are prepared," he said.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/nation/629655/lorenzana-confirms-killing-of-hapilon-and-omar-maute/story/
AFTER DEATHS OF OMAR MAUTE, HAPILON// Palace: End of hostilities to be announced after remaining terrorists, IEDs addressed
From GMA News Online (Oct 16): AFTER DEATHS OF OMAR MAUTE, HAPILON// Palace: End of hostilities to be announced after remaining terrorists, IEDs addressed
Malacañang on Monday confirmed the deaths of pro-ISIS Maute group leader Omar Maute and Abu Sayyaf subleader and supposed ISIS emir in Southeast Asia Isnilon Hapilon and said the announcement of the end of hostilities will be done as soon as the remaining terrorists are neutralized or captured and the area is cleared of improvised explosive devices and other traps.
"We confirm that government forces killed Omar Maute and Isnilon Hapilon early morning today, Monday, the 16th of October in Marawi City," presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella said in a statement, which echoed the earlier announcement of Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana.
He said that an initial report from Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) ground commanders in Marawi mentioned that both Maute and Hapilon were neutralized while government troops were conducting an operation to retake the remaining stronghold of the terrorists in the city.
"Our operating units have already recovered their bodies... Mopping up operations are now underway. Details of the operation will be released by the AFP as soon as permissible," Abella said.
He added that the termination of hostilities would be announced once government troops neutralize or capture the remaining terrorists holed up in Marawi and once they clear all structures of improvised explosive devices and other traps.
"Once the fighting stops and the clearing operations end, we will put our efforts and energies on the challenging task of rebuilding and rehabilitating Marawi," Abella said.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/nation/629668/palace-confirms-deaths-of-omar-maute-isnilon-hapilon/story/
Malacañang on Monday confirmed the deaths of pro-ISIS Maute group leader Omar Maute and Abu Sayyaf subleader and supposed ISIS emir in Southeast Asia Isnilon Hapilon and said the announcement of the end of hostilities will be done as soon as the remaining terrorists are neutralized or captured and the area is cleared of improvised explosive devices and other traps.
"We confirm that government forces killed Omar Maute and Isnilon Hapilon early morning today, Monday, the 16th of October in Marawi City," presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella said in a statement, which echoed the earlier announcement of Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana.
He said that an initial report from Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) ground commanders in Marawi mentioned that both Maute and Hapilon were neutralized while government troops were conducting an operation to retake the remaining stronghold of the terrorists in the city.
"Our operating units have already recovered their bodies... Mopping up operations are now underway. Details of the operation will be released by the AFP as soon as permissible," Abella said.
He added that the termination of hostilities would be announced once government troops neutralize or capture the remaining terrorists holed up in Marawi and once they clear all structures of improvised explosive devices and other traps.
"Once the fighting stops and the clearing operations end, we will put our efforts and energies on the challenging task of rebuilding and rehabilitating Marawi," Abella said.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/nation/629668/palace-confirms-deaths-of-omar-maute-isnilon-hapilon/story/
What Islamic State East Asia looks like post-Marawi
From Rappler (Oct 15): What Islamic State East Asia looks like post-Marawi (By Michael Quiñones)
The siege of Marawi, in its 143rd day, has opened a door for the Islamic State that the eventual retaking of Marawi by government forces cannot shut
On September 24, 2017, the Islamic State’s Al-Hayat Media released a video titled “Hijrah Will Not Cease” in which a Singaporean fighter “Abu Uqayl” beckoned the ISIS (Islamic State) faithful to do their duty and travel to East Asia, specifically highlighted as opposed to other destinations.
This is nothing new: since the Marawi siege that began on May 23 and continues today, the Philippines – known as Islamic State East Asia – has dominated ISIS media coverage (Western corporate media has largely ignored Marawi and its implications for IS globally). The Terrorism Research & Analysis Consortium (TRAC) counted 99 attack claims (press releases) from Amaq Media Agency from late May to late September, more than twice the number of claims from any other country or region outside of Iraq and Syria during the same period. Indeed, nearly 70 claims came out of Marawi, which not only created the perception of an Islamic State East Asia, but reflected a true and tangible, highly capable ISEA fighting force.
