Arrested bombing suspect handed over to S. Kudarat authorities

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 23, 2020): Arrested bombing suspect handed over to S. Kudarat authorities (By Edwin Fernandez)



ARRESTED. A mug shot of bombing suspect Norhasim Esmael following his capture along the highway in Ampatuan, Maguindanao on Sunday (June 21, 2020). The suspect is linked to the Aug. 2018 bomb attack in Isulan, Sultan Kudarat that killed three civilians and injured 18 others. (Photo courtesy of Ampatuan MPS)

Police in Maguindanao turned over on Monday to police officials of Isulan, Sultan Kudarat a man suspected to be behind the August 2018 bombing in the town.

Lt. Colonel Reynato Mauricio, intelligence chief of Maguindanao police office, described the arrest of Norhasim Esmael as "a huge accomplishment" of the provincial police force headed by Colonel Arnold Santiago.

Mauricio said Esmael, 25, a resident of Mamasapano, Maguindanao, is a member of Islamic State-linked Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF).
Acting on a tip, police and military agents nabbed the suspect along the national highway in Barangay Poblacion, Ampatuan, Maguindanao on Sunday morning.

Esmael was turned over Monday morning by the Maguindanao police to the Isulan municipal police.

“He is now detained at police lock-up cell under heavy security to thwart possible ‘rescue efforts’ by his companions,” Mauricio said. Esmael was among the three persons seen to have left a black bag beside a parked motorcycle near a row of second-hand stalls along the national highway in Isulan that went off around 7 p.m. on Aug. 28, 2018.

On Sept. 2 of the same year, a second explosion, also linked to the BIFF, occurred outside an Internet café in Isulan where two died and 12 were injured.

Mauricio said his unit got vital intelligence information from Esmael’s relatives to the series of bombings in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao, and North Cotabato.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1106585

120 loose firearms surrendered in Maguindanao town

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 23, 2020): 120 loose firearms surrendered in Maguindanao town (By Noel Punzalan)



LOOSE FIREARMS. Mayor Abubakar Paglas (right) of Datu Paglas, Maguindanao looks at the 120 loose firearms surrendered by various barangays in the municipality and handed over to the Army’s 6th Infantry Division on Monday (June 22) during ceremonies held at the town hall. The firearms were documented as government property and issued back to government militia forces for the maintenance of peace and security in the area. (Photo courtesy of DXMY-Cotabato) 

Officials of Datu Paglas, Maguindanao turned over on Monday some 120 assorted loose firearms to the Army during simple ceremonies held at their town hall.

Datu Paglas Mayor Abubakar Paglas led the activity together with Maj. Gen Diosdado Carreon, Army’s 6th Infantry Division commander, and other top local military field commanders accepting the surrendered firearms coming from various barangays of the municipality.

The firearms included 82 units of M-16 assault rifles; 27 M-14 rifles; a .30-caliber machine gun; six M-203 grenade launchers; two M-60 machine guns; an M-79 grenade launcher; and a 12-gauge shotgun.

“We fully support the campaign of the national government against loose firearms. We want our town to be peaceful and progressive as we continue to change from a battle-scarred area to an industrial and business-oriented municipality,” the mayor said in his speech.

Carreon said the firearms would first be documented and handed back for use of government militia forces in the area.

Currently, the local government unit (LGU) of Datu Paglas has a total of 97 Special CAFGU Active Auxiliary (SCAA) members while La Fruitera Incorporated, a banana-producing company ran by the LGU, has 100 SCAAs securing strategic parts of the town.

“The turned over firearms will be subjected to inspection by the JTFC before its issuance back to the Datu Paglas LGU and La Fruitera SCAA now as government property,” Carreon said.

He also thanked the Datu Paglas LGU for their continued support of the disarmament program of the government.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1106719

1 killed, 9 hurt as gov't troops clash with ASG in Sulu

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 23, 2020): 1 killed, 9 hurt as gov't troops clash with ASG in Sulu (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

A junior officer of the Philippine Army was killed while nine others were wounded as the government troops continued its offensives against the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits in the province of Sulu, officials said.

