From the Sun Star-Cagayan de Oro (Nov 19): Church leaders appeal to army, NPA
CHURCH leaders appealed to the military and the New People’s Army (NPA) to stop the fighting in the hinterland village in Claveria, Misamis Oriental as it has displaced residents caught in the crossfire.
Bishop Felixberto Calang, of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente (IFI), said the evacuation indicates that the pursuit operation of the military to rescue the two soldiers held captive by the Maoist rebels is now displacing the communities in the area.
[Video report: Army operation 'mihatag' og kadaot imbes kalinaw
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g3dU0U_qLCk]
[READ: MisOr villagers flee homes as Army, NPA clash]
According to Rogelio Plana, an official of the lumad group Kalumbay, around a hundred residents were compelled to abandon their homes in Sitio Lakbangan, Barangay Minalwang, Claveria, due to the spate of armed clashes between the soldiers and the NPA recently.
First Lieutenant Patrick Martinez, who acted as the spokesman of the Philippine Army’s 4th Infantry Division, earlier confirmed that the conduct of the combat operation in the area is part of the military’s effort to rescue Private First Class Marnel Cinches and Private First Class Jerrel Yorong who are kept captive by the NPA.
In the past weeks following the capture of Cinches and Yorong last August 22, the crisis committee of the province of Bukidnon, headed by Governor Jose Maria Zubiri, and a group of local clergy from different churches, have exerted efforts to facilitate the release of the captured soldiers through peaceful means.
“Sa tan-aw nato, kini unta ang unang buhaton sa AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) leadership imbes nga ang military operation kay mohatag kini og kadaut sa mga lumolupyo sa maong dapit (In my view, this should be the first step that the AFP leadership must take instead of military operation since it will adversely affect civilians living in the area),” Calang said, referring to the turnover of the two captive soldiers.
He said that based on his recent phone conversations with Zubiri, the governor has informed the military of the response of the NPA regarding the details on the conduct of the release.
Clarification
Calang said Zubiri told him the NPA wants clarification on the issue of the “stand down” instead of pullout if and when the turnover will take place.
The number of days that the suspension of military operation (Somo) is implemented also needs to be finalized by the AFP and the NPA.
“This (stand down) is a new term for them (NPA),” Calang said, adding that this condition set by the military leadership must be ironed out first.
Quoting Zubiri, Calang said the NPA also wanted the areas where the possible turnover to occur to be widened and should include more towns and villages in Bukidnon and Misamis Oriental.
Asked if the Roman Catholic and IFI churches, two of the religious institutions that have been working to ensure the safe release of the soldiers, are optimistic in spite of the insistence of the government forces to pursue the rebels who they believe are holding Cinches and Yorong in the hinterlands of Bukidnon and Misamis Oriental, Calang said they “will not lose hope.”
Can be resolved
With the active role that Zubiri has played, and through the religious leaders’ assistance, Calang said this would be resolved eventually.
“Kung nabuhat sa duha ka panig nga mabuhian ang mga nadakpan sa una, karon pa kaha (If the release of prisoners had been done in the past, why not now),” he added.
He said that while it would not be easy on the part of the NPA to release their captives considering that they and the military have not yet come to a mutual understanding, the turnover would happen.
“I believe nga sayon ‘ni mapangitaan og paagi (I believe it’s not difficult to look for solutions),” Calang said.
Calang said he would talk to Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and apprise him of the latest developments, including the displacement of the Claveria villagers, in the hopes the DND leadership can intervene on the matter.
Meanwhile, Bishop Jose Cabantan, of Malaybalay City, also urged both parties to find peaceful means in releasing the captured soldiers.
“Ila untang pamalundangan ang ilang buhaton aron magmalinawon ang pagbuhi sa duha ka sundalo (They should think it over so that the release of Cinches and Yorong would not result in bloodshed and violence),” Cabantan told reporters after officiating an ordination ceremony at the St. Augustine Metropolitan Cathedral Wednesday morning.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/cagayan-de-oro/local-news/2014/11/19/church-leaders-appeal-army-npa-377494
Thursday, November 20, 2014
Brushes with danger ‘all part of the job,’ says soldier who survived Abu Sayyaf attack
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Nov 19): Brushes with danger ‘all part of the job,’ says soldier who survived Abu Sayyaf attack
Armed Forces chief General Gregorio Catapang Jr. on Tuesday, Nov. 18, pins the Wounded Personnel Medal to Staff Sergeant Johnifer Tumala, one of the battle casualties from the firefight in Sulu last November 14 which killed five soldiers. FRANCES MANGOSING/ INQUIRER.net
“This is all part of the job.”
Staff Sergeant Johnifer Tumala, a Scout Ranger, was one of 28 the wounded soldiers from clashes against the Abu Sayyaf in Sulu nearly a week ago. They were so close to the bandits and it was almost the end for them.
“Kami yung nag-reinforce sa harap. ‘Yung nasalubong namin marami nasa 50,” he said. (We were the ones who provided reinforcement in front. We encountered around 50 rebels.)
“Halos magsampalan kami sa sobrang lapit nila,” he said when he described how near the terrorists were. (We were so close we could practically slap each other.)
