From the Manila Times (Nov 7): Maranaos welcome Saudi cleric visit
MARAWI CITY: Thousands of Maranaos gave a warm welcome to an Imam (cleric) of a mosque in Saudi Arabia who arrived in this city as part of his weeklong visit in the country.
Haram mosque’s Sheikh Maher bin Hamad Al-Mueaqly was delighted to see children from Balo-i town holding colorful flags and chanting the traditional and oldest Islamic song entitled Tala’ al-Badru ‘Alayna lined up the streets.
In his speech at the provincial capitol, Mueaqly discussed the true essence of Islam as a peaceful religion.
Mueaqly, the first Imam from Saudi Arabia to visit the country also made the rounds of local mosques including the Golden Mosque in Manila, urging Muslims to be righteous and to respect the co-existence of Muslims, Christians and the Jews.
Mueaqly’s visit is part of a propagation mission organized by the Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Endowments, Call and Guidance. He arrived in Manila on October 31 and has given lectures in Cotabato City and Davao City.
Mueaqly, a Sunni Muslim, had issued various fatwa or Islamic ruling and labeled the Sunni extremists Islamic State in Iraq and Syria as “enemy of Islam.”
http://www.manilatimes.net/maranaos-welcome-saudi-cleric-visit/139997/
Friday, November 7, 2014
Army to use ‘bayanihan’ in fight against terror
From the Manila Bulletin (Nov 6): Army to use ‘bayanihan’ in fight against terror
The Philippine Army—particularly the Community Organizing for Peace and Development (COPD) of the 75th Infantry Battalion (75th IB)—is going to fight terror the old fashioned way, through “bayanihan.”
The Army is determined to continue its peace and development program, especially in far-flung and remote highland communities in Agusan del Sur province and neighboring areas, by bringing the government closer to the people.
“The army will continue to push the peace initiatives in order to cease terroristic activities of the New People’s Army (NPA),” stressed Lt. Col. Noman Alcovindas, commanding officer of the 75th IB.
He said their unit will continue to closely coordinate with the local officials and all line agencies of the government to bring basic services to the villagers and to “liberate” village communities from the forced taxation allegedly imposed by the NPA, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).
“We will push with this program even if the lives of our soldiers are at stake,” stressed further Col. Alcovindas.
“We will accomplish the mandate and vision in a proactive way to promote peace and development in the area and do our best to protect the people,” he said.
http://www.mb.com.ph/army-to-use-bayanihan-in-fight-against-terror/
The Philippine Army—particularly the Community Organizing for Peace and Development (COPD) of the 75th Infantry Battalion (75th IB)—is going to fight terror the old fashioned way, through “bayanihan.”
The Army is determined to continue its peace and development program, especially in far-flung and remote highland communities in Agusan del Sur province and neighboring areas, by bringing the government closer to the people.
“The army will continue to push the peace initiatives in order to cease terroristic activities of the New People’s Army (NPA),” stressed Lt. Col. Noman Alcovindas, commanding officer of the 75th IB.
He said their unit will continue to closely coordinate with the local officials and all line agencies of the government to bring basic services to the villagers and to “liberate” village communities from the forced taxation allegedly imposed by the NPA, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).
“We will push with this program even if the lives of our soldiers are at stake,” stressed further Col. Alcovindas.
“We will accomplish the mandate and vision in a proactive way to promote peace and development in the area and do our best to protect the people,” he said.
http://www.mb.com.ph/army-to-use-bayanihan-in-fight-against-terror/
PNP gets photos of Abu Sayyaf suspects in Germans’ kidnapping
From Malaya (Nov 7): PNP gets photos of Abu Sayyaf suspects in Germans’ kidnapping
http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/pnp-gets-photos-abu-sayyaf-suspects-germans%E2%80%99-kidnapping
THE PNP Anti-Kidnapping Group yesterday identified the key members of the Abu Sayyaf Group who kidnapped a German couple last April and released in Patikul, Sulu last month.
AKG chief Senior Supt. Roberto Fajardo identified them, through photos, as Abu Rami alias Amir; Mundi Sawadjaan alias Mon; Mudjappar Sawadjaan alias Longhair; Yusop Jalmaan alias Yusof/Job; and Roger Saji alias Abu Jannah.
He did not say how and when the photos were obtained
Fajardo said Abu Rami led the bandits in snatching German couple Stefan Viktor Okonek and Henrike Dielen last April 17 while they were yachting off Rio Tuba, Palawan. The couple was then brought to the bandits’ lair in Patikul, Sulu where they were held until their release last October 17.
Fajardo said charges of kidnapping with ransom and serious illegal detention have been filed against the identified bandits and several “John Does” before the Department of Justice last October 29.
Earlier reports said the ASG was paid P250 million in cash for the release of the German couple in Brangay Sandah, Patikul, Sulu. Fajardo said they have yet to confirm such claims.
Basilan Bishop Martin Jumoad stressed that he is against the idea of using force, as urged by Basilan mayors, against the terror group since it will only cause more problems, especially for civilians in the area.
“I have been in Basilan. Parang paulit-ulit na lang ang pangyarari. I think the approach should really be no longer through guns,” he added.
Jumoad’s statement comes on the heels of the call made by Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Governor Mujiv Hataman for an all-out war campaign against the Abu Sayyaf.
This, he said, is in response to the terror group’s killing of six soldiers in Sumisip, Basilan last Sunday.
“I think the government must act like a mother that will look for aid in order to win their trust and confidence to the calls of law. I ask the government to really give more educational and livelihood programs to those areas,” Jumoad said.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/pnp-gets-photos-abu-sayyaf-suspects-germans%E2%80%99-kidnapping
Quick US relief response during 'Yolanda' disaster made possible by VFA: US Embassy
From InterAksyon (Nov 8): Quick US relief response during 'Yolanda' disaster made possible by VFA: US Embassy
The efficient response made by American military forces, shortly after the onslaught of super typhoon "Yolanda" (international name: Haiyan) in Eastern Visayas last year, was made possible by the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA), the US Embassy in Manila said in a statement Friday.
"The fast-acting bilateral teamwork between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the US military was possible because of the VFA. Other countries wanted to immediately respond to the Philippines’ call for help, but had to wait as their governments worked out legal agreements for their troops (foreign soldiers) to work in the Philippines," it added.
At its peak, the US military efforts included more than 13,400 military personnel, 66 aircraft (including 10 C-130s to augment the Armed Forces Philippines’ three C-130 aircraft along with eight MV-22 Ospreys) and 12 naval vessels.
The United States delivered more than 2,495 tons of relief supplies and evacuated over 21,000 people.
More than 1,300 flights were completed in support of the relief efforts for Operation Damayan to approximately 450 sites.
The initial focus of US relief efforts included aerial damage assessments of the islands, search and rescue missions, and the delivery of food, water and basic supplies to people displaced from their homes.
By the seventh day of relief operations, the US military delivered about 665,000 pounds of relief supplies provided by the US Agency for International Development.
US military aircraft logged nearly 650 flight hours, moved nearly 1,200 relief workers
into Tacloban City and airlifted almost 5,000 survivors away from typhoon-impacted areas.