Maj. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, Joint Task Force Sulu commander, said the troops were on combat operation when they clashed with a group of ASG bandits in Sitio Tubig Bukayon, Barangay Pansul.

Vinluan was unable to release the identity of the slain officer except to say his rank is first lieutenant and assigned with the Army’s 32nd Infantry Battalion. The wounded consisted of a sergeant, three private first classes, and five privates.

The troops are tracking down the ASG bandits who fled after the clash and bloodstains were visible in their withdrawal path, the Army official said.

Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, commander of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), said the casualty and the wounded personnel "paid the ultimate sacrifice and nine personnel were wounded while fearlessly fighting the enemies and protecting the people of Sulu."

“The skirmishers between our forces and the ASG persist. As we actively support the civil government in preventing the spread of Covid-19, we also ensure that the people in the community are safe and secured from terrorism. In so doing, our troops from 32IB based in Sulu engaged in a heavy firefight against the ASG in Patikul that claimed the life of one brave soldier and wounding of nine others,” Sobejana said.

He said all forms of assistance will be provided to the slain and wounded soldiers.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1106699

Army’s 43IB upbeat to end insurgency in N. Samar by December

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 23, 2020): Army’s 43IB upbeat to end insurgency in N. Samar by December (By Sarwell Meniano)



FIGHT VS. NPA. Soldiers of the 43rd Infantry Battalion based in Lope de Vega, Northern Samar during a flag ceremony on June 12, 2020. The Philippine Army is upbeat to end the decades-long insurgency problem in some parts of Northern Samar before December 31, 2020 with local officials and communities linking arms to put an end to the armed rebellion. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Army 43rd Infantry Battalion)

The Philippine Army is upbeat on ending the decades-long insurgency problem in some parts of Northern Samar before December 31, 2020 with local officials and communities linking arms to put down the armed rebellion.

Lt. Col. Raymundo Picut Jr., commander of the Army 43rd Infantry Battalion (43IB) operating in the first legislative district of Northern Samar, said on Tuesday about 109 New People's Army (NPA) leaders, fighters and supporters have already surrendered to the government from January to the third week of June this year.

The most notable was the mass surrender on June 15 in Bobon town where 71 members of the communist terrorist group and die-hard supporters abandoned the communist terrorist group.

“Through this whole-of-nation approach that crippled the NPA organization, we are confident to end insurgency in our area on or before December 31. We have the support of all 13 mayors who denounced NPA’s act of terrorism by declaring the group as persona non-grata,” Picut said in a phone interview.

Officials from 255 of the more than 300 villages in Northern Samar’s first district also signed a document declaring the NPA persona non grata since last year.

The support in communities has strengthened the barangay (village) intelligence network that contributed to the success of military operations like the discovery of NPA lair and neutralization of notorious NPA leaders.

“People want economic development and they see the government’s anti-insurgency drive as a key to achieve that. They are tired of NPA atrocities,” Picut told the Philippine News Agency (PNA).

Another boost to the 43IB’s campaign is the manifesto of support of some mayors to the passage of the proposed Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020.

As of Monday, local peace councils of Allen, Lavezares, San Jose, Bobon, and Mondragon towns sent their manifest of support to the proposed law to the Philippine Army.

“To those NPAs who are still in the armed struggle, let’s give peace a chance. Come and lay down your arms and return to the comfort of your families and friends,” Picut added.

The military official estimated that from the over 100 active NPA fighters in Northern Samar’s first district, their number has dwindled to more than 20 this month.

Northern Samar is considered to be the NPA’s stronghold in Eastern Visayas due to poor road network, thick forest, high poverty incidence, and low level of education in upland communities.
The NPA, which has been waging a five-decade armed struggle against the government, is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

All towns and several villages in Northern Samar formed their local task force communist armed conflict to oversee the provision of an efficient mechanism in addressing the root causes of insurgencies and other armed conflicts through the delivery of basic services and packages by the government.

The formation of the task force operationalizes Executive Order 70 issued by President Rodrigo Duterte on Dec. 4, 2018.

The directive also institutionalizes a “whole-of-nation approach” in attaining an inclusive and sustainable peace.