Five soldiers, all with ranks of Private First Class, were killed in the encounter, the biggest since the military launched all-out law enforcement operations against the Abu Sayyaf in Sulu last month. The slain soldiers were identified as Privates First Class Joey Blanche of Tacurong City; Gabby Aches of Misamis Oriental; Albert Villaluna of Luban, Occidental Mindoro; Alison Claro of Gamu, Isabela and Samuel Taluyan of Tamdan Kalinga.
The military fought up to 300 members of the Abu Sayyaf last Friday. Tumala was part of the reinforcement team led by First Lieutenant Michael Asistores of the First Scout Ranger Company.
A first team on reconnaissance patrol led by Second Lieutenant Dante Espiritu was watching members of the Abu Sayyaf from about 20 meters away as they waited for reinforcement so they could attack the bandits.
However, they had to fire right away without the reinforcements because one of the Abu Sayyaf who was supposedly going to relieve himself was heading to their direction.
All of a sudden, they were surrounded by the Abu Sayyaf and shots were fired from all directions. The surrounding hills were said to be occupied by Radulan Sahiron, the most senior leader of the Abu Sayyaf, Hairullah Asbang, Jurim Hussein, Hatib Sawadjaan and Juli Ekit.
Unknown to the Abu Sayyaf, military reinforcements and attack helicopters were coming in. Asistores led the reinforcements while Tumala initially took charge of the wounded.
The 37-year-old Tumala, who had been previously assigned in Mindanao, said it was his first time to be injured in his 16 years of service. He sustained shrapnel wounds on his right shoulder.
Asistores was also hit on his arm.
The military said 10 of the terrorists were killed and 18 were wounded in the firefight that lasted for five hours.
Soldiers place their lives at risk every time they engage in battle but it’s all part of the job, said Tumala.
“Part ‘yun ng trabaho. Kung ‘yun (buhay) ang bigay ng Panginoon na hanggang doon na lang, doon na lang. Sa awa ng Diyos at swerte, nakaligtas kami,” he said. (It’s part of the job. If the life that God gave you has reached its end, then so be it. By God’s mercy and through luck, we survived.)
The military launched law enforcement operations last month after the Abu Sayyaf released the two German hostages for a reported ransom of P20 million.
Armed Forces chief General Gregorio Catapang Jr. headed to Zamboanga City on Tuesday for a closed-door command conference with regional military commanders. He also visited the wounded soldiers confined at the Camp Navarro General Hospital and personally handed their combat medals.
Asistores received the Gold Cross Medal, the third highest military award while Tumala received the Wounded Personnel Medal. Other Gold Cross Medal Awardees were: Sergeant Eddie P. Lumandap Private First Class Ariel E. Cajes
The rest of the recipients of Wounded Personnel Medal award were: 1) Private First Class Carlito A. Sistoza; 2) Private First Class Richard C. Rendon; 3) Private First Class Reagan J. Apostol; 4) Private First Class Jerimane E. Corpuz; 5) Private First Class Emidio D. Bitin III; 6) Private First Class Alexander S. Nael; 7) Corporal Ray B. Tampil; 8) Private First Class Romarico T. Talledo, Jr.; 9) Private First Class Rogelio A. Domingo; 10) Private First Class Richie H. De Pedro; 11) Private First Class Rogie L. Valdez; 12) Private First Class Belger M. Ramirez; 13) Sergeant Elmer L. Lazaga; 14) Private First Class Eduardo U. Gomez; 15) Private First Class Mark Laurence A. Manggad; 16) Private First Class Orlando B. Ballesteros, Jr.; 17) Corporal Dennis S. Azerador; 18) Private First Class Jerico T. Diza; 29) Private First Class Jeffry B. Baquial; 20) Sergeant Delio B. Surio; 21) Corporal Jevsie H. Galulu; 22) Private First Class Lloyd F. Saranglao 23) Sergeant Castro P. Kitong and 24) Corporal Joey DC De Guzman.
A Distinguished Conduct Star, the second highest military award, is being eyed to be given to Espiritu.
“You are our heroes. We want to honor you. We want to say ‘pag wounded kayo (if you are wounded) we will take care of you,” Catapang said.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/651722/brushes-with-danger-all-part-of-the-job-says-soldier-who-survived-abu-sayyaf-attack
Armed Forces chief General Gregorio Catapang Jr. on Tuesday, Nov. 18, pins the Wounded Personnel Medal to Staff Sergeant Johnifer Tumala, one of the battle casualties from the firefight in Sulu last November 14 which killed five soldiers. FRANCES MANGOSING/ INQUIRER.net
“This is all part of the job.”
Staff Sergeant Johnifer Tumala, a Scout Ranger, was one of 28 the wounded soldiers from clashes against the Abu Sayyaf in Sulu nearly a week ago. They were so close to the bandits and it was almost the end for them.
“Kami yung nag-reinforce sa harap. ‘Yung nasalubong namin marami nasa 50,” he said. (We were the ones who provided reinforcement in front. We encountered around 50 rebels.)
“Halos magsampalan kami sa sobrang lapit nila,” he said when he described how near the terrorists were. (We were so close we could practically slap each other.)