Eight days after the storm's landfall, a joint DOD-USAID-United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund team helped to rebuild Tacloban's municipal water system and restored water service, reaching an estimated 250,000 people.
Since last November, the United States government, through USAID, US Department of State and the US Department of Defense, has provided assistance worth more than P6,425,217,370 (about $143 million) to help those affected by "Yolanda" to rebuild their lives.
The United States was one of the largest bilateral donors to support post-typhoon recovery efforts.
Whether this was temporary assistance with food, water and shelter, or long-term assistance with building new weather-resistant school and health buildings, training emergency responders, or integrating disaster preparedness into local school curriculum, the United States remains dedicated to the Philippines.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/98800/quick-us-relief-response-during-yolanda-disaster-made-possible-by-vfa-us-embassy
The efficient response made by American military forces, shortly after the onslaught of super typhoon "Yolanda" (international name: Haiyan) in Eastern Visayas last year, was made possible by the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA), the US Embassy in Manila said in a statement Friday.
"The fast-acting bilateral teamwork between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the US military was possible because of the VFA. Other countries wanted to immediately respond to the Philippines’ call for help, but had to wait as their governments worked out legal agreements for their troops (foreign soldiers) to work in the Philippines," it added.
At its peak, the US military efforts included more than 13,400 military personnel, 66 aircraft (including 10 C-130s to augment the Armed Forces Philippines’ three C-130 aircraft along with eight MV-22 Ospreys) and 12 naval vessels.
The United States delivered more than 2,495 tons of relief supplies and evacuated over 21,000 people.
More than 1,300 flights were completed in support of the relief efforts for Operation Damayan to approximately 450 sites.
The initial focus of US relief efforts included aerial damage assessments of the islands, search and rescue missions, and the delivery of food, water and basic supplies to people displaced from their homes.
By the seventh day of relief operations, the US military delivered about 665,000 pounds of relief supplies provided by the US Agency for International Development.
US military aircraft logged nearly 650 flight hours, moved nearly 1,200 relief workers
into Tacloban City and airlifted almost 5,000 survivors away from typhoon-impacted areas.
Eight days after the storm's landfall, a joint DOD-USAID-United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund team helped to rebuild Tacloban's municipal water system and restored water service, reaching an estimated 250,000 people.
Since last November, the United States government, through USAID, US Department of State and the US Department of Defense, has provided assistance worth more than P6,425,217,370 (about $143 million) to help those affected by "Yolanda" to rebuild their lives.
The United States was one of the largest bilateral donors to support post-typhoon recovery efforts.
Whether this was temporary assistance with food, water and shelter, or long-term assistance with building new weather-resistant school and health buildings, training emergency responders, or integrating disaster preparedness into local school curriculum, the United States remains dedicated to the Philippines.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/98800/quick-us-relief-response-during-yolanda-disaster-made-possible-by-vfa-us-embassy
CPP/Ang Bayan: Ka Agnes, susing kadre sa kilusang pagbangon ng Eastern Panay
Propaganda article from the Tagalog language edition of
the CPP online publication Ang Bayan (Nov 7): Ka Agnes, susing kadre sa kilusang pagbangon ng Eastern Panay (Comrade Agnes, key cadre of the rising movement in Eastern Panay)
Noong Oktubre 21, dumagsa ang mga nakiramay at dumalo sa parangal kay Ka Agnes (Salvacion Mendoza) na ginanap sa syudad. Si Ka Agnes (kilala rin bilang Ka Rita) ay biglaang namatay sa sakit na pulmonya noong Oktubre 16 sa edad na 59 anyos.
Nitong nagdaang taon, ang kapakanan ng mga biktima ng bagyong Yolanda sa rehiyon ng Panay ang pangunahing tinutukan ni Ka Agnes. Sa buong isla, ang kanilang saklaw na erya ang pinakamatinding tinamaan ng bagyong Yolanda. Siya ang pangalawang kalihim ng komiteng larangan sa Eastern Panay at kasapi rin siya ng komiteng rehiyon ng Panay.
Kabilang si Ka Agnes sa mga kadreng nagkoordina ng gawaing relief and rehabilitation sa buong isla at maagap na tumugon para ayudahan ang mga biktima sa harap ng labis na kapabayaan ng rehimeng US-Aquino.
Pagpasok ng 2014, sinimulan na nilang isulong ang kampanyang masa ng pagbangon. Isinulong ang kilusang rehabilitasyon na mahigpit na nakaangkla sa pagsusulong ng digmang bayan dahil batid nilang nakaangkla sa pagrerebolusyon ang ganap na pagbangon mula sa karalitaan at pagsasamantala.
Hanggang bago maospital si Ka Agnes nitong Oktubre, nakatutok siya sa tuluy-tuloy na pagsusulong ng mga nasimulang proyekto at agresibong pagpapalawak pa ng saklaw ng kilusang pagbangon. Labis ang kanyang kasigasigan sa pagtupad sa mga gawain. Nabigyan niya ng inspirasyon ang mga kasama na magpursigi at magpakasigla sa pagpapalawak at pagpapatatag ng kanilang organisasyon.
Mahaba ang panahon ng pagseserbisyo ni Ka Agnes sa Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas at rebolusyonaryong kilusan. Noong maagang bahagi ng dekada 1990, itinalaga siya at kanyang asawa sa Central Front at kabilang sila sa namuno sa tuluy-tuloy na pagpapalakas at pagpapalawak ng BHB dito. Nagpamalas siya ng husay sa pamumuno sa pagdepensa ng masang Tumanduk sa kanilang lupaing ninuno laban sa 3rd ID.
Inilipat si Ka Agnes sa Eastern Panay noong 2012.
Bilang asawa at ina sa apat na anak, si Ka Agnes ay mahigpit na katuwang sa pagsisikap nilang mag-asawa na magtayo ng proletaryong pamilya. Sa gitna ng mabibigat na presyur sa pagpapamilya at mga paghimok ng ilang kamag-anak na mamuhay nang komportable, naging matatag siya at walang pagkakataon na nanghina.
Labis na nalungkot ang masa at mga kasama sa mga yunit ng hukbong bayan sa kanyang pagpanaw. Buhay sa kanilang alaala ang dedikasyon at katatagan ni Ka Agnes sa tuluy-tuloy na pagtupad sa kanyang mga tungkulin sa loob ng mahigit tatlong dekada. Sa gitna ng kanilang pagdadalamhati, taglay nila ang kapasyahang isabuhay ang iniwang halimbawa ng magiting at makulay na buhay ni Ka Agnes.
http://www.philippinerevolution.net/publications/ang_bayan/20141107/ka-agnes-susing-kadre-sa-kilusang-pagbangon-ng-eastern-panay
Noong Oktubre 21, dumagsa ang mga nakiramay at dumalo sa parangal kay Ka Agnes (Salvacion Mendoza) na ginanap sa syudad. Si Ka Agnes (kilala rin bilang Ka Rita) ay biglaang namatay sa sakit na pulmonya noong Oktubre 16 sa edad na 59 anyos.