Patterned after the national and regional task forces, the local body is composed of heads of local offices of the Departments of the Interior and Local Government, Justice, Defense, Public Works and Highway, Budget, Finance, Agrarian Reform, Social Welfare and Education as well as the military, police, local communication office, and private sector representatives.

At the village level, the task force is composed of members of the barangay peace and order council and community-based organizations.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1106738

Legal team still reviewing anti-terror bill: Duterte

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 23, 2020): Legal team still reviewing anti-terror bill: Duterte (By Azer Parrocha)



President Rodrigo Duterte (Presidential photo)

President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday said his legal advisers are still reviewing the bill that aims to strengthen the country’s law against terrorism.

In a public address, Duterte said he has yet to receive a copy of feedback from his legal team on the anti-terrorism bill’s provisions.

“My legal is still reviewing it. My legal team sa Malacañan. There’s only --- hindi ko pa natanggap (I haven’t received it yet),” he said.

He said that once the legislation reaches his desk, it should already have the recommendation to sign or veto it.

“It’s always --- automatic ‘yan (it’s automatic). ‘Pag daan sa akin (when it reaches me), I endorse it to legal. Without even reading it actually, if you --- if you want really to know. It’s legal who will return it to me with a recommendation whether I will approve it or not,” he added.

Earlier, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said that the Office of the Chief Presidential Legal Counsel and the Department of Justice have already submitted their feedback on the proposed law.

Roque said the Office of the Executive Secretary, particularly the Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs is still finalizing their inputs.

He, however, noted that the President, a lawyer himself, would not just rely on the recommendations but read the provisions of the bill himself.

“Let’s not forget, that the President was also a criminal lawyer, a public prosecutor. He will read the bill himself and he will himself make a determination if there’s any provision that is contrary to the bill of rights and the Constitution,” he said in a virtual presser on June 17.

Meanwhile, Duterte also stressed that besides the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), terrorism is still the top threat to the country’s security.

“Terrorism is number one on our list. Actually the number one threat to the country hindi (it’s not) Abu Sayyaf, hindi ‘yung mga terorista (it’s not terrorists) of no value. Itong high-value targets ito ‘yung mga komunista (The high-value targets are communists),” he said.

He urged the Armed Forces of the Philippines to strike the communist rebels first before they launched attacks.

“Kaya ang utos ko talaga sa Armed Forces, sa sundalo, upakan mo, upakan mo. Kasi ‘pag ikaw ang inabot (That’s why my order to the Armed Forces, the soldiers is to strike first before the NPA gets them),” he said.

He also appealed to the communist rebels not to harm soldiers escorting the field officers of the Department of Social Welfare and Development distributing cash aid under the social amelioration program.

The anti-terrorism bill seeks to amend and give more teeth to the provisions of the Human Security Act of 2007.

Under the proposed measure, the detention of suspected terrorists for up to 24 days sans a warrant of arrest will be permitted. It also allows a 60-day surveillance with an allowable 30-day extension that can be conducted by the police or the military against the suspected terrorists.

A person who voluntarily or knowingly joins a terrorist organization will also face 12 years of imprisonment.

Some lawmakers and human rights groups have opposed the measure, saying it would allow violation of human rights.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1106697

Duterte to resume camp visits with extra precautions

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 23, 2020): Duterte to resume camp visits with extra precautions (By Azer Parrocha)



President Rodrigo Duterte (File photo)

After months of being cooped up inside Malacañang and a few weeks in Davao City, President Rodrigo Duterte will soon resume visiting military camps across the country.

Duterte, who is now 75-years-old, recognized the need to take extra precautions amid the continuous threat of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

“In the coming days I intend to go around the country. Magbisita ako. Magbisita pa ako ng kampo ng mga military (I will visit military camps). So I’ll just have to take precautions,” he said in a public address late Monday night.

Duterte is known to go around the country and visit military camps to talk to soldiers and extend financial assistance and other forms of aid.

He expressed exasperation over having to stay indoors but accepted the need to follow government protocols to prevent the spread of Covid-19.