Five soldiers, all with ranks of Private First Class, were killed in the encounter, the biggest since the military launched all-out law enforcement operations against the Abu Sayyaf in Sulu last month. The slain soldiers were identified as Privates First Class Joey Blanche of Tacurong City; Gabby Aches of Misamis Oriental; Albert Villaluna of Luban, Occidental Mindoro; Alison Claro of Gamu, Isabela and Samuel Taluyan of Tamdan Kalinga.
The military fought up to 300 members of the Abu Sayyaf last Friday. Tumala was part of the reinforcement team led by First Lieutenant Michael Asistores of the First Scout Ranger Company.
A first team on reconnaissance patrol led by Second Lieutenant Dante Espiritu was watching members of the Abu Sayyaf from about 20 meters away as they waited for reinforcement so they could attack the bandits.
However, they had to fire right away without the reinforcements because one of the Abu Sayyaf who was supposedly going to relieve himself was heading to their direction.
All of a sudden, they were surrounded by the Abu Sayyaf and shots were fired from all directions. The surrounding hills were said to be occupied by Radulan Sahiron, the most senior leader of the Abu Sayyaf, Hairullah Asbang, Jurim Hussein, Hatib Sawadjaan and Juli Ekit.
Unknown to the Abu Sayyaf, military reinforcements and attack helicopters were coming in. Asistores led the reinforcements while Tumala initially took charge of the wounded.
The 37-year-old Tumala, who had been previously assigned in Mindanao, said it was his first time to be injured in his 16 years of service. He sustained shrapnel wounds on his right shoulder.
Asistores was also hit on his arm.
The military said 10 of the terrorists were killed and 18 were wounded in the firefight that lasted for five hours.
Soldiers place their lives at risk every time they engage in battle but it’s all part of the job, said Tumala.
“Part ‘yun ng trabaho. Kung ‘yun (buhay) ang bigay ng Panginoon na hanggang doon na lang, doon na lang. Sa awa ng Diyos at swerte, nakaligtas kami,” he said. (It’s part of the job. If the life that God gave you has reached its end, then so be it. By God’s mercy and through luck, we survived.)
The military launched law enforcement operations last month after the Abu Sayyaf released the two German hostages for a reported ransom of P20 million.
Armed Forces chief General Gregorio Catapang Jr. headed to Zamboanga City on Tuesday for a closed-door command conference with regional military commanders. He also visited the wounded soldiers confined at the Camp Navarro General Hospital and personally handed their combat medals.
Asistores received the Gold Cross Medal, the third highest military award while Tumala received the Wounded Personnel Medal. Other Gold Cross Medal Awardees were: Sergeant Eddie P. Lumandap Private First Class Ariel E. Cajes
The rest of the recipients of Wounded Personnel Medal award were: 1) Private First Class Carlito A. Sistoza; 2) Private First Class Richard C. Rendon; 3) Private First Class Reagan J. Apostol; 4) Private First Class Jerimane E. Corpuz; 5) Private First Class Emidio D. Bitin III; 6) Private First Class Alexander S. Nael; 7) Corporal Ray B. Tampil; 8) Private First Class Romarico T. Talledo, Jr.; 9) Private First Class Rogelio A. Domingo; 10) Private First Class Richie H. De Pedro; 11) Private First Class Rogie L. Valdez; 12) Private First Class Belger M. Ramirez; 13) Sergeant Elmer L. Lazaga; 14) Private First Class Eduardo U. Gomez; 15) Private First Class Mark Laurence A. Manggad; 16) Private First Class Orlando B. Ballesteros, Jr.; 17) Corporal Dennis S. Azerador; 18) Private First Class Jerico T. Diza; 29) Private First Class Jeffry B. Baquial; 20) Sergeant Delio B. Surio; 21) Corporal Jevsie H. Galulu; 22) Private First Class Lloyd F. Saranglao 23) Sergeant Castro P. Kitong and 24) Corporal Joey DC De Guzman.
A Distinguished Conduct Star, the second highest military award, is being eyed to be given to Espiritu.
“You are our heroes. We want to honor you. We want to say ‘pag wounded kayo (if you are wounded) we will take care of you,” Catapang said.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/651722/brushes-with-danger-all-part-of-the-job-says-soldier-who-survived-abu-sayyaf-attack
VIDEO | Ransom share, monthly salary attracting Abu Sayyaf recruits: Basilan ex-mayor
From InterAksyon (Nov 20): VIDEO | Ransom share, monthly salary attracting Abu Sayyaf recruits: Basilan ex-mayor
A screenshot from News5 Everywhere video shows Abu Sayyaf members brandishing high-powered weapons.
Partaking of the ransom from kidnapping and a monthly salary are the come-ons the Muslim extremist Abu Sayyaf Group is offering in its more aggressive campaign to recruit new members, according to former mayor Joel Maturan of Ungkaya Pukan town in Basilan province.
The provinces of Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi comprise the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), one of the poorest regions in the Philippines.
Aside from receiving a part of the huge ransoms from kidnappings, ASG recruits are reportedly being offered a monthly salary of P15,000, Maturan said.
Compared with the per capita income of P14,000 in Basilan, it is not surprising for the youth – some as young as 14 years old – to be attracted by the offer of the bandit group.
