From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 13): Grenade found at DPWH-Cotabato
Police bomb experts deactivated a live grenade found Tuesday inside the compound of the Department of Public Works and Highways-Cotabato District Office on Ramon Rabago Sr. St. here.
Police said the PRB-423 grenade, believed to have been hurled by saboteurs from outside the compound, was discovered at around 5:50 p.m. at the vicinity of the office’s administrative section.
The bomb disposal unit used a water disruptor to rid of the grenade found sans its safety lever pin. Probers have yet to determine the motive behind the foiled grenade attack.
Also on Tuesday, members of the military bomb disposal unit disarmed an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) found by the roadside along Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao.
Lt. Col. Gerry Besana, Army’s 6th Infantry Division civil military operations office, said residents alerted authorities over the EID presence in the area.
Besana said the bomb, packed in a container full of black powder and construction nails, bore the signature style of the Jemaah Islamiyah and Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/1018784
Wednesday, December 13, 2017
Army, NPAs clash in Nueva Ecija
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 13): Army, NPAs clash in Nueva Ecija
Soldiers from the Scout Platoon of the Philippine Army’s 84th Battalion clashed with 10 suspected New People’s Army (NPA) members in Barangay Bunga in Carranglan on Wednesday.
Sketchy reports from the public information office of the 7th Infantry Division said the encounter took place when the government troops responded to a call from the people about the presence of armed men in the area.
No casualty was reported from both sides of the military and the suspected communist rebels.
The Army recovered at least two assault rifles after the encounter.
In October, nine rebels were killed in an encounter in Barangay Burgos, also of this municipality.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/1018809
Soldiers from the Scout Platoon of the Philippine Army’s 84th Battalion clashed with 10 suspected New People’s Army (NPA) members in Barangay Bunga in Carranglan on Wednesday.
Sketchy reports from the public information office of the 7th Infantry Division said the encounter took place when the government troops responded to a call from the people about the presence of armed men in the area.
No casualty was reported from both sides of the military and the suspected communist rebels.
The Army recovered at least two assault rifles after the encounter.
In October, nine rebels were killed in an encounter in Barangay Burgos, also of this municipality.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/1018809
EastMinCom gets more troops for anti-NPA campaign
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 13): EastMinCom gets more troops for anti-NPA campaign
Additional units are being brought to reinforce the Davao City-based Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) in line with efforts to neutralize New People's Army (NPA) bands known to be operating in the region.
This was emphasized by command spokesperson Major Ezra Balagtey in an interview late Tuesday.
In line with this, the EastMinCom has absorbed the 15th Infantry Battalion which had just finished a tour-of-duty in Western Mindanao.
Initially, the 15th Infantry Battalion is from the Jamindan-based 3rd Infantry Division but was deployed to help in security operations in Basilan before being deployed to Marawi City during the height of the clashes with Maute Group terrorists.
The former was replaced by the 2nd Scout Ranger Battalion following the liberation of Marawi City, Balagtey said.
Aside from the above-mentioned unit, the military official said two battalions, the 88th and 89th, have been recently activated, following the recruitment of additional troops.
He added that they are expecting more troops to arrive as announced by Armed Forces Chief-of-Staff Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero.
Balagtey also noted that half of the NPA forces operating in Mindanao are to be found at the EMC area.
"Kasi parang ito ang last frontier ng NPA, (ang) Eastern Mindanao, and more than 50 percent of NPA (in) Mindanao-wide is nasa EastMinCom," he pointed out.
Latest information indicated that less than 1,800 NPAs are operating in the EastMinCom area.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/1018793
Additional units are being brought to reinforce the Davao City-based Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) in line with efforts to neutralize New People's Army (NPA) bands known to be operating in the region.
This was emphasized by command spokesperson Major Ezra Balagtey in an interview late Tuesday.
In line with this, the EastMinCom has absorbed the 15th Infantry Battalion which had just finished a tour-of-duty in Western Mindanao.
Initially, the 15th Infantry Battalion is from the Jamindan-based 3rd Infantry Division but was deployed to help in security operations in Basilan before being deployed to Marawi City during the height of the clashes with Maute Group terrorists.
The former was replaced by the 2nd Scout Ranger Battalion following the liberation of Marawi City, Balagtey said.
Aside from the above-mentioned unit, the military official said two battalions, the 88th and 89th, have been recently activated, following the recruitment of additional troops.
He added that they are expecting more troops to arrive as announced by Armed Forces Chief-of-Staff Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero.
Balagtey also noted that half of the NPA forces operating in Mindanao are to be found at the EMC area.
"Kasi parang ito ang last frontier ng NPA, (ang) Eastern Mindanao, and more than 50 percent of NPA (in) Mindanao-wide is nasa EastMinCom," he pointed out.
Latest information indicated that less than 1,800 NPAs are operating in the EastMinCom area.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/1018793
Lorenzana: Rebellion in Mindanao not yet subdued
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 13): Lorenzana: Rebellion in Mindanao not yet subdued
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Wednesday admitted before lawmakers that the rebellion in Mindanao has not yet been entirely subdued.
“Rebellion has not stopped. It just moved to another place," Lorenzana said during the Congress' joint session to deliberate on President Rodrigo Duterte’s request for a one-year extension of martial law in Mindanao.
He said that while there is substantial change in the situation in Marawi City following a five-month siege, other groups inspired by the Islamic State (IS) have been consolidating their forces through recruitment, especially in Central Mindanao.
“The situation in Marawi has substantially changed from the time that our troops were fighting the ISIS-inspired Maute group. However, as situations developed later on, the other ISIS-inspired groups... (there are) reports now, (that) they are actively recruiting some of the Muslim youths in the area," the defense chief said.
Lorenzana, who is martial law administrator, was responding to Senator Franklin Drilon's query on the basis of extending martial law in southern Philippines despite the pronouncement of liberation of Marawi City from terrorists.
