From Business World (Apr 16): Rebels ask military to exercise caution
A LEADER of the Philippines’ largest Muslim rebel group urged the military to take precautions yesterday after a clash in which 20 people were killed, exposing the fragile nature of a landmark peace accord signed only two weeks earlier.
Ghazali Jaafar, vice-chairman for political affairs of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), which signed the peace accord, demanded an investigation into the incident last week on the southern island of Basilan.
The head of the armed forces, Gen. Emmanuel T. Bautista, denied any suggestion that his men had targeted MILF guerrillas and said soldiers had been pursuing rival insurgents who were not party to the peace deal.
SHAKY
The peace deal struck with the MILF to end a 45-year conflict remains shaky as other armed groups, particularly the Abu Sayyaf Group, a body on the US anti-terrorist “black list,” pursue armed attacks on the army.
“Both parties must know what happened. This mistake must be remedied before so it will not again happen,” Mr. Jaafar told reporters.
“My message to the military is: ‘Please do not disturb the honeymoon between the MILF and Malacañang,’” he added, referring to the Philippine presidential palace.
At least 18 Muslim rebels died in the fighting near Tipo-Tipo town in Basilan, an island where Muslim militants have long operated. Mr. Jaafar acknowledged that only four of the dead were MILF members, while the others were Abu Sayyaf militants.
“I think it was intentional, but I don’t know if they know that they were attacking the MILF,” Mr. Jaafar said. “Why attack the MILF at this point in time?”
The government and the MILF signed an agreement on March 27 to end the rebellion in the South of the mainly Roman Catholic state.
The conflict has killed more than 120,000, displaced two million and stunted growth in the resource-rich region dominated by Muslims.
The rebels promised to disband their army, lay down their weapons and rebuild communities in exchange for an autonomous government with greater power over the economy and culture.
The peace deal was brokered by Malaysia.
Mr. Bautista said that soldiers at the time had been pursuing Abu Sayyaf militants, accused by authorities of kidnapping and extortion. But they ran instead into MILF members.
He said the military consulted rebel commanders in the area before mounting an operation against the Abu Sayyaf Group.
“There was no participation of MILF forces in the encounter,” he said, while acknowledging that “individual members” of the MILF with links to Abu Sayyaf had become involved.
“The MILF should deal with them,” Mr. Bautista said.
Family ties between many veteran rebels mean the distinction between the two groups on southern islands is often blurred.
http://www.bworldonline.com/content.php?section=Nation&title=Rebels-ask-military-to-exercise-caution&id=86181
Wednesday, April 16, 2014
Absence of ceasefire, CPP-NPA-NDF assures holy week peaceful observance
From the Bicol Today (Apr 15): Absence of ceasefire, CPP-NPA-NDF assures holy week peaceful observance
Bicol NPA rebels in formation during Communist Party of the Philippines 45th founding anniversary. Photo grab from facebook
Rebel groups in the Bicol Region assured freedom of religion and practices to folks living in the countryside and guerrilla zones during the Lenten season despite the absence of declaration of Lenten ceasefire.
This is the assurance from the underground National Democratic Front-Bicol to queries regarding the observance of the Holy Week.
The underground movement said in an emailed statement: “The revolutionary forces recognize and respect the people’s religious traditions and activities.
The document GUIDELINES FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE PEOPLE’S DEMOCRATIC GOVERNMENT guarantees the rights of the people to enjoy their freedom of conscience and religion.”
Maria Roja Banua, new spokesperson of NDF-Bicol, said “The revolutionary forces therefore guarantee the safe undertaking of the people’s Pabasa, Visita Altares, Siyete Palabras, and other religious activities in the guerrilla zones.
With or without the presence of a ceasefire declaration, the people can freely carry out such activities because the People’s Democratic Government uphold their rights.”
Although the NDF-Bicol spokesperson admitted Saturday that there is no declared ceasefire from the “Military Commission” of the Communist Party of the Philippines’ Central Committee which has yet to declare a unilateral ceasefire.
“It is the NPA’s central leadership which takes the rightful position to evaluate the national situation and declare a unilateral ceasefire if need be. Please be assured that we will inform you of any development regarding this matter,” said Banua.
http://bicoltoday.com/2014/04/15/absence-of-ceasefire-cpp-npa-ndf-assures-holy-week-peaceful-observance/
Bicol NPA rebels in formation during Communist Party of the Philippines 45th founding anniversary. Photo grab from facebook
Rebel groups in the Bicol Region assured freedom of religion and practices to folks living in the countryside and guerrilla zones during the Lenten season despite the absence of declaration of Lenten ceasefire.
This is the assurance from the underground National Democratic Front-Bicol to queries regarding the observance of the Holy Week.
The underground movement said in an emailed statement: “The revolutionary forces recognize and respect the people’s religious traditions and activities.
The document GUIDELINES FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE PEOPLE’S DEMOCRATIC GOVERNMENT guarantees the rights of the people to enjoy their freedom of conscience and religion.”
Maria Roja Banua, new spokesperson of NDF-Bicol, said “The revolutionary forces therefore guarantee the safe undertaking of the people’s Pabasa, Visita Altares, Siyete Palabras, and other religious activities in the guerrilla zones.
With or without the presence of a ceasefire declaration, the people can freely carry out such activities because the People’s Democratic Government uphold their rights.”