“If there is anybody who wants to be out to enjoy and even to live life normally, ako. Ako ‘yung ayaw talaga sa itong lockdown-lockdown (that would be me. I’m the one who really dislikes having to impose a lockdown). I hate it. I do not want even myself. Pero ang sabi ko sa inyo, kung kayo hindi makatiis at tinamaan kayo, sorry na lang (But I told you, if you cannot bear it and you get infected, all I can say is sorry),” he said.

After imposing the enhanced community quarantine last March, Duterte decided to isolate himself at Malacañang Palace in Manila following the recommendation of his doctors and the Presidential Security Group.

He spent his 75th birthday in Manila for the first time on March 28 since he usually celebrates his birthday with his family at his official residence in Davao City.

Once quarantine restrictions eased, he visited his hometown and even held a meeting there with members of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases.

Last week, the Philippine Navy announced that the President was invited to attend the christening and commissioning of BRP Jose Rizal, the country's first missile-frigate, which was originally scheduled on the national hero’s birthday on June 19 but was moved to a later date.

The Navy has two large missile-armed warships so far in its fleet. The second frigate, the BRP Antonio Luna, is expected to be delivered late this year.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1106694

Navy to jibe transport of LSIs with missions to maximize assets

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 23, 2020): Navy to jibe transport of LSIs with missions to maximize assets (By Priam Nepomuceno)



File photo courtesy of Philippine Navy

MANILA – The Philippine Navy (PN) will transport locally stranded individuals (LSIs) simultaneously with other naval missions to optimize the deployment of its ship assets.

PN public affairs office chief, Lt. Commander Maria Christina Roxas, made this remark Tuesday when asked if the Navy still has sufficient ships to transport LSIs and carry out its other missions.

"With the limited number of assets, most of the transport mission for LSIs are in jibe with the other mission carried out by the ship (selected to transport LSIs) such as logistical support and sealift mission in order to optimize the deployment of our assets," she said in a message to the Philippine News Agency (PNA).

Earlier, the Navy's strategic sealift vessel, BRP Davao del Sur (LD-602) transported to Iloilo the 402 LSIs and three Filipino expatriates who were earlier picked up from India and Sri Lanka and delivered 2,508 boxes of personal protection equipment and other medical supplies to Cebu.

PN flag-officer-in-command Vice Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo called this humanitarian mission the biggest so far in terms of a Navy vessel transporting LSIs.

Roxas said the PN will continue to support ongoing government efforts to contain the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1106711

AFP confident of more victories vs. Reds with troop reinforcement

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 23, 2020): AFP confident of more victories vs. Reds with troop reinforcement (By Priam Nepomuceno)



AFP spokesperson, Marine Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo. (File photo)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) expects more victories against communist terrorists as it can now deploy more troops with the easing of some quarantine restrictions in many parts of the country, its spokesperson said Tuesday.

"Now that the number of areas on ECQ (enhanced community quarantine) that were placed on GCQ (general community quarantine) continues to increase, more and more AFP personnel can now be redeployed to further step up the tempo of focused military operations," Marine Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo said in a statement sent to reporters.

Arevalo said victories are possible once troop redeployment goes into high gear.

"If our current deployments have already been reaping success, we are confident that the fresh troops that will be brought back to the front lines will have (a) positive impact (on) our campaign against the CTG (communist terrorist groups) and the LTG (local terrorist groups). The AFP will pursue our operational initiatives against CTG and seize the momentum given the string of successes we had very recently," he added.

Arevalo’s statement came after military operations conducted on June 16 to 23 resulted in the death of 10 communist terrorists, including a New People's Army (NPA) leader operating in Oriental Mindoro and a member of the so-called "Morong 43".

"Meanwhile, around 22 CNT (communist New People's Army terrorists) and MB (Militia ng Bayan) surrendered or were captured. At least 26 firearms, an IED (improvised explosive device), four rifle grenades, two electronic devices, and USB flash drives containing important information about the terrorist organization were either seized or captured," he added.

The Communist Party of the Philippines, along with its armed wing, the NPA, is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, the United Kingdom, the European Union, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

In a public address late Monday, President Rodrigo Duterte called on the AFP to hit the NPA hard, tagging the group as the top threat to the country's security.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1106737

Communist terrorism No. 1 threat to national security: Duterte

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 23, 2020): Communist terrorism No. 1 threat to national security: Duterte (By Gigie Arcilla)



President Rodrigo R. Duterte holds a document during a meeting with members of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases at the Malago Clubhouse in Malacañang on June 22, 2020. (ROBINSON NIÑAL JR./PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO)

It is not the no-value terrorists nor the Abu Sayyaf Group but the local communists that pose the No. 1 threat to national security.
Thus, said President Rodrigo R. Duterte in his Talk to the People during a meeting with members of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases at the Malago Clubhouse in Malacañang on Monday night.

“Actually the number one threat to the country hindi (not) Abu Sayyaf, hindi ‘yung mga terorista (not the terrorists) of no value. Itong (These) high-value targets, ito ‘yung mga komunista (these are the communists),” Duterte said, adding that it is the reason he has ordered the Armed Forces of the Philippines to be on the offensive.

He lamented how communists attacked government troops securing employees of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) who were distributing cash aid to beneficiaries of the government’s Social Amelioration Program amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.

“The fight against the NPAs has long been there. It started in the 50s hanggang ngayon nandiyan pa (still there until now). It has undermined the national security of the country, he said referring to the New People’s Army, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).

Duterte expressed fears that if he does not do his duty as President of the country, like what others did during their time, the government “might just bargain away, place in jeopardy the democratic values that the Filipinos have enjoyed for the longest time”.

Taken advantage

Instead of helping solve societal problems, he said the current issues on Covid-19 and terrorism have been taken advantage of by critics and detractors.

“Itong mga (These) forces arrayed against us -- Abu Sayyaf, mga terorista (terrorists) with no ideology, the Communist Party (CPP) with ideology but more pernicious ang effect which could undermine the peace and security of our country not only this administration, but it can transcend to the next generation, giving us no respite,” he added. “Maski kaunting pahinga lang na makinga lang man tayo (Even just ample time to breath).”

Duterte, who admitted to his anger towards communists, said there was never a time when he was mayor of Davao City that they mistreated an NPA prisoner in Mindanao.

“We don’t even allow the mosquitoes to bite them. May warning kami sa mga alimatok (leech) na huwag galawin ang mga NPA na bihag kasi baka tayo ang pagbintangan (not to hurt NPA captives because we might get the blame),” he added.

He also expressed disgust that communists talk so much about Geneva Convention rights when the situation is in their favor and invokes the same when in the losing end for the protection that the law gives upon everybody.

“That’s the riddle that I cannot understand sa iyo (with you). Tutal (in fact) if you fight for as a matter of principle, panindigan mo (stand by it and admit) ‘Oo, pinatay namin kasi kalaban eh’,” he said, adding that it is rather acceptable to him.

Duterte went on to tell communists not to fool him when their comrades drew a blade across the neck of a captured policeman who was escorting government workers distributing relief assistance in Negros Province last year.

“Pero kung sabihin mo na prisoner na, tapos luglugin mo ng Gillette (blade) pati ‘yung pulis. Nakita ko ‘yung ano (wound) eh. Huwag ninyo akong bolahin. Nakita ko talaga ‘yung sugat dito sa leeg. ‘Yun ang kasalanan nu’n, nag-escort ng mga tao sa gobyerno para sa tulong. Mahirap na ang buhay noon eh,” he added.

He appealed to communists not to hijack the distribution of the second tranche of Covid-19 assistance.

“This time ipatikim mo sa tao ‘yung kanila talaga (let them have what is truly theirs). Iyong una kinuha ninyo eh (You took away from them the first tranche of relief assistance)," he said.

Revolutionary ‘tax’

Duterte also warned of having to take more drastic actions like looking into their bank accounts relative to communists’ extortion activities from private companies with operations in Mindanao.

“All operating private entities, corporations in Mindanao contributed money to you. Alam namin na hindi ‘yan transaction doon na magbigay ng pera doon sa bukid tapos tanggapin ninyo (We know that those are not transactions made in the far-flung areas of Mindanao and you just accept them),” he said, adding that money is deposited in Manila to the bank accounts of the National Democratic Front (NDF), under fictitious names.

The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1106763

PRRD wants to ensure military safe from Covid-19

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 23, 2020): PRRD wants to ensure military safe from Covid-19 (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)



President Rodrigo R. Duterte (File photo)

President Rodrigo Duterte wants to visit military camps despite the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) outbreak to personally check the condition of soldiers, Malacañang said on Tuesday.

“Titignan niya (Duterte) ‘yung kundisyon ng ating mga kasundaluhan at 'yung mga lugar kung nasaan naroroon ang mga kampo (He wants to see the condition of the soldiers and the military camps),” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said in a virtual presser aired on state-run PTV-4.

In a televised public address on late Monday night, Duterte announced his plan to resume his visit to military camps nationwide.

Duterte, who used to visit military camps before the Covid-19 pandemic grappled the country, ensured that he would take extra precautions when he once again meets with the troops.

Roque said Duterte’s possible activities in military camps would be “limited and focused.”

“Sinabi naman niya (Duterte) na pikang-pika na siya na nakakulong siya. Gusto na rin niyang malaman ang iba’t ibang kondisyon ng mga iba’t ibang bahagi ng Pilipinas (He already expressed exasperation over being stuck indoors. He wants to also know the condition in different areas in the Philippines),” he said.

The Philippine Navy announced last week that Duterte was invited to attend the christening and commissioning of BRP Jose Rizal, the country’s first missile-frigate.

The christening and commissioning ceremony was originally scheduled on the national hero’s birthday on June 19 but was moved to a later date.

Roque clarified that the Presidential Security Group (PSG) still needs to give its approval before Duterte can visit any military camps in the country.

“Wala pa po. Nakikipagtawaran muna sa PSG para siya ay payagan (There’s no schedule yet. He has yet to negotiate with the PSG so he can be allowed to visit military camps),” he said.

Duterte decided to stay in Malacañan Palace in Manila when he placed the entire Luzon under enhanced community quarantine in March this year.

He was supposed to return to Davao City on April 7 to join his family in celebrating the 16th birthday of his youngest child, Veronica, on April 10, but opted to isolate himself in Manila to monitor the government’s Covid-19 response efforts.

Duterte returned to Davao City on May 16 after the quarantine restrictions were eased. He also flew back to his home province on May 30 to be with his family.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1106779

2 'crime syndicate' members killed in Zambo Norte

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 22, 2020): 2 'crime syndicate' members killed in Zambo Norte (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)



Google map of Zamboanga del Norte.

Two alleged members of a crime syndicate who had links with the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) were killed Sunday in a law enforcement operation in Zamboanga del Norte, a police official said Monday.

Maj. Helen Galvez, Police Regional Office-9 (PRO-9) information officer, identified the slain suspects as Ebrahim Ahil and a cohort, Jaripal Ahil, both allegedly members of the Muloc crime syndicate group.

Ebrahim, who faced murder and attempted murder charges, was listed as "top 1" most wanted person in Zamboanga del Norte, while Jaripal was charged with attempted murder, Galvez said.

The two were killed when a shootout broke out between them and the policemen who were serving a warrant of arrest against Ebrahim Sunday morning in Barangay Candelaria in Liloy, Zamboanga del Norte.

Galvez said the two suspects were rushed to the Liloy Integrated Hospital but were declared dead on arrival by the attending physician.

Jaripal yielded a .45-caliber pistol with several rounds of ammunition, a grenade, a hunting knife, and other personal belongings, while police officers recovered from Ebrahim a grenade, .45-caliber pistol with several rounds of ammunition, and personal belongings.

Police said the Muloc crime group operated in the towns of Salug, Liloy, Godod, and Tampilisan in Zamboanga del Norte. The group was also involved in various illegal activities such as extortion, robbery, kidnap-for-ransom, and gun-for-hire, police said.

The leader of the group, identified as Abner Gumandol, was killed in a law enforcement operation in 2016 in Barangay Kaliantana, Naga, Zamboanga Sibugay, police said.