Deputy Executive Secretary Menardo Guevarra, for his part, said that even the courts concluded that "rebellion in Marawi has already spilled over" to other parts of Mindanao.
Drilon questioned the constitutionality of extending martial law, noting that there are only threats at this point instead of an actual state of rebellion.
In his letter dated Dec. 8, Duterte asked Congress to further extend the declaration of martial law in the whole of Mindanao for the entire 2018 to totally eradicate terror threats posed by remnants of IS-linked terrorists and by communist rebels in the region.
He said extending martial law for another year would help state security forces to crush the rebellion in Mindanao and ensure public safety.
Duterte highlighted the different threats facing Mindanao, which were part of the security assessment submitted to Malacañang by the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police.
He said that despite the death of almost a thousand IS-inspired extremists, including their leaders, in the battle of Marawi, remnants of the group and their supporters have continued their recruitment and training of new members “to carry on the rebellion”.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/1018808
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Wednesday admitted before lawmakers that the rebellion in Mindanao has not yet been entirely subdued.
“Rebellion has not stopped. It just moved to another place," Lorenzana said during the Congress' joint session to deliberate on President Rodrigo Duterte’s request for a one-year extension of martial law in Mindanao.
He said that while there is substantial change in the situation in Marawi City following a five-month siege, other groups inspired by the Islamic State (IS) have been consolidating their forces through recruitment, especially in Central Mindanao.
“The situation in Marawi has substantially changed from the time that our troops were fighting the ISIS-inspired Maute group. However, as situations developed later on, the other ISIS-inspired groups... (there are) reports now, (that) they are actively recruiting some of the Muslim youths in the area," the defense chief said.
Lorenzana, who is martial law administrator, was responding to Senator Franklin Drilon's query on the basis of extending martial law in southern Philippines despite the pronouncement of liberation of Marawi City from terrorists.
Deputy Executive Secretary Menardo Guevarra, for his part, said that even the courts concluded that "rebellion in Marawi has already spilled over" to other parts of Mindanao.
Drilon questioned the constitutionality of extending martial law, noting that there are only threats at this point instead of an actual state of rebellion.
In his letter dated Dec. 8, Duterte asked Congress to further extend the declaration of martial law in the whole of Mindanao for the entire 2018 to totally eradicate terror threats posed by remnants of IS-linked terrorists and by communist rebels in the region.
He said extending martial law for another year would help state security forces to crush the rebellion in Mindanao and ensure public safety.
Duterte highlighted the different threats facing Mindanao, which were part of the security assessment submitted to Malacañang by the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police.
He said that despite the death of almost a thousand IS-inspired extremists, including their leaders, in the battle of Marawi, remnants of the group and their supporters have continued their recruitment and training of new members “to carry on the rebellion”.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/1018808
PAF looking for spares of MG-520 electrical systems
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 13): PAF looking for spares of MG-520 electrical systems
The Philippine Air Force (PAF), through its Bids and Awards Committee, is allocating the sum of PHP8.2 million for the acquisition of spare parts needed for the maintenance of the electrical systems of its six McDonnell Douglas MG-520 "Defender" attack helicopters.
The items are for MG-520 helicopters with tail numbers 395, 417, 418, 431, 438 and 439.
Pre-bid conference is slated for December 19, 9 a.m. at the PAF Procurement Center Conference Room, Villamor Air Base, Pasay City, the bid bulletin posted at the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System stated.
Submission and opening of bids is scheduled on January 9.
"All particulars relative to Eligibility Statement and Screening, Bid Security, Performance Security, Pre-Bidding Conference/s, Evaluation of Bids, Post-Qualification and Award of Contract shall be governed by the pertinent provisions of RA 9184 and its Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR)," PAF Bids and Awards Committee chair Brig. Gen. Erickson R. Gloria said in the same bid bulletin.
The PAF is known to operate 12 to 16 models of the MG-520.
The PAF affair with the MG-520 started in the early 90's when 25 units of these excellent aircraft were delivered to country.
It was used with great effect against New People's Army (NPA) rebels and lawless elements like the Abu Sayyaf Group for the past few years.
The MG-520 is derived from the MG-500 light utility helicopter. It can be armed with .50 caliber heavy machines and air-to-ground rockets.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/1018806
The Philippine Air Force (PAF), through its Bids and Awards Committee, is allocating the sum of PHP8.2 million for the acquisition of spare parts needed for the maintenance of the electrical systems of its six McDonnell Douglas MG-520 "Defender" attack helicopters.
The items are for MG-520 helicopters with tail numbers 395, 417, 418, 431, 438 and 439.
Pre-bid conference is slated for December 19, 9 a.m. at the PAF Procurement Center Conference Room, Villamor Air Base, Pasay City, the bid bulletin posted at the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System stated.
Submission and opening of bids is scheduled on January 9.
"All particulars relative to Eligibility Statement and Screening, Bid Security, Performance Security, Pre-Bidding Conference/s, Evaluation of Bids, Post-Qualification and Award of Contract shall be governed by the pertinent provisions of RA 9184 and its Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR)," PAF Bids and Awards Committee chair Brig. Gen. Erickson R. Gloria said in the same bid bulletin.
The PAF is known to operate 12 to 16 models of the MG-520.
The PAF affair with the MG-520 started in the early 90's when 25 units of these excellent aircraft were delivered to country.
It was used with great effect against New People's Army (NPA) rebels and lawless elements like the Abu Sayyaf Group for the past few years.
The MG-520 is derived from the MG-500 light utility helicopter. It can be armed with .50 caliber heavy machines and air-to-ground rockets.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/1018806
DND, AFP laud ML extension in Mindanao
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 13): DND, AFP laud ML extension in Mindanao
An affirmation of trust and confidence.
This is how Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana described Congress' decision to extend martial law in Mindanao for one year.