The ASG members are also armed with brand-new and high-powered automatic weapons to fight paramilitary forces and government troops, Maturan added.
Lieutenant Rowena Muyela, Westmincom spokesperson, said the military is validating and checking these reports on the ground.
While it is easy for the Abu Sayyaf to recruit new members, the government is finding it hard to augment its civilian paramilitary forces, or the Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU).
To counter the ASG campaign, Muyela said the military is seeking the help of Muslim leaders such as imams.
[Video report]
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/99563/video--partaking-of-ransom-monthly-salary-attracting-abu-sayyaf-recruits-basilan-ex-mayor
A screenshot from News5 Everywhere video shows Abu Sayyaf members brandishing high-powered weapons.
Partaking of the ransom from kidnapping and a monthly salary are the come-ons the Muslim extremist Abu Sayyaf Group is offering in its more aggressive campaign to recruit new members, according to former mayor Joel Maturan of Ungkaya Pukan town in Basilan province.
The provinces of Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi comprise the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), one of the poorest regions in the Philippines.
Aside from receiving a part of the huge ransoms from kidnappings, ASG recruits are reportedly being offered a monthly salary of P15,000, Maturan said.
Compared with the per capita income of P14,000 in Basilan, it is not surprising for the youth – some as young as 14 years old – to be attracted by the offer of the bandit group.
The ASG members are also armed with brand-new and high-powered automatic weapons to fight paramilitary forces and government troops, Maturan added.
Lieutenant Rowena Muyela, Westmincom spokesperson, said the military is validating and checking these reports on the ground.
While it is easy for the Abu Sayyaf to recruit new members, the government is finding it hard to augment its civilian paramilitary forces, or the Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU).
To counter the ASG campaign, Muyela said the military is seeking the help of Muslim leaders such as imams.
[Video report]
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/99563/video--partaking-of-ransom-monthly-salary-attracting-abu-sayyaf-recruits-basilan-ex-mayor
Army denies BIFF takeover of village in Cotabato
From GMA News (Nov 20): Army denies BIFF takeover of village in Cotabato
A military officer on Thursday denied reports that the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters have seized Sitio Bentad in Barangay Baliki in Midsayap town in Cotabato province.
A military officer on Thursday denied reports that the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters have seized Sitio Bentad in Barangay Baliki in Midsayap town in Cotabato province.
In a phone interview with GMA News Online, Captain Jo-Ann Petinglay, public affairs officer of the Army's 6th division, said an estimated 100 BIFF fighters, led by Commander Abu Nawas, positioned themselves 700 meters away from the barangay outpost and started shooting civilians on Tuesday night.
She said there were no casualties from the firefight, which lasted for around 30 minutes.
According to an earlier report on GMA News TV's "News TV Live" said some 300 BIFF fighters entered Sitio Bentad in Barangay Baliki in Midsayap, and drove away the civilians there. After the attack, they reportedly set up a camp in the area.
But, Petinglay denied this, saying, "Sa ngayon, wala nang BIFF sa lugar, pinabalik na agad ang mga inilikas na residente, pero hindi nga lahat sila umalis."
Petinglay also said they are still determining the parties involved, and how the firefight ensued. Government troops are also on pursuit operations against the rebels.
The BIFF is a splinter group of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, which is in peace efforts with the government.
Headed by Ameril Umbra Kato, the BIFF had led attacks in Mindanao in 2008 after the Supreme Court thumbed down a memorandum of agreement on ancestral domain.
Study: NPA is largest group behind terrorist attacks in Philippines
From the Philippine Star (Nov 20): Study: NPA is largest group behind terrorist attacks in Philippines
The New People's Army claimed responsibility for 30 percent of deaths in terrorist incidents in 2013. STAR/file
The armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), the New People's Army (NPA), is identified in an international study as the "largest individual group" suspected to be behind terrorist incidents in the Philippines last year.
The Global Terrorism Index 2014 released Tuesday by Sydney-based think tank Institute for Economics and Peace noted that the NPA claimed responsibility for 30 percent of deaths from terrorist-related incidents in 2013.
"Whilst there were seven known groups that carried out a terrorist act in 2013, most activity is carried out by the New People's Army, Moro Islamic Liberation Front and the Abu Sayyaf Group," it noted.
The CPP-NPA was designated a foreign terrorist organization by the United States State Department in 2002.
The study, which ranks the Philippines ninth of 162 countries in the terrorism index, identified 499 incidents that caused 292 deaths and 444 injuries the past year.
READ: Philippines 9th of 162 countries in terrorism index
Incidents counted in the study are those deemed to be of "an intentional act of violence or threat of violence by a non-state sector" or sub-national actors aiming to attain political, economic, religious or social goal.
"Armed assault represented nearly half of all fatalities, followed by assassinations, which constituted a quarter of all fatalities," the researchers wrote.
The acts differ from the worldwide terrorist trend of using explosives.
In the Philippines, 56 percent of assassination attempts were successful, killing 103 people. The number is "more than five times higher than 2012."
"The use of these tactics and targets demonstrates that many of the terrorist groups in the Philippines are seeking to directly change the political system," the study said.
The Abu Sayyaf, meanwhile, was the only group engaged in suicide bombing.