Although the NDF-Bicol spokesperson admitted Saturday that there is no declared ceasefire from the “Military Commission” of the Communist Party of the Philippines’ Central Committee which has yet to declare a unilateral ceasefire.
“It is the NPA’s central leadership which takes the rightful position to evaluate the national situation and declare a unilateral ceasefire if need be. Please be assured that we will inform you of any development regarding this matter,” said Banua.
http://bicoltoday.com/2014/04/15/absence-of-ceasefire-cpp-npa-ndf-assures-holy-week-peaceful-observance/
Malaysia promises to defuse tensions in disputed seas
From ABS-CBN (Apr 16): Malaysia promises to defuse tensions in disputed seas
Malaysia promised to play a big role in defusing tensions over the disputed seas in the region when it takes over the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) chairmanship next year.
Malaysia’s The Star quoted Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin as saying: “The South China Sea disputes and the intercession of outside interests makes maintaining the security and stability of the region more complex.”
“These possible causes of conflict require more than the diplomatic efforts of our governments to diffuse (sic) tensions,” he added.
The Philippines earlier urged the ASEAN to do its part in defusing tension over the West Philippine Sea, which is being claimed by 5 others, including China.
Among the members of ASEAN, the Philippines is the only one that has brought the dispute against China before an arbitral tribunal under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
The Philippines and other ASEAN members have also called for a legally binding Code of Conduct that will govern travel and maritime security in the West Philippine Sea, known internationally as the South China Sea.
“It is a known fact that since the formation of Asean in 1967, there has not been any open conflicts among its member countries,” the Malaysian deputy minister said.
“The Asean way of resolving problems and crises through consensus and with mutual respect has gone a long way towards avoiding unnecessary conflicts and tensions,” he added.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/04/16/14/malaysia-promises-defuse-tensions-disputed-seas
Malaysia promised to play a big role in defusing tensions over the disputed seas in the region when it takes over the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) chairmanship next year.
Malaysia’s The Star quoted Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin as saying: “The South China Sea disputes and the intercession of outside interests makes maintaining the security and stability of the region more complex.”
“These possible causes of conflict require more than the diplomatic efforts of our governments to diffuse (sic) tensions,” he added.
The Philippines earlier urged the ASEAN to do its part in defusing tension over the West Philippine Sea, which is being claimed by 5 others, including China.
Among the members of ASEAN, the Philippines is the only one that has brought the dispute against China before an arbitral tribunal under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
The Philippines and other ASEAN members have also called for a legally binding Code of Conduct that will govern travel and maritime security in the West Philippine Sea, known internationally as the South China Sea.
“It is a known fact that since the formation of Asean in 1967, there has not been any open conflicts among its member countries,” the Malaysian deputy minister said.
“The Asean way of resolving problems and crises through consensus and with mutual respect has gone a long way towards avoiding unnecessary conflicts and tensions,” he added.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/04/16/14/malaysia-promises-defuse-tensions-disputed-seas
North Cotabato local gov't aids children of Pinay seized by Abu Sayyaf in Malaysia
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 16): North Cotabato local gov't aids children of Pinay seized by Abu Sayyaf in Malaysia
The children of an overseas Filipino worker seized in the seaside resort inSabah , Malaysia
All minor children of Marcelita Dayawan Tamalla are also being taken care of by workers from the social welfare and development office.
Town Councilor Morata Mantil, acting mayor of Midsayap, personally personally extended on Tuesday the food and cash assistance to Tamalla’s children, both minors, in their homes in Barangay Agriculture.
Tamalla, 33, who works at the Singmata Reef Resort inSemporna , Malaysia
At gun point, they were forced by their captors to board a motorboat that sped toward Sulu in the southernmost part ofMindanao .
Mantil said North Cotabato Governor Emmylou Mendoza has ordered the provincial social welfare office to monitor the condition of the children and provide them with the necessary psychological intervention.
Tamalla is widow of a member of the Philippine Marine Corps who died of a lingering illness more than a decade ago, which prompted her to work overseas.
Mantil said the Midsayap LGU and the office ofMendoza
Mantil said the relatives are seeking the help of the national government for the immediate recovery of Tamalla.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=635756
The children of an overseas Filipino worker seized in the seaside resort in
All minor children of Marcelita Dayawan Tamalla are also being taken care of by workers from the social welfare and development office.
Town Councilor Morata Mantil, acting mayor of Midsayap, personally personally extended on Tuesday the food and cash assistance to Tamalla’s children, both minors, in their homes in Barangay Agriculture.
Tamalla, 33, who works at the Singmata Reef Resort in
At gun point, they were forced by their captors to board a motorboat that sped toward Sulu in the southernmost part of
Mantil said North Cotabato Governor Emmylou Mendoza has ordered the provincial social welfare office to monitor the condition of the children and provide them with the necessary psychological intervention.
Tamalla is widow of a member of the Philippine Marine Corps who died of a lingering illness more than a decade ago, which prompted her to work overseas.
Mantil said the Midsayap LGU and the office of
Mantil said the relatives are seeking the help of the national government for the immediate recovery of Tamalla.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=635756
Philippine Navy admission tests set in Iloilo City
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 16): Philippine Navy admission tests set in Iloilo City
The Philippine Navy Recruitment Office has announced that the door is open to applicants for admission tests set on May 2-4 at theJohn B. Lacson Maritime
Foundation University
This was bared by Navy Lt. Froilan Villabesa, Philippine Navy information officer, who said that applicants have two categories to choose from - the Naval Officers Candidate Course (NOCC), and the Basic Seaman Course (BSC).
For the NOCC, college graduates of engineering courses are highly valued, should be 21-28 years of age, single and no child to support, 5 feet in height, and no pending court cases.
For the BSC, high school graduates with TESDA training in plumbing, welding, automotive, and electricity are preferred. Those with 72 units earned in college are also qualified to take the series of examinations.
Additional requirements to comply with are the following:Original and photocopy of NSO birth certificates, transcript of records or Form 137, TESDA certificates, two copies of 2x2 pictures, and NBI clearance.
For successful applicants in the NOCC, a basic salary of P 27,425.00 plus monthly allowance of P 5,000.00 await them.
For BSC (enlisted man) passers, basic salary isP11,265.00 plus P 5,000.00 monthly allowance. Those interested can ask for application forms from the Navy personnel stationed atJohn B. Lacson Maritime Foundation
University , Arevalo, Iloilo City
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=635680
The Philippine Navy Recruitment Office has announced that the door is open to applicants for admission tests set on May 2-4 at the
This was bared by Navy Lt. Froilan Villabesa, Philippine Navy information officer, who said that applicants have two categories to choose from - the Naval Officers Candidate Course (NOCC), and the Basic Seaman Course (BSC).
For the NOCC, college graduates of engineering courses are highly valued, should be 21-28 years of age, single and no child to support, 5 feet in height, and no pending court cases.
For the BSC, high school graduates with TESDA training in plumbing, welding, automotive, and electricity are preferred. Those with 72 units earned in college are also qualified to take the series of examinations.
Additional requirements to comply with are the following:Original and photocopy of NSO birth certificates, transcript of records or Form 137, TESDA certificates, two copies of 2x2 pictures, and NBI clearance.
For successful applicants in the NOCC, a basic salary of P 27,425.00 plus monthly allowance of P 5,000.00 await them.
For BSC (enlisted man) passers, basic salary isP11,265.00 plus P 5,000.00 monthly allowance. Those interested can ask for application forms from the Navy personnel stationed at
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=635680
Four soldiers wounded in pursuit operations vs NPA rebels in ComVal
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 16): Four soldiers wounded in pursuit operations vs NPA rebels in ComVal
Four government troops were wounded as they continue to run after a group of rebels who were believed behind the burning of several mining equipment in Barangay Masara, Maco,Compostela
Valley
Captain Ernest Carolina, Public Affairs Officer of the 10th Civil-Military Operations Battalion, said members of the 1001st Infantry Brigade engaged some 30 heavily armed rebels at 4:50 pm on Tuesday (April 15) in a firefight that lasted for 45 minutes. The identities of the wounded soldiers were not revealed pending the relay of information about their situation to their respective families.
Carolina
“The rebels scampered to different directions while the troops cleared and discovered a temporary encampment with enplaced running trenches and foxholes that can accommodate around 40-50 people. Traces of landmine emplacements were likewise discovered by the government troops,” he said.
Earlier, a top military commander ordered government troops to pursue the rebels behind the attack of a mining firm last Thursday in Barangay Masara where they burned several mining equipment.
Major General Ariel Bernardo, commander of the 10th Infantry Division, said soldiers must make sure that the rebels could no longer harass and inflict damage to the civilians.
The rebels allegedly threatened the mining firm to give in to their demand for a larger amount of money as part of their extortion activity in the area.
Colonel Elmer Quiros, acting commanding officer of the 1001st Brigade, said a joint security operation between the police and the soldiers is ongoing in the area to keep the rebels at bay.
He chided the rebels for their continued disregard of the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL).
“It is clearly indicated in Part III, Article II of the CARHRIHL) that civilians must not be subject of any attack including establishments where civilians maybe affected,” Quiros pointed out.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=635846
Four government troops were wounded as they continue to run after a group of rebels who were believed behind the burning of several mining equipment in Barangay Masara, Maco,
Captain Ernest Carolina, Public Affairs Officer of the 10th Civil-Military Operations Battalion, said members of the 1001st Infantry Brigade engaged some 30 heavily armed rebels at 4:50 pm on Tuesday (April 15) in a firefight that lasted for 45 minutes. The identities of the wounded soldiers were not revealed pending the relay of information about their situation to their respective families.
“The rebels scampered to different directions while the troops cleared and discovered a temporary encampment with enplaced running trenches and foxholes that can accommodate around 40-50 people. Traces of landmine emplacements were likewise discovered by the government troops,” he said.
Earlier, a top military commander ordered government troops to pursue the rebels behind the attack of a mining firm last Thursday in Barangay Masara where they burned several mining equipment.
Major General Ariel Bernardo, commander of the 10th Infantry Division, said soldiers must make sure that the rebels could no longer harass and inflict damage to the civilians.
The rebels allegedly threatened the mining firm to give in to their demand for a larger amount of money as part of their extortion activity in the area.
Colonel Elmer Quiros, acting commanding officer of the 1001st Brigade, said a joint security operation between the police and the soldiers is ongoing in the area to keep the rebels at bay.
He chided the rebels for their continued disregard of the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL).
“It is clearly indicated in Part III, Article II of the CARHRIHL) that civilians must not be subject of any attack including establishments where civilians maybe affected,” Quiros pointed out.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=635846
Armed men harass police outpost in Agusan del Norte
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 16): Armed men harass police outpost in Agusan del Norte
A police outpost manned by the first platoon of the Agusan del Norte Provincial Public Safety Company located in Barangay Tagcatong, Carmen, Agusan del Norte, which is under the supervision of PSInsp. Edgar Allan G. Serquina, was harassed by an armed group early morning on Tuesday.
Report from Agusan del Norte Police Provincial Office said that about five heavily armed men believed to be members of the Guerilla Front-4A of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) which is operating in the area were suspected to be the perpetrators.
According to police report, the armed men fired first towards the direction of the police outpost. A five-minute firefight then ensued with the attackers withdrawing, heading towards the southwest direction of the neighboringprovince of Misamis Oriental
A joint force from the Agusandel
The police investigators learned that the rebels positioned themselves seven meters away (air distance) and fired directly towards the outpost of the PPSC's 1st platoon.
Police investigators recovered from the crime scene: 22 spent cartridge cases of AK 47, six pieces live ammunition of AK 47 and an empty cartridge case of an M203.
Furthermore, when PSInsp. George M. Fernandez, Intelligence Officer of the Agusan del Norte PPO conducted an ocular inspection at the area, he found a spent shell of AK 47 and turned it over to the Carmen Municipal Police Station.
A clearing operation was also being conducted by PPO personnel led by PSInsp. Serquina. The recovered pieces of evidence will be turned over to the Crime Laboratory Office 13 for ballistic examination.
Meanwhile, in a separate incident, three heavily armed men burned a backhoe 9:30 on Sunday evening at Purok 1, Diversion Road, Barangay Poblacion, Barobo, Surigao del Sur. Report from Surigao del Sur PPO said that the orange Caterpillar PC backhoe with Body No. 2229 is owned by L.C. Ting Constructtion, based here in Butuan City.
Barobo police investigators said that the perpetrators were seen on board a motorcycle and fired three times on air using an undetermined firearm and then fled from the area. Also along the way as they were making their escape, they also fired at an LGU outpost, detached an anti-NPA streamer, and destroyed the LGU tarpaulins hanging at nearby coconut trees. They fled heading towardSan Francisco
Police are conducting a deeper probe on the incident for the possible identity of the perpetrators and to file the appropriate charges in court.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=635844
A police outpost manned by the first platoon of the Agusan del Norte Provincial Public Safety Company located in Barangay Tagcatong, Carmen, Agusan del Norte, which is under the supervision of PSInsp. Edgar Allan G. Serquina, was harassed by an armed group early morning on Tuesday.
Report from Agusan del Norte Police Provincial Office said that about five heavily armed men believed to be members of the Guerilla Front-4A of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) which is operating in the area were suspected to be the perpetrators.
According to police report, the armed men fired first towards the direction of the police outpost. A five-minute firefight then ensued with the attackers withdrawing, heading towards the southwest direction of the neighboring
A joint force from the Agusan
The police investigators learned that the rebels positioned themselves seven meters away (air distance) and fired directly towards the outpost of the PPSC's 1st platoon.
Police investigators recovered from the crime scene: 22 spent cartridge cases of AK 47, six pieces live ammunition of AK 47 and an empty cartridge case of an M203.
Furthermore, when PSInsp. George M. Fernandez, Intelligence Officer of the Agusan del Norte PPO conducted an ocular inspection at the area, he found a spent shell of AK 47 and turned it over to the Carmen Municipal Police Station.
A clearing operation was also being conducted by PPO personnel led by PSInsp. Serquina. The recovered pieces of evidence will be turned over to the Crime Laboratory Office 13 for ballistic examination.
Meanwhile, in a separate incident, three heavily armed men burned a backhoe 9:30 on Sunday evening at Purok 1, Diversion Road, Barangay Poblacion, Barobo, Surigao del Sur. Report from Surigao del Sur PPO said that the orange Caterpillar PC backhoe with Body No. 2229 is owned by L.C. Ting Constructtion, based here in Butuan City.
Barobo police investigators said that the perpetrators were seen on board a motorcycle and fired three times on air using an undetermined firearm and then fled from the area. Also along the way as they were making their escape, they also fired at an LGU outpost, detached an anti-NPA streamer, and destroyed the LGU tarpaulins hanging at nearby coconut trees. They fled heading toward
Police are conducting a deeper probe on the incident for the possible identity of the perpetrators and to file the appropriate charges in court.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=635844
4 Army troopers hurt in Compostela Valley clash with rebels
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 16): 4 Army troopers hurt in Compostela Valley clash with rebels
Four troopers from the 101st Division Reconnaissance Company were wounded following an encounter with an estimated 30 New People's Army (NPA) fighters in Barangay Teresa, Maco town, Compostela Valley in the afternoon of April 14.
Belated reports from Col. Elmer Quiros, 1001st Infantry Brigade officer-in-charge, said the firefight transpired around 4: 30 p.m.
He added that the rebels sustained an undetermined number of casualties in the clash.
Quiros said the NPA band were responsible in torching the equipment of Apex Mining Corporation at Sitio Sawmill, Barangay Masara, Maco town last April 10.
He added that the attack was due to the company's refusal to give in to the rebels' extortion demand.
During the April 14 encounter, artillery fire was brought to bear on the rebel positions, forcing the them to retreat.
The clash lasted for an hour and 45 minutes.
Found in the NPA possessions were trenches and fox holes capable of accommodating more than 60 rebel fighters.
Traces of landmine emplacements were likewise discovered by the government troopers.
"Army troops together with PNP (Philippine National Police) are conducting security operations in pursuit to the fleeing NPAs to prevent them to further inflict damage in the area,” Quiros concluded.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=635719
Four troopers from the 101st Division Reconnaissance Company were wounded following an encounter with an estimated 30 New People's Army (NPA) fighters in Barangay Teresa, Maco town, Compostela Valley in the afternoon of April 14.
Belated reports from Col. Elmer Quiros, 1001st Infantry Brigade officer-in-charge, said the firefight transpired around 4: 30 p.m.
He added that the rebels sustained an undetermined number of casualties in the clash.
Quiros said the NPA band were responsible in torching the equipment of Apex Mining Corporation at Sitio Sawmill, Barangay Masara, Maco town last April 10.
He added that the attack was due to the company's refusal to give in to the rebels' extortion demand.
During the April 14 encounter, artillery fire was brought to bear on the rebel positions, forcing the them to retreat.
The clash lasted for an hour and 45 minutes.
Found in the NPA possessions were trenches and fox holes capable of accommodating more than 60 rebel fighters.
Traces of landmine emplacements were likewise discovered by the government troopers.
"Army troops together with PNP (Philippine National Police) are conducting security operations in pursuit to the fleeing NPAs to prevent them to further inflict damage in the area,” Quiros concluded.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=635719
President Aquino: Death of MILF members in Basilan clash has no effect on Bangsamoro agreement
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 16): President Aquino: Death of MILF members in Basilan clash has no effect on Bangsamoro agreement
President Benigno S. Aquino III said Wednesday that the death of four members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in an encounter with the military in Basilan will have no effect on the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB).
“Iyong napatay na miyembro nila (MILF) ay hindi nandoon sa engkwentro bilang miyembro ng MILF kundi dahil mga kamag-anak ng mga Abu Sayyaf na hinahabol. Mas personal rather than political or ideological,” President Aquino explained.
“So, hindi natin nakikita na magiging problema o balakid ito sa napirmahang Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro.”
This was the response of President Aquino when asked by reporters during an ambush interview while the Chief Executive visited the North Port Passenger Terminal Complex at theManila North Harbor
in Tondo, Manila
President Aquino said the MILF has been informed that there will be an operation against the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in Basilan.
“Ginamit natin ang mga mekanismo para hindi nga magkaroon ng hindi pagkaka-unawaan at na-inform ang MILF tungkol sa operation na ito,” he said.
The Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro signed inMalacanang Palace
News reports said the military launched an operation on April 11 to capture two top leaders of the Abu Sayyaf Group blamed for beheadings and kidnappings in southernPhilippines
Armed Forces of thePhilippines
Chief General Emmanuel Bautista said in Zamboanga City
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=635907
President Benigno S. Aquino III said Wednesday that the death of four members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in an encounter with the military in Basilan will have no effect on the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB).
“Iyong napatay na miyembro nila (MILF) ay hindi nandoon sa engkwentro bilang miyembro ng MILF kundi dahil mga kamag-anak ng mga Abu Sayyaf na hinahabol. Mas personal rather than political or ideological,” President Aquino explained.
“So, hindi natin nakikita na magiging problema o balakid ito sa napirmahang Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro.”
This was the response of President Aquino when asked by reporters during an ambush interview while the Chief Executive visited the North Port Passenger Terminal Complex at the
President Aquino said the MILF has been informed that there will be an operation against the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in Basilan.
“Ginamit natin ang mga mekanismo para hindi nga magkaroon ng hindi pagkaka-unawaan at na-inform ang MILF tungkol sa operation na ito,” he said.
The Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro signed in
News reports said the military launched an operation on April 11 to capture two top leaders of the Abu Sayyaf Group blamed for beheadings and kidnappings in southern
Armed Forces of the
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=635907
8th Infantry Division in need of additional medical staff
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 16): 8th Infantry Division in need of additional medical staff
The Catbalogan-based 8th Infantry Division announced that it is need of additional medical staff for itsCamp
Lukban Station
Hospital
Vacant positions include a medical officer (applicant must be a licensed Doctor of Medicine), two registered and licensed nurses, two licensed physical therapists, two radiologic technologists, three nursing attendants, one dental aid technician, one administrative aide, and one administrative assistant.
Interested applicants must submit their application forms and supporting documents at the Office of Division Civilian Supervisor, Camp General Vicente Lukban, Barangay Maulong,Catbalogan City , Samar .
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=635845
The Catbalogan-based 8th Infantry Division announced that it is need of additional medical staff for its
Vacant positions include a medical officer (applicant must be a licensed Doctor of Medicine), two registered and licensed nurses, two licensed physical therapists, two radiologic technologists, three nursing attendants, one dental aid technician, one administrative aide, and one administrative assistant.
Interested applicants must submit their application forms and supporting documents at the Office of Division Civilian Supervisor, Camp General Vicente Lukban, Barangay Maulong,
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=635845
PA's 8th ID reports major gains vs. NPAs
From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 16): PA's 8th ID reports major gains vs. NPAs
The Philippine Army's Catbalogan-based 8th Infantry Division reported that it posted significant gains versus the New People's Army (NPA) rebels operating inEastern Visayas during the first quarter of
2014.
Maj. Gen. Jet B. Velarmino, 8th ID commander, said that in the first three months of the year, the rebels suffered blows in all fronts.
On manpower, 26 fighters surrendered, seven were arrested and one was killed during encounters, he added.
On the part of the 8th Infantry Division, one soldier was killed while two were wounded in action.
On firearms, government troops recovered 19 high- powered and low-powered firearms.
Government forces incurred no firearm loss during the period.
The 8th Infantry Division was also able to hand over five of the 26 towns of Samar and 10 of the 24 towns of Northern Samar to their local government units as manageable conflict-affected and development-ready (MCADR) areas, a manifestation that the NPA rebels had lost their influence in the 15 towns.
The provinces of Samar andNorthern Samar
in their entirety are scheduled to be handed over by the 8th Infantry Division
to their respective provincial peace and order councils in June 2014 and
December 2014, respectively, as MCADR areas.
In their desperate attempt to offset their setbacks, the rebels resorted to killing innocent people, compounding their violations against people’s rights.
During the period, they perpetrated murders against four innocent and hapless civilians.
These commissions of heinous crimes by the NPA rebels will further alienate them from the people who already resent their extortion activities, Velarmino said.
“As the timeline of 8th Infantry Division to accomplish its mission to create an environment conducive to peace and development for the whole ofEastern Visayas is nearing, we expect strong resistance
from the rebels to defend their dwindling strongholds. But the rebels will not
be able to stop the inevitable,” he added.
“In the coming months, we will press on with the fight but we welcome peaceful resolution to this armed conflict being waged by the NPA rebels. To preempt violence, we invite all stakeholders to get involved in winning the peace by pressuring the rebels to return to the mainstream and to abandon armed struggle. We all need peace for the security and well-being of our people and sustainable development in the region,” he stressed.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=635853
The Philippine Army's Catbalogan-based 8th Infantry Division reported that it posted significant gains versus the New People's Army (NPA) rebels operating in
Maj. Gen. Jet B. Velarmino, 8th ID commander, said that in the first three months of the year, the rebels suffered blows in all fronts.
On manpower, 26 fighters surrendered, seven were arrested and one was killed during encounters, he added.
On the part of the 8th Infantry Division, one soldier was killed while two were wounded in action.
On firearms, government troops recovered 19 high- powered and low-powered firearms.
Government forces incurred no firearm loss during the period.
The 8th Infantry Division was also able to hand over five of the 26 towns of Samar and 10 of the 24 towns of Northern Samar to their local government units as manageable conflict-affected and development-ready (MCADR) areas, a manifestation that the NPA rebels had lost their influence in the 15 towns.
The provinces of Samar and
In their desperate attempt to offset their setbacks, the rebels resorted to killing innocent people, compounding their violations against people’s rights.
During the period, they perpetrated murders against four innocent and hapless civilians.
These commissions of heinous crimes by the NPA rebels will further alienate them from the people who already resent their extortion activities, Velarmino said.
“As the timeline of 8th Infantry Division to accomplish its mission to create an environment conducive to peace and development for the whole of
“In the coming months, we will press on with the fight but we welcome peaceful resolution to this armed conflict being waged by the NPA rebels. To preempt violence, we invite all stakeholders to get involved in winning the peace by pressuring the rebels to return to the mainstream and to abandon armed struggle. We all need peace for the security and well-being of our people and sustainable development in the region,” he stressed.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=635853
Peace pact with MILF should hold despite Basilan clashes, say Aquino and Deles
From InterAksyon (Apr 16): Peace pact with MILF should hold despite Basilan clashes, say Aquino and Deles
President Benigno Aquino III and his peace adviser said Wednesday they are confident the peace agreement with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front would hold despite fresh clashes that left four of MILF members dead.
The fighting in Basilan last Friday took place just two weeks after the 10,000-member MILF signed the deal to end their decades-old rebellion, which had claimed tens of thousands of lives.
MILF fighters reportedly helped Abu Sayyaf fighters battling government troops but did so without their leadership's permission, presidential peace adviser Teresita Deles said.
Two soldiers and 18 gunmen were slain in the Basilan hostilities, the military said, while the MILF acknowledged four of its members were among those killed.
Asked if the Basilan incident would impact on the peace agreement, Aquino told reporters: "Well, number one, ang pagkaintindi ko ginamit natin ang mga mekanismo para hindi nga magkaroon ng hindi pagkaka-unawaan at na-inform ang MILF tungkol dito sa operation na ito (my understanding is that we used the mechanisms to avoid any misunderstanding and informed the MILF about this operation)."
"'Yung napatay na miyembro nila ay hindi nandoon sa engkwentro bilang miyembro ng MILF kundi dahil mga kamag-anak nun'g Abu Sayyaf na hinahabol. So mas (Those members of theirs who were killed were not there as members of the MILF but as relatives of the Abu Sayyaf who were being pursued. So it was more) personal rather than political or ideological," Aquino pointed out.
"So, hindi natin nakikita na magiging problema o balakid 'yan dito sa napirmahang Comprehensive Agreement (So, we don't see this as a big problem or obstacle to the Comprehensive Agreement we signed)," he added.
"This will not affect the entire peace process," Deles told AFP. "The resolve of both parties has not waned."
The peace treaty aims to set up the new Bangsamoro autonomous region.
The MILF is expected to disarm and put up candidates for a regional parliament to be elected in May 2016.
"We are still confident that the MILF leadership can bring a huge bulk of their fighters into the fold of the law," Deles said, though conceding a "small number" of the rebel force may opt to ignore the peace deal.
Any such faction would be "subjected to law enforcement activities," she added.
MILF vice chairman Ghazali Jaafar denounced the Basilan violence and asked an independent body monitoring a ceasefire between the rebels and the government to investigate the fighting, which he alleged was initiated by the military.
The military has said the slain MILF fighters were apparently drawn into the fighting because they had relatives among the Abu Sayyaf gunmen involved in the shootout.
Abu Sayyaf gunmen are believed to be still holding a number of foreign hostages on another island in the restive southern region, possibly including a Chinese tourist seized from a Malaysian dive resort on April 2.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/84935/peace-pact-with-milf-should-hold-despite-basilan-clashes-say-aquino-and-deles
President Benigno Aquino III and his peace adviser said Wednesday they are confident the peace agreement with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front would hold despite fresh clashes that left four of MILF members dead.
The fighting in Basilan last Friday took place just two weeks after the 10,000-member MILF signed the deal to end their decades-old rebellion, which had claimed tens of thousands of lives.
MILF fighters reportedly helped Abu Sayyaf fighters battling government troops but did so without their leadership's permission, presidential peace adviser Teresita Deles said.
Two soldiers and 18 gunmen were slain in the Basilan hostilities, the military said, while the MILF acknowledged four of its members were among those killed.
Asked if the Basilan incident would impact on the peace agreement, Aquino told reporters: "Well, number one, ang pagkaintindi ko ginamit natin ang mga mekanismo para hindi nga magkaroon ng hindi pagkaka-unawaan at na-inform ang MILF tungkol dito sa operation na ito (my understanding is that we used the mechanisms to avoid any misunderstanding and informed the MILF about this operation)."
"'Yung napatay na miyembro nila ay hindi nandoon sa engkwentro bilang miyembro ng MILF kundi dahil mga kamag-anak nun'g Abu Sayyaf na hinahabol. So mas (Those members of theirs who were killed were not there as members of the MILF but as relatives of the Abu Sayyaf who were being pursued. So it was more) personal rather than political or ideological," Aquino pointed out.
"So, hindi natin nakikita na magiging problema o balakid 'yan dito sa napirmahang Comprehensive Agreement (So, we don't see this as a big problem or obstacle to the Comprehensive Agreement we signed)," he added.
"This will not affect the entire peace process," Deles told AFP. "The resolve of both parties has not waned."
The peace treaty aims to set up the new Bangsamoro autonomous region.
The MILF is expected to disarm and put up candidates for a regional parliament to be elected in May 2016.
"We are still confident that the MILF leadership can bring a huge bulk of their fighters into the fold of the law," Deles said, though conceding a "small number" of the rebel force may opt to ignore the peace deal.
Any such faction would be "subjected to law enforcement activities," she added.
MILF vice chairman Ghazali Jaafar denounced the Basilan violence and asked an independent body monitoring a ceasefire between the rebels and the government to investigate the fighting, which he alleged was initiated by the military.
The military has said the slain MILF fighters were apparently drawn into the fighting because they had relatives among the Abu Sayyaf gunmen involved in the shootout.
Abu Sayyaf gunmen are believed to be still holding a number of foreign hostages on another island in the restive southern region, possibly including a Chinese tourist seized from a Malaysian dive resort on April 2.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/84935/peace-pact-with-milf-should-hold-despite-basilan-clashes-say-aquino-and-deles
ARMM body says 228 'rido' settled in past 12 months
From InterAksyon (Apr 16): ARMM body says 228 'rido' settled in past 12 months
The Regional Reconciliation and Unification Commission of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao said it has helped settle 228 clan wars, or “rido,” in the past 12 months, officials said Wednesday.
Norodin Manalao, RRUC-ARMM executive director, said 125 of the settled feuds, or more than half of the total, happened in Maguindanao, with a number of these clan wars that had been going on for the past 20 years. Lanao del Sur accounted for 69 rido.
The feuds, which Manalao, are “one of the reasons why economic development of a particular area in ARMM has been snail-paced," are invariably settled through the intervention of religious leaders and community elders.
He said among the triggers for rido are divisive local political, land disputes and territorial misunderstandings.
The "proliferation and use of prohibited drugs was also prominent as the cause of family feud," he added.
Manalao acknowledged that some members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front have been among the protagonists in clan wars in Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.
"But the MILF as an organization was not involved,” he stressed. “In fact the MILF has a mechanism (for) effectively resolving clan wars."
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/84938/armm-body-says-228-rido-settled-in-past-12-months
The Regional Reconciliation and Unification Commission of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao said it has helped settle 228 clan wars, or “rido,” in the past 12 months, officials said Wednesday.
Norodin Manalao, RRUC-ARMM executive director, said 125 of the settled feuds, or more than half of the total, happened in Maguindanao, with a number of these clan wars that had been going on for the past 20 years. Lanao del Sur accounted for 69 rido.
The feuds, which Manalao, are “one of the reasons why economic development of a particular area in ARMM has been snail-paced," are invariably settled through the intervention of religious leaders and community elders.
He said among the triggers for rido are divisive local political, land disputes and territorial misunderstandings.
The "proliferation and use of prohibited drugs was also prominent as the cause of family feud," he added.
Manalao acknowledged that some members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front have been among the protagonists in clan wars in Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.
"But the MILF as an organization was not involved,” he stressed. “In fact the MILF has a mechanism (for) effectively resolving clan wars."
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/84938/armm-body-says-228-rido-settled-in-past-12-months
Tuesday, April 15, 2014
4 soldiers wounded in clash with NPA in Compostela Valley
From InterAksyon (Apr 16): 4 soldiers wounded in clash with NPA in Compostela Valley
Four soldiers of the 101st Division Reconnaissance Company were wounded in an encounter with an estimated 30 New People's Army fighters in Barangay Teresa, Maco town, Compostela Valley in Monday afternoon, the military said.
Belated reports from Colonel Elmer Quiros, officer-in-charge of the 1001st Infantry Brigade, said the firefight broke out around 4: 30 p.m. and lasted for an hour and 45 minutes, with the rebels supposedly suffering an undetermined number of casualties after artillery fire was brought to bear on the NPA positions to force them to retreat.
Quiros said the NPA band were responsible for torching the equipment of Apex Mining Corporation at Sitio Sawmill, Barangay Masara, Maco town last April 10.
He claimed rebels attacked the firm because of its refusal to give in to extortion demands but the NPA, in an earlier statement, said the raid on Apex was to punish the company for alleged environmental destruction and the oppression of workers, farmers and indigenous people.
The military said the rebel positions had dug trenches and foxholes that could accommodate more than 60 people.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/84927/4-soldiers-wounded-in-clash-with-npa-in-compostela-valley
Four soldiers of the 101st Division Reconnaissance Company were wounded in an encounter with an estimated 30 New People's Army fighters in Barangay Teresa, Maco town, Compostela Valley in Monday afternoon, the military said.
Belated reports from Colonel Elmer Quiros, officer-in-charge of the 1001st Infantry Brigade, said the firefight broke out around 4: 30 p.m. and lasted for an hour and 45 minutes, with the rebels supposedly suffering an undetermined number of casualties after artillery fire was brought to bear on the NPA positions to force them to retreat.
Quiros said the NPA band were responsible for torching the equipment of Apex Mining Corporation at Sitio Sawmill, Barangay Masara, Maco town last April 10.
He claimed rebels attacked the firm because of its refusal to give in to extortion demands but the NPA, in an earlier statement, said the raid on Apex was to punish the company for alleged environmental destruction and the oppression of workers, farmers and indigenous people.
The military said the rebel positions had dug trenches and foxholes that could accommodate more than 60 people.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/84927/4-soldiers-wounded-in-clash-with-npa-in-compostela-valley
Sabah police believe photo shows kidnapped tourist still alive
From the Malaya Mail Online (Apr 16): Sabah police believe photo shows kidnapped tourist still alive
Police are confident a Chinese tourist abducted from a Semporna resort here is still alive after her captors sent them a photograph of her, The Star reported on its website today.
Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Hamza Taib confirmed receiving a photo of Chinese national Gao Huayun, 28, but declined to reveal when the photo was taken or the time it was received.
Gao, 29-year-old Shanghainese, and Marcy Dayawan, a 40-year-old Filipina receptionist from the Singamata Reef Resort near Semporna, were nabbed from the resort on April 2 after a group of gunmen stormed the venue.
Last week, Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi had confirmed receiving a ransom note demanding RM36.4 million in exchange for the Chinese tourist. The Abu Sayyaf, which is a small band of Filipino militants known for abductions for ransom, are the suspected perpetrators.
Suspected Abu Sayyaf gunmen also abducted a Taiwanese tourist last November from Pulau Pom Pom, off Sabah’s east coast, killing her husband during the abduction.
http://www.themalaymailonline.com/malaysia/article/sabah-police-believe-photo-shows-kidnapped-tourist-still-alive
Police are confident a Chinese tourist abducted from a Semporna resort here is still alive after her captors sent them a photograph of her, The Star reported on its website today.
Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Hamza Taib confirmed receiving a photo of Chinese national Gao Huayun, 28, but declined to reveal when the photo was taken or the time it was received.
Gao, 29-year-old Shanghainese, and Marcy Dayawan, a 40-year-old Filipina receptionist from the Singamata Reef Resort near Semporna, were nabbed from the resort on April 2 after a group of gunmen stormed the venue.
Last week, Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi had confirmed receiving a ransom note demanding RM36.4 million in exchange for the Chinese tourist. The Abu Sayyaf, which is a small band of Filipino militants known for abductions for ransom, are the suspected perpetrators.
Suspected Abu Sayyaf gunmen also abducted a Taiwanese tourist last November from Pulau Pom Pom, off Sabah’s east coast, killing her husband during the abduction.
http://www.themalaymailonline.com/malaysia/article/sabah-police-believe-photo-shows-kidnapped-tourist-still-alive
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