From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 5): Army enlists ex-rebels in livelihood program
The Philippine Army has enrolled five former communist rebels to the Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP) after recently surrendering to authorities.
Army 8th Infantry Division acting spokesperson, Lt. Jessel Montajes, said the former rebels were from the remote villages of Guirang in Basey, Samar and Osmeña in Palapag, Northern Samar.
“The enrollment in CLIP will enable them to avail of financial and livelihood assistance from the government so that they can start a new and peaceful life,” Montajes said Tuesday.
The former rebels turned themselves in to government troops last Nov. 23-24 with their firearms and grenades.
Maj. Gen. Raul M. Farnacio, the army’s division commander welcomed the surrender of five rebels and encouraged others to voluntarily lay down their arms and live a normal life with their families.
“The surrender of NPA guerrillas only shows that the intensified strategy of your Army to counter the insurgency problem in Eastern Visayas is effective. It is also the result of the proactive cooperation of our stakeholders, above all the support given by the communities and local government units within our areas of operation,” Farnacio said.
Meanwhile, the Leyte provincial government awarded financial assistance to five rebel returnees during the joint 4th quarterly meeting of the provincial peace and order council and provincial anti-drug abuse council held in Villa Corazon village in Jaro town on Monday.
Governor Leopoldo Dominico Petilla handed over a PHP50,000 check from the Department of the Interior and Local Government to each former rebel and PHP20,000 from the provincial government as basic livelihood assistance to each surrenderer.
They also received an immediate assistance amounting to PHP15,000 for mobilization expenses while their enrollment in the program is being processed.
The former rebels are from the towns of Leyte, Carigara, Burauen, and Kananga.
CLIP, the National Reintegration Program for the New People’s Army, aims to achieve permanent and peaceful closure of the armed conflict with a non-state group.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1017936
Tuesday, December 5, 2017
Army chief welcomes Duterte declaration of NPA as terrorist
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 5): Army chief welcomes Duterte declaration of NPA as terrorist
The commander of the 79th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army on Tuesday welcomed President Rodrigo Duterte’s declaration of the New People’s Army (NPA) as a terrorist group.
Lt. Col. Roderick Garcia said there would be implications of the declaration, especially on the mass base of the NPA in the hinterlands.
“For one, no one wants to be affiliated with terrorists, especially now (that) the people have seen what the Maute terrorists have done, so they will now be cautious,” he said.
Another thing is that there will be legal implications because unlike freedom fighters, “the perception of terrorists is like you are on the level of the ASG (Abu Sayyaf Group), BIFF (Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters), and other pests of the Philippines,” he added.
Garcia also pointed out that the support system of the NPA would mostly be affected by the President’s declaration.
He expressed belief that little by little, the mass base support of the NPA will crumble after being declared as terrorist.
The Army commander admits this would be to the advantage of the AFP but he also stressed the need for people to be aware of the so-called “birth pains” as there would be questions and issues that could arise from it.
But once the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will get the feel of it, and the people will realize the “tagging” of the NPA as terrorist, “it will become much easier for us.”
The province of Negros Oriental continues to deal with the problem of the NPA presence in a good number of areas even though it was earlier declared as conflict-manageable and development-ready.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1018049
The commander of the 79th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army on Tuesday welcomed President Rodrigo Duterte’s declaration of the New People’s Army (NPA) as a terrorist group.
Lt. Col. Roderick Garcia said there would be implications of the declaration, especially on the mass base of the NPA in the hinterlands.
“For one, no one wants to be affiliated with terrorists, especially now (that) the people have seen what the Maute terrorists have done, so they will now be cautious,” he said.
Another thing is that there will be legal implications because unlike freedom fighters, “the perception of terrorists is like you are on the level of the ASG (Abu Sayyaf Group), BIFF (Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters), and other pests of the Philippines,” he added.
Garcia also pointed out that the support system of the NPA would mostly be affected by the President’s declaration.
He expressed belief that little by little, the mass base support of the NPA will crumble after being declared as terrorist.
The Army commander admits this would be to the advantage of the AFP but he also stressed the need for people to be aware of the so-called “birth pains” as there would be questions and issues that could arise from it.
But once the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will get the feel of it, and the people will realize the “tagging” of the NPA as terrorist, “it will become much easier for us.”
The province of Negros Oriental continues to deal with the problem of the NPA presence in a good number of areas even though it was earlier declared as conflict-manageable and development-ready.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1018049
AFP hunts remnant of Maute terror group
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 5): AFP hunts remnant of Maute terror group
Military authorities said all of the seven Maute siblings who led the siege of Marawi City had died in clashes with government forces from May 23 to October 23.
Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez, Jr. of the Western Mindanao Command, told a meeting of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Regional Peace and Order Council (ARMM-RPOC) here on Monday that the military is now hunting down a senior Maute leader, identified as Abu Dar, who remains at large.
ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman presided the RPOC meeting at the ARMM executive building Monday.
Abu Dar, a Maranao, was a member of the central leadership core of the Maute terror group and was seen in the video plotting the Marawi siege.
Government forces recovered the video. Siblings Omar and Abdullah, founders of the Maute group, were both killed in the almost five-month war in Marawi. The Maute patriarch, Cayamora, died of lingering illness while in detention in Manila. He was arrested by Task Force Davao operatives days after the siege in May.
Cayamora's first wife, Farhana, matriarch of the seven slain terrorists, was arrested by police in Masiu town, Lanao del Sur in August. She and two other sons were facing rebellion charges.
Speaking during the RPOC meeting, Galvez said that Abu Dar is the probable successor of Omar and Abdulla Maute.
“He can likely assume leadership of Maute terror group,” he said.
Mayor Dimnatang Pansar of Butig, hometown of the Mautes, corroborated Galvez assertion that all the Maute brothers had died.
Several Maranaos who have “Maute” as family name were either held for questioning or have gone underground for fear of getting arrested.
“We will help them return to their communities but subject to coordination with the police and the military,” Hataman said of the “good Mautes,” as their town mates ostracized some of them.
ARMM Vice Governor Al Rashid Alonto-Lucman told reporters his daughter’s classmate in medical school surnamed Maute had dropped from school after the siege. He said the Maute girl is in a dilemma when to continue studies.