Around 34 percent of deaths from terrorist attacks were believed to be targeting government or troops, while only 10 to 17 percent of deaths are of business leaders, private citizens and police.
Based on information since the 1960s, terrorist groups are permanently ended when they either join the political process, become a state-recognized political party or stopped by policing and intelligence agencies that break them up.
"Military force in of itself was rarely responsible for ending terrorist groups," the study said.
http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2014/11/20/1393901/study-npa-largest-group-behind-terrorist-attacks-philippines
The New People's Army claimed responsibility for 30 percent of deaths in terrorist incidents in 2013. STAR/file
The armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), the New People's Army (NPA), is identified in an international study as the "largest individual group" suspected to be behind terrorist incidents in the Philippines last year.
The Global Terrorism Index 2014 released Tuesday by Sydney-based think tank Institute for Economics and Peace noted that the NPA claimed responsibility for 30 percent of deaths from terrorist-related incidents in 2013.
"Whilst there were seven known groups that carried out a terrorist act in 2013, most activity is carried out by the New People's Army, Moro Islamic Liberation Front and the Abu Sayyaf Group," it noted.
Incidents deemed to be terrorist acts in the Philippines in 2013. GTI 2014/Institute for Economics and Peace
The study, which ranks the Philippines ninth of 162 countries in the terrorism index, identified 499 incidents that caused 292 deaths and 444 injuries the past year.
READ: Philippines 9th of 162 countries in terrorism index
Incidents counted in the study are those deemed to be of "an intentional act of violence or threat of violence by a non-state sector" or sub-national actors aiming to attain political, economic, religious or social goal.
"Armed assault represented nearly half of all fatalities, followed by assassinations, which constituted a quarter of all fatalities," the researchers wrote.
The acts differ from the worldwide terrorist trend of using explosives.
In the Philippines, 56 percent of assassination attempts were successful, killing 103 people. The number is "more than five times higher than 2012."
"The use of these tactics and targets demonstrates that many of the terrorist groups in the Philippines are seeking to directly change the political system," the study said.
The Abu Sayyaf, meanwhile, was the only group engaged in suicide bombing.
Around 34 percent of deaths from terrorist attacks were believed to be targeting government or troops, while only 10 to 17 percent of deaths are of business leaders, private citizens and police.
Based on information since the 1960s, terrorist groups are permanently ended when they either join the political process, become a state-recognized political party or stopped by policing and intelligence agencies that break them up.
"Military force in of itself was rarely responsible for ending terrorist groups," the study said.
http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2014/11/20/1393901/study-npa-largest-group-behind-terrorist-attacks-philippines
NPA rebel dies in clash
From the Philippine Information Agency (Nov 20): NPA rebel dies in clash
A member of the New People’s Army (NPA) was killed in an encounter with government troops in Bukidnon-Misamis Oriental northeast boundary at Kalha-an sub village in barangay Minalwang, Claveria, Misamis Oriental, Tuesday.
In a radio interview, army’s 8th Infantry Battalion Spokesman Lt. Norman Tagros said the NPAs were believed to be combined elements of Guerilla Front-4B, North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) under Lino Namatidong alias Dahon and its Headquarter Force under Dionisio Micabalo alias Muling.
Recovered in battlefield were AK-47 rifle with 30 rounds magazine, ammunition and propaganda documents of Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).
Army reports said slain NPA's comrades were also wounded in said clash as globs of blood splotched along their escape route.
No casualty reported on government's side.
Philippine Army's 4th Infantry "Diamond" Division through 403rd Infantry Brigade Commander Col. Jesse A. Alvarez and 8th Infantry Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Lennon G. Babilonia said they are now coordinating with local government units in the area to help the dead’s family and offer assistance to other NPA members who were wounded during the gun battle.
The NPA's remains now lie in state at Hagpa, Impasugong, Bukidnon. Army officials and Indigenous People leaders said the slain rebel's kin should show up, as he deserves decent burial.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1501416470052/npa-rebel-dies-in-clash
A member of the New People’s Army (NPA) was killed in an encounter with government troops in Bukidnon-Misamis Oriental northeast boundary at Kalha-an sub village in barangay Minalwang, Claveria, Misamis Oriental, Tuesday.
In a radio interview, army’s 8th Infantry Battalion Spokesman Lt. Norman Tagros said the NPAs were believed to be combined elements of Guerilla Front-4B, North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) under Lino Namatidong alias Dahon and its Headquarter Force under Dionisio Micabalo alias Muling.
Recovered in battlefield were AK-47 rifle with 30 rounds magazine, ammunition and propaganda documents of Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF).
Army reports said slain NPA's comrades were also wounded in said clash as globs of blood splotched along their escape route.
No casualty reported on government's side.
Philippine Army's 4th Infantry "Diamond" Division through 403rd Infantry Brigade Commander Col. Jesse A. Alvarez and 8th Infantry Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Lennon G. Babilonia said they are now coordinating with local government units in the area to help the dead’s family and offer assistance to other NPA members who were wounded during the gun battle.
