Duterte: Misuari threatened war if federalism doesn't happen

From Rappler (Mar 21): Duterte: Misuari threatened war if federalism doesn't happen

President Duterte says negotiations with Misuari about the federalism that the MNLF wants should be done in public, through a panel to be formed by the Palace

TALKING FEDERALISM. President Rodrigo Duterte meets with Moro National Liberation Front leader Nur Misuari in Malacañang on March 19, 2019. Malacañang photo by Toto Lozano

For Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) leader Nur Misuari, it’s either federalism or war.

President Rodrigo Duterte said this on Wednesday, March 20, a day after meeting with Misuari in Malacañang.

Also present in the meeting were Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez Jr and National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon.

“Misuari said – and I am making it public, and you can ask persons who were there – he said, ‘We are friends, but you know you have to have something like this.’ You want a federal setup because that was promised by Cory [Aquino]. She promised a federal [form of government], that’s what Moros have been waiting for,” Duterte said in mix Filipino and English during PDP-Laban’s campaign rally in Marikina City.

“Misuari said last night, ‘If you do not give it to me, let me be very honest, I will go to war.’ I said, ‘I understand, so let us just do this, let’s form a panel, because we have to inform the people, we do not negotiate secretly here,’” he said.

Duterte said the panel would discuss what federal system Misuari wants, “whether similar with the Bangsamoro Organic Law or a different type.”

Duterte earlier said he wants to work on a new “agreement” with Misuari once the BOL is ratified. The BOL – the culmination of peace negotiations between the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Aquino and Duterte administrations – was later approved in two plebiscites held in January and February this year.

MNLF was once the dominant Muslim rebel group in Mindanao before it was overtaken by the MILF, formed by ex-MNLF members.

In 2013, Misuari led a deadly siege of Zamboanga City to protest peace talks then between the MILF and the administration of president Benigno Aquino III.

For the siege, which killed over 200 people, Misuari was charged with rebellion and crimes against humanity.

Duterte had said he urged the court to allow Misuari to travel abroad to attend conferences.

MNLF holds influence mainly in the Zamboanga Peninsula, Sulu, Basilan, and Tawi-Tawi areas.
https://www.rappler.com/nation/226261-duterte-says-misuari-threatened-war-federalism-does-not-happen

Reds 'lie, distort facts to fit selfish agenda': DND

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 21, 2019): Reds 'lie, distort facts to fit selfish agenda': DND

The communist groups and their allies, not the military, have the "penchant for lying or distorting facts to fit a selfish agenda", the Department of National Defense (DND) said Wednesday.

"The hard truth is that it is (Jose Maria) 'Joma' Sison (Communist Party of the Philippines founding chair) and his ilk who have mastered the art of double-talk, deception, and exploitation," the DND said in a statement sent to the Philippine News Agency (PNA).

The statement came after Sison labeled Brig. Gen. Antonio Parlade, Jr., Armed Forces of the Philippines deputy chief of staff for civil-military operations, a "brazen liar" for saying that some "patriotic and progressive organizations" in the country are communists. The groups reportedly communicated with Joma, who is also chairperson of the International League of Peoples' Struggle (ILPS).

The DND said the CPP along with the New People's Army and National Democratic Front of the Philippines (CPP-NPA-NDFP) are “quickly losing their so-called armed struggle" with hundreds of their armed members returning to society under the government's Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) program.

Data from the military showed that in the first two months of 2019, a total of 608 NPA members and supporters surrendered to government troops.

Former rebels are also given skills training and national certificates for competencies they need to start a life outside the armed communities. They also have the option to join the militia and regular military units, aside from availing of education scholarships.

"For decades the CPP-NPA-NDFP have been a blight to our land. They are desperately trying to hold on to whatever power they have left through their front organizations. In time, everything will be exposed and the Filipino people and the rest of the world will see their true faces," the department said.

Last month, a Philippine delegation that includes Parlade engaged several officials from the European Union (EU) and the Belgian government to request them to stop the flow of funds to non-government organizations (NGOs) that grant financial assistance to front organizations of the CPP-NPA.

The delegation said communist front organizations receive funds from the Belgian government and some European countries in the guise of marginalized and pro-poor programs.