Speaking to the Lanao town mayors, Hataman said local government executives should have strong government presence in their towns to prevent thriving of terrorists, like the Maute siblings.
“War is destructive. We have to prevent conflicts within our level first before we let the military come in,” Hataman said.
Hataman also ordered the local executives to help locate Abu Dar who, according to military intelligence sources, is leading the regrouping of terrorists in Lanao del Sur.
Galvez rallied the local executives to help fight terrorism at their level.
“If we fail, we will give these violent religious extremists an issue they can use to generate hatred to the government and entice prospective recruits to join their fold,” Galvez said.
Hataman also vowed his administration has enough funds to help rebuild Marawi and the surrounding towns affected by the conflict.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1017934
Military authorities said all of the seven Maute siblings who led the siege of Marawi City had died in clashes with government forces from May 23 to October 23.
Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez, Jr. of the Western Mindanao Command, told a meeting of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Regional Peace and Order Council (ARMM-RPOC) here on Monday that the military is now hunting down a senior Maute leader, identified as Abu Dar, who remains at large.
ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman presided the RPOC meeting at the ARMM executive building Monday.
Abu Dar, a Maranao, was a member of the central leadership core of the Maute terror group and was seen in the video plotting the Marawi siege.
Government forces recovered the video. Siblings Omar and Abdullah, founders of the Maute group, were both killed in the almost five-month war in Marawi. The Maute patriarch, Cayamora, died of lingering illness while in detention in Manila. He was arrested by Task Force Davao operatives days after the siege in May.
Cayamora's first wife, Farhana, matriarch of the seven slain terrorists, was arrested by police in Masiu town, Lanao del Sur in August. She and two other sons were facing rebellion charges.
Speaking during the RPOC meeting, Galvez said that Abu Dar is the probable successor of Omar and Abdulla Maute.
“He can likely assume leadership of Maute terror group,” he said.
Mayor Dimnatang Pansar of Butig, hometown of the Mautes, corroborated Galvez assertion that all the Maute brothers had died.
Several Maranaos who have “Maute” as family name were either held for questioning or have gone underground for fear of getting arrested.
“We will help them return to their communities but subject to coordination with the police and the military,” Hataman said of the “good Mautes,” as their town mates ostracized some of them.
ARMM Vice Governor Al Rashid Alonto-Lucman told reporters his daughter’s classmate in medical school surnamed Maute had dropped from school after the siege. He said the Maute girl is in a dilemma when to continue studies.
Speaking to the Lanao town mayors, Hataman said local government executives should have strong government presence in their towns to prevent thriving of terrorists, like the Maute siblings.
“War is destructive. We have to prevent conflicts within our level first before we let the military come in,” Hataman said.
Hataman also ordered the local executives to help locate Abu Dar who, according to military intelligence sources, is leading the regrouping of terrorists in Lanao del Sur.
Galvez rallied the local executives to help fight terrorism at their level.
“If we fail, we will give these violent religious extremists an issue they can use to generate hatred to the government and entice prospective recruits to join their fold,” Galvez said.
Hataman also vowed his administration has enough funds to help rebuild Marawi and the surrounding towns affected by the conflict.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1017934
Guv deplores use of lumads as NPA 'frontliners'
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 5): Guv deplores use of lumads as NPA 'frontliners'
South Cotabato Gov. Daisy Avance-Fuentes raised concern on Tuesday over the recruitment and use of lumads, especially members of the province's T'boli tribe, as "frontliners" of the New People's Army's (NPA) guerrilla fronts.
The governor said such situation was seen in the latest encounter between government troops and the NPA at Sitio Celtix, Barangay Ned in Lake Sebu town on Sunday afternoon that left six rebels and two Army soldiers dead.
She said the six fatalities on the rebel side were all T'bolis from the area who had been recruited as cadres by the NPA.
During the encounter, Fuentes said field commanders and other high-ranking officers of the NPA's Daguma Front 73 were able to escape from the area.
"The lumads were left to face our troops. So it was them (lumads) who got wounded and killed," she said in a radio interview.
Troops from the Army's 27th Infantry Battalion (IB) were conducting security operations at a portion of Barangay Ned when they clashed with the rebels led by Ka Yoyo Baraganza of the Platoon Arabo at past 1 p.m. Sunday.
The area is within the boundary of Lake Sebu and Bagumbayan town in Sultan Kudarat where the NPA's Front 73 was reportedly based.
Fuentes said the scene of the encounter was reportedly near the base camp of the Front 73 at a mountainous area in Bagumbayan.
She said troops from the 27IB and 33IB intensified their security operations in the area following the cancellation by President Rodrigo R. Duterte of the peace negotiations with the communist-led National Democratic Front.
As of Tuesday morning, the governor said the clearing operations in the area are still ongoing based on information relayed to her office.
Due to the encounter, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) said around 20 tribal families with nearly 100 dependents have evacuated from the area.
Milagros Lorca, PDRRMO head, said the displaced residents are currently staying at evacuation centers in Sitios Panamin and Lubo in Barangay Ned.
She said they already sent initial relief assistance composed of food and non-food items to the affected residents in coordination with the municipal government of Lake Sebu.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1017953
South Cotabato Gov. Daisy Avance-Fuentes raised concern on Tuesday over the recruitment and use of lumads, especially members of the province's T'boli tribe, as "frontliners" of the New People's Army's (NPA) guerrilla fronts.
The governor said such situation was seen in the latest encounter between government troops and the NPA at Sitio Celtix, Barangay Ned in Lake Sebu town on Sunday afternoon that left six rebels and two Army soldiers dead.
She said the six fatalities on the rebel side were all T'bolis from the area who had been recruited as cadres by the NPA.
During the encounter, Fuentes said field commanders and other high-ranking officers of the NPA's Daguma Front 73 were able to escape from the area.
"The lumads were left to face our troops. So it was them (lumads) who got wounded and killed," she said in a radio interview.
Troops from the Army's 27th Infantry Battalion (IB) were conducting security operations at a portion of Barangay Ned when they clashed with the rebels led by Ka Yoyo Baraganza of the Platoon Arabo at past 1 p.m. Sunday.