"The DND is grateful for this affirmation of trust and confidence from our legislators. The Filipino people can rest assured that we will not squander this opportunity to finally end the continuing rebellion and terrorism in Mindanao by destroying the Daesh (Arabic name for ISIS) structure in the area, thwart like-minded groups from conducting further acts of terrorism and prevent the spillover of violence and radicalism in other parts of the country," he added.
And with the extension, the DND chief expressed confidence that the government can move forward with unhampered reconstruction and rehabilitation of Marawi City.
"The challenges we are facing in Mindanao are also challenges to each and every Filipino. Together, as a nation, we will prevail and prove to the world our collective resilience against odds," Lorenzana said.
Meanwhile, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) public affairs Col. Edgard Arevalo said the Congress' decision proves the validity of the military's grounds for seeking martial law extension.
"We see the grant of the extension of ML (Martial Law) as an acknowledgement of the grounds we have cited that need immediate and decisive actions," he added.
“Specifically, we need to quell the ongoing rebellion in Mindanao and prevent its spread to other parts of the country. The military will faithfully perform its mandate to protect the people and secure the state,” he added.
The Senate and House of Representatives, convening in a joint session, granted President Rodrigo Duterte's request for the extension of martial law and the suspension of the privilege of writ of habeas corpus for a period of one year from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31, 2018.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/1018859
A total of 240 members of Congress voted to approve the resolution of both houses calling for Martial Law extension in Mindanao, while only 27 voted against it. There was no abstention.
A total of 14 senators voted in favor of the motion and four were against it, while 226 House members approved the motion and 23 rejected it.
To recall, Duterte placed the entire Mindanao under martial law last May 23 after Maute Group terrorists laid siege to Marawi City.
Earlier in July, Congress, in a special joint session, granted the extension of martial law until Dec. 31 this year at the President's request.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/1018859
An affirmation of trust and confidence.
This is how Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana described Congress' decision to extend martial law in Mindanao for one year.
"The DND is grateful for this affirmation of trust and confidence from our legislators. The Filipino people can rest assured that we will not squander this opportunity to finally end the continuing rebellion and terrorism in Mindanao by destroying the Daesh (Arabic name for ISIS) structure in the area, thwart like-minded groups from conducting further acts of terrorism and prevent the spillover of violence and radicalism in other parts of the country," he added.
And with the extension, the DND chief expressed confidence that the government can move forward with unhampered reconstruction and rehabilitation of Marawi City.
"The challenges we are facing in Mindanao are also challenges to each and every Filipino. Together, as a nation, we will prevail and prove to the world our collective resilience against odds," Lorenzana said.
Meanwhile, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) public affairs Col. Edgard Arevalo said the Congress' decision proves the validity of the military's grounds for seeking martial law extension.
"We see the grant of the extension of ML (Martial Law) as an acknowledgement of the grounds we have cited that need immediate and decisive actions," he added.
“Specifically, we need to quell the ongoing rebellion in Mindanao and prevent its spread to other parts of the country. The military will faithfully perform its mandate to protect the people and secure the state,” he added.
The Senate and House of Representatives, convening in a joint session, granted President Rodrigo Duterte's request for the extension of martial law and the suspension of the privilege of writ of habeas corpus for a period of one year from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31, 2018.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/1018859
A total of 240 members of Congress voted to approve the resolution of both houses calling for Martial Law extension in Mindanao, while only 27 voted against it. There was no abstention.
A total of 14 senators voted in favor of the motion and four were against it, while 226 House members approved the motion and 23 rejected it.
To recall, Duterte placed the entire Mindanao under martial law last May 23 after Maute Group terrorists laid siege to Marawi City.
Earlier in July, Congress, in a special joint session, granted the extension of martial law until Dec. 31 this year at the President's request.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/1018859
Duterte to extend PNP chief Dela Rosa's term for 3 months
From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 13): Duterte to extend PNP chief Dela Rosa's term for 3 months
After confirming the police chief's appointment as next Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) head, President Rodrigo Duterte on Wednesday revealed he would first extend Ronald dela Rosa's term as Philippine National Police (PNP) director general for at least three months.
"I have that discretion to extend even beyond retirement age," the President told reporters in Taguig City.
"Marami pa kasi akong gagawin, I want to do some things in Mindanao of utmost importance and I need to extend the tour of duty of General dela Rosa to something like two to three months," he said.
Dela Rosa will retire on January 21 next year, when he reaches the mandatory retirement age for police officers.
The chief executive explained the extension was primarily to facilitate the infrastructure and physical setting of the headquarters of the police in Mindanao.
After his extended tour of duty, Duterte said Dela Rosa would assume leadership in the BuCor.
"Once the projects are in place or operational or functional, then he goes to the BuCor," he said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/1018907
After confirming the police chief's appointment as next Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) head, President Rodrigo Duterte on Wednesday revealed he would first extend Ronald dela Rosa's term as Philippine National Police (PNP) director general for at least three months.
"I have that discretion to extend even beyond retirement age," the President told reporters in Taguig City.
"Marami pa kasi akong gagawin, I want to do some things in Mindanao of utmost importance and I need to extend the tour of duty of General dela Rosa to something like two to three months," he said.
Dela Rosa will retire on January 21 next year, when he reaches the mandatory retirement age for police officers.
The chief executive explained the extension was primarily to facilitate the infrastructure and physical setting of the headquarters of the police in Mindanao.
After his extended tour of duty, Duterte said Dela Rosa would assume leadership in the BuCor.
"Once the projects are in place or operational or functional, then he goes to the BuCor," he said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php/articles/1018907
DOJ files 295 counts of inciting to rebellion vs. alleged ISIS recruiter
From CNN Philippines (Dec 13): DOJ files 295 counts of inciting to rebellion vs. alleged ISIS recruiter
The Justice Department on Wednesday filed 295 counts of inciting to rebellion against alleged Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) recruiter Karen Hamidon.