Nitong nagdaang taon, ang kapakanan ng mga biktima ng bagyong Yolanda sa rehiyon ng Panay ang pangunahing tinutukan ni Ka Agnes. Sa buong isla, ang kanilang saklaw na erya ang pinakamatinding tinamaan ng bagyong Yolanda. Siya ang pangalawang kalihim ng komiteng larangan sa Eastern Panay at kasapi rin siya ng komiteng rehiyon ng Panay.
Kabilang si Ka Agnes sa mga kadreng nagkoordina ng gawaing relief and rehabilitation sa buong isla at maagap na tumugon para ayudahan ang mga biktima sa harap ng labis na kapabayaan ng rehimeng US-Aquino.
Pagpasok ng 2014, sinimulan na nilang isulong ang kampanyang masa ng pagbangon. Isinulong ang kilusang rehabilitasyon na mahigpit na nakaangkla sa pagsusulong ng digmang bayan dahil batid nilang nakaangkla sa pagrerebolusyon ang ganap na pagbangon mula sa karalitaan at pagsasamantala.
Hanggang bago maospital si Ka Agnes nitong Oktubre, nakatutok siya sa tuluy-tuloy na pagsusulong ng mga nasimulang proyekto at agresibong pagpapalawak pa ng saklaw ng kilusang pagbangon. Labis ang kanyang kasigasigan sa pagtupad sa mga gawain. Nabigyan niya ng inspirasyon ang mga kasama na magpursigi at magpakasigla sa pagpapalawak at pagpapatatag ng kanilang organisasyon.
Mahaba ang panahon ng pagseserbisyo ni Ka Agnes sa Partido Komunista ng Pilipinas at rebolusyonaryong kilusan. Noong maagang bahagi ng dekada 1990, itinalaga siya at kanyang asawa sa Central Front at kabilang sila sa namuno sa tuluy-tuloy na pagpapalakas at pagpapalawak ng BHB dito. Nagpamalas siya ng husay sa pamumuno sa pagdepensa ng masang Tumanduk sa kanilang lupaing ninuno laban sa 3rd ID.
Inilipat si Ka Agnes sa Eastern Panay noong 2012.
Bilang asawa at ina sa apat na anak, si Ka Agnes ay mahigpit na katuwang sa pagsisikap nilang mag-asawa na magtayo ng proletaryong pamilya. Sa gitna ng mabibigat na presyur sa pagpapamilya at mga paghimok ng ilang kamag-anak na mamuhay nang komportable, naging matatag siya at walang pagkakataon na nanghina.
Labis na nalungkot ang masa at mga kasama sa mga yunit ng hukbong bayan sa kanyang pagpanaw. Buhay sa kanilang alaala ang dedikasyon at katatagan ni Ka Agnes sa tuluy-tuloy na pagtupad sa kanyang mga tungkulin sa loob ng mahigit tatlong dekada. Sa gitna ng kanilang pagdadalamhati, taglay nila ang kapasyahang isabuhay ang iniwang halimbawa ng magiting at makulay na buhay ni Ka Agnes.
[Ang Bayan is the official news organ of the Communist
Party of the Philippines
http://www.philippinerevolution.net/publications/ang_bayan/20141107/ka-agnes-susing-kadre-sa-kilusang-pagbangon-ng-eastern-panay
3 dead, 4 hurt in Occidental Mindoro NPA attack
From the Sun Star (Nov 7): 3 dead, 4 hurt in Occidental Mindoro NPA attack
Three government troops were killed and four others were injured as communist rebels attacked the Paluan Police Station in Occidental Mindoro Friday, a military official said.
Major Arnold Gasalatan, public affairs officer of the Army's 2nd Infantry Division, said the 50-man rebel group also seized Paluan Mayor Williard Sanchez and his administrative officer whose name was not immediately known.
Citing initial information, Gasalatan said the New People's Army (NPA) rebels launched the attack around 3 p.m. Policemen manning the station promptly fought it out with the rebels as troops from the Army's 76th Infantry Battalion responded.
After a one-hour firefight, Gasalatan said the insurgents withdrew with undetermined number of casualties. However, the fighting claimed the lives of the two policemen and a soldier and wounded four other policemen.
"After the successful defense of the police station, the rebels took the mayor and his administrative officer. The municipal hall is just near the police station. Moments later, the mayor and his staff were released along the way. They were used as human shield," said Gasalatan.
"The attack was foiled; policemen and soldiers defended the police station. Soldiers responded due to timely coordination, that’s why the police station was not overwhelmed by the rebels," he added.
Lieutenant Colonel Oliver Maquiling, civil military operations officer of the Army's 2nd Infantry Division, said the rebels were clad in military uniform.
He said troops were deployed to conduct pursuit operations against the fleeing rebels.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/breaking-news/2014/11/07/3-dead-4-hurt-occidental-mindoro-npa-attack-375293
Three government troops were killed and four others were injured as communist rebels attacked the Paluan Police Station in Occidental Mindoro Friday, a military official said.
Major Arnold Gasalatan, public affairs officer of the Army's 2nd Infantry Division, said the 50-man rebel group also seized Paluan Mayor Williard Sanchez and his administrative officer whose name was not immediately known.
Citing initial information, Gasalatan said the New People's Army (NPA) rebels launched the attack around 3 p.m. Policemen manning the station promptly fought it out with the rebels as troops from the Army's 76th Infantry Battalion responded.
After a one-hour firefight, Gasalatan said the insurgents withdrew with undetermined number of casualties. However, the fighting claimed the lives of the two policemen and a soldier and wounded four other policemen.
"After the successful defense of the police station, the rebels took the mayor and his administrative officer. The municipal hall is just near the police station. Moments later, the mayor and his staff were released along the way. They were used as human shield," said Gasalatan.
"The attack was foiled; policemen and soldiers defended the police station. Soldiers responded due to timely coordination, that’s why the police station was not overwhelmed by the rebels," he added.
Lieutenant Colonel Oliver Maquiling, civil military operations officer of the Army's 2nd Infantry Division, said the rebels were clad in military uniform.
He said troops were deployed to conduct pursuit operations against the fleeing rebels.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/breaking-news/2014/11/07/3-dead-4-hurt-occidental-mindoro-npa-attack-375293
Philippine military orders troops to hunt NPA rebels in restive South
From the Mindanao Examiner (Nov 7): Philippine military orders troops to hunt NPA rebels in restive South
The Philippine military has ordered an intensified operation against the communist rebel group New People’s Army in the restive South following a clash that led to the capture of a huge guerrilla camp in Agusan del Sur province.
Officials said the 4th Infantry Division has deployed troops in the town of Sibagat where members of the 9th Special Forces Company fought fiercely with rebels on Thursday. Soldiers clashed for nearly 30 minutes forcing the rebels to flee deeper in the jungle.
There were no reports of military casualties and officials could not say if there were rebels slain in the fighting in the village of New Tubigon. It was the second clash in recent weeks in the area.
The captured rebel camp can accommodate more than 100 rebels and was surrounded by trenches and thatched huts. Troops also recovered several automatic weapons, improvised explosives, munitions and anti-government propaganda.