Gumandol had a warrant of arrest for kidnapping issued by the court in Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte, according to the police.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1106612

Philippine Army Suffers Multiple Casualties in Firefight with ASG Militants

From BenarNews (Jun 23, 2020): Philippine Army Suffers Multiple Casualties in Firefight with ASG Militants

Government soldiers in Lanao del Sur province, southern Philippines, distribute pictures of Isnilon Hapilon, an Abu Sayyaf militant leader who was earlier named as chief of the Philippine branch of the extremist group known as Islamic State, Feb. 2, 2017.  Reuters

At least one government soldier was killed and nine other troops were wounded during a fierce gunbattle with suspected Abu Sayyaf militants in the southern Philippines on Monday, the military said.

The troops from the army’s 32nd Infantry Battalion were on a combat operation when a large contingent of Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) fighters waylaid them in a jungle area in Patikul, a town on Jolo Island in Sulu province, officials said.

A one-hour firefight ensued that led to the casualties on the government side. ASG was also believed to have sustained casualties but no bodies of its fighters were found at the scene, according to regional military spokesman Maj. Arvin John Encinas.

“However, the ground forces suffered 1 killed and 9 wounded in the fierce encounter,” Encinas said. He did not disclose the names of the soldiers.

Reports from other sources in the area said the slain soldier was a young first lieutenant.

Abu Sayyaf is a small gang of Islamic militants that has been accused of being behind a rash of kidnappings, bombings and killings in the southern Philippines.

An ASG faction led by Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan has allied itself with the Islamic State (IS) extremist group and has been blamed for a series of bombings in the region since last year, including an attack that killed 23 people at a church on Jolo Island in January 2019. The attack was carried out by two Indonesian suicide bombers acting on Sawadjaan’s command, Philippine authorities said.

Sawadjaan took over the IS affiliate in the Philippines from Isnilon Hapilon, who in 2017 led Southeast Asian and Middle Eastern fighters in seizing the southern city of Marawi. Hapilon was killed there at the end of a five-month battle with government forces that left 1,200 people dead and the city in ruins.

https://www.benarnews.org/english/news/philippine/Abu-Sayyaf-clash-06222020123255.html

Military officer killed, nine others hurt in clash with Abu Sayyaf in Sulu

From the Manila Bulletin (Jun 23, 2020): Military officer killed, nine others hurt in clash with Abu Sayyaf in Sulu (By Martin Sadongdong)

A military officer was killed while nine other soldiers were wounded in an encounter with Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) terrorists in Patikul, Sulu on Monday.

Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, commander of the Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom), said elements of the Sulu-based 32nd Infantry Battalion (32IB) engaged an undetermined number of local terrorists in a fierce firefight in Sitio Tubig Bukayon, Barangay Pansul at around 12 noon.

“It is with deep sadness to report that one valiant military officer paid the ultimate price and nine personnel were wounded while fearlessly fighting the enemies and protecting the people of Sulu,” Sobejana said.

The identities of the slain and wounded soldiers have yet to be released pending notification of their immediate families.

An undetermined number of casualties was also reported on the enemy’s side as troops pursuing the fleeing bandits found traces of blood, according to Maj. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, commander of Joint Task Force Sulu.

Sobejana said the military has sustained its intense operations to purge the ASG, which is responsible for some of the worst crimes in Mindanao including bombings, killings, and abductions.

“As we actively support the civil government in preventing the spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus disease), we also ensure that the people in the community are safe and secured from terrorism,” the WestMinCom chief stated.

Sobejana also assured the families of the killed and wounded-in-action (KIA, WIA) soldiers that they will be provided with all forms of assistance.

He said he already ordered a hot pursuit operation to hunt down the remaining ASG terrorists.

Last June 5, ASG terrorists also killed four soldiers and wounded 17 combat troopers from the 6th Special Forces Battalion in an encounter in Sitio Lagaron, Barangay Kan-ague in Patikul.

Two suspected ASG terrorists died in the firefight.

https://news.mb.com.ph/2020/06/23/military-officer-killed-nine-others-hurt-in-clash-with-abu-sayyaf-in-sulu/

Soldier killed, 9 others wounded in 'fierce firefight' with Abu Sayyaf in Sulu

From Rappler (Jun 23, 2020): Soldier killed, 9 others wounded in 'fierce firefight' with Abu Sayyaf in Sulu (By JC Gotinga)

Bloodstains on the terror group's escape path indicate an 'undetermined number' of casualties among its members, says the military in Western Mindanao



A soldier was killed while 9 others were wounded in a "fierce firefight" between Army troops and the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in Patikul, Sulu, on Monday, June 22, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) said in a media statement.

At around noon on Monday, soldiers from the Philippine Army's 32nd Infantry Battalion on offensive clashed with an undetermined number of members of the terror group in Sitio Tubig Bukayon, Barangay Pansul.

"Our troops are still pursuing the withdrawing enemies who left several bloodstains on their tracks," said Joint Task Force Sulu commander Major General Corleto Vinluan Monday night.

The bloodstains indicate an "undetermined number" of casualties among the Abu Sayyaf, the AFP Westmincom statement said.

"The skirmishes between our forces and the ASG persist. As we actively support the civil government in preventing the spread of COVID-19, we also ensure that the people in the community are safe and secure from terrorism," said AFP Westmincom commander Lieutenant General Cirilito Sobejana.

The family of the fallen soldier will be notified and given "all forms of assistance," Sobejana added.

The military in Sulu has launched sustained offensives against the Abu Sayyaf in recent months. Operations in April and May have led to the killing of at least 7 Abu Sayyaf members, including a certain "Vikram," believed to be the grandson of the group's top leader Radullan Sahiron.

Clashes between government troops and the Abu Sayyaf on April 17 killed 11 Army soldiers and wounded 14 more. Another clash on June 5 killed 4 soldiers and wounded 17 others.

The Abu Sayyaf has links to the Islamic State international terror group. Although holed up mostly in Sulu, the group poses a threat to the entire Philippines.

On June 15, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr said 8 Abu Sayyaf "sleepers" have been captured in Metro Manila since 2019, while another one remains at large. Sleepers are members of a terrorist group who, though inactive, may be called upon to attack.

This, as Esperon defended the enrolled bill on the proposed Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020, which is up for President Rodrigo Duterte's signature.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/264540-soldier-killed-wounded-firefight-abu-sayyaf-june-22-2020

PNP initiates dialogue among members of feuding Moro clans

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 22, 2020): PNP initiates dialogue among members of feuding Moro clans (By Edwin Fernandez)



SECURITY CHECKPOINT. The police in Sultan Kudarat town, Maguindanao, puts up more checkpoints around town to ensure public safety following the clashes between Moro Islamic Liberation Front and Moro National Liberation Front factions in Barangay Macaguiling on Sunday (June 21, 2020). Local authorities say they are finalizing the schedule of the peace dialogue between the warring groups. (Photo courtesy of Sultan Kudarat MPS)

The Philippine National Police (PNP) in the Maguindanao town of Sultan Kudarat town has initiated dialogues among members of two Moro commanders locked in a clan war that erupted Sunday.

Maj. Julhamin Asdani, Sultan Kudarat police chief, said a meeting between families involved in the armed conflict is scheduled either Monday or Tuesday.

“We are bridging them, we would like to put an end to hostilities and possible retaliatory attacks from both sides,” Asdani said of the warring clans belonging to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF).

Clashes erupted when MNLF members, led by Commander Samad, attacked the house of MILF Commander Sulaiman Makauyag before dawn Sunday in Barangay Macaguiling, police said.

The brief firefight resulted in the injury of Makauyag. He is now recuperating in the hospital, police said.

Police said the firefight only stopped when police and Philippine Marines servicemen arrived in the area.

Sultan Kudarat Mayor Shameem Mastura has asked the local police to initiate peaceful dialogues to prevent the conflict from escalating and affecting civilians.

Security checkpoints were set up around Macaguiling village to prevent similar attacks in the future as the local police set the date for the dialogue of the feuding clans.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1106578