The National Bureau of Investigation Counter-Terrorism Division (NBI CTD) said Hamidon used online messaging applications such as Telegram to encourage foreigners to go to the Philippines and join the Maute group in Marawi.
The NBI added Hamidon has been a person of interest since mid-2016 "when she gained international notoriety for successfully recruiting several Indian nationals to join (ISIS).
"The Indian Government formally requested for investigative assistance pertaining to respondent," the resolution said.
Hamidon, in early November, denied she had links to the Maute group or the Marawi crisis.
"All of the accusations hurled against me are all false," Hamidon insisted at the preliminary investigation on the allegations against her.
READ: Alleged ISIS recruiter: Charges against me are not true
Aside from allegedly recruiting terrorists, the NBI said Hamidon is also the widow of Mohammad Jaafar Maguid, also known as "Tokboy" or "Abu Sharifa," the former leader of the Ansar Khalifa Philippines (AKP) or Ansar Al-Khilafa Philippines (supporters of the Caliphate in the Philippines).
Authorities said Maguid's group planted an improvised explosive device at a Christmas display in Kiamba Municipal Hall last December.
READ: 'Most wanted' leader of ISIS-linked group killed in Sarangani
http://cnnphilippines.com/news/2017/12/13/DOJ-files-295-counts-of-inciting-to-rebellion-alleged-ISIS-recruiter.html
The Justice Department on Wednesday filed 295 counts of inciting to rebellion against alleged Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) recruiter Karen Hamidon.
The National Bureau of Investigation Counter-Terrorism Division (NBI CTD) said Hamidon used online messaging applications such as Telegram to encourage foreigners to go to the Philippines and join the Maute group in Marawi.
The NBI added Hamidon has been a person of interest since mid-2016 "when she gained international notoriety for successfully recruiting several Indian nationals to join (ISIS).
"The Indian Government formally requested for investigative assistance pertaining to respondent," the resolution said.
Hamidon, in early November, denied she had links to the Maute group or the Marawi crisis.
"All of the accusations hurled against me are all false," Hamidon insisted at the preliminary investigation on the allegations against her.
READ: Alleged ISIS recruiter: Charges against me are not true
Aside from allegedly recruiting terrorists, the NBI said Hamidon is also the widow of Mohammad Jaafar Maguid, also known as "Tokboy" or "Abu Sharifa," the former leader of the Ansar Khalifa Philippines (AKP) or Ansar Al-Khilafa Philippines (supporters of the Caliphate in the Philippines).
Authorities said Maguid's group planted an improvised explosive device at a Christmas display in Kiamba Municipal Hall last December.
READ: 'Most wanted' leader of ISIS-linked group killed in Sarangani
http://cnnphilippines.com/news/2017/12/13/DOJ-files-295-counts-of-inciting-to-rebellion-alleged-ISIS-recruiter.html
Military beefs up forces in eastern Mindanao
From Malaya Business Insight (Dec 13): Military beefs up forces in eastern Mindanao
THE Armed Forces is beefing up forces in the eastern Mindanao area as part of renewed offensives against the communist New People’s Army which President Duterte has classified as a terrorist organization.
Maj. Ezra Balagtey, spokesman of the AFP’s Eastern Mindanao Command, said four battalions have been sent to the area in the past weeks as augmentation force, including the newly-activated 88th and 89th Infantry Battalions.
Balagtey said the Army’s elite 2nd Scout Ranger Battalion and the 15th Infantry Battalion have also been recently re-assigned to eastern Mindanao, from the western Mindanao area.
Balagtey said the 15th IB came from Basilan where it was involved in the fight against the Abu Sayyaf Group while the 2nd Scout Ranger Battalion is fresh from Marawi City where they fought with the terrorist Maute Group.
The area of responsibility of Eastmincom covers the entire Caraga and Davao regions and parts of Northern Mindanao and Soccsksargen regions. The Eastmincom is under the command of Lt. Gen. Benjamin Madrigal.
“We are expecting more troops to arrive here as announced by the chief of staff (Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero),” said Balagtey. He did not say how many troops are currently operating under Eastmincom.
Balagtey said there about 2,000 NPA rebels in the Eastmincom’s area of responsibility, or around 45 percent of the entire NPA strength throughout the country.
“This is a priority area of the AFP as far as NPA terrorist is concerned,” said Balagtey of the areas of responsibility of the Eastmincom. “The last frontier of the NPA is eastern Mindanao,” he added.
Caraga includes Agusan del Norte and del Sur, Surigao del Norte and del Sur and Dinagat Islands while the Davao region covers Compostela Valley, Davao del Norte and del Sur, Davao Occidental and Oriental, and several cities.
President Duterte last month formally terminated peace talks with the communist movement amid series of NPA attacks on military and civilian targets. Last week, he officially declared the Communist Party of the Philippines and the NPA, the CPP’s armed wing, as terrorist groups.
PNP chief Ronald dela Rosa yesterday reiterated that police chiefs will be relieved from their posts if police stations under their area of responsibility are overrun by the NPA.
“We have a one-strike policy. The provincial director will be relieved if there are two police stations overrun, that’s automatic. A regional police director will also be relieved if two provincial police stations are overrun by the NPAs,” Dela Rosa said.
He said the relieved officials will be investigated as to why the communist rebels were able to carry out their attacks with ease.
Dela Rosa issued the one-strike policy when he was appointed PNP chief in July last year. Other PNP chiefs had similar policies but imposed a three-strike policy.
Dela Rosa also said he has ordered ground troops to reinforce their counterparts in the military in places where soldiers are thinly deployed like, in Iloilo and Cagayan Valley.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/military-beefs-forces-eastern-mindanao
THE Armed Forces is beefing up forces in the eastern Mindanao area as part of renewed offensives against the communist New People’s Army which President Duterte has classified as a terrorist organization.