Five rebels were killed in separate clashes with the military in Sarangani’s Maasim town and in the town of Kapalong in Davao del Norte. Troops also recovered 9 automatic weapons in Sarangani.
The NPA rebels have been fighting for decades for the establishment of a separate state in the country.
http://www.mindanaoexaminer.com/news.php?news_id=20141107094657
The Philippine military has ordered an intensified operation against the communist rebel group New People’s Army in the restive South following a clash that led to the capture of a huge guerrilla camp in Agusan del Sur province.
Officials said the 4th Infantry Division has deployed troops in the town of Sibagat where members of the 9th Special Forces Company fought fiercely with rebels on Thursday. Soldiers clashed for nearly 30 minutes forcing the rebels to flee deeper in the jungle.
There were no reports of military casualties and officials could not say if there were rebels slain in the fighting in the village of New Tubigon. It was the second clash in recent weeks in the area.
The captured rebel camp can accommodate more than 100 rebels and was surrounded by trenches and thatched huts. Troops also recovered several automatic weapons, improvised explosives, munitions and anti-government propaganda.
Five rebels were killed in separate clashes with the military in Sarangani’s Maasim town and in the town of Kapalong in Davao del Norte. Troops also recovered 9 automatic weapons in Sarangani.
The NPA rebels have been fighting for decades for the establishment of a separate state in the country.
http://www.mindanaoexaminer.com/news.php?news_id=20141107094657
Reds attack town hall, abduct mayor
From ABS-CBN (Nov 8): Reds attack town hall, abduct mayor
Members of the New People's Army (NPA) on Friday attacked the municipal hall of Paluan, Occidental Mindoro and abducted its mayor and administrator.
According to SPO1 Nilo Poja of Occidental Mindoro Provincial Police Office, the rebels attacked the municipal hall at around 3:30 p.m.
The rebels, dressed as soldiers, pretended to inspect the municipal hall.
Around 50 members of the NPA abducted Paluan Mayor Carl Michael Pangilinan and administrative officer Engr. Carl Yambao.
Two unidentified individuals were killed and five others were wounded in the attack.
A few hours after the incident, authorities found Pangilinan and Yambao near Calauagan River, where they were abandoned by the rebels.
A follow-up operation was launched against the rebels.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/11/07/14/reds-attack-town-hall-abduct-mayor
Members of the New People's Army (NPA) on Friday attacked the municipal hall of Paluan, Occidental Mindoro and abducted its mayor and administrator.
According to SPO1 Nilo Poja of Occidental Mindoro Provincial Police Office, the rebels attacked the municipal hall at around 3:30 p.m.
The rebels, dressed as soldiers, pretended to inspect the municipal hall.
Around 50 members of the NPA abducted Paluan Mayor Carl Michael Pangilinan and administrative officer Engr. Carl Yambao.
Two unidentified individuals were killed and five others were wounded in the attack.
A few hours after the incident, authorities found Pangilinan and Yambao near Calauagan River, where they were abandoned by the rebels.
A follow-up operation was launched against the rebels.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/11/07/14/reds-attack-town-hall-abduct-mayor
NPA attacks Mindoro police station, takes mayor hostage
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Nov 7): NPA attacks Mindoro police station, takes mayor hostage
SAN PEDRO CITY, Philippines—At least 50 members of the New People’s Army attacked a police station in Paluan, Occidental Mindoro, Friday afternoon, killing a police officer and a soldier and fleeing with the town’s mayor and another official as hostages.
A hot pursuit operation by government forces was continuing past 6 p.m. even though the rebels released Mayor Carl Michael Pangilinan and his municipal administrator at a river about three kilometers from the police station.
“They took the mayor and the municipal administrator with them as human shields when they escaped,” said Senior Superintendent Ronaldo de Jesus, chief of the police intelligence division in Mimaropa region made up of the islands of Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan.
In a phone interview, De Jesus said the rebels, numbering at least 50 and traveling in two vans, arrived at the police station around 3:30 p.m. and opened fire at the policemen. The policemen fired back but one police officer was killed and four other policemen were wounded.
As the rebels escaped, they encountered a group of Philippine Army soldiers and killed one of them, De Jesus said.
The names of the fatalities were not released immediately.
It was not clear yet how the mayor and the municipal administrator were abducted.
“We learned that there was another encounter in Paluan. There were a lot of Cafgu (Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit) camps along the way,” De Jesus said. The Cafgu is the Army’s auxiliary militia force.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/649367/npa-attacks-mindoro-police-station-takes-mayor-hostage
SAN PEDRO CITY, Philippines—At least 50 members of the New People’s Army attacked a police station in Paluan, Occidental Mindoro, Friday afternoon, killing a police officer and a soldier and fleeing with the town’s mayor and another official as hostages.
A hot pursuit operation by government forces was continuing past 6 p.m. even though the rebels released Mayor Carl Michael Pangilinan and his municipal administrator at a river about three kilometers from the police station.
“They took the mayor and the municipal administrator with them as human shields when they escaped,” said Senior Superintendent Ronaldo de Jesus, chief of the police intelligence division in Mimaropa region made up of the islands of Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan.
In a phone interview, De Jesus said the rebels, numbering at least 50 and traveling in two vans, arrived at the police station around 3:30 p.m. and opened fire at the policemen. The policemen fired back but one police officer was killed and four other policemen were wounded.
As the rebels escaped, they encountered a group of Philippine Army soldiers and killed one of them, De Jesus said.
The names of the fatalities were not released immediately.
It was not clear yet how the mayor and the municipal administrator were abducted.
“We learned that there was another encounter in Paluan. There were a lot of Cafgu (Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit) camps along the way,” De Jesus said. The Cafgu is the Army’s auxiliary militia force.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/649367/npa-attacks-mindoro-police-station-takes-mayor-hostage
‘Same armed group from Philippines kidnapped two Malaysians in Sabah’
From the Borneo Post (Nov 6): ‘Same armed group from Philippines kidnapped two Malaysians in Sabah’
KUALA LUMPUR: The Home Ministry yesterday confirmed that the same armed group from the Philippines had kidnapped two Malaysians in Sabah in June and July respectively.
Its deputy minister Datuk Seri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar said the two Malaysians, a marine police constable and a caged-fish breeder, were still safe and the relevant authorities were communicating each day with certain parties to find the best way to get the two released.
“The group has been contacting us daily and informing us that the victims are safe and comfortable. That’s what we know.
“Our citizens are held captive by the same people and one of the two criminals shot dead in Sabah (Penampang) recently, was from the same armed group involved in the two kidnapping incidents,” he told reporters at the Parliament lobby, here.
Constable Zakia Aliep , 26, was abducted by a group of eight heavily armed men who ambushed a police marine team in Pulau Mabul, Semporna on July 12.
Zakia’s colleague, Corporal Ab Rajah Jamuan, 32, was killed in the 11.10pm incident. The kidnappers have reportedly demanded a RM10 million ransom for Zakia’s release.
Caged-fish breeder Chan Sai Chiun, 32, was kidnapped in Kunak, Sabah, on June 16, by a group of armed men who came in a speedboat when they raided his above-water stilt house.