The United States and EU have declared the CPP-NPA as terrorist organization.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1065181

NPA denies asking for campaign fees

From the Visayan Daily Star (Mar 20, 2019): NPA denies asking for campaign fees

The Apolinario Gatmaitan Command of the New People’s Army has strongly denied claims that they are demanding access fees from candidates, who campaign in their territories.

Ka Juanito Magbanua, spokesperson of the Apolinario Gatmaitan Command, clarified in a statement he issued, that candidates are free to campaign in rebel controlled territories, as long as they will strictly follow the policy of the revolutionary movement.

Magbanua said candidates should respect the democratic government established by the people in the countryside, avoid bringing goons and guns, should not be accompanied by the AFP and PNP, and refrain from engaging in vote‒buying activities. Those with blood debts will not be allowed to enter their territories, he said.

The Police Regional Office 6 earlier presented to the local media copies of extortion letters from the CPP-NPA addressed to political candidates, whom they did not identify, demanding fees from them.

Chief Supt. John Bulalacao, regional police director of Western Visayas, warned candidates, as well as local officials, not to give in to the extortion demands of the NPA, as they may face sanctions such as disqualification for possible violations of the Revised Penal Code and provisions of the Omnibus Election Code for doing so.

Magbanua advised candidates who may receive letters using the name of the NPA, and demanding money from them, to ignore them, claiming that it is the handiwork of the AFP and PNP, who want to destroy the image of the revolutionary movement.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2019/March/20/topstory8.htm

15 rebels, 68 firearms captured since January 2019: EastMinCom

From the Mindanao Times (Mar 20, 2019): 15 rebels, 68 firearms captured since January 2019: EastMinCom

The Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) reported yesterday that the New People’s Army continues to suffer a setback as skirmishes led to the capture of 68 firearms and 53 landmines, and the death of 15 rebels this year.

Col. Ezra Balagtey, the EastMinCom spokesperson, said soldiers figured in 59 encounters in the different areas of their jurisdiction. In fact, for the past three days, soldiers clashed with Communist guerrillas in two Mindanao provinces.

In the afternoon of March 17, Balagtey said troops from the 28th Infantry Battalion encountered NPA rebels at the periphery of Sitio Washington, Barangay Las Arenas, Pantukan, Compostela Valley.

This came about after the troops received information from the community on the presence of the rebels in the area.

There was no reported casualty on both sides after the NPAs scampered away, while the pursuing troops captured two M16 rifles and one grenade launcher.

Meanwhile, at about 3 p.m of March 15, members of the 3rd Special Forces Battalion encountered an undetermined numbers of NPAs in the outskirts of Sitio Ago, Barangay Magsaysay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur.

He said the 10-minute firefight killed an NPA rebel and the capture of one M14 rifle and bandolier with magazines and ammunition.

No relatives or family members claimed the body of the killed NPA rebel.

He was instead buried by the local government unit of Prosperidad, PNP, and the 3rd Special Forces Battalion at the Prosperidad public cemetery.

In his statement, Lt. Gen. Felimon T. Santos Jr., commander of EastMinCom, reminded his units to ensure the protection of communities after the leadership of the Communist Party of the Philippines openly directed the NPAs to intensify its attacks.

“Let us ensure the safety of the communities,” Santos said.

http://mindanaotimes.com.ph/2019/03/20/15-rebels-68-firearms-captured-since-january-2019-eastmincom/

Special Forces slay Sayyaf commander in Sabah kidnappings

From the Mindanao Examiner (Mar 20, 2019): Special Forces slay Sayyaf commander in Sabah kidnappings

Filipino Special Forces killed two pro-ISIS militants, including an Abu Sayyaf sub-leader, whose group had kidnapped 21 mostly European and Asian holidaymakers 19 years ago on the resort island of Sipadan off Sabah in Malaysia, security officials announced Wednesday.

Officials said Angah Ajid was slain late Tuesday afternoon during a combat operation against the notorious militant group in Upper Binuang village in Sulu’s Talipao town. The operations lasted only 10 minutes after several gunmen managed to escape the assault.

The military mounted the raid and utilized the 2nd Special Forces Battalion to take down Ajid after civilians allegedly provided vital intelligence that led soldiers to an Abu Sayyaf hideout in the remote village.

“Military troops followed the directions provided by residents and encountered five Abu Sayyaf members in the area. A 10-minute gun battle ensued, yielding to the deaths of sub-commander Ajid and another militant,” said Brigadier General Divino Rey Pabayo, Jr., commander of the anti-terror Joint Task Force Sulu.