Maj. Ezra Balagtey, spokesman of the AFP’s Eastern Mindanao Command, said four battalions have been sent to the area in the past weeks as augmentation force, including the newly-activated 88th and 89th Infantry Battalions.
Balagtey said the Army’s elite 2nd Scout Ranger Battalion and the 15th Infantry Battalion have also been recently re-assigned to eastern Mindanao, from the western Mindanao area.
Balagtey said the 15th IB came from Basilan where it was involved in the fight against the Abu Sayyaf Group while the 2nd Scout Ranger Battalion is fresh from Marawi City where they fought with the terrorist Maute Group.
The area of responsibility of Eastmincom covers the entire Caraga and Davao regions and parts of Northern Mindanao and Soccsksargen regions. The Eastmincom is under the command of Lt. Gen. Benjamin Madrigal.
“We are expecting more troops to arrive here as announced by the chief of staff (Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero),” said Balagtey. He did not say how many troops are currently operating under Eastmincom.
Balagtey said there about 2,000 NPA rebels in the Eastmincom’s area of responsibility, or around 45 percent of the entire NPA strength throughout the country.
“This is a priority area of the AFP as far as NPA terrorist is concerned,” said Balagtey of the areas of responsibility of the Eastmincom. “The last frontier of the NPA is eastern Mindanao,” he added.
Caraga includes Agusan del Norte and del Sur, Surigao del Norte and del Sur and Dinagat Islands while the Davao region covers Compostela Valley, Davao del Norte and del Sur, Davao Occidental and Oriental, and several cities.
President Duterte last month formally terminated peace talks with the communist movement amid series of NPA attacks on military and civilian targets. Last week, he officially declared the Communist Party of the Philippines and the NPA, the CPP’s armed wing, as terrorist groups.
`ONE-STRIKE POLICY’
PNP chief Ronald dela Rosa yesterday reiterated that police chiefs will be relieved from their posts if police stations under their area of responsibility are overrun by the NPA.
“We have a one-strike policy. The provincial director will be relieved if there are two police stations overrun, that’s automatic. A regional police director will also be relieved if two provincial police stations are overrun by the NPAs,” Dela Rosa said.
He said the relieved officials will be investigated as to why the communist rebels were able to carry out their attacks with ease.
Dela Rosa issued the one-strike policy when he was appointed PNP chief in July last year. Other PNP chiefs had similar policies but imposed a three-strike policy.
Dela Rosa also said he has ordered ground troops to reinforce their counterparts in the military in places where soldiers are thinly deployed like, in Iloilo and Cagayan Valley.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/military-beefs-forces-eastern-mindanao
AFP cites 'psychological impact' for martial law extension; opposition senator disagrees
From CNN Philippines (Dec 12): AFP cites 'psychological impact' for martial law extension; opposition senator disagrees
Top security and defense officials on Tuesday briefed senators on their justification for extending martial law in Mindanao until the end of 2018.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines' (AFP) said they recommended the extension of martial law due to its "psychological impact" on law enforcement in Mindanao.
Most residents in Mindanao approved of it, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon said in an interview with media.
"By 'psychological' we mean it's really to the liking of the majority of Mindanaoans. So theres not much objection to it especially the Mindanao people," said Esperon.
Military rule in Mindanao during the months of the fighting between government forces and the ISIS-inspired Maute group had a huge effect in their operations, he added. In October, after five months of fighting, the government declared the liberation of Marawi City from the Maute.
"Anything that we can get out of the kind of martial law that we have, we can fully use as we have done sa Marawi. Malaki ang nagiging epekto," Esperon said.
However, Senate minority leader Franklin Drilon said such reasoning is not a valid basis for the extension of martial law in Mindanao.
"The Armed Forces has recommended the extension of martial law for its psychological impact. I'm afraid that is not a valid basis for the extension of martial law," he said in a media interview.
President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday cited the violence caused by the communist New People's Army (NPA) as one of the reasons for the martial law extension.
Drilon said the NPA was not a factor during the first time Duterte asked Congress for a martial law declaration.
"The president cited five reasons asking for an extension... The citation of the fifth reason which is the NPA threat, constitutes one whole page. The issue was raised, why if it's an extension of an original six-month period or martial law, the NPA was not a factor then?" he said.
Esperon denied that the inclusion of the NPA in the recommendation to extend martial law was sudden.
"It has always been there. But in the first declaration, we were in the peace process, but we have always been talking about it," he said.
He added now is the perfect time to quell terrorist groups such as the Mautes, Abu Sayyaf, and the NPA.
"Kailangan natin (ng martial law) because time is of the esscence. Ngayon na mahina ang ISIS, i-apply na natin lahat kaysa maghintay na naman na lumakas sila," Esperon said.
Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, Esperon, AFP Chief of Staff Rey Guerrero, and Interior Undersecretary Eduardo Año briefed Senate President Koko Pimentel, Senate Majority Leader Tito Sotto, Senators Ping Lacson, Win Gatchalian, Grace Poe, and opposition Senators Bam Aquino, Risa Hontiveros, Sonny Trillanes, and Drilon.
After a briefing of more than two hours, Esperon was confident they were able to convince senators to extend martial law in Mindanao for another year.
"Ganun din naman ang mga senador eh, gusto nila magkaroon ng peace and development sa Mindanao," he said.
The officials also briefed House of Representative lawmakers this afternoon.
Congress is set to hold a joint session on Wednesday to decide on Duterte's request to extend martial law in Mindanao for a year, according to House Majority Leader Rudy Fariñas. He said members of both the majority and minority blocs in the lower chamber will meet in a caucus on Tuesday to discuss the matter.
'Foregone conclusion'
Drilon said he expects the Congress will grant President Rodrigo Duterte's request to extend martial law in Mindanao until the end of 2018.