The NPA's remains now lie in state at Hagpa, Impasugong, Bukidnon. Army officials and Indigenous People leaders said the slain rebel's kin should show up, as he deserves decent burial.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1501416470052/npa-rebel-dies-in-clash
P2.3M stolen from AFP’s retail store in Taguig City
From GMA News (Nov 19): P2.3M stolen from AFP’s retail store in Taguig City
At least P2.3 million was stolen from the Armed Forces of the Philippines' (AFP) Commissary and Exchange Services in Taguig City, a report on GMA's “24 Oras” said Wednesday.
According to authorities, the heist happened on Monday and the stolen amount was three days' worth of the retail store's earnings.
Authorities have not ruled out an inside job, as there were no signs of the vault being forced open.
The fund custodian, the store manager and the bookkeeper will be investigated as they are the only people to know the vault's combination.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/388876/news/metromanila/p2-3m-stolen-from-afp-s-retail-store-in-taguig-city
At least P2.3 million was stolen from the Armed Forces of the Philippines' (AFP) Commissary and Exchange Services in Taguig City, a report on GMA's “24 Oras” said Wednesday.
According to authorities, the heist happened on Monday and the stolen amount was three days' worth of the retail store's earnings.
Authorities have not ruled out an inside job, as there were no signs of the vault being forced open.
The fund custodian, the store manager and the bookkeeper will be investigated as they are the only people to know the vault's combination.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/388876/news/metromanila/p2-3m-stolen-from-afp-s-retail-store-in-taguig-city
2 killed, 4 wounded in Misamis clashes
From the Philippine Star (Nov 21): 2 killed, 4 wounded in Misamis clashes
Two suspected communist rebels, including a woman, were killed in two separate encounters with government troops in Barangay Minalwang in Claveria, Misamis Oriental, the military said yesterday.
The clashes occurred on Nov. 18 and 19, according to a statement released by the Army’s Fourth Infantry Division (ID).
1st Lt. Norman Tagros, information officer of the 8th Infantry Battalion of the 4th ID, said the bodies of the rebels were recovered on Tuesday and Wednesday.
One of the fatalities was identified as Francisco Mansigyao, 21.
Some 300 residents of the hinterland village left their homes to avoid being caught in the crossfire. Most of the evacuees belong to the Higaonon tribe.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2014/11/21/1393943/2-killed-4-wounded-misamis-clashes
Two suspected communist rebels, including a woman, were killed in two separate encounters with government troops in Barangay Minalwang in Claveria, Misamis Oriental, the military said yesterday.
The clashes occurred on Nov. 18 and 19, according to a statement released by the Army’s Fourth Infantry Division (ID).
1st Lt. Norman Tagros, information officer of the 8th Infantry Battalion of the 4th ID, said the bodies of the rebels were recovered on Tuesday and Wednesday.
One of the fatalities was identified as Francisco Mansigyao, 21.
Some 300 residents of the hinterland village left their homes to avoid being caught in the crossfire. Most of the evacuees belong to the Higaonon tribe.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2014/11/21/1393943/2-killed-4-wounded-misamis-clashes
2 students hurt in Cotabato blast
From Rappler (Nov 20): 2 students hurt in Cotabato blast
The students are from the Notre Dame RVM College of Cotabato. Authorities have yet to identify the perpetrators and their motive
At least two students were hurt in an explosion in Cotabato City on Thursday evening, November 20.
Local authorities said the explosion occurred near a Petron gas station at the corner of Sinsuat Avenue and General Luna Street at around 6 pm.
The students hurt in the explosion were immediately brought to the Cotabato Regional Medical Center. They are students from the Notre Dame RVM College of Cotabato. Others were slightly wounded.
Authorities have secured the blast site and are now doing post blast investigation to identify the perpetrators and the motive behind the incident.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/75625-students-hurt-cotabato-blast
The students are from the Notre Dame RVM College of Cotabato. Authorities have yet to identify the perpetrators and their motive
At least two students were hurt in an explosion in Cotabato City on Thursday evening, November 20.
Local authorities said the explosion occurred near a Petron gas station at the corner of Sinsuat Avenue and General Luna Street at around 6 pm.
The students hurt in the explosion were immediately brought to the Cotabato Regional Medical Center. They are students from the Notre Dame RVM College of Cotabato. Others were slightly wounded.
Authorities have secured the blast site and are now doing post blast investigation to identify the perpetrators and the motive behind the incident.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/75625-students-hurt-cotabato-blast
NPA rebels ransack houses of Masbate village chief, neighbors - PNP
From InterAksyon (Nov 20): NPA rebels ransack houses of Masbate village chief, neighbors - PNP
File photo of NPA rebels in formation, with rebel flag.
At least six houses including those of a village chief were simultaneously raided and ransacked Wednesday by more than 30 heavily armed figthers of the New People's Army (NPA) in Barangay Boca Engaño, Claveria, Masbate, local police said.
According to Police Officer 3 Zandro Rivera Cabintoy, public information officer of the provincial police, the rebels raided around 7 a.m. the homes of of village chairman Benny Capinig, as well as those of Frezil Sinahonon, Violeta Suson, Noe Torres Jr., Recilled Rejuso, and village Councilor Bernabe Lepalam.
Cabintoy said the rebels took Capinig's cash of P91,050, a 12-gauge shotgun issued by the local government unit of Claveria, a Sony Vio laptop, Bino Telescope, an N97 cellphone, and a Levi's belt.