The area is within the boundary of Lake Sebu and Bagumbayan town in Sultan Kudarat where the NPA's Front 73 was reportedly based.
Fuentes said the scene of the encounter was reportedly near the base camp of the Front 73 at a mountainous area in Bagumbayan.
She said troops from the 27IB and 33IB intensified their security operations in the area following the cancellation by President Rodrigo R. Duterte of the peace negotiations with the communist-led National Democratic Front.
As of Tuesday morning, the governor said the clearing operations in the area are still ongoing based on information relayed to her office.
Due to the encounter, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) said around 20 tribal families with nearly 100 dependents have evacuated from the area.
Milagros Lorca, PDRRMO head, said the displaced residents are currently staying at evacuation centers in Sitios Panamin and Lubo in Barangay Ned.
She said they already sent initial relief assistance composed of food and non-food items to the affected residents in coordination with the municipal government of Lake Sebu.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1017953
Coast Guard beefs up southern Visayas security
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 5): Coast Guard beefs up southern Visayas security
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has strengthened its security operations in southern Visayas by opening a district headquarters in Negros Occidental.
Captain Artemio Abu, commander of PCG-Southern Visayas District, discussed their unit’s efforts with Governor Alfredo Marañon Jr. during their meeting at the Provincial Capitol Monday.
Abu, who was assigned as unit commander on November 13, said the Southern Visayas District will be based in Hinoba-an, the southermost town of Negros Occidental.
Abu said the proposed headquarters in Hinoba-an will include a training facility, and a docking area.
“We can’t do it overnight. By 2018, we will have a budget for that. We’re also asking the support of the local government units especially from the three governors,” he said.
The PCG-Southern Visayas District was formed out of the units from Western Visayas and Central Visayas, including Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, and Antique.
Abu said there is “no threat” in Visayas as of now, but the Coast Guard remains “proactive all the time.”
He said the Southern Visayas District headquarters was formed to protect the Tubbataha Reef, a protected area located in the middle of the Sulu Sea, considered a “sensitive sea area,” and to contain the spillover of terrorism from southern Philippines.
“It is critical to put up a major Coast Guard unit in Hinobaan to address the vessels plying between Tubbataha and Negros,” Abu said.
He said given that southern Negros is the island’s nearest landing point from Mindanao, there is a need to be proactive in the vicinity.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1018047
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has strengthened its security operations in southern Visayas by opening a district headquarters in Negros Occidental.
Captain Artemio Abu, commander of PCG-Southern Visayas District, discussed their unit’s efforts with Governor Alfredo Marañon Jr. during their meeting at the Provincial Capitol Monday.
Abu, who was assigned as unit commander on November 13, said the Southern Visayas District will be based in Hinoba-an, the southermost town of Negros Occidental.
Abu said the proposed headquarters in Hinoba-an will include a training facility, and a docking area.
“We can’t do it overnight. By 2018, we will have a budget for that. We’re also asking the support of the local government units especially from the three governors,” he said.
The PCG-Southern Visayas District was formed out of the units from Western Visayas and Central Visayas, including Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, and Antique.
Abu said there is “no threat” in Visayas as of now, but the Coast Guard remains “proactive all the time.”
He said the Southern Visayas District headquarters was formed to protect the Tubbataha Reef, a protected area located in the middle of the Sulu Sea, considered a “sensitive sea area,” and to contain the spillover of terrorism from southern Philippines.
“It is critical to put up a major Coast Guard unit in Hinobaan to address the vessels plying between Tubbataha and Negros,” Abu said.
He said given that southern Negros is the island’s nearest landing point from Mindanao, there is a need to be proactive in the vicinity.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1018047
PISTON leader arrested
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 5): PISTON leader arrested
Pinagkaisang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Opereytor Nationwide (PISTON) president George San Mateo was arrested Tuesday for organizing a jeepney strike in February.
Police arrested San Mateo at the Quezon City Hall of Justice, as he was about to post bail for his case before the Quezon City Metropolitan Trial Court (MTC).
San Mateo was earlier charged before the Quezon City MTC with violation of Section 20 of Commonwealth Act 146, or the “Public Service Law”.
Quezon City MTC Branch 43 Judge Don Ace Mariano Alagar has found probable cause on the case filed by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) against San Mateo to issue the warrant of arrest against him.
The court also ordered the Quezon City Police District, National Bureau of Investigation and the Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group to hunt down and arrest San Mateo.
San Mateo was accompanied by his legal counsel Atty. VJ Topacio, of the non-government organization (NGO) Free Labor Legal Assistance Center (FLLAC), as well as former Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) party-list Rep. Antonio Tinio.
The case of San Mateo has a corresponding bail bond of PHP4,000.
San Mateo’s case involves his instigation and leading the two-day transport strike of some jeepney drivers last October 6-17.
In a press briefing, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said that the charges lodged against the transport leader were not a form of harassment.
“I think he was warned that as a holder of a franchise, a certificate of public convenience. It is criminal and it is illegal for them to participate in any tigil pasada,” Roque said.
“As I said, it is also pursuant to a warrant of arrest duly issued by a court and therefore, there can be now harassment here ‘no. We are just allowing the rule of law to prevail,” he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1017960
Pinagkaisang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Opereytor Nationwide (PISTON) president George San Mateo was arrested Tuesday for organizing a jeepney strike in February.
Police arrested San Mateo at the Quezon City Hall of Justice, as he was about to post bail for his case before the Quezon City Metropolitan Trial Court (MTC).
San Mateo was earlier charged before the Quezon City MTC with violation of Section 20 of Commonwealth Act 146, or the “Public Service Law”.
Quezon City MTC Branch 43 Judge Don Ace Mariano Alagar has found probable cause on the case filed by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) against San Mateo to issue the warrant of arrest against him.
The court also ordered the Quezon City Police District, National Bureau of Investigation and the Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group to hunt down and arrest San Mateo.
San Mateo was accompanied by his legal counsel Atty. VJ Topacio, of the non-government organization (NGO) Free Labor Legal Assistance Center (FLLAC), as well as former Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) party-list Rep. Antonio Tinio.
The case of San Mateo has a corresponding bail bond of PHP4,000.
San Mateo’s case involves his instigation and leading the two-day transport strike of some jeepney drivers last October 6-17.