"I think the authorization of Congress to extend martial law is a foregone conclusion. Congress is a political body. The President has super majority in both Houses," Drilon said.
If Congress grants one more year of martial law in the southern Philippines, they will elevate their objections before the Supreme Court, Drilon said.
"We go through the motions. The SC will decide if there is factual basis. We want to put on record our objection, raising constitutional issue," he said.
Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque on Tuesday said the Palace looks forward to Congress' support on Duterte's request for extension of martial law.
In a letter dated December 8, Duterte asked Congress to approve the extension of martial law on the island until December 31, 2018. He said this was necessary to quell the "intensified" rebellion of the New People's Army, and attacks by foreign and local terrorist groups.
This is the second time the President has asked for an extension. Congress granted the first request on July 22 - when the 60-day period for martial law was supposed to expire - effectively stretching military rule in Mindanao until December 31 this year.
Duterte declared martial law on May 23 when the ISIS-inspired Maute terror group attacked Marawi City where it waged a war against government troops for almost five months.
http://cnnphilippines.com/news/2017/12/12/Martial-law-Mindanao-extension-Congress-Duterte.html
Top security and defense officials on Tuesday briefed senators on their justification for extending martial law in Mindanao until the end of 2018.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines' (AFP) said they recommended the extension of martial law due to its "psychological impact" on law enforcement in Mindanao.
Most residents in Mindanao approved of it, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon said in an interview with media.
"By 'psychological' we mean it's really to the liking of the majority of Mindanaoans. So theres not much objection to it especially the Mindanao people," said Esperon.
Military rule in Mindanao during the months of the fighting between government forces and the ISIS-inspired Maute group had a huge effect in their operations, he added. In October, after five months of fighting, the government declared the liberation of Marawi City from the Maute.
"Anything that we can get out of the kind of martial law that we have, we can fully use as we have done sa Marawi. Malaki ang nagiging epekto," Esperon said.
However, Senate minority leader Franklin Drilon said such reasoning is not a valid basis for the extension of martial law in Mindanao.
"The Armed Forces has recommended the extension of martial law for its psychological impact. I'm afraid that is not a valid basis for the extension of martial law," he said in a media interview.
President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday cited the violence caused by the communist New People's Army (NPA) as one of the reasons for the martial law extension.
Drilon said the NPA was not a factor during the first time Duterte asked Congress for a martial law declaration.
"The president cited five reasons asking for an extension... The citation of the fifth reason which is the NPA threat, constitutes one whole page. The issue was raised, why if it's an extension of an original six-month period or martial law, the NPA was not a factor then?" he said.
Esperon denied that the inclusion of the NPA in the recommendation to extend martial law was sudden.
"It has always been there. But in the first declaration, we were in the peace process, but we have always been talking about it," he said.
He added now is the perfect time to quell terrorist groups such as the Mautes, Abu Sayyaf, and the NPA.
"Kailangan natin (ng martial law) because time is of the esscence. Ngayon na mahina ang ISIS, i-apply na natin lahat kaysa maghintay na naman na lumakas sila," Esperon said.
Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, Esperon, AFP Chief of Staff Rey Guerrero, and Interior Undersecretary Eduardo Año briefed Senate President Koko Pimentel, Senate Majority Leader Tito Sotto, Senators Ping Lacson, Win Gatchalian, Grace Poe, and opposition Senators Bam Aquino, Risa Hontiveros, Sonny Trillanes, and Drilon.
After a briefing of more than two hours, Esperon was confident they were able to convince senators to extend martial law in Mindanao for another year.
"Ganun din naman ang mga senador eh, gusto nila magkaroon ng peace and development sa Mindanao," he said.
The officials also briefed House of Representative lawmakers this afternoon.
Congress is set to hold a joint session on Wednesday to decide on Duterte's request to extend martial law in Mindanao for a year, according to House Majority Leader Rudy Fariñas. He said members of both the majority and minority blocs in the lower chamber will meet in a caucus on Tuesday to discuss the matter.
'Foregone conclusion'
Drilon said he expects the Congress will grant President Rodrigo Duterte's request to extend martial law in Mindanao until the end of 2018.
"I think the authorization of Congress to extend martial law is a foregone conclusion. Congress is a political body. The President has super majority in both Houses," Drilon said.
If Congress grants one more year of martial law in the southern Philippines, they will elevate their objections before the Supreme Court, Drilon said.
"We go through the motions. The SC will decide if there is factual basis. We want to put on record our objection, raising constitutional issue," he said.
Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque on Tuesday said the Palace looks forward to Congress' support on Duterte's request for extension of martial law.
In a letter dated December 8, Duterte asked Congress to approve the extension of martial law on the island until December 31, 2018. He said this was necessary to quell the "intensified" rebellion of the New People's Army, and attacks by foreign and local terrorist groups.
This is the second time the President has asked for an extension. Congress granted the first request on July 22 - when the 60-day period for martial law was supposed to expire - effectively stretching military rule in Mindanao until December 31 this year.
Duterte declared martial law on May 23 when the ISIS-inspired Maute terror group attacked Marawi City where it waged a war against government troops for almost five months.
http://cnnphilippines.com/news/2017/12/12/Martial-law-Mindanao-extension-Congress-Duterte.html
Abus use children to behead captives, says Defense Secretary
From the Philippine Canadian Inquirer (Dec 12): Abus use children to behead captives, says Defense Secretary
The child warriors are now being used by the Abu Sayaff to behead its captives, Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said on Monday.
“They are really using children. In fact, those who are beheading their victims are just teenagers,” Lorenzana said in Filipino.
As confirmed by Lorenzana and Senator Richard Gordon, recruitment of child warriors by the Maute group, Abu Sayyaf, and other lawless elements in Mindanao are indeed happening. They also stressed that it is against International Humanitarian Law.
As stated in the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the Involvement of Children in Armed Conflict, armed groups should not, under any circumstance, recruit or use in hostilities anyone under the age of 18.
As confirmed by Lorenzana and Senator Richard Gordon, recruitment of child warriors by the Maute group, Abu Sayyaf, and other lawless elements in Mindanao are indeed happening. They also stressed that it is against International Humanitarian Law.
As stated in the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the Involvement of Children in Armed Conflict, armed groups should not, under any circumstance, recruit or use in hostilities anyone under the age of 18.
1,300 terrorists neutralized in Mindanao in 2017, says Wesmincom
From Rappler (Dec 12): 1,300 terrorists neutralized in Mindanao in 2017, says Wesmincom
The Western Mindanao Command reports its 2017 performance as President Rodrigo Duterte asks Congress to extend martial law in Mindanao by a year
COMMAND CONFERENCE. The Western Mindanao Command holds its year-end command conference on December 11, 2017. Photo by Richard Falcatan/Rappler
Government troops neutralized 1,300 terrorists in operations in Mindanao in 2017, the Armed Forces Western Mindanao Command (Wesmincom) said.
Wesmincom reported its performance in the anti-terror drive during its year-end command conference on Tuesday, December 11, as President Rodrigo Duterte sought Congress approval to extend martial law in Mindanao for a year, or until December 2018.
The terrorists included in the Wesmincom tally include members of the Abu Sayyaf, the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, the New People's Army, and the Maute Group.
In a statement, Wesmincom spokesperson Captain Jo-Ann Petinglay said 40% of the neutralized terrorists were from the Abu Sayyaf.
On the military operations against the BIFF, Maute, and NPA in Central Mindanao and Zamboanga Peninsula resulted to the neutralization of 1,194 enemies, said Petinglay.
Wesmincom said 40% of the neutralized terrorists are members of the Abu Sayyaf.
Of the figure, 182 BIFF and 995 Maute members were neutralized in Central Mindanao. In operations against the NPA, 8 communists were killed, 9 captured, and 89 laid down their firearms, Petinglay said.
She added that on the government side, a total of 208 soldiers were killed in operations against terroists – 169 soldiers were killed in clashes with the Maute Group, 26 in encounters with the Abu Sayyaf, 7 in operations against the BIFF, and 6 in clashes with the NPA, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).
Last week, President Rodrigo Duterte signed a proclamation tagging the CPP-NPA as a terrorist group, following the government's termination of peace talks with the National Democratic Front.
Petinglay said Abu Sayyaf kidnappings went down to just 12 incidents in 2017 from 23 in 2016.
There were 77 Abu Sayyaf-initiated attacks on civilians and government troops in 2017, down from 123 recorded in 2016.
Petinglay said 230 firearms of the Abu Sayyaf were either seized, recovered, or surrendered to authorities.
The Western Mindanao Command reports its 2017 performance as President Rodrigo Duterte asks Congress to extend martial law in Mindanao by a year
COMMAND CONFERENCE. The Western Mindanao Command holds its year-end command conference on December 11, 2017. Photo by Richard Falcatan/Rappler
Government troops neutralized 1,300 terrorists in operations in Mindanao in 2017, the Armed Forces Western Mindanao Command (Wesmincom) said.
Wesmincom reported its performance in the anti-terror drive during its year-end command conference on Tuesday, December 11, as President Rodrigo Duterte sought Congress approval to extend martial law in Mindanao for a year, or until December 2018.
The terrorists included in the Wesmincom tally include members of the Abu Sayyaf, the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, the New People's Army, and the Maute Group.
In a statement, Wesmincom spokesperson Captain Jo-Ann Petinglay said 40% of the neutralized terrorists were from the Abu Sayyaf.
On the military operations against the BIFF, Maute, and NPA in Central Mindanao and Zamboanga Peninsula resulted to the neutralization of 1,194 enemies, said Petinglay.
Wesmincom said 40% of the neutralized terrorists are members of the Abu Sayyaf.
Of the figure, 182 BIFF and 995 Maute members were neutralized in Central Mindanao. In operations against the NPA, 8 communists were killed, 9 captured, and 89 laid down their firearms, Petinglay said.
She added that on the government side, a total of 208 soldiers were killed in operations against terroists – 169 soldiers were killed in clashes with the Maute Group, 26 in encounters with the Abu Sayyaf, 7 in operations against the BIFF, and 6 in clashes with the NPA, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).
Last week, President Rodrigo Duterte signed a proclamation tagging the CPP-NPA as a terrorist group, following the government's termination of peace talks with the National Democratic Front.
Petinglay said Abu Sayyaf kidnappings went down to just 12 incidents in 2017 from 23 in 2016.
There were 77 Abu Sayyaf-initiated attacks on civilians and government troops in 2017, down from 123 recorded in 2016.
Petinglay said 230 firearms of the Abu Sayyaf were either seized, recovered, or surrendered to authorities.
Former NPA says NPA squad commander pocketing funds
From Update Philippines (Dec 12): Former NPA says NPA squad commander pocketing funds
“Sigi ingon ang NPA nga ang Gobyerno ang kurakot, pero ang tinuod nga istorya sila ang kurakot,” said former NPA member Danny Lauda Andip, as quoted by 10th Infantry ‘Agila’ Division (10ID) of the Philippine Army.
10ID said Andip alias Berni who was the Squad Finance Logistic Officer of Squad Abe, Front Committee 53 for one year, surrendered to 39th Infantry Battalion on December 12.
“Berni revealed that alias “Jecko”, his NPA commander is pocketing the cash that were promised to them when joining the NPA. He further added that the budget for food supplies given by Jecko are so little despite of the many extortion that the communist group are doing,” 10ID said.
All former NPA members who decided to surrender are undergoing Comprehensive Localized Integration Program facilitated by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).
“We are always open for those NPA that would like to surrender, there are many ways in addressing your issues, taking up arms should not be the choice,” Lieutenant Colonel Harold Argamosa said.
https://www.update.ph/2017/12/former-npa-says-npa-squad-commander-pocketing-funds/23363
“Sigi ingon ang NPA nga ang Gobyerno ang kurakot, pero ang tinuod nga istorya sila ang kurakot,” said former NPA member Danny Lauda Andip, as quoted by 10th Infantry ‘Agila’ Division (10ID) of the Philippine Army.
10ID said Andip alias Berni who was the Squad Finance Logistic Officer of Squad Abe, Front Committee 53 for one year, surrendered to 39th Infantry Battalion on December 12.
“Berni revealed that alias “Jecko”, his NPA commander is pocketing the cash that were promised to them when joining the NPA. He further added that the budget for food supplies given by Jecko are so little despite of the many extortion that the communist group are doing,” 10ID said.
All former NPA members who decided to surrender are undergoing Comprehensive Localized Integration Program facilitated by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).
“We are always open for those NPA that would like to surrender, there are many ways in addressing your issues, taking up arms should not be the choice,” Lieutenant Colonel Harold Argamosa said.
https://www.update.ph/2017/12/former-npa-says-npa-squad-commander-pocketing-funds/23363
EastMinCom gets more troops for anti-NPA campaign
From Update Philippines (Dec 12): EastMinCom gets more troops for anti-NPA campaign
Additional units are being brought to reinforce the Davao City-based Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) in line with efforts to neutralize New People’s Army (NPA) bands known to be operating in the region.
This was emphasized by command spokesperson Major Ezra Balagtey in an interview late Tuesday.
In line with this, the EastMinCom has absorbed the 15th Infantry Battalion which had just finished a tour-of-duty in Western Mindanao.
Sends off for 15th Infantry Battalion. 10ID photo
Initially, the 15th Infantry Battalion is from the Jamindan-based 3rd Infantry Division but was deployed to help in security operations in Basilan before being deployed to Marawi City during the height of the clashes with Maute Group terrorists.
The former was replaced by the 2nd Scout Ranger Battalion following the liberation of Marawi City, Balagtey said.
Aside from the above-mentioned unit, the military official said two battalions, the 88th and 89th, have been recently activated, following the recruitment of additional troops.
He added that they are expecting more troops to arrive as announced by Armed Forces Chief-of-Staff Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero.
Balagtey also noted that half of the NPA forces operating in Mindanao are to be found at the EMC area.
“Kasi parang ito ang last frontier ng NPA, (ang) Eastern Mindanao, and more than 50 percent of NPA (in) Mindanao-wide is nasa EastMinCom,” he pointed out.
Latest information indicated that less than 1,800 NPAs are operating in the EastMinCom area.
https://www.update.ph/2017/12/eastmincom-gets-more-troops-for-anti-npa-campaign/23369
Additional units are being brought to reinforce the Davao City-based Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) in line with efforts to neutralize New People’s Army (NPA) bands known to be operating in the region.
This was emphasized by command spokesperson Major Ezra Balagtey in an interview late Tuesday.
In line with this, the EastMinCom has absorbed the 15th Infantry Battalion which had just finished a tour-of-duty in Western Mindanao.
Sends off for 15th Infantry Battalion. 10ID photo
Initially, the 15th Infantry Battalion is from the Jamindan-based 3rd Infantry Division but was deployed to help in security operations in Basilan before being deployed to Marawi City during the height of the clashes with Maute Group terrorists.
The former was replaced by the 2nd Scout Ranger Battalion following the liberation of Marawi City, Balagtey said.
Aside from the above-mentioned unit, the military official said two battalions, the 88th and 89th, have been recently activated, following the recruitment of additional troops.
He added that they are expecting more troops to arrive as announced by Armed Forces Chief-of-Staff Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero.
Balagtey also noted that half of the NPA forces operating in Mindanao are to be found at the EMC area.
“Kasi parang ito ang last frontier ng NPA, (ang) Eastern Mindanao, and more than 50 percent of NPA (in) Mindanao-wide is nasa EastMinCom,” he pointed out.
Latest information indicated that less than 1,800 NPAs are operating in the EastMinCom area.
https://www.update.ph/2017/12/eastmincom-gets-more-troops-for-anti-npa-campaign/23369
PAF Wing Commander gets B-day greetings 16K ft above ground
From Update Philippines (Dec 12): PAF Wing Commander gets B-day greetings 16K ft above ground
The Wing Commander of Philippine Air Force’s 220th Airlift Wing (220AW), Brigadier General Stephen P. Parreño got a birthday greetings from 16,600 feet above the ground. Parreño turned 48 on December 12.
All the personnel of 220th Airlift Wing created way “to express their birthday greetings and wishes including those deployed and, surprisingly, even those in flight,” 220AW said.
PAF photo
PAF photo
220AW said the resultant team-bonding that was developed would inevitably spillover at work and continue to boost the morale and welfare of all airlifters. This practice has been part of the Wing’s culture ever since.
https://www.update.ph/2017/12/paf-wing-commander-gets-b-day-greetings-16k-ft-above-ground/23359
The Wing Commander of Philippine Air Force’s 220th Airlift Wing (220AW), Brigadier General Stephen P. Parreño got a birthday greetings from 16,600 feet above the ground. Parreño turned 48 on December 12.
All the personnel of 220th Airlift Wing created way “to express their birthday greetings and wishes including those deployed and, surprisingly, even those in flight,” 220AW said.
PAF photo
PAF photo
220AW said the resultant team-bonding that was developed would inevitably spillover at work and continue to boost the morale and welfare of all airlifters. This practice has been part of the Wing’s culture ever since.
https://www.update.ph/2017/12/paf-wing-commander-gets-b-day-greetings-16k-ft-above-ground/23359
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