Pabayo said no soldiers were harmed in the operation and lauded the Special Forces for the slaying of Ajid, who was “the last remaining Abu Sayyaf leader involved in the Sipadan kidnapping in 2000.”

He said soldiers also recovered from the area one M14 rifle and an M16 automatic rifle with grenade launcher, including ammunition. He said the series of armed engagements in the province is the result of the growing support of the civilians to the military’s anti-terror campaign. “The people of Sulu are tired of the atrocities committed by the Abu Sayyaf in their communities,” Pabayo said.

In a separate statement, Lieutenant General Arnel Dela Vega, chief of the Western Mindanao Command, said: “The military continues to launch its offensives to neutralize Abu Sayyaf militants in Sulu. Combat troops relentlessly pursue Abu Sayyaf militants and constrict their movement, leaving them in despair. As community support amassed, military mounts its offensives to pressure and to defeat Abu Sayyaf militants in the area.”

“We are committed to end terrorism and to bring internal security in Mindanao. We also attribute our accomplishments to the Suluanons who are one with us in working for peace in the province,” he added.

The Abu Sayyaf is still holding nearly a dozen hostages, mostly seafarers and fishermen snatched off Sabah, and recently threatened to execute 2 Indonesians and a Malaysian national if their ransom demands running into millions of pesos are not paid.

https://mindanaoexaminer.com/special-forces-slay-sayyaf-commander-in-sabah-kidnappings/

US Navy drills to check excessive sea claims – commander

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Mar 20, 2019): US Navy drills to check excessive sea claims – commander
 


WHY WE’RE HERE Facing reporters on board the USS Blue Ridge on Monday, Vice Adm. Phillip Sawyer, US 7th Fleet commander, says freedom of navigation in the South China Sea is part of Washington’s national interest. —JEANNETTE I. ANDRADE

Despite a near-collision between American and Chinese warships last year, the United States will continue its freedom of navigation operations, or Fonops, until there are no longer “excessive maritime claims” anywhere in the world, according to a top US Navy official.

“It’s simply to make sure that the international rights, not just of the United States but for all countries, are reinforced for everybody,” said Vice Adm. Phillip Sawyer, commander of the US 7th Fleet.

“What we do in the South China Sea, we do elsewhere so it really is the same across the world,” Sawyer told reporters on Monday aboard the USS Blue Ridge, his flagship, which arrived in Manila last week for a visit after sailing through the South China Sea.

Asked when the Fonop mission might be considered accomplished, he said: “It is continuing. We are continually working on that aspect of it and we will continue to do it until there are no longer excessive maritime claims throughout the world. I don’t know when that will be.”

China claims nearly all of the South China Sea, one of the world’s busiest waterways where decades of maritime disputes have been simmering among China, the Philippines, Taiwan, Vietnam, Malaysia and Brunei.

‘Many navies concerned’

Washington has also questioned China’s expansive claims, bringing it into a collision course with Beijing.

Sawyer said the US Navy made no changes on how to conduct its Fonops despite the near-collision between a US destroyer and a Chinese missile destroyer in October last year.

The USS Decatur had sailed within 22 kilometers of Gaven Reef when China’s Luoyang approached within 41 meters of its bow, forcing the American warship to change course to avoid a collision.

US officials also said the Chinese warned the Decatur to leave the area.

According to Sawyer, the US Navy has conducted several sail-bys after that incident for which Washington had called out Chinese leaders for the “unprofessional behavior.”

He expressed concern over China’s land reclamation and militarization of features in the strategic waterway.

“Not just me, I think there are many navies and countries that are concerned … and probably because of the lack of openness there,” he explained.

Gaven, one of seven reefs transformed by China into militarily fortified islands in recent years, is claimed by China, the Philippines, Vietnam and Taiwan.

The United States has no claims in the South China Sea, but it has declared that freedom of navigation and the peaceful resolution of the maritime disputes are in its national interest.

Focus inward

“The world needs the goods and the commerce to flow. So pick your body of water, blocking them illegally should be a concern to the entire world, not just the US Navy, not just the United States, not just the Philippines,” Sawyer said.

“It (Fonop) provides security for the area and security provides stability and stability allows the countries in the area, in the region to truly be able to focus a little more inward and to focus on things that are bettering their peoples than having to worry about things that are going on outside their borders,” he added.

The US 7th Fleet, based in Yokosuka, Japan, is part of the US Pacific Command, which is tasked mainly with providing joint command in natural disasters or military operations and operational command of all American forces in the Asia-Pacific region, including the South China Sea and the East China Sea.

Sawyer said the United States was engaging the Philippines and other countries in the region in bilateral or multilateral military exercises for various purposes, including improving interoperability of their armed forces.

“The more often you get a chance to operate with another nation or nations, the better off you are as a navy and the better off you are to operate with others,” he said.

2-week mission

Sawyer said American ships had tried to conduct drills with other navies even while they were en route to a particular destination for scheduled exercises, citing drills with Philippine ships as they sailed for Hawaii for last year’s Rim of the Pacific (Rimpac) Exercise.

Discussions were under way with the Philippine Navy on drills this year and in 2020, he said.

This year the 7th Fleet is taking part in the ongoing Pacific Partnership in Tacloban City, a two-week humanitarian and civic assistance mission focused on disaster preparedness and resiliency.

It will also send two ships for the Balikatan exercises, which will start on April 1, and will participate in the Maritime Training Activity Sama-Sama in June or July, and the Southeast Asia Cooperation and Training, or Seacat, in August.

https://globalnation.inquirer.net/173733/us-navy-drills-to-check-excessive-sea-claims-commander

Army, rebels clash for third time in four days

From the Daily Guardian (Mar 20, 2019): Army, rebels clash for third time in four days

The Philippine Army’s relentless offensive operations have propelled New People’s Army (NPA) combatants to go on the run.

In a span of four days, three armed encounters occurred between the Army’s 61st Infantry Battalion and the New People’s Army (NPA) in Southern Panay.

The latest clash happened early morning of March 20, 2019 at Sitio Igburay, Barangay Indaluyon, Igbaras, Iloilo.

Lieutenant Colonel Sisenando Magbalot Jr., 61st IB commander, said his troops conducted strike operation after receiving reports of the presence of around 10 NPA members in the area.

https://thedailyguardian.net/breaking-news/army-rebels-clash-for-third-time-in-four-days/

PH, US troops construct medical facility in Moncada

From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 20, 2019): PH, US troops construct medical facility in Moncada

MONCADA, Tarlac -- Filipino and American troops are currently constructing a one-storey medical facility at barangay San Pedro, Mocanda town.

Army 51st Engineering Brigade Commanding Officer Lieutenant Colonel Fernando Balona said the project is part of this year’s Balikatan.

“Every year different activities are lined up which include counter terrorism, maritime security and engineering civic assistance activities and projects,” Balona said.

The facility will also cater to the basic health services of barangay San Pedro and nearby areas.

“The relationship that has been proven in every edition of Balikatan between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and United States Armed Forces manifests the commitment of both countries to continue on working towards the betterment of the communities,” Balona emphasized.

 

 

Groundbreaking ceremony of the one-storey medical facility being constructed by Filipino and American troops at barangay San Pedro in Mocanda, Tarlac. The project is part of this year’s Balikatan. (Cherie Joyce V. Flores/PIA 3)

On the part of the United States, Army Reserves Civil Affairs Team Chief Captain David Larsen said they will continue the shared mission of Balikatan in bringing development in the community.

“The plan for the facility, the foundation and the posts are going up and it is wonderful to see the great and smooth progress of the project as we go around,” he added.

“Once we’re finished here, we’re going to work on other buildings with the additional supplies that we have on hand such as a Daycare Center that needs to be fixed up according to the local officials,” Larsen emphasized.

Other features of the facility will be provided by Department of Health and municipal government. It will be completed by April 10. (CLJD/CJFV-PIA 3)

 

 

United States Army Reserves Civil Affairs Team Chief Captain David Larsen said they will continue the shared mission of Balikatan in bringing development in the community. (Cherie Joyce V. Flores/PIA 3)

 

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1019969

BARMM is for everyone: Galvez told Bangsamoro communities in Metro Manila

From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 20, 2019): BARMM is for everyone: Galvez told Bangsamoro communities in Metro Manila



Presidential Adviser on Peace, Unity and Reconciliation Carlito Galvez Jr. (center) with other speakers and participants to the 4th National Peace Forum held on Wednesday at the AFP GHQ, Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City. (Photo courtesy of OPAPP)

The beauty of the newly-established Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) lies in its principle of inclusiveness and goal of serving the best interests of the Moro people regardless of where they are residing in the country.

This was emphasized by Presidential Adviser on Peace, Unity and Reconciliation Carlito Galvez Jr. during the 4th National Peace Forum held at the General Headquarters of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in Quezon City on Wednesday.

“Napakaganda po ng provisions ng Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. It is not only for those residing in the five core territories, but for all Moros residing anywhere in the country,” Galvez said in his keynote address.

“BARMM is a concrete indication that we can work together, regardless of tribe or religion, and achieve results. This is the power of convergence. Despite our differences, we are bound by our common vision for our people and peoples’ welfare,” he added.

According to the peace adviser, one of the most effective ways of addressing the rise of radical extremism and the prevailing culture of violence in the country is to educate the people, particularly the youth, women, orphans and the vulnerable sectors on these issues.

He also underscored the need for all stakeholders to come together and work hand in hand to ensure the success of the new political entity which replaced the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

“While opportunities abound in the Bangsamoro, these will not materialize without the contribution of everyone. There is a lot we can do from our end regardless of our stature in life. All of us can make a difference,” he said.

Galvez called on everyone to “contribute their time, knowledge and skills in this concerted undertaking”.

“We must seize this opportunity to help our Moro brothers and sisters achieve their longtime dream and aspirations,” he said.

Around 300 participants composed of ulamas, interfaith representatives, women, youth, and representatives of Rotary Club Districts attended the event.

They were led by Rotary Club officials to include Liza Elorde, Yussuf Candidato Macalangcom, and PSUPT Ibra Moxir.

The forum aimed to, among others, promote sustainable peace initiatives not only in the country but throughout the world by creating local and international partnerships among peace stakeholders.

The event was organized by the Rotary Club of Manila, in partnership with the Imam Council of the Philippines and Salam Advocates of the Philippines Foundation.
https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1019998

RPBDFA: Roadmap to peace for northern Mindanao

From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 20, 2019): RPBDFA: Roadmap to peace for northern Mindanao



The Regional Peacebuilding and Development Framework and Agenda (RPBDFA) for northern Mindanao was formally launched in Cagayan de Oro City on March 13.



Arnel M. Agabe of the Department of the Interior and the Local Government (DILG) for northern Mindanao says RPOC-10 embarked on Kalabugao Plains – Peace and Development Convergence Program (KP-PDCP) in 2013 to facilitate the attainment of lasting peace through socio-economic and environment for the indigenous peoples in the Kalabugao Plains. In a bid to do better for the entire region, the RPBDFA was started in 2015 with the assistance of GIZ and CUREXO. (Rodolfo D. Mendoza/PIA10)

Director Arnel M. Agabe of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) for Region 10 said the RPBDFA would serve as a guide to be proactive in addressing peace and development issues, especially in Northern Mindanao.

This is a vital reference to unify understanding, synchronize efforts, and consolidate resources in the planning and in the implementation not only in conflict-affected communities.

The continuing demand for peace and development in Region 10 necessitates the writing of the book, RPBDFA of northern Mindanao.

The book contains what most people in Mindanao already know about their peace and development situation.

The persistence of this situation despite multiple programs to address it points to the need for more creative peace-building and development programs.

Capitol University Dance Troupe performed an interpretative dance on the identified major conflicts and recommended solutions as well as the historical and social context that sustain it as presented in the book during the launching ceremony.

In a peace and conflict analysis conducted, it revealed access and control of resources, in particular, land is a major driver of conflict which result in poverty and insurgency and its spillover effect to neighboring high urbanized cities — urban migration, unemployment, vulnerability to crimes, illegal drugs, and terrorism.

The publication of the book disseminates the experiences and ideas of respondents — farmers, fishers and laborers, politicians and government workers, indigenous peoples and migrant-settlers, women and youth on how peace and development should be pursued in the region.

Noting many of problems are caused by the breakdown of citizenship, Usec. Marivel C. Sacendoncillo for local government emphasized in her keynote message that peace is an entitlement of the people and it is likewise a responsibility of the people.

Hence, peacebuilding has to be anchored on responsible citizenship. “Change has to start with us,” she said.

“Solutions to conflict will come from realization that we are connected. People are interconnected with environment and that whole ecosystem is interconnected,” Sacendoncillo said.

The undersecretary further said issues will not only affect local governments but also local communities, and the solutions are not solely among local governments but also with communities.

She also noted the need to push forward and look at transformational peace — a peaceful environment that transforms communities, transforms lives from what we have now into something better.

“The embodiment of what is life has been clearly defined through ‘Ambisyon 2040’ which pass through study, consultation, dialogue with society,” Sacendoncillo revealed.

For his part, Asec. Manuel B. Felix for peace and order welcomed the support for all the efforts, dedication, and commitment to mainstreaming conflict sensitivity, culture recognition, gender responsiveness and child friendliness in the peacebuilding and development process of northern Mindanao.

Citing the answers in attaining peace are in people, Felix urged the people to be law-abiding.
 


Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC-10 ) Chairperson and Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Oscar S. Moreno says RPBDFA is not perfect but is certainly a good step in the right direction. “It is their entitlement for the government to serve them,” Moreno emphasized. (Rodolfo D. Mendoza/PIA)

“The beauty of bringing development to the countryside is you know that it is needed and you know that it will have its optimal results. Giving the people in the mountains the opportunity to live a life that those in the highways have long enjoyed is beyond compare (such as switching or energization, inaugurating schoolbuildings, putting up a health or child development center),” said Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC-10) Chairperson and Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Oscar S. Moreno.

Moreno recalled a convergence experience of the government in Lantad, in which he said Lantad symbolizes neglect “that the government has been guilty of.”

It was abandoned, and he said that is why the NPA made it its first headquarters in Mindanao.

“With Lantad, peace is attainable through development,” Moreno said.

The mayor also said it is their entitlement the government to serve them but the commitment to serve should be wholeheartedly.

Moreno, meanwhile, said the RPBDFA is not perfect but is certainly a good step in the right direction.

This project is a joint undertaking of the The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), DILG, and RPOC-10 in coordination with Capitol University Research and Extension (CUREXO).

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1019933

Maguindanao provincial gov't extends health services to IDPs

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 20, 2019): Maguindanao provincial gov't extends health services to IDPs

Farouk Romancap, Shariff Aguak municipal social welfare officer on Monday (March 19) led the distribution of relief goods to internally displaced persons from Shariff Saydona Mustapha town who took refuge in Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao. (Photo by MSWD-Maguindanao)

KIDAPAWAN CITY – The provincial health office of Maguindanao has taken one step ahead to ensure civilians displaced by the ongoing skirmishes between government forces and armed men in Maguindanao are spared from common diseases.

Dr. Tahir Sulaik, Maguindanao health chief, said that internally displaced persons (IDPs) now cramped in various evacuation sites are vulnerable to air and water-borne diseases.

IPHO reports showed that some of the IDPs have already been suffering from cough, colds, and skin rashes while some of the adults have become hypertensive.

“The IPHO health providers have been attending to the health needs of affected families,” Sulaik said on Monday.

Close to 30,000 individuals have been displaced from at least seven towns of Maguindanao as the military continued its surgical and focused military operations against the Islamic State-linked Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF).

The affected towns include Shariff Saydona, Mamasapano, Datu Salibo, Datu Saudi Ampatuan and Datu Piang, and Shariff Aguak.

Military air and ground offensives against the BIFF began last March 11 after the terror group initiated attacks on off-duty Army troopers in Maguindanao and Cotabato City.

At least four soldiers were killed while another was wounded in the series of attacks that the BIFF claimed to have carried out. A military update, meanwhile, placed the BIFF casualties at 20 where 17 of whom were identified.

Farouk Romancap, Shariff Aguak social welfare officer, said Emma Ali, provincial social welfare officer, has led the distribution of food packs to IDPs who took refuge in the town.

“They are from nearby municipalities and we extend aid to all regardless of their places of origin,” Romancap said.

Also on Monday, the Maguindanao Peoples Medical Team, led by Lynette Estandarte, distributed medicine and food packs to the displaced families as ordered by Maguindanao Gov. Esmael Mangudadatu.

Estandarte said more relief operations are scheduled in the days ahead as long as the IDPs are still in evacuation centers.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1064963

ASG sub-leader, follower killed in Sulu clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 20, 2019): ASG sub-leader, follower killed in Sulu clash



Two Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits, including the last remaining leader involved in the Sipadan kidnapping, were killed in a clash in the hinterlands of Sulu, military officials said Wednesday.

Brig. Gen. Divino Rey Pabayo Jr., Joint Task Force Sulu commander, said the firefight broke out around 4:45 p.m. Tuesday in Barangay Upper Binuang, Talipao, Sulu.

Pabayo said the firefight ensued after government troops belonging to the Army’s 2nd Special Forces Battalion responded to reports of the ASG bandits' presence in Barangay Upper Binuang.

Pabayo said the firefight lasted for about 10 minutes and resulted in the death of ASG sub-leader Angah Ajid and another ASG follower, who was not immediately identified.

Ajid was the only remaining ASG leader involved in the kidnapping of 21 people, including 10 Europeans, on April 23, 2000 from the dive resort island of Sipadan, Sabah, Malaysia, the Army official said.

The ASG herded the hostages to the hinterlands of Sulu and were released in batches following payment of huge amount of ransom.

Pabayo said the troops also recovered an M-14 rifle, an M-16 Armalite rifle with an M-203 grenade launcher attached to it, and several rounds of ammunition.

The series of clashes in Sulu was the result of the growing support of the civilians to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), he added.

“The people of Sulu are tired of the atrocities committed by the Abu Sayyaf in their communities. Your Joint Task Force Sulu will remain steadfast in fulfilling its mandate of bringing lasting peace in this part of our country,” Pabayo said.

Lt. Gen. Arnel Dela Vega, Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) chief, said the troops are "relentlessly" pursuing the ASG bandits to constrict their movement and “leaving them in despair.”

“As community support amassed, military mounts its offensives to pressure and to defeat Abu Sayyaf militants in the area,” Pabayo said.

He added: “We also attribute our accomplishments to the Suluanons who are one with us in working for peace in the province (of Sulu)."

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1065073

Hundreds of Novo Ecijanos benefit from Army's outreach program

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 20, 2019): Hundreds of Novo Ecijanos benefit from Army's outreach program



BALER, Aurora -- The Philippine Army’s 91st Infantry (Sinagtala) Battalion (91IB) on Tuesday conducted a community outreach program, benefitting some 450 residents, mostly indigents and children in Barangay Labi, Bongabon, Nueva Ecija.

Sinagtala commanding officer Lt. Col. Jose Mari F. Torrenueva II on Wednesday said that the activity was made possible through the collaboration with the local government unit (LGU) of Bongabon, Fort Magsaysay Army Station Hospital, 7th Infantry Division Dental Dispensary, and the 7th Civil-Military Operations (7CMO) Battalion.

Under the activity themed "Tulong at Magkaisa para sa Kaunlaran at Kapayapaan", some 152 residents availed of free medical checkups, 62 availed of dental services, 36 children were given free haircut and 200 others were beneficiaries of a feeding program.

Part of the program was a theater art play of the 7CMO Battalion aimed at raising awareness about the terrorist acts being perpetuated by the communist terrorists.

Torrenueva assured the townsfolk that the 91IB will continue to implement the community outreach program, especially in areas where the presence of rebels is being monitored to protect the people and prevent the terrorists from exploiting the populace as conduits in their logistics and recruitment.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1065129

More clashes seen as NPA anniversary nears: Army

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 20, 2019): More clashes seen as NPA anniversary nears: Army



The military will conduct more operations as more encounters are to be expected as the 50th founding anniversary of the New People’s Army will be on March 29, says Lt. Col. Sisenado Magbalot Jr. (right), commanding officer of the Philippine Army 61st Infantry Battalion on Wednesday (March 20, 2019). (File photo)

ILOILO CITY -- At least three armed encounters between government troops and members of the New People’s Army (NPA) took place in Iloilo and Antique provinces in just a span of four days.

The series of clashes occurred in Barangay Mulangan, Igbaras, Iloilo on Sunday; Barangay Osorio-2 in San Remegio, Antique on Tuesday; and in Sitio Igburay, Barangay Lacay Doldol, Igbaras, Iloilo on Wednesday.

Lt. Col. Sisenado Magbalot Jr., commanding officer of 61IB, said government troops will not let the rebel group celebrate its 50th founding anniversary on March 29.

“We continue our combat operations especially that they are nearing their golden anniversary. We will not let them celebrate that occasion,” Magbalot said in an interview on Wednesday.

The 61IB troops on early Wednesday morning clashed with more or less 10 members of a rebel group in Sitio Igburay, Barangay Lacay Doldol, Igbaras.

“We received information on the location of these rebels and conducted strike operations,” he said.

The clash between government troops and rebels believed to be members of the Sibat Platoon, South Front, Komiteng Rehiyon-Panay lasted for 15 minutes.

Magbalot said one soldier from the 61IB sustained a slight injury on his right cheek but he is now in stable condition.

“But for the enemies, we are very sure that we left some of them wounded. Our men reported they saw blood at the encounter site,” he said.

The 61IB troops recovered one Claymore mine, seven backpacks, two detonators for improvised bombs, two Baofeng radios, two cellular phones, two handcuffs, two magazines for M16, and 14 7.62-mm live ammunition.

Magbalot said the recent encounter is attributed to deployment of additional soldiers in the area following the first encounter in Barangay Mulangan, Igbaras on Sunday.

“We are continuously tracking their location. We deployed additional forces and even our K9 units in the area after the encounter on Sunday,” he said.

The first encounter on Sunday led to the capture of three NPA rebels -- Ramon “Toto” Elamparo, 48; Roberto “Nono” Elbao, 50; and Ruperto “Bebot” Elamparo, 50.

“They are considered the force multipliers of the NPA,” he said.

The arrest of the three will not necessarily lead the soldiers in capturing more rebel group members but Magbalot emphasized that “what’s important is we now know their other schemes”.

This, as the government troops also recovered nine anti-personnel mines from Ruperto’s house.

“Aside from deceiving ordinary members in joining community farmers’ organization, we found out that they also use houses of civilians in hiding the bombs,” he said.

Citing the statement of the captured rebel members, Magbalot said they plan to use the bombs to attack government forces.

Meanwhile, the 61IB troopers also fought with more or less 15 NPA rebels in a separate encounter in Barangay Osorio-2, San Remegio, Antique on Tuesday.

Soldiers were patrolling the area when they encountered the rebels, Magbalot said.

Recovered from the Antique clash were 200-meter electric wire, 37 empty shells of 5.56mm cartridges, three empty shells of 7.62mm cartridges, and four empty shells of 12-gauge shotgun.

“As of now, we do not know how they are going to celebrate the 50 years of killings of civilians, extortion and other terroristic activities but they definitely want to show that they still have the force,” he said.

Magbalot said the government troops are also preparing for focus operations in Central Panay and added that they “will inflict more casualty” on the NPA rebels.

He added that more encounters between the government troops and rebels are expected as the NPA anniversary draws near.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1065159

6K displaced families in Maguindanao get aid

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 20, 2019): 6K displaced families in Maguindanao get aid

Displaced families in Maguindanao listen as a soldier explains the mechanics of a relief distribution in Datu Salibo, Maguindanao on Tuesday. (Photo courtesy of BARRM-HEART)

COTABATO CITY -- The Ministry of Social Services of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (MOSS-ARMM) intensified Wednesday its humanitarian mission in seven towns of Maguindanao where some 6,595 families have been displaced by the ongoing skirmishes between military forces and the Islamic State-inspired Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF).

“It (relief operation) will go on full swing today (Wednesday) amid drizzles in Maguindanao area due to a low-pressure area affecting the province,” said Myrna Jocelyn Henry, information officer of the BARMM Humanitarian Emergency Action Response Team (HEART).

The BARMM-HEART is a confluence of various regional agencies, which includes MOSS-BARMM, tasked to provide coordinated actions to limit the impact of disasters in the region.

On Monday, the BARMM HEART, together with the Maguindanao People’s Medical Team, served evacuees at the town of Shariff Aguak where the bulk of the displaced families are staying at several evacuation centers.

Other affected towns are Mamasapano, Datu Salibo, Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Datu Unsay, Datu Piang, and Shariff Saydona Mustapha.

On Tuesday, at least 812 families from the towns of Datu Unsay, Datu Salibo, and Datu Saudi Ampatuan received food packs containing six kilos of rice, canned goods and packs of coffee during a relief operation.

“The relief operation is continuing and intensified to attend to the needs of the displaced people,” Henry said.

Henry noted that most the evacuees were from Datu Shariff Saydona Mustapha and many of them fled to the towns of Datu Salibo and Datu Saudi Ampatuan as well as in Shariff Aguak to escape the raging conflict.

The focused military operations against the BIFF began on March 11 after the terror group-initiated attacks on both Army installations and state troopers in the province.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1065096