His kidnappers have reportedly reduced the amount of ransom for his release to RM3 million.
Sabah police yesterday confirmed that the two criminals shot dead in Penampang recently were members of the kidnapping group linked to the Sulu Sultanate army in southern Philippines. Based on intelligence information, there are 14 groups of kidnappers from southern Philippines and at least four of these have committed the crime in the waters of eastern Sabah.
Wan Junaidi said the authorities did not want to divulge too much on the kidnapping cases as the negotiations were on-going while they also did not want to jeopardise the safety of the victims.
“We are following the guidelines set to solve these cases,” he said. — Bernama
http://www.theborneopost.com/2014/11/06/same-armed-group-from-philippines-kidnapped-two-malaysians-in-sabah/
KUALA LUMPUR: The Home Ministry yesterday confirmed that the same armed group from the Philippines had kidnapped two Malaysians in Sabah in June and July respectively.
Its deputy minister Datuk Seri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar said the two Malaysians, a marine police constable and a caged-fish breeder, were still safe and the relevant authorities were communicating each day with certain parties to find the best way to get the two released.
“The group has been contacting us daily and informing us that the victims are safe and comfortable. That’s what we know.
“Our citizens are held captive by the same people and one of the two criminals shot dead in Sabah (Penampang) recently, was from the same armed group involved in the two kidnapping incidents,” he told reporters at the Parliament lobby, here.
Constable Zakia Aliep , 26, was abducted by a group of eight heavily armed men who ambushed a police marine team in Pulau Mabul, Semporna on July 12.
Zakia’s colleague, Corporal Ab Rajah Jamuan, 32, was killed in the 11.10pm incident. The kidnappers have reportedly demanded a RM10 million ransom for Zakia’s release.
Caged-fish breeder Chan Sai Chiun, 32, was kidnapped in Kunak, Sabah, on June 16, by a group of armed men who came in a speedboat when they raided his above-water stilt house.
His kidnappers have reportedly reduced the amount of ransom for his release to RM3 million.
Sabah police yesterday confirmed that the two criminals shot dead in Penampang recently were members of the kidnapping group linked to the Sulu Sultanate army in southern Philippines. Based on intelligence information, there are 14 groups of kidnappers from southern Philippines and at least four of these have committed the crime in the waters of eastern Sabah.
Wan Junaidi said the authorities did not want to divulge too much on the kidnapping cases as the negotiations were on-going while they also did not want to jeopardise the safety of the victims.
“We are following the guidelines set to solve these cases,” he said. — Bernama
http://www.theborneopost.com/2014/11/06/same-armed-group-from-philippines-kidnapped-two-malaysians-in-sabah/
Police anti-kidnap group files raps vs Abu Sayyaf
From the Manila Standard Today (Nov 7): Police anti-kidnap group files raps vs Abu Sayyaf
Guard, negotiator. Mujapar Sawadjaan alias
Long Hair, left, was one of the guards of
kidnapped Germans Stefan Viktor and Henrike
Dielen. Next to him is one of the military
officials who negotiated with the Abu
Sayyaf for the Germans’ release
The Philippine National Police-Anti-Kidnapping Group (PNP-AKG) on Thursday filed kidnapping charges against members of the Abu Sayyaf Group who abducted the two Germans who were later freed in Patikul, Sulu.
Police officials released the photos they identified as the ASG members, including the leader of the team that kidnapped Stefan Viktor, 71, a doctor, and Henrike Dielen, 55, off Palawan waters.
Senior Supt. Roberto Fajardo, director of the PNP-Anti-Kidnapping Group (AKG) said that kidnap for ransom charges had been filed against the group on Oct. 29 against Muamar Askali, also known as Abu Rami and Amir, Roger Saji, alias Abu Janna and a certain SOB.
The ASG members were positively identified by Okonek and Diesen, 55, during a debriefing shortly after their release.
Fajardo said the Germans pointed to Abu Rami, alias Amir of the Abu Sayyaf as the leader of the grouop.
Also included in the charge sheet were Mundi Sawadjaan, Mujapar Sawadjaan, alias Long Hair, Yusuf Jalmaan, and several other John Does.
Fajardo said that the filing of the criminal case is part of the legal offensives against the Abu Sayyaf group as ordered by PNP Director General Alan Purisima.
“The chief PNP ordered legal offensive, so we filed the case last October 29 before the Department of Justice,” said Fajardo.
“We are hoping that we can get warrants of arrest immediately so that we can furnish copies of which to our operating units in Sulu,” he added.
Askali earlier released a video clip on social networking sites showing off the supposed P250 million ransom paid to the Abu Sayyaf in exchange for the release of Okonek and Diesen last Oct. 17.
“They are now boasting that they received th eransom. Even though there was no ransom, the mere fact that they (ASG) made demands, that’s already kidnap for ransom,” said Fajardo.
According to Fajardo, the PNP-AKG is still validating claims that a ransom was paid.
Even as the police had filed cases against the ASG, military forces continue to track down the bandits to free the nine remaining hostages, including the two European birdwatchers snatched in February 2012 in Tawi Tawi, and a Japanese.
Meanwhile, a news portal report said ASG members are reportedly buying weapons while their wives are buying up gold in Sulu province using the P250 million the group claims to have received in exchange for releasing their German hostages.
After the release of the Germans, Abu Rami had said that they already received the ransom “in full.”
The government and military denied the claim, but a video posted in facebook allegedly showed Abu Sayyaf members standing around stacks of money. The video has been removed since.
Armed Forces chief of staff General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. said he would investigate the existence of the video.
Meanwhile, an official of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front said any official can recommend an all-out war against the ASG after it attacked soldiers securing the construction of a circumferential road in Basilan.
MILF First Vice Chairman Ghazali Jaafar made the statement in reaction to a statement made by Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Governor Mujiv Hataman recommending an all-out war against the Abu Sayyaf.
Jaafar said the decision to go all-out against the ASG would depend on the national government.
He added that the Milf cannot suggest an all-out war as it will only cause complications, since they are in the middle of discussing the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) which will pave the way for the creation of a new Bangsamoro political entity.
The MILF official added that what happened in Basilan was an isolated case.
Once the Bangsamoro is in place, Jaafar said the MILF will try to resolve the insurgency in Basilan with the help of the Bangsamoro police force.
http://manilastandardtoday.com/2014/11/07/police-anti-kidnap-group-files-raps-vs-abu-sayyaf/
Guard, negotiator. Mujapar Sawadjaan alias
Long Hair, left, was one of the guards of
kidnapped Germans Stefan Viktor and Henrike
Dielen. Next to him is one of the military
officials who negotiated with the Abu
Sayyaf for the Germans’ release
The Philippine National Police-Anti-Kidnapping Group (PNP-AKG) on Thursday filed kidnapping charges against members of the Abu Sayyaf Group who abducted the two Germans who were later freed in Patikul, Sulu.
Police officials released the photos they identified as the ASG members, including the leader of the team that kidnapped Stefan Viktor, 71, a doctor, and Henrike Dielen, 55, off Palawan waters.
Senior Supt. Roberto Fajardo, director of the PNP-Anti-Kidnapping Group (AKG) said that kidnap for ransom charges had been filed against the group on Oct. 29 against Muamar Askali, also known as Abu Rami and Amir, Roger Saji, alias Abu Janna and a certain SOB.
The ASG members were positively identified by Okonek and Diesen, 55, during a debriefing shortly after their release.
Fajardo said the Germans pointed to Abu Rami, alias Amir of the Abu Sayyaf as the leader of the grouop.
Also included in the charge sheet were Mundi Sawadjaan, Mujapar Sawadjaan, alias Long Hair, Yusuf Jalmaan, and several other John Does.
Fajardo said that the filing of the criminal case is part of the legal offensives against the Abu Sayyaf group as ordered by PNP Director General Alan Purisima.
“The chief PNP ordered legal offensive, so we filed the case last October 29 before the Department of Justice,” said Fajardo.
“We are hoping that we can get warrants of arrest immediately so that we can furnish copies of which to our operating units in Sulu,” he added.
Askali earlier released a video clip on social networking sites showing off the supposed P250 million ransom paid to the Abu Sayyaf in exchange for the release of Okonek and Diesen last Oct. 17.
“They are now boasting that they received th eransom. Even though there was no ransom, the mere fact that they (ASG) made demands, that’s already kidnap for ransom,” said Fajardo.
According to Fajardo, the PNP-AKG is still validating claims that a ransom was paid.
Even as the police had filed cases against the ASG, military forces continue to track down the bandits to free the nine remaining hostages, including the two European birdwatchers snatched in February 2012 in Tawi Tawi, and a Japanese.
Meanwhile, a news portal report said ASG members are reportedly buying weapons while their wives are buying up gold in Sulu province using the P250 million the group claims to have received in exchange for releasing their German hostages.
After the release of the Germans, Abu Rami had said that they already received the ransom “in full.”
The government and military denied the claim, but a video posted in facebook allegedly showed Abu Sayyaf members standing around stacks of money. The video has been removed since.
Armed Forces chief of staff General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. said he would investigate the existence of the video.
Meanwhile, an official of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front said any official can recommend an all-out war against the ASG after it attacked soldiers securing the construction of a circumferential road in Basilan.
MILF First Vice Chairman Ghazali Jaafar made the statement in reaction to a statement made by Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Governor Mujiv Hataman recommending an all-out war against the Abu Sayyaf.
Jaafar said the decision to go all-out against the ASG would depend on the national government.
He added that the Milf cannot suggest an all-out war as it will only cause complications, since they are in the middle of discussing the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) which will pave the way for the creation of a new Bangsamoro political entity.
The MILF official added that what happened in Basilan was an isolated case.
Once the Bangsamoro is in place, Jaafar said the MILF will try to resolve the insurgency in Basilan with the help of the Bangsamoro police force.
http://manilastandardtoday.com/2014/11/07/police-anti-kidnap-group-files-raps-vs-abu-sayyaf/
ARMM mayors remain prone to Abu Sayyaf extortion, threats
From the Business World (Nov 8): ARMM mayors remain prone to Abu Sayyaf extortion, threats
THE AL-QAEDA linked Abu Sayyaf continues to try and extort money and send out threats to mayors in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), Mujiv Hataman, the region’s governor, said.
Hataman made this revelation during a meeting with Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief of staff Gen. Gregorio Pio P. Catapang Jr. on Friday at the Western Mindanao Command headquarters.
“One of my subordinates was asked by the Abu Sayyaf to pay P200,000.00 a month. Some of the mayors are demanded P50,000 monthly payment to the bandits,” Mr. Hataman said.
Mr. Hataman also discussed the concerns of the mayors that the Abu Sayyaf might retaliate if they show their full support for the military.
“We want to support an all-out effort to decimate the Abu Sayyaf. They are sowing terror in my hometown,” said Mayor Durie Kalahal of Tuburan town, Basilan province.
Mr. Catapang allayed the fears of the ARMM officials saying that they have enough troops in the area to cover the law enforcement operations in the region as well as to secure essential development projects in the area.
“We have enough forces in Basilan right now. We can send forces to hunt down the bandits while at the same time, continue securing the Basilan Circumferential Road project,” the military official said.
The AFP chief said that there are five battalions of military units composed of Philippine Marines, troops from the Philippine Army as well as other special command units which will carry out the law enforcement operations with the Philippine National Police (PNP).
Meanwhile, Mr. Hataman clarified the ‘all-out-offensive’ being pushed by the ARMM officials to solve the problem with the Abu Sayyaf.
“The concept of the all-out offensive is to mobilize everything to solve the Abu Sayyaf problem. This is not like the all-out war during the time of President [Joseph] Estrada during which all armaments were used against the armed threats. Actually, military action here is only secondary. They need to support in the law enforcement operations against the bandits who are threatening the peace in our communities,” he said.
http://www.bworldonline.com/content.php?section=Nation&title=armm-mayors-remain-prone-to-abu-sayyaf-extortion,-threats-&id=97514
THE AL-QAEDA linked Abu Sayyaf continues to try and extort money and send out threats to mayors in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), Mujiv Hataman, the region’s governor, said.
Hataman made this revelation during a meeting with Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief of staff Gen. Gregorio Pio P. Catapang Jr. on Friday at the Western Mindanao Command headquarters.
“One of my subordinates was asked by the Abu Sayyaf to pay P200,000.00 a month. Some of the mayors are demanded P50,000 monthly payment to the bandits,” Mr. Hataman said.
Mr. Hataman also discussed the concerns of the mayors that the Abu Sayyaf might retaliate if they show their full support for the military.
“We want to support an all-out effort to decimate the Abu Sayyaf. They are sowing terror in my hometown,” said Mayor Durie Kalahal of Tuburan town, Basilan province.
Mr. Catapang allayed the fears of the ARMM officials saying that they have enough troops in the area to cover the law enforcement operations in the region as well as to secure essential development projects in the area.
“We have enough forces in Basilan right now. We can send forces to hunt down the bandits while at the same time, continue securing the Basilan Circumferential Road project,” the military official said.
The AFP chief said that there are five battalions of military units composed of Philippine Marines, troops from the Philippine Army as well as other special command units which will carry out the law enforcement operations with the Philippine National Police (PNP).
Meanwhile, Mr. Hataman clarified the ‘all-out-offensive’ being pushed by the ARMM officials to solve the problem with the Abu Sayyaf.
“The concept of the all-out offensive is to mobilize everything to solve the Abu Sayyaf problem. This is not like the all-out war during the time of President [Joseph] Estrada during which all armaments were used against the armed threats. Actually, military action here is only secondary. They need to support in the law enforcement operations against the bandits who are threatening the peace in our communities,” he said.
http://www.bworldonline.com/content.php?section=Nation&title=armm-mayors-remain-prone-to-abu-sayyaf-extortion,-threats-&id=97514
Militants’ return a problem
From the New Straits Times (Nov 8): Militants’ return a problem
KUALA LUMPUR: The return of militant fighters to their home countries should be monitored closely by security agencies as it poses a serious threat to the sovereignty of those nations.
A journal published by Damien D. Cheong, entitled Returning ISIS Fighters: What should be done with them?, stated that the return of these jihadists also poses a problem, similar to them joining the fight in the first place.
Admitting that the options left open to governments were limited, Cheong said prohibiting the return of these terrorists was the most practical way to minimise the danger posed by these groups of men with battlefield experience in guerrilla and urban warfare, and hit-and-run tactics. This option also reduces the possibility of them recruiting more volunteers locally.
“Among the advantages of pursuing a policy that prohibits the return of these jihadists include punishing them and holding them accountable for breaking the law. This strategy also reduces the risk of an attack in the home country.
“It is also cost-effective, in terms of the associated manpower, and the financial and logistical needs put on these countries. It frees up the penal system and there’s no cost incurred in deploying assets to monitor their movements,” he said, adding that Australia and Canada have reportedly cancelled the passports of several IS militants.
There are also legal issues that need to be considered, as prohibiting the return of these individuals might contravene international laws.
“As Akil N. Awan from the University of London pointed out: ‘Unless the accused happened to have dual nationality, it would be illegal to render a person stateless under existing United Nations conventions.’”
Cheong, on the flip-side, said preventing these militants from returning could compromise the intelligence-gathering efforts and leave a “black hole” in the command and control structure, the planning and the operational side of the terror group.
“Intelligence-gathering efforts could be compromised as the returnees could provide useful intelligence on IS and its operations.” he said.
Another approach that could be adopted by relevant agencies is to include interception and subsequent incarceration.
Fighters returning to their home soil should be intercepted and treated as regular offenders while being prosecuted under the state’s criminal justice system.
“Those who are convicted will be imprisoned and subjected to regular rehabilitative efforts. Detainees can also help in intelligence-gathering efforts and the deradicalisation or disengagement of other operatives from violent initiatives.” he said.
Counterterrorism expert Andrin Raj said the return of these individuals pose a national security threat to Malaysia as there wasis the possibility of them becoming “lone wolf suicide bombers”.
These singletons He said they would be tougher to keep tabs on since profiling them tooktakes time and is usually a drawn-out process, even though the authorities hadhave some information on them.
“The threat is real as they are radicalised and given the highest honor to commit suicide bombings.”
Raj, who is also the southeast Asian regional director at the International Association for Counterterrorism and Security Professionals, Centre for Security Studies, said the main reason for the return of these jihadists wasis to recruit more members using al Qaeda’s Salafi teachings.
Apart from the threats posed by militants returning from war zones, Raj alsoHe cautioned the government to keep an eye on the members of terror groups who were also previously Internal Security Act detainees.
“The Darul Islam Sabah is being supported by the Abu Sayyaf Group and the Knights of The Right Keepers, originally a southern Philippine Mindanao University Alumni group, which set up base in Sabah to protect the well-being of Philippine Muslim workers there.”
“This group has been linked to Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) since the early 90s. JI has pledged allegiance to IS and the Abu Sayyaf. It is no surprise that Darul Islam Sabah has also pledged it allegiance to IS.” he said.
http://www.nst.com.my/node/50748
KUALA LUMPUR: The return of militant fighters to their home countries should be monitored closely by security agencies as it poses a serious threat to the sovereignty of those nations.
A journal published by Damien D. Cheong, entitled Returning ISIS Fighters: What should be done with them?, stated that the return of these jihadists also poses a problem, similar to them joining the fight in the first place.
Admitting that the options left open to governments were limited, Cheong said prohibiting the return of these terrorists was the most practical way to minimise the danger posed by these groups of men with battlefield experience in guerrilla and urban warfare, and hit-and-run tactics. This option also reduces the possibility of them recruiting more volunteers locally.
“Among the advantages of pursuing a policy that prohibits the return of these jihadists include punishing them and holding them accountable for breaking the law. This strategy also reduces the risk of an attack in the home country.
“It is also cost-effective, in terms of the associated manpower, and the financial and logistical needs put on these countries. It frees up the penal system and there’s no cost incurred in deploying assets to monitor their movements,” he said, adding that Australia and Canada have reportedly cancelled the passports of several IS militants.
There are also legal issues that need to be considered, as prohibiting the return of these individuals might contravene international laws.
“As Akil N. Awan from the University of London pointed out: ‘Unless the accused happened to have dual nationality, it would be illegal to render a person stateless under existing United Nations conventions.’”
Cheong, on the flip-side, said preventing these militants from returning could compromise the intelligence-gathering efforts and leave a “black hole” in the command and control structure, the planning and the operational side of the terror group.
“Intelligence-gathering efforts could be compromised as the returnees could provide useful intelligence on IS and its operations.” he said.
Another approach that could be adopted by relevant agencies is to include interception and subsequent incarceration.
Fighters returning to their home soil should be intercepted and treated as regular offenders while being prosecuted under the state’s criminal justice system.
“Those who are convicted will be imprisoned and subjected to regular rehabilitative efforts. Detainees can also help in intelligence-gathering efforts and the deradicalisation or disengagement of other operatives from violent initiatives.” he said.
Counterterrorism expert Andrin Raj said the return of these individuals pose a national security threat to Malaysia as there wasis the possibility of them becoming “lone wolf suicide bombers”.
These singletons He said they would be tougher to keep tabs on since profiling them tooktakes time and is usually a drawn-out process, even though the authorities hadhave some information on them.
“The threat is real as they are radicalised and given the highest honor to commit suicide bombings.”
Raj, who is also the southeast Asian regional director at the International Association for Counterterrorism and Security Professionals, Centre for Security Studies, said the main reason for the return of these jihadists wasis to recruit more members using al Qaeda’s Salafi teachings.
Apart from the threats posed by militants returning from war zones, Raj alsoHe cautioned the government to keep an eye on the members of terror groups who were also previously Internal Security Act detainees.
“The Darul Islam Sabah is being supported by the Abu Sayyaf Group and the Knights of The Right Keepers, originally a southern Philippine Mindanao University Alumni group, which set up base in Sabah to protect the well-being of Philippine Muslim workers there.”
“This group has been linked to Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) since the early 90s. JI has pledged allegiance to IS and the Abu Sayyaf. It is no surprise that Darul Islam Sabah has also pledged it allegiance to IS.” he said.
http://www.nst.com.my/node/50748
AFP chief says Sayyaf 'money' used to lure supporters
From the Philippine Star (Nov 7): AFP chief says Sayyaf 'money' used to lure supporters
He believes the amount is "counterfeit," adding that the extremist group used it to lure supporters and followers to reinforce its dwindling numbers.
Catapang, who was Zamboanga City after a brief stopover in Basilan, told reporters that the military is still investigating on the video clip released by Abu Sayyaf spokesman Muamar Askali alias Abu Rami on Facebook before deactivating it.
While in Zamboanga, Catapang met Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Gov. Mujiv Hataman and the Basilan mayors to address also the Abu Sayyaf problem in Basilan.
The footage showed packs of P1,000-bill wrapped in transparent plastic each and stacked in huge blocks. An Abu Sayyaf member is seen pulling out a pack to show off the money.
Catapang maintained that the military is not privy to any ransom paid to the armed militants in exchange for the release of two German hostages last month.
"Sabi ko nga i-check natin baka counterfeit money yon na ipinapakita lang nila so that they can attract more supporters or followers," Catapang said, reacting to questions posed by the media.
Catapang also shrugged off suggestions that his insistence that the money is fake may cause more danger to remaining hostages.
“Well, that's not my problem, huh. We are here to ask them (Abu Sayyaf) they release (the hostages). Whether it's counterfeit money or not it's not our problem," he said.
Catapang also said around 10 to 11 kidnap victims, including 5 foreigners are still being held by the Abu Sayyaf in Sulu and none of the victims have been monitored in Basilan province.
http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2014/11/07/1389145/afp-chief-says-sayyaf-money-used-lure-supporters
Video grab from Facebook shows stacks of P1,000 bills, which the Abu Sayyaf said represents the P250-million ransom paid in exchange for the release of two German hostages last month.
Armed Forces Chief of Staff Gen. Pio Gregorio Catapang Jr. on Friday remained incredulous toward the alleged hefty ransom money seen in a video by the Abu Sayyaf.
Catapang believes the amount is "counterfeit," adding that the extremist group used it to lure supporters and followers to reinforce its dwindling numbers.
Catapang, who was Zamboanga City after a brief stopover in Basilan, told reporters that the military is still investigating on the video clip released by Abu Sayyaf spokesman Muamar Askali alias Abu Rami on Facebook before deactivating it.
While in Zamboanga, Catapang met Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Gov. Mujiv Hataman and the Basilan mayors to address also the Abu Sayyaf problem in Basilan.
The footage showed packs of P1,000-bill wrapped in transparent plastic each and stacked in huge blocks. An Abu Sayyaf member is seen pulling out a pack to show off the money.
Armed Forces Chief of Staff Gen. Pio Gregorio Catapang Jr. on Friday remained incredulous toward the alleged hefty ransom money seen in a video by the Abu Sayyaf.
He believes the amount is "counterfeit," adding that the extremist group used it to lure supporters and followers to reinforce its dwindling numbers.
Catapang, who was Zamboanga City after a brief stopover in Basilan, told reporters that the military is still investigating on the video clip released by Abu Sayyaf spokesman Muamar Askali alias Abu Rami on Facebook before deactivating it.
While in Zamboanga, Catapang met Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Gov. Mujiv Hataman and the Basilan mayors to address also the Abu Sayyaf problem in Basilan.
The footage showed packs of P1,000-bill wrapped in transparent plastic each and stacked in huge blocks. An Abu Sayyaf member is seen pulling out a pack to show off the money.
Catapang maintained that the military is not privy to any ransom paid to the armed militants in exchange for the release of two German hostages last month.
"Sabi ko nga i-check natin baka counterfeit money yon na ipinapakita lang nila so that they can attract more supporters or followers," Catapang said, reacting to questions posed by the media.
Catapang also shrugged off suggestions that his insistence that the money is fake may cause more danger to remaining hostages.
“Well, that's not my problem, huh. We are here to ask them (Abu Sayyaf) they release (the hostages). Whether it's counterfeit money or not it's not our problem," he said.
Catapang also said around 10 to 11 kidnap victims, including 5 foreigners are still being held by the Abu Sayyaf in Sulu and none of the victims have been monitored in Basilan province.
http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2014/11/07/1389145/afp-chief-says-sayyaf-money-used-lure-supporters
Round-the-clock offensive vs Abu Sayyaf launched
From the Philippine Star (Nov 7): Round-the-clock offensive vs Abu Sayyaf launched
Armed Forces Chief of Staff Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr meets Joint Task Group Basilan commander Col/ Rolando Joselito Bautista upon arrival at Tabiawan village, Isabela City on Nov. 7, 2014. Catapang was briefed on developments in the military's efforts against terrorist groups following the death of six Army soldiers on November 2. AFP
Government forces a launched round-the-clock, intensified law enforcement operation in Basilan against the Abu Sayyaf group.
Armed Forces Chief of Staff Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang said the move came after the local officials declared its support to crush the extremist group.
Catapang visited Basilan Friday morning and assessed troops' operations against the Abu Sayyaf. He also later met with Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Gov. Mujiv Hataman and the 13 mayors of the province who presented their manifesto of support for the campaign against the militants.
Catapang said that at least 5 battalions of soldiers with specialized units are pursuing the Abu Sayyaf.
RELATED: AFP chief says Sayyaf 'money' used to lure supporters
"We want 24-hour operations, because we are trying to develop a capability that if you fight us or you destroy the peace we will fight you [for] 24 hours [a day] with our night fighting capability," Catapang said in an inteview with reporters after a closed door dialogue with the Basilan mayors and Hataman at the Western Mindanao Command.
The operations were launched since the ambush and killing of six soldiers last Sunday. The campaign includes the establishment of checkpoints along roads in key areas.
Catapang, however, allayed fears of any collateral damage the operations may cause, saying that it only involves an intensified enforcement of the law through the serving of outstanding arrest warrants against the armed extremists.
The AFP chief also said he is confident that soldiers will conduct themselves with discipline and protect the rights and safety of civilians.
"What is good here [is that] the local government units are with us now as they also want to reclaim peace," Catapang added.
http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2014/11/07/1389153/round-clock-offensive-vs-abu-sayyaf-launched
Armed Forces Chief of Staff Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr meets Joint Task Group Basilan commander Col/ Rolando Joselito Bautista upon arrival at Tabiawan village, Isabela City on Nov. 7, 2014. Catapang was briefed on developments in the military's efforts against terrorist groups following the death of six Army soldiers on November 2. AFP
Government forces a launched round-the-clock, intensified law enforcement operation in Basilan against the Abu Sayyaf group.
Armed Forces Chief of Staff Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang said the move came after the local officials declared its support to crush the extremist group.
Catapang visited Basilan Friday morning and assessed troops' operations against the Abu Sayyaf. He also later met with Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Gov. Mujiv Hataman and the 13 mayors of the province who presented their manifesto of support for the campaign against the militants.
Catapang said that at least 5 battalions of soldiers with specialized units are pursuing the Abu Sayyaf.
RELATED: AFP chief says Sayyaf 'money' used to lure supporters
"We want 24-hour operations, because we are trying to develop a capability that if you fight us or you destroy the peace we will fight you [for] 24 hours [a day] with our night fighting capability," Catapang said in an inteview with reporters after a closed door dialogue with the Basilan mayors and Hataman at the Western Mindanao Command.
The operations were launched since the ambush and killing of six soldiers last Sunday. The campaign includes the establishment of checkpoints along roads in key areas.
Catapang, however, allayed fears of any collateral damage the operations may cause, saying that it only involves an intensified enforcement of the law through the serving of outstanding arrest warrants against the armed extremists.
The AFP chief also said he is confident that soldiers will conduct themselves with discipline and protect the rights and safety of civilians.
"What is good here [is that] the local government units are with us now as they also want to reclaim peace," Catapang added.
http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2014/11/07/1389153/round-clock-offensive-vs-abu-sayyaf-launched
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