While the battle for Marawi continues and Al-Hayat Media even released a special Nasheed for it on October 12, the last Amaq claim was on September 27. Three weeks is by far the longest dry spell since the first claim in May and reflects what TRAC calls the middle endgame period – the early endgame period began in August when claims were no longer released every 3 days or so.
New hijrah destination
As ISIS claims for attacks in Marawi dwindled in August, claims from other areas in the Philippines came out more frequently. Another group of jihadis, a faction of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) called Jamaatul Mujahideen Wal Ansar (JMWA), were engaged in a series of clashes with the government-allied Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) roughly 250 kilometers south in eastern Maguindanao province. MILF went about dislodging JMWA from several enclaves (designated MILF peace zones) after the group raised the IS flag in Datu Salibo in early August. Islamic State media claimed 16 JMWA-based "Islamic State soldier" attacks purported to have more killed than 100 MILF fighters from August 2 to September 27.
Claims just from Datu Salibo
Credible sources confirm what TRAC analysis discerned from ISIS claim trends: a post-Marawi Islamic State relocation to the MILF-and-BIFF-controlled areas of the Maguindanao-North Cotabato border (Mag-NC). The destination of the Islamic State’s jihadi pipeline is no longer Marawi city, where they have been funneling (or failing to funnel) fighters and bomb-makers since December 2016 if not before. Both militants from abroad and Maute members escaping from Marawi have found their way to the JMWA bases in Datu Salibo.
A joint operation of Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the MILF Task Force Ittihad engaged JMWA on September 27. Reports coming out after AFP and MILF forces captured the JMWA base in Barangay Tee claimed 5 Iraqi nationals, 10 Singaporeans and an unspecified number of Malaysians and Indonesians were among a group of roughly 150 local and foreign fighters assembled in the area on 23 September to plot attacks.
The September 27 raid also confirmed a direct connection between the Maute Group in Marawi and BIFF-JMWA, which AFP spokesmen have since underlined. A senior member of the Maute Group was killed during the battle in Barangay Tee along with at least five other JMWA fighters. The slain Ansari Alimama, an ethnic Maranao from Butig, Lanao del Sur, was reportedly close to leaders Omar and Abdullah Maute.
JMWA an ISEA-inspired creation
Unlike the Maute Group, Abu Sayyaf and BIFF (but more like the defunct Ansar al-Khilafah Philippines), JMWA did not exist before ISEA. JMWA is run by Esmael Abdulmalik (aka Abu Toraife/Toraype) an influential cleric and skilled bombmaker said to be a student of infamous Malaysian bomber Marwan (Zulkifli bin Hir), killed in March 2015 along with 44 soldiers in the Mamasapano massacre, near Datu Salibo. Marwan also serves as a common link between Abdulmalik and the 3 Malaysians most responsible for shuttling fighters and funding to Marawi city, Darul Islam Sabah members Dr Mahmud Ahmad, Muhammad Joraimee Awang Raimee and Mohd Najib Husen – the latter two recently killed in Marawi.
Abdulmalik and several other clerics – Salahudin Hassan, Bashir Ungab, Nasser Adil and Ansari Yunos – broke away from the IS-linked BIFF Imam Bongos/Abu Mama Misry faction in October 2016. And yet reports suggest coordination between JMWA and its old BIFF crew as of late September 2017. At the same time that Iraqis and Singaporeans were entering Datu Salibo (23 September), the BIFF Bongos faction converged on a secluded barangay in nearby Guindulungan and engaged in firefights with several AFP detachments until they were dispersed by artillery fire. Also, while the raid on JMWA was occurring in Barangay Tee on September 27, two IED blasts were triggered along the road of an army training camp in nearby Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao, wounding a policeman, a soldier and two village officials. The attack was sophisticated in that the second bomb targeted responders to the first bomb. Indeed, security sources have noted that the BIFF Bongos faction is attempting to avenge comrades killed in the JMWA vs MILF war.
As recently as October 9, government forces conducting “anti-ISIS” operations against "20 IS-inspired BIFF" uncovered a cache of explosives, weapons and shabu (crystal methamphetamine) at the border of Talitay and Datu Anggal Midtimbang, Maguindanao, which surround Guindulungan town. It is worth noting how military-based media reports have begun to feed into the Islamic State narrative by referring to fighters not by BIFF factions but in terms of their ISIS affiliations.
The above suggests that through its media/propaganda wing, the Islamic State continues to unite foreign fighters and regional jihadi networks under one banner in Central Mindanao, even as the government has eliminated more than 600 fighters and re-asserted control in most of Marawi.
Destination: North Cotabato
Pushed out of out of their Maguindanao strongholds, Abdulmalik and his Islamic State allied cadre have moved toward Midsayap, North Cotabato, along the Mag-NC border. AFP detachments have been staking out BIFF lairs since late September when troops discovered a 60mm mortar in Talayan, Maguindanao, meant for transport to a BIFF operational base in Barangay Nabalawag, reportedly run by a Mando Mamalumpong (alias Commander DM).
On September 25, government forces in Nabalawag captured BIFF militant Muslimin Ladtugan (alias Commander Mus), connected to Abdulmalik and JMWA. Ladtugan is said to facilitate the movement of high-powered firearms and war materials, such as the 60mm artillery, for BIFF factions. Officials claim Ladtugan was planning a bombing spree to divert the AFP offensives in Maguindanao.
Security sources say troops, monitoring militant activity on September 28, discovered a temporary Islamic State base in Poblacion 7, Midsayap, ran by the Dilangalen clan, who are active in the nearby municipality of Pikit as well and have links to Ansar al-Khilafah Philippines (AKP) in South Cotabato and Sarangani.
On October 4, a 6-hour blackout occurred in areas of North Cotabato and Maguindanao due to the IED bombing of a key National Grid and Power Corporation (NGCP) tower near Carmen, North Cotabtao. The news headline “AFP considers Maguindanao and Cotabato as most threatened areas” ran on October 6 (UNTV News and Rescue) after military officials cited groups there involved in helping the Maute Group in Marawi. A security source claims to TRAC “the IS are gaining momentum in North Cotabato.”
On October 10, 3 soldiers were ambushed and injured in Nabalawag by “ISIS-inspired armed men” (as referred to by the Philippine News Agency).
The return of Ansar al-Khilafah Philippines (AKP)
In addition to the AKP connections of the Dilangalen clan in North Cotabato, on September 28 2017, Al-Khalifa Philippines (AKP) was reportedly conducting recruitment activities in Polomolok, South Cotabato. The group is operating in Sarangani Province and attempting to lure minors, reportedly through the Nilong family, longtime MILF members and training camp facilitators. However, this "AKP South" is said to consist of only 5 members.
In January 2017, after its leader and ideologue, Sarangani-based Mohammad Jaafir Sabiwang Maguid (alias Commander Tokboy) and other ranking members were killed in a police raids, the AKP lost its cohesiveness. It soon merged with the ISIS United Cyber Caliphate.
Zaidon Nilong was arrested on January 17, 2017, as a potential new leader of AKP. On February 10, he gave an interview to local media from the South Cotabato Provincial Jail. He was reported as [according to translation] “emotional in saying that he never dreamed to be the leader of the terrorist group such as al-Khilafah which he said is against the rules of Islam.”
Conclusion
The power of the Islamic State movement and banner to unite and mobilize an array of extremists and sympathizers in the Philippines should not be exaggerated. ISIS propagandists might not be the only ones with an interest in presenting the post-Marawi perception of a serious unified ISIS threat. It can also be used to justify martial law throughout Mindanao.
Marawi is a unique situation but has at least one clear lesson for those jihadis paying attention: The Islamic State helps those who help themselves by earning the right to use its propaganda machine for their own recruitment and organizing purposes.
The future of ISIS in Mindanao depends largely on one thing: reliable sanctuary. Sanctuary is guaranteed by winning either the support of the local community or the local elites – such as a MILF commander. Recently, after the clearing of the Islamic State group JMWA from Datu Salibo, authorities brought in Islamic theologians to de-radicalize those people who had been under the thumb of cleric Esmael Abdulmalik. The narrative framing of the Marawi siege-and-response among Muslims will likely play a big role in whether ISIS continues its toehold in Central Mindanao.
[Michael Quiñones is a Research Associate for TRAC: Terrorism Research & Analysis Consortium who specializes in jihadist activity in the Pacific Rim, Middle East and Turkey. TRAC is a digital intelligence repository on political violence and terrorism can be accessed at http://www.tracterrorism.org/ or follow us on Twitter at @TRACterrorism]
https://www.rappler.com/thought-leaders/185273-what-islamic-state-east-asia-looks-like-post-marawi
The siege of Marawi, in its 143rd day, has opened a door for the Islamic State that the eventual retaking of Marawi by government forces cannot shut
AFTERMATH. Smoke rises after aerial bombings by Philippine Air Force planes on Islamist militant positions in Marawi, on the southern island of Mindanao on June 6, 2017. Photo by Noel Celis / AFP
On September 24, 2017, the Islamic State’s Al-Hayat Media released a video titled “Hijrah Will Not Cease” in which a Singaporean fighter “Abu Uqayl” beckoned the ISIS (Islamic State) faithful to do their duty and travel to East Asia, specifically highlighted as opposed to other destinations.
This is nothing new: since the Marawi siege that began on May 23 and continues today, the Philippines – known as Islamic State East Asia – has dominated ISIS media coverage (Western corporate media has largely ignored Marawi and its implications for IS globally). The Terrorism Research & Analysis Consortium (TRAC) counted 99 attack claims (press releases) from Amaq Media Agency from late May to late September, more than twice the number of claims from any other country or region outside of Iraq and Syria during the same period. Indeed, nearly 70 claims came out of Marawi, which not only created the perception of an Islamic State East Asia, but reflected a true and tangible, highly capable ISEA fighting force.
New hijrah destination
As ISIS claims for attacks in Marawi dwindled in August, claims from other areas in the Philippines came out more frequently. Another group of jihadis, a faction of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) called Jamaatul Mujahideen Wal Ansar (JMWA), were engaged in a series of clashes with the government-allied Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) roughly 250 kilometers south in eastern Maguindanao province. MILF went about dislodging JMWA from several enclaves (designated MILF peace zones) after the group raised the IS flag in Datu Salibo in early August. Islamic State media claimed 16 JMWA-based "Islamic State soldier" attacks purported to have more killed than 100 MILF fighters from August 2 to September 27.
Claims just from Datu Salibo
- (Claim) Islamic State East Asia/ Philippines- 8 Moro Islamic Liberation Front fighters killed and 11 injured in Dato Slipo (Datu Salibo)- Maguindanao, Philippines- 19 September 2017
- (Claim) Islamic State East Asia/ Philippines- 10 Moro Islamic Liberation Front fighters killed and 8 injured in Dato Slipo (Datu Salibo)- Maguindanao, Philippines- 18 September 2017
- (Claim) Islamic State East Asia/ Philippines- 5 Moro Liberation Front (MILF) soldiers killed in clashes with IS in Dato Slipo (Datu Salibo) Maguindanao, Philippines- 15 September 2017
- (Claim) Islamic State East Asia / Philippines: 3 Moro Liberation Front (MILF) fighters killed in BIFF attack in Dato Salifu province Maguindanao, Philippines 13 September 2017
- (Claim) Islamic State East Asia/Philippines (BIFF) Two Moro Liberation Front members killed in Datu Salibo neighborhood in Maguindanao, Philippines - 9 September 2017
- (Claim) Islamic State East Asia / Philippines: Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) IED Kills 9 and wounds 6 MILF in Dato Salifu province Maguindanao, Philippines- 07 August 2017
- (Claim) Islamic State East Asia/Philippines (Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF)): IS Ambush Philippine Soldiers in Two Separate Locations - Sharif Aguak and Datu Salibo Maguindanao, Philippines - 20 July 2017
Credible sources confirm what TRAC analysis discerned from ISIS claim trends: a post-Marawi Islamic State relocation to the MILF-and-BIFF-controlled areas of the Maguindanao-North Cotabato border (Mag-NC). The destination of the Islamic State’s jihadi pipeline is no longer Marawi city, where they have been funneling (or failing to funnel) fighters and bomb-makers since December 2016 if not before. Both militants from abroad and Maute members escaping from Marawi have found their way to the JMWA bases in Datu Salibo.
A joint operation of Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the MILF Task Force Ittihad engaged JMWA on September 27. Reports coming out after AFP and MILF forces captured the JMWA base in Barangay Tee claimed 5 Iraqi nationals, 10 Singaporeans and an unspecified number of Malaysians and Indonesians were among a group of roughly 150 local and foreign fighters assembled in the area on 23 September to plot attacks.
The September 27 raid also confirmed a direct connection between the Maute Group in Marawi and BIFF-JMWA, which AFP spokesmen have since underlined. A senior member of the Maute Group was killed during the battle in Barangay Tee along with at least five other JMWA fighters. The slain Ansari Alimama, an ethnic Maranao from Butig, Lanao del Sur, was reportedly close to leaders Omar and Abdullah Maute.
JMWA an ISEA-inspired creation
Unlike the Maute Group, Abu Sayyaf and BIFF (but more like the defunct Ansar al-Khilafah Philippines), JMWA did not exist before ISEA. JMWA is run by Esmael Abdulmalik (aka Abu Toraife/Toraype) an influential cleric and skilled bombmaker said to be a student of infamous Malaysian bomber Marwan (Zulkifli bin Hir), killed in March 2015 along with 44 soldiers in the Mamasapano massacre, near Datu Salibo. Marwan also serves as a common link between Abdulmalik and the 3 Malaysians most responsible for shuttling fighters and funding to Marawi city, Darul Islam Sabah members Dr Mahmud Ahmad, Muhammad Joraimee Awang Raimee and Mohd Najib Husen – the latter two recently killed in Marawi.
Abdulmalik and several other clerics – Salahudin Hassan, Bashir Ungab, Nasser Adil and Ansari Yunos – broke away from the IS-linked BIFF Imam Bongos/Abu Mama Misry faction in October 2016. And yet reports suggest coordination between JMWA and its old BIFF crew as of late September 2017. At the same time that Iraqis and Singaporeans were entering Datu Salibo (23 September), the BIFF Bongos faction converged on a secluded barangay in nearby Guindulungan and engaged in firefights with several AFP detachments until they were dispersed by artillery fire. Also, while the raid on JMWA was occurring in Barangay Tee on September 27, two IED blasts were triggered along the road of an army training camp in nearby Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao, wounding a policeman, a soldier and two village officials. The attack was sophisticated in that the second bomb targeted responders to the first bomb. Indeed, security sources have noted that the BIFF Bongos faction is attempting to avenge comrades killed in the JMWA vs MILF war.
As recently as October 9, government forces conducting “anti-ISIS” operations against "20 IS-inspired BIFF" uncovered a cache of explosives, weapons and shabu (crystal methamphetamine) at the border of Talitay and Datu Anggal Midtimbang, Maguindanao, which surround Guindulungan town. It is worth noting how military-based media reports have begun to feed into the Islamic State narrative by referring to fighters not by BIFF factions but in terms of their ISIS affiliations.
The above suggests that through its media/propaganda wing, the Islamic State continues to unite foreign fighters and regional jihadi networks under one banner in Central Mindanao, even as the government has eliminated more than 600 fighters and re-asserted control in most of Marawi.
Destination: North Cotabato
Pushed out of out of their Maguindanao strongholds, Abdulmalik and his Islamic State allied cadre have moved toward Midsayap, North Cotabato, along the Mag-NC border. AFP detachments have been staking out BIFF lairs since late September when troops discovered a 60mm mortar in Talayan, Maguindanao, meant for transport to a BIFF operational base in Barangay Nabalawag, reportedly run by a Mando Mamalumpong (alias Commander DM).
On September 25, government forces in Nabalawag captured BIFF militant Muslimin Ladtugan (alias Commander Mus), connected to Abdulmalik and JMWA. Ladtugan is said to facilitate the movement of high-powered firearms and war materials, such as the 60mm artillery, for BIFF factions. Officials claim Ladtugan was planning a bombing spree to divert the AFP offensives in Maguindanao.
Security sources say troops, monitoring militant activity on September 28, discovered a temporary Islamic State base in Poblacion 7, Midsayap, ran by the Dilangalen clan, who are active in the nearby municipality of Pikit as well and have links to Ansar al-Khilafah Philippines (AKP) in South Cotabato and Sarangani.
On October 4, a 6-hour blackout occurred in areas of North Cotabato and Maguindanao due to the IED bombing of a key National Grid and Power Corporation (NGCP) tower near Carmen, North Cotabtao. The news headline “AFP considers Maguindanao and Cotabato as most threatened areas” ran on October 6 (UNTV News and Rescue) after military officials cited groups there involved in helping the Maute Group in Marawi. A security source claims to TRAC “the IS are gaining momentum in North Cotabato.”
On October 10, 3 soldiers were ambushed and injured in Nabalawag by “ISIS-inspired armed men” (as referred to by the Philippine News Agency).
The return of Ansar al-Khilafah Philippines (AKP)
In addition to the AKP connections of the Dilangalen clan in North Cotabato, on September 28 2017, Al-Khalifa Philippines (AKP) was reportedly conducting recruitment activities in Polomolok, South Cotabato. The group is operating in Sarangani Province and attempting to lure minors, reportedly through the Nilong family, longtime MILF members and training camp facilitators. However, this "AKP South" is said to consist of only 5 members.
In January 2017, after its leader and ideologue, Sarangani-based Mohammad Jaafir Sabiwang Maguid (alias Commander Tokboy) and other ranking members were killed in a police raids, the AKP lost its cohesiveness. It soon merged with the ISIS United Cyber Caliphate.
Zaidon Nilong was arrested on January 17, 2017, as a potential new leader of AKP. On February 10, he gave an interview to local media from the South Cotabato Provincial Jail. He was reported as [according to translation] “emotional in saying that he never dreamed to be the leader of the terrorist group such as al-Khilafah which he said is against the rules of Islam.”
Conclusion
The power of the Islamic State movement and banner to unite and mobilize an array of extremists and sympathizers in the Philippines should not be exaggerated. ISIS propagandists might not be the only ones with an interest in presenting the post-Marawi perception of a serious unified ISIS threat. It can also be used to justify martial law throughout Mindanao.
Marawi is a unique situation but has at least one clear lesson for those jihadis paying attention: The Islamic State helps those who help themselves by earning the right to use its propaganda machine for their own recruitment and organizing purposes.
The future of ISIS in Mindanao depends largely on one thing: reliable sanctuary. Sanctuary is guaranteed by winning either the support of the local community or the local elites – such as a MILF commander. Recently, after the clearing of the Islamic State group JMWA from Datu Salibo, authorities brought in Islamic theologians to de-radicalize those people who had been under the thumb of cleric Esmael Abdulmalik. The narrative framing of the Marawi siege-and-response among Muslims will likely play a big role in whether ISIS continues its toehold in Central Mindanao.
[Michael Quiñones is a Research Associate for TRAC: Terrorism Research & Analysis Consortium who specializes in jihadist activity in the Pacific Rim, Middle East and Turkey. TRAC is a digital intelligence repository on political violence and terrorism can be accessed at http://www.tracterrorism.org/ or follow us on Twitter at @TRACterrorism]
https://www.rappler.com/thought-leaders/185273-what-islamic-state-east-asia-looks-like-post-marawi
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