In a press briefing, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said that the charges lodged against the transport leader were not a form of harassment.
“I think he was warned that as a holder of a franchise, a certificate of public convenience. It is criminal and it is illegal for them to participate in any tigil pasada,” Roque said.
“As I said, it is also pursuant to a warrant of arrest duly issued by a court and therefore, there can be now harassment here ‘no. We are just allowing the rule of law to prevail,” he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1017960
No ceasefire this holiday season: Lorenzana
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 5): No ceasefire this holiday season: Lorenzana
Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana is not inclined to recommend any suspension of military operations (SOMO) against New People's Army (NPA) rebels this Yuletide season.
He made this comment at the sidelines of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council Yearend Meeting held at the AFP Commissioned Officers' Club in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City Tuesday.
The DND chief added that he could not recommend a SOMO as the NPA leadership vowed to intensify attacks against military targets in wake of Proclamation 360, issued by President Rodrigo Duterte which terminated peace talks and negotiation with the Communist Party of the Philippines following the series of rebel attacks and atrocities against military and civilian targets nationwide.
The proclamation was signed by the Chief Executive last November 23.
"Because there have been, there was an order by their commanders to intensify operations against us, so kung mag SOMO kami and we will stand down, (if we are to implement SOMO and we will stand down) then they will attack us again," Lorenzana stressed.
And when asked whether this would constitute a break in tradition, the DND chief said that traditions could always be broken.
"We can always break tradition," the DND chief emphasized.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1017965
Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana is not inclined to recommend any suspension of military operations (SOMO) against New People's Army (NPA) rebels this Yuletide season.
He made this comment at the sidelines of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council Yearend Meeting held at the AFP Commissioned Officers' Club in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City Tuesday.
The DND chief added that he could not recommend a SOMO as the NPA leadership vowed to intensify attacks against military targets in wake of Proclamation 360, issued by President Rodrigo Duterte which terminated peace talks and negotiation with the Communist Party of the Philippines following the series of rebel attacks and atrocities against military and civilian targets nationwide.
The proclamation was signed by the Chief Executive last November 23.
"Because there have been, there was an order by their commanders to intensify operations against us, so kung mag SOMO kami and we will stand down, (if we are to implement SOMO and we will stand down) then they will attack us again," Lorenzana stressed.
And when asked whether this would constitute a break in tradition, the DND chief said that traditions could always be broken.
"We can always break tradition," the DND chief emphasized.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1017965
Lorenzana mum on martial law, Guerrero extension
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 5): Lorenzana mum on martial law, Guerrero extension
Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana refused to comment on the possible extension of martial law in Mindanao and Gen. Rey Leonard Guerrero’s term as Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff.
"I cannot talk about that, we already submitted our recommendation (on the extension of martial law in Mindanao) yesterday (Monday)," Lorenzana said on the sidelines of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council Yearend Meeting, held at the AFP Commissioned Officers' Club in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City Tuesday.
When asked on the contents of their recommendations, the DND chief replied, "Hindi ko sasabihin sa inyo kasi bahala na ang Malacanang na mag-announce kung ano yun. (I will not share that with you anymore. It is up to Malacanang to announce what that recommendation is.)"
Martial law was declared in Mindanao on May 23 following the series of attacks conducted by Maute Group terrorists in Marawi City.
The Congress, voting jointly -- 261 against 18 -- affirmed the need to extend Proclamation No. 216 extending martial law and the suspension of the writ of habeas corpus until Dec. 31 as initiated by President Rodrigo Duterte.
When queried on whether he recommended the extension of Guerrero as AFP chief, Lorenzana also declined to comment on the matter.
"I cannot talk about that," he added.
Guerrero succeeded Gen. Eduardo Año last Oct. 26. He is a member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1984.
He is expected to retire on December 17.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/1017973
Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana refused to comment on the possible extension of martial law in Mindanao and Gen. Rey Leonard Guerrero’s term as Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff.
"I cannot talk about that, we already submitted our recommendation (on the extension of martial law in Mindanao) yesterday (Monday)," Lorenzana said on the sidelines of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council Yearend Meeting, held at the AFP Commissioned Officers' Club in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City Tuesday.
When asked on the contents of their recommendations, the DND chief replied, "Hindi ko sasabihin sa inyo kasi bahala na ang Malacanang na mag-announce kung ano yun. (I will not share that with you anymore. It is up to Malacanang to announce what that recommendation is.)"
Martial law was declared in Mindanao on May 23 following the series of attacks conducted by Maute Group terrorists in Marawi City.
The Congress, voting jointly -- 261 against 18 -- affirmed the need to extend Proclamation No. 216 extending martial law and the suspension of the writ of habeas corpus until Dec. 31 as initiated by President Rodrigo Duterte.
When queried on whether he recommended the extension of Guerrero as AFP chief, Lorenzana also declined to comment on the matter.
"I cannot talk about that," he added.
Guerrero succeeded Gen. Eduardo Año last Oct. 26. He is a member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1984.
He is expected to retire on December 17.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/1017973
DOTr reiterates legality of arrest warrant vs. PISTON leader
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 5): DOTr reiterates legality of arrest warrant vs. PISTON leader
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) on Tuesday said the arrest warrant issued against militant transport group PISTON leader George San Mateo for leading a transport strike last February was based on legal grounds.
The Quezon City (QC) Metropolitan Trial Court Branch 43 has issued the warrant against San Mateo Tuesday for violating Commonwealth Act No. 146 or the Public Service Act for allegedly encouraging jeepney drivers and operators not to provide rides to commuters in protest of the public utility vehicle modernization program (PUVMP).
The QC Prosecutor’s Office has determined probable cause on the complaint filed by the DOTr and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) against the transport leader.
DOTr reiterated that jeepney operators and drivers should comply with the guidelines on the grant of franchise, among which is that PUVs should not abandon their routes/lines to the inconvenience of the riding public.
“We respect jeepney operators/drivers’ right to stage a protest rally and exercise their right to organize and assemble. What we oppose, however, is when their protest is in the form of ‘tigil pasada’ wherein they inconvenience the riding public,” the department said in a statement Tuesday.
“The moment an operator applies and is granted a franchise, he agrees to be bound by the conditions of such franchise and the consequences in case of violation,” it added.
The DOTr refuted the statement of Sen. Grace Poe that it uses underhanded tactics for the court to implement the arrest order and that it respects the freedom of assembly of transport organizations.
“DOTr, under the leadership of Secretary Tugade, assures Senator Poe, as well as the public, that the agency would not use underhanded tactics to compel our courts to issue such order. As always, we allow the courts to decide on such cases and let due process take its course,” the transportation department stressed. “We, too, share the sentiment of the good senator that everyone has the right to peaceably assemble. However, to hold a franchise is not a right, but a privilege, granted by the state.”
Poe, who is the chairperson of the Senate Committee on Public Services, said the timing of the release of the arrest warrant against San Mateo “casts doubt on the intent of the complainant in filing such charges.”
She likewise pointed out that everyone has the right to peaceably assemble and that it is still unclear based on the cited section of the Public Service Act (PSA) what exactly San Mateo violated. “If holding a strike is tantamount to a violation under any memorandum of the LTFRB, then the proper penalty should have been a fine or suspension or cancellation of their franchise, not threatening their leader with incarceration,” the senator said.
Police arrested San Mateo at the Quezon City Hall of Justice, as he was about to post a PHP4,000 bail for his case before the Quezon City MTC.
San Mateo was accompanied by his legal counsel Atty. VJ Topacio of the non-government organization Free Labor Legal Assistance Center as well as former Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) party-list Rep. Antonio Tinio.
The QC MTC eventually issued a release order allowing San Mateo to post bail.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/1018022
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) on Tuesday said the arrest warrant issued against militant transport group PISTON leader George San Mateo for leading a transport strike last February was based on legal grounds.
The Quezon City (QC) Metropolitan Trial Court Branch 43 has issued the warrant against San Mateo Tuesday for violating Commonwealth Act No. 146 or the Public Service Act for allegedly encouraging jeepney drivers and operators not to provide rides to commuters in protest of the public utility vehicle modernization program (PUVMP).
The QC Prosecutor’s Office has determined probable cause on the complaint filed by the DOTr and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) against the transport leader.
DOTr reiterated that jeepney operators and drivers should comply with the guidelines on the grant of franchise, among which is that PUVs should not abandon their routes/lines to the inconvenience of the riding public.
“We respect jeepney operators/drivers’ right to stage a protest rally and exercise their right to organize and assemble. What we oppose, however, is when their protest is in the form of ‘tigil pasada’ wherein they inconvenience the riding public,” the department said in a statement Tuesday.
“The moment an operator applies and is granted a franchise, he agrees to be bound by the conditions of such franchise and the consequences in case of violation,” it added.
The DOTr refuted the statement of Sen. Grace Poe that it uses underhanded tactics for the court to implement the arrest order and that it respects the freedom of assembly of transport organizations.
“DOTr, under the leadership of Secretary Tugade, assures Senator Poe, as well as the public, that the agency would not use underhanded tactics to compel our courts to issue such order. As always, we allow the courts to decide on such cases and let due process take its course,” the transportation department stressed. “We, too, share the sentiment of the good senator that everyone has the right to peaceably assemble. However, to hold a franchise is not a right, but a privilege, granted by the state.”
Poe, who is the chairperson of the Senate Committee on Public Services, said the timing of the release of the arrest warrant against San Mateo “casts doubt on the intent of the complainant in filing such charges.”
She likewise pointed out that everyone has the right to peaceably assemble and that it is still unclear based on the cited section of the Public Service Act (PSA) what exactly San Mateo violated. “If holding a strike is tantamount to a violation under any memorandum of the LTFRB, then the proper penalty should have been a fine or suspension or cancellation of their franchise, not threatening their leader with incarceration,” the senator said.
Police arrested San Mateo at the Quezon City Hall of Justice, as he was about to post a PHP4,000 bail for his case before the Quezon City MTC.
San Mateo was accompanied by his legal counsel Atty. VJ Topacio of the non-government organization Free Labor Legal Assistance Center as well as former Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) party-list Rep. Antonio Tinio.
The QC MTC eventually issued a release order allowing San Mateo to post bail.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/1018022
Duterte formally declares CPP-NPA as terror group
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 5): Duterte formally declares CPP-NPA as terror group
President Rodrigo Duterte has signed a proclamation formally designating the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) as a terrorist organization.
Presidential Spokesman Harry Roque made the announcement during a press conference in Malacañang.
The Palace spokesperson said the President signed the proclamation pursuant to the provisions of Republic Act No. 10168 or the Human Security Act.
Roque said that under the law, affiliate revolutionary groups of the CPP-NPA would now also be considered terrorists groups, and anyone proven to be financing these groups would be held liable.
Citing the pertinent provisions of RA 10168, Roque said that a designated person is “any person or entity designated or identified as a terrorist, as one who finances terrorism or a terrorist organization or group under the applicable United Nations Security Council resolution or by another jurisdiction or supranational jurisdiction and pursuant to the proclamation which implements the Human Security Act.”
“Take note that the domestic statute and the UN Security Council prohibits the giving of funds to terrorist organizations, this will enable law enforcement agencies to run after individuals who will, in any way, provide financial support to the NPA now that it has been described as a terrorist organization,” Roque said.
In his proclamation, Duterte directed the Department of Foreign Affairs “to publish the foregoing designation of CPP-NPA and other designated persons, organizations, in accordance with Sections 3 and 15 of RA 10168 and its implementing rules and regulations.”
The proclamation was issued two weeks after the Philippine government terminated peace talks with the CPP-NPA after a series of violent attacks that the President said is against humanitarian law.
Meanwhile, Roque said that due to the proclamation, Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea has already issued a memorandum to Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II to immediately file the necessary application for the declaration of the CPP-NPA as a terrorist organization with the appropriate regional trial court (RTC).
He said this is because a proper petition must be filed by the DOJ in court to classify the CPP-NPA as a terrorist group under the Human Security Act for the group to be considered as such under domestic laws and under relevant UN Security Council resolutions.
“This is not just in relation to Philippine domestic law but also in relation to a UN Security Council resolution intended to curtail financing of terrorist organizations,” Roque said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/1018044
President Rodrigo Duterte has signed a proclamation formally designating the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) as a terrorist organization.
Presidential Spokesman Harry Roque made the announcement during a press conference in Malacañang.
The Palace spokesperson said the President signed the proclamation pursuant to the provisions of Republic Act No. 10168 or the Human Security Act.
Roque said that under the law, affiliate revolutionary groups of the CPP-NPA would now also be considered terrorists groups, and anyone proven to be financing these groups would be held liable.
Citing the pertinent provisions of RA 10168, Roque said that a designated person is “any person or entity designated or identified as a terrorist, as one who finances terrorism or a terrorist organization or group under the applicable United Nations Security Council resolution or by another jurisdiction or supranational jurisdiction and pursuant to the proclamation which implements the Human Security Act.”
“Take note that the domestic statute and the UN Security Council prohibits the giving of funds to terrorist organizations, this will enable law enforcement agencies to run after individuals who will, in any way, provide financial support to the NPA now that it has been described as a terrorist organization,” Roque said.
In his proclamation, Duterte directed the Department of Foreign Affairs “to publish the foregoing designation of CPP-NPA and other designated persons, organizations, in accordance with Sections 3 and 15 of RA 10168 and its implementing rules and regulations.”
The proclamation was issued two weeks after the Philippine government terminated peace talks with the CPP-NPA after a series of violent attacks that the President said is against humanitarian law.
Meanwhile, Roque said that due to the proclamation, Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea has already issued a memorandum to Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II to immediately file the necessary application for the declaration of the CPP-NPA as a terrorist organization with the appropriate regional trial court (RTC).
He said this is because a proper petition must be filed by the DOJ in court to classify the CPP-NPA as a terrorist group under the Human Security Act for the group to be considered as such under domestic laws and under relevant UN Security Council resolutions.
“This is not just in relation to Philippine domestic law but also in relation to a UN Security Council resolution intended to curtail financing of terrorist organizations,” Roque said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/1018044
NPA not really interested in peace: AFP
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 5): NPA not really interested in peace: AFP
The New People's Army (NPA) rebels never did really aspire for peace, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Maj. Gen. Restituto Padilla said Tuesday.
"The government has done all it could to attain a much sought-after just and sustainable peace throughout our country. Despite the numerous show of sincerity and compromises of the government, it is apparent that the CPP-NPA-NDF never aspired for peace but merely use it as an opportunity to fulfill its selfish ends," Padilla said when sought for a comment after President Rodrigo Duterte signed a proclamation declaring the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front a terrorist organization.
He further said the terror tag declaration is also an offshoot of the termination of peace talks with the CPP-NPA-NDF by virtue of Proclamation 360, which was signed by the Chief Executive last November 23.
"This proclamation clearly classifies and labels the group for what they really are and will simplify military and law enforcement operations as efforts against lawless elements and enemies of the state," the AFP spokesperson added.
Padilla said the declaration would ensure that the AFP could now fully execute and perform its mandate without reservation and restrictions.
"Having said that, the AFP’s focused military operations will now become even more precise, simple and effective. We can now address without any hesitation and with all the means and resources available to us the increasing criminal and economic sabotage activities of these terrorists," he added.
Padilla emphasized that AFP Chief-of-Staff Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero had ordered troops not to let their guard down and be relentless in pursuing the enemy that had been the source of much suffering of Filipinos in the countryside.
"He also added that we must work hand in hand with all agencies of our government to ensure the services our countrymen need reach them," he said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/1018046
The New People's Army (NPA) rebels never did really aspire for peace, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Maj. Gen. Restituto Padilla said Tuesday.
"The government has done all it could to attain a much sought-after just and sustainable peace throughout our country. Despite the numerous show of sincerity and compromises of the government, it is apparent that the CPP-NPA-NDF never aspired for peace but merely use it as an opportunity to fulfill its selfish ends," Padilla said when sought for a comment after President Rodrigo Duterte signed a proclamation declaring the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front a terrorist organization.
He further said the terror tag declaration is also an offshoot of the termination of peace talks with the CPP-NPA-NDF by virtue of Proclamation 360, which was signed by the Chief Executive last November 23.
"This proclamation clearly classifies and labels the group for what they really are and will simplify military and law enforcement operations as efforts against lawless elements and enemies of the state," the AFP spokesperson added.
Padilla said the declaration would ensure that the AFP could now fully execute and perform its mandate without reservation and restrictions.
"Having said that, the AFP’s focused military operations will now become even more precise, simple and effective. We can now address without any hesitation and with all the means and resources available to us the increasing criminal and economic sabotage activities of these terrorists," he added.
Padilla emphasized that AFP Chief-of-Staff Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero had ordered troops not to let their guard down and be relentless in pursuing the enemy that had been the source of much suffering of Filipinos in the countryside.
"He also added that we must work hand in hand with all agencies of our government to ensure the services our countrymen need reach them," he said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/1018046
US welcomes PH offer to host strategic dialogue in 2018
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 5): US welcomes PH offer to host strategic dialogue in 2018
The United States has welcomed the Philippines’ offer to host the next US-Philippines Bilateral Strategic Dialogue (BSD) in Manila in 2018.
In a joint statement released by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Tuesday, both sides reaffirmed the importance of regular high-level consultations.
The dialogue, the 7th of its kind, ran for two days from November 30 to December 1 in Washington DC.
Senior officials tackled wide variety of issues and reaffirmed commitment to deepen collaboration in areas including maritime security, humanitarian assistance and disaster response, cybersecurity, countering transnational drug trafficking, countering terrorism, and improving drug prevention and treatment services, as well as combating wildlife trafficking and illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing.
The senior officials further pledged to continue working together to effectively eliminate human trafficking.
The US and Philippine delegations emphasized the importance of the rule of law, human rights, and fundamental freedoms.
For its part, the United States congratulated the Philippines on defeating ISIS-supported terrorists in Mindanao and vowed to continue to support the fight against terrorism and the rehabilitation of Marawi.
Both sides also noted the substantive discussions on cooperating in areas such as science and technology, agriculture and fisheries, health, and environment.
They also welcomed the bilateral Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) discussions held on November 29, and "look forward to more robust discussions on ways to expand free, fair and reciprocal bilateral trade," including through exploring a potential Free Trade Agreement.
The Bilateral Strategic Dialogue is a key mechanism for discussing the full range of political, security, and economic cooperation between the United States and the Philippines.
For this year, four working groups convened to develop action plans for expanding the two states' joint partnership on defense and security; economics, development, and prosperity; regional and global diplomatic engagement; and rule of law and law enforcement.
The joint statement issued after the meeting of President Donald Trump and President Rodrigo Duterte on November 13 provided the guidance for the Dialogue.
For this seventh US-Philippines BSD, Acting Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Susan Thornton and Acting Assistant Secretary of Defense for Asian and Pacific Security Affairs David Helvey co-led the US delegation.
Meanwhile, DFA Undersecretary for Policy Enrique Manalo and Department of National Defense Undersecretary Ricardo David co-led the Philippine delegation.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/1018017
The United States has welcomed the Philippines’ offer to host the next US-Philippines Bilateral Strategic Dialogue (BSD) in Manila in 2018.
In a joint statement released by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Tuesday, both sides reaffirmed the importance of regular high-level consultations.
The dialogue, the 7th of its kind, ran for two days from November 30 to December 1 in Washington DC.
Senior officials tackled wide variety of issues and reaffirmed commitment to deepen collaboration in areas including maritime security, humanitarian assistance and disaster response, cybersecurity, countering transnational drug trafficking, countering terrorism, and improving drug prevention and treatment services, as well as combating wildlife trafficking and illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing.
The senior officials further pledged to continue working together to effectively eliminate human trafficking.
The US and Philippine delegations emphasized the importance of the rule of law, human rights, and fundamental freedoms.
For its part, the United States congratulated the Philippines on defeating ISIS-supported terrorists in Mindanao and vowed to continue to support the fight against terrorism and the rehabilitation of Marawi.
Both sides also noted the substantive discussions on cooperating in areas such as science and technology, agriculture and fisheries, health, and environment.
They also welcomed the bilateral Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) discussions held on November 29, and "look forward to more robust discussions on ways to expand free, fair and reciprocal bilateral trade," including through exploring a potential Free Trade Agreement.
The Bilateral Strategic Dialogue is a key mechanism for discussing the full range of political, security, and economic cooperation between the United States and the Philippines.
For this year, four working groups convened to develop action plans for expanding the two states' joint partnership on defense and security; economics, development, and prosperity; regional and global diplomatic engagement; and rule of law and law enforcement.
The joint statement issued after the meeting of President Donald Trump and President Rodrigo Duterte on November 13 provided the guidance for the Dialogue.
For this seventh US-Philippines BSD, Acting Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Susan Thornton and Acting Assistant Secretary of Defense for Asian and Pacific Security Affairs David Helvey co-led the US delegation.
Meanwhile, DFA Undersecretary for Policy Enrique Manalo and Department of National Defense Undersecretary Ricardo David co-led the Philippine delegation.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/1018017
Monday, December 4, 2017
Rebels free abducted cop in North Cotabato
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 4): Rebels free abducted cop in North Cotabato
After almost four months in captivity, a police intelligence officer abducted by communist rebels in North Cotabato was freed Monday by his captors to local facilitators that included nuns and priests.
Police Officer 1 Bristol Catalan, intelligence officer of Makilala town police office, was released by the New People’s Army (NPA) Mt. Apo Sub-Regional Command in Southern Mindanao in Barangay Bagumbayan, Magpet, North Cotabato at about 12 noon.
Catalan was snatched by NPA rebels last August 16 in Barangay Katipunan, Kidapawan City. He was driving a motorbike to send his children to school when the rebels blocked his path and abducted him.
Chief Inspector Aldrin Gonzalez, spokesperson for the Police Regional Office-12, said Catalan was emotional when he met with his wife Jessa.
Lt. Col. Harold Argamosa of the Army’s 39th Infantry Battalion said the release of Catalan was made possible through the intercession of preachers and nuns led by Kidapawan Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo.
Argamosa said local officials also helped negotiate the release of Catalan.
Gonzalez said the North Cotabato provincial police office will provide Catalan psycho-social intervention needed to hasten his recovery from his captivity by the NPA. Catalan is yet to issue statement detailing his captivity as officials said he was given ample time to be with his family.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/1017888
After almost four months in captivity, a police intelligence officer abducted by communist rebels in North Cotabato was freed Monday by his captors to local facilitators that included nuns and priests.
Police Officer 1 Bristol Catalan, intelligence officer of Makilala town police office, was released by the New People’s Army (NPA) Mt. Apo Sub-Regional Command in Southern Mindanao in Barangay Bagumbayan, Magpet, North Cotabato at about 12 noon.
Catalan was snatched by NPA rebels last August 16 in Barangay Katipunan, Kidapawan City. He was driving a motorbike to send his children to school when the rebels blocked his path and abducted him.
Chief Inspector Aldrin Gonzalez, spokesperson for the Police Regional Office-12, said Catalan was emotional when he met with his wife Jessa.
Lt. Col. Harold Argamosa of the Army’s 39th Infantry Battalion said the release of Catalan was made possible through the intercession of preachers and nuns led by Kidapawan Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo.
Argamosa said local officials also helped negotiate the release of Catalan.
Gonzalez said the North Cotabato provincial police office will provide Catalan psycho-social intervention needed to hasten his recovery from his captivity by the NPA. Catalan is yet to issue statement detailing his captivity as officials said he was given ample time to be with his family.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/1017888
Navy rescues vessel in distress off Basilan
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 4): Navy rescues vessel in distress off Basilan
The Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM) has rescued a wooden-hulled vessel in distress with 67 people on board off Basilan province, a top military official announced Monday.
Rear Adm. Rene Medina, NFWM commander, said M/L Fatima Devie skippered by Cesar Abdul was rescued at around 10:20 p.m. Friday near Baluk-Baluk Island, Hadji Muhatamad town.
M/L Fatima Devie was manned by seven crew members aside from Abdul, and was loaded with 59 people at the time of the incident.
Medina said investigation showed the vessel was sailing to Zamboanga City coming from Taganak, Turtle Island municipality, Tawi-Tawi “when the rudder broke that resulted to a major steering casualty” at around 7:20 p.m. Friday.
The mechanical defect caused the vessel to drift at sea, Medina added.
The NFWM through the Naval Task Force 61 deployed BRP-Iwak (LC-289) to provide assistance to the vessel in distress.
Medina said BRP-Iwak, which is skippered by Cmdr. Homer Gonzalez, rescued M/L Fatimah Devie at around 10:20 p.m. Friday and towed the vessel to safety.
He said they arrived at around 1:38 a.m. Saturday at a private wharf in Barangay Baliwasan, this city.
He said the successful rescue operations of the Navy vessels proves the readiness and responsiveness of the Naval Force in the Western Mindanao.
He added the Philippine Navy stands ready to render assistance and support to vessels in distressed while conducting its missions and maritime patrols in the Western Mindanao region.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/1017856
The Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM) has rescued a wooden-hulled vessel in distress with 67 people on board off Basilan province, a top military official announced Monday.
Rear Adm. Rene Medina, NFWM commander, said M/L Fatima Devie skippered by Cesar Abdul was rescued at around 10:20 p.m. Friday near Baluk-Baluk Island, Hadji Muhatamad town.
M/L Fatima Devie was manned by seven crew members aside from Abdul, and was loaded with 59 people at the time of the incident.
Medina said investigation showed the vessel was sailing to Zamboanga City coming from Taganak, Turtle Island municipality, Tawi-Tawi “when the rudder broke that resulted to a major steering casualty” at around 7:20 p.m. Friday.
The mechanical defect caused the vessel to drift at sea, Medina added.
The NFWM through the Naval Task Force 61 deployed BRP-Iwak (LC-289) to provide assistance to the vessel in distress.
Medina said BRP-Iwak, which is skippered by Cmdr. Homer Gonzalez, rescued M/L Fatimah Devie at around 10:20 p.m. Friday and towed the vessel to safety.
He said they arrived at around 1:38 a.m. Saturday at a private wharf in Barangay Baliwasan, this city.
He said the successful rescue operations of the Navy vessels proves the readiness and responsiveness of the Naval Force in the Western Mindanao.
He added the Philippine Navy stands ready to render assistance and support to vessels in distressed while conducting its missions and maritime patrols in the Western Mindanao region.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/1017856
NPA owns attack on Misamis Oriental police station
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 4): NPA owns attack on Misamis Oriental police station
The New People’s Army (NPA) has owned up the attack on a police station in Binuangan town, Misamis Oriental on Sunday, Dec. 3.
In a text message sent to the media on Sunday, the NPA said the unit responsible for the attack was the East Misamis Oriental Northeastern Bukidnon (Emoneb) Subregional Command.
“This (attack) should serve as a reminder to the police, military and the Duterte regime that the NPA does not fear of his (Duterte) threat of all-out war and martial law whose victims are the hapless civilians,” a part of the text message said.
It added the NPA suffered no casualty on its side.
Police report said about a hundred NPA fighters stormed the town’s police station at around 3:15 a.m. Sunday. Four police officers were wounded in the firefight that lasted for about three hours.
The attack was allegedly led by Manuelito Satur, alias “Ka Musong,” a certain Jakem, Oscar Romania, a certain “Amboy” and “Makong Mansigyaw.”
Authorities condemed the foiled attack, saying it reeks of desperation.
“The NPA terrorists failed on their attack on the police station and failed to get their (police) firearms, and retreated to the hinterlands, because our [Phil. National Police] personnel fought hard and defended their police station despite the NPA strength,” said Supt. Lemuel Gonda, PNP-10 spokesperson.
In a separate statement, the Phil. Army’s 4th Infantry Division (4ID) said the attack was a failure and an insult to the leaders of the Maoist insurgents.
“This another failed terror attack is a big slap to the NPA leadership. More than the resiliency of the PNP who stood their ground during the attack are the timely report and outpouring support from the civilians about the NPA’s plan,” Maj. Gen. Ronald Villanueva, the 4ID commander, said.
Villanueva said, “we condemn the terrorists courses of action when they used the civilian properties, such as vehicles along the highway and the nearby houses as their shield. This is a clear and undeniable proof that they really do not care about the safety of the masses. All they wanted to do is to sow fear to advance their terroristic activities that are aimed to make people suffer.”
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/1017853
The New People’s Army (NPA) has owned up the attack on a police station in Binuangan town, Misamis Oriental on Sunday, Dec. 3.
In a text message sent to the media on Sunday, the NPA said the unit responsible for the attack was the East Misamis Oriental Northeastern Bukidnon (Emoneb) Subregional Command.
“This (attack) should serve as a reminder to the police, military and the Duterte regime that the NPA does not fear of his (Duterte) threat of all-out war and martial law whose victims are the hapless civilians,” a part of the text message said.
It added the NPA suffered no casualty on its side.
Police report said about a hundred NPA fighters stormed the town’s police station at around 3:15 a.m. Sunday. Four police officers were wounded in the firefight that lasted for about three hours.
The attack was allegedly led by Manuelito Satur, alias “Ka Musong,” a certain Jakem, Oscar Romania, a certain “Amboy” and “Makong Mansigyaw.”
Authorities condemed the foiled attack, saying it reeks of desperation.
“The NPA terrorists failed on their attack on the police station and failed to get their (police) firearms, and retreated to the hinterlands, because our [Phil. National Police] personnel fought hard and defended their police station despite the NPA strength,” said Supt. Lemuel Gonda, PNP-10 spokesperson.
In a separate statement, the Phil. Army’s 4th Infantry Division (4ID) said the attack was a failure and an insult to the leaders of the Maoist insurgents.
“This another failed terror attack is a big slap to the NPA leadership. More than the resiliency of the PNP who stood their ground during the attack are the timely report and outpouring support from the civilians about the NPA’s plan,” Maj. Gen. Ronald Villanueva, the 4ID commander, said.
Villanueva said, “we condemn the terrorists courses of action when they used the civilian properties, such as vehicles along the highway and the nearby houses as their shield. This is a clear and undeniable proof that they really do not care about the safety of the masses. All they wanted to do is to sow fear to advance their terroristic activities that are aimed to make people suffer.”
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/1017853
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