"They looted the houses and ransacked everything at gunpoint and forcibly took away the P5,000 cash of Noe Torres andP10,000 cash from Recilled Rejuso and other valuable belongings, such as three pairs of gold earrings and three pieces of wrist watch of Frezil Sinahonon, military flashlight of Violeta Suson and six meters rubberized tent also from Torres," Cabintoy said.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/99601/npa-rebels-ransack-houses-of-masbate-village-chief-neighbors---pnp
File photo of NPA rebels in formation, with rebel flag.
At least six houses including those of a village chief were simultaneously raided and ransacked Wednesday by more than 30 heavily armed figthers of the New People's Army (NPA) in Barangay Boca Engaño, Claveria, Masbate, local police said.
According to Police Officer 3 Zandro Rivera Cabintoy, public information officer of the provincial police, the rebels raided around 7 a.m. the homes of of village chairman Benny Capinig, as well as those of Frezil Sinahonon, Violeta Suson, Noe Torres Jr., Recilled Rejuso, and village Councilor Bernabe Lepalam.
Cabintoy said the rebels took Capinig's cash of P91,050, a 12-gauge shotgun issued by the local government unit of Claveria, a Sony Vio laptop, Bino Telescope, an N97 cellphone, and a Levi's belt.
"They looted the houses and ransacked everything at gunpoint and forcibly took away the P5,000 cash of Noe Torres andP10,000 cash from Recilled Rejuso and other valuable belongings, such as three pairs of gold earrings and three pieces of wrist watch of Frezil Sinahonon, military flashlight of Violeta Suson and six meters rubberized tent also from Torres," Cabintoy said.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/99601/npa-rebels-ransack-houses-of-masbate-village-chief-neighbors---pnp
Joint humanitarian relief efforts launched in Sulu
From the Mindanao Examiner BlogSpot site (Nov 20): Joint humanitarian relief efforts launched in Sulu
The Philippine military donated 200 packages of assorted goods to villagers who fled their homes due to the fighting between security and Abu Sayyaf forces in the southern Sulu province, officials said Thursday.
Officials said the Joint Task Group Sulu through the 2nd Marine Brigade based in Sulu turned-over the relief goods to the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Center headed by Fazlur-Rahman Abdulla.
Also present during the turn-over of goods was Alkisar Alih, of the Talipao Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Management Center.
“The said relief goods were intended for the 35 families who were affected by the law enforcement operation against the Abu Sayyaf group in Talipao town,” said Col. Maximo Ballesteros, commander of the 2nd Marine Brigade. “The distribution of goods is the AFP’s response to the members of the community who evacuated in a safer area to avoid being caught in the crossfire.”
Sulu Gov. Totoh Tan also ordered the distribution of relief goods in Talipao and for social workers to immediately attend to the villagers to ensure their welfare.
The joint humanitarian relief efforts are in coordination with Office of the Governor, Office of the Vice Governor, Sulu Area Coordinating Council, , Office of the Civil Defense, Red Cross, D’ Alert Lupah Sug (radio club), the police, Joint Task Force Group Sulu, Integrated Provincial Health Office, Department of Social Welfare and Development and the Talipao municipal government.
http://www.mindanaoexaminer.net/2014/11/joint-humanitarian-relief-efforts.html
The Philippine military donated 200 packages of assorted goods to villagers who fled their homes due to the fighting between security and Abu Sayyaf forces in the southern Sulu province, officials said Thursday.
Officials said the Joint Task Group Sulu through the 2nd Marine Brigade based in Sulu turned-over the relief goods to the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Center headed by Fazlur-Rahman Abdulla.
Also present during the turn-over of goods was Alkisar Alih, of the Talipao Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Management Center.
“The said relief goods were intended for the 35 families who were affected by the law enforcement operation against the Abu Sayyaf group in Talipao town,” said Col. Maximo Ballesteros, commander of the 2nd Marine Brigade. “The distribution of goods is the AFP’s response to the members of the community who evacuated in a safer area to avoid being caught in the crossfire.”
Sulu Gov. Totoh Tan also ordered the distribution of relief goods in Talipao and for social workers to immediately attend to the villagers to ensure their welfare.
The joint humanitarian relief efforts are in coordination with Office of the Governor, Office of the Vice Governor, Sulu Area Coordinating Council, , Office of the Civil Defense, Red Cross, D’ Alert Lupah Sug (radio club), the police, Joint Task Force Group Sulu, Integrated Provincial Health Office, Department of Social Welfare and Development and the Talipao municipal government.
http://www.mindanaoexaminer.net/2014/11/joint-humanitarian-relief-efforts.html
New bombing in Philippines injures several people
From the Mindanao Examiner BlogSpot site (Nov 20): New bombing in Philippines injures several people
Philippine military chief General Gregorio Catapang inspected troops at the headquarters of the 6th Infantry Division under Major General Edmundo Pangilinan on Thursday, November 20, 2014. (Mindanao Examiner Photo – Mark Navales)
An explosion late Thursday has injured several people in Cotabato City in southern Philippines where security forces are battling separatist rebels in the restive region.
Initial reports said the blast occurred near a Petron gasoline station in downtown Cotabato and that at least 2 students were wounded in the explosion. The wounded were rushed to the Cotabato Regional and Medical Center.
Other reports said several more were slightly injured in the blast near Sinsuat Avenue. The explosion occurred just as people were returning home from work. A group of soldiers were also in the area at the time of the blast.
No individual or group claimed responsibility for the blast, but police and military have previously blamed the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters for the spate of bombings and ambuscades in the troubled Muslim autonomous region.
The blast occurred as Philippine military chief General Gregorio Catapang inspected troops at the 6th Infantry Division in nearby Maguindanao province.
Rebels also ambushed three soldiers on November 18 in the town of Datu Piang in Maguindanao and killing an army major and two privates who were travelling in a car. The soldiers also lost their weapons to the rebels. Their identities were withheld by the 6th Infantry Division.
It was the second attack in recent days in Maguindanao when some 500 rebels also assaulted the detachment of the 45th Infantry Battalion in the village of Sapakan in Rajah Buayan town. The attack sparked a six-hour firefight that wounded Corporal Charlie Dilangsoy.
http://www.mindanaoexaminer.net/2014/11/new-bombing-in-philippines-injures.html
Philippine military chief General Gregorio Catapang inspected troops at the headquarters of the 6th Infantry Division under Major General Edmundo Pangilinan on Thursday, November 20, 2014. (Mindanao Examiner Photo – Mark Navales)
An explosion late Thursday has injured several people in Cotabato City in southern Philippines where security forces are battling separatist rebels in the restive region.
Initial reports said the blast occurred near a Petron gasoline station in downtown Cotabato and that at least 2 students were wounded in the explosion. The wounded were rushed to the Cotabato Regional and Medical Center.
Other reports said several more were slightly injured in the blast near Sinsuat Avenue. The explosion occurred just as people were returning home from work. A group of soldiers were also in the area at the time of the blast.
No individual or group claimed responsibility for the blast, but police and military have previously blamed the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters for the spate of bombings and ambuscades in the troubled Muslim autonomous region.
The blast occurred as Philippine military chief General Gregorio Catapang inspected troops at the 6th Infantry Division in nearby Maguindanao province.
Rebels also ambushed three soldiers on November 18 in the town of Datu Piang in Maguindanao and killing an army major and two privates who were travelling in a car. The soldiers also lost their weapons to the rebels. Their identities were withheld by the 6th Infantry Division.
It was the second attack in recent days in Maguindanao when some 500 rebels also assaulted the detachment of the 45th Infantry Battalion in the village of Sapakan in Rajah Buayan town. The attack sparked a six-hour firefight that wounded Corporal Charlie Dilangsoy.
http://www.mindanaoexaminer.net/2014/11/new-bombing-in-philippines-injures.html
Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Suspects in North Cotabato bombing identified, hunted down
From InterAksyon (Nov 20): Suspects in North Cotabato bombing identified, hunted down
Police authorities in North Cotabato on Tuesday said they have the identities of the men who planted and set off one of two improvised explosive devices at a populated highway in Kabacan, North Cotabato on Sunday night.
Superintendent Danilo Peralta, North Cotabato police director, however refused to divulge the names of the perpetrators saying a manhunt operation is still ongoing.
The police-led task force is composed of other investigating units of the military and the PNP as well as the local government of Kabacan.
A 19-year-old student of University of Southern Mindanao (USM Kabacan) was killed while 16 others were hurt. Thirteen of the victims were USM students.
Monique Mantawil, a development communication student, and her classmates and friends were walking along the national highway near an overpass when the improvised explosive device was set off around 7 p.m. She sustained shrapnel injuries in the head.
Monique has been laid to rest Monday in accordance with Islamic tradition.
Her classmates and friends described her as very friendly, idealistic and determined to finish her studies.
Dr. Francisco Garcia, USM president, appealed for a speedy and impartial investigation to give justice to Mantawil and other victims. Garcia said the university will extend assistance to the students.
North Cotabato Governor Emmylou Mendoza and Kabacan Mayor Herlo Guzman have offered a combined P200,000 reward for the arrest of the suspects.
Authorities blamed the extremist Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) or illegal drugs groups for the bombing.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/99555/suspects-in-north-cotabato-bombing-identified-hunted-down
Police authorities in North Cotabato on Tuesday said they have the identities of the men who planted and set off one of two improvised explosive devices at a populated highway in Kabacan, North Cotabato on Sunday night.
Superintendent Danilo Peralta, North Cotabato police director, however refused to divulge the names of the perpetrators saying a manhunt operation is still ongoing.
The police-led task force is composed of other investigating units of the military and the PNP as well as the local government of Kabacan.
A 19-year-old student of University of Southern Mindanao (USM Kabacan) was killed while 16 others were hurt. Thirteen of the victims were USM students.
Monique Mantawil, a development communication student, and her classmates and friends were walking along the national highway near an overpass when the improvised explosive device was set off around 7 p.m. She sustained shrapnel injuries in the head.
Monique has been laid to rest Monday in accordance with Islamic tradition.
Her classmates and friends described her as very friendly, idealistic and determined to finish her studies.
Dr. Francisco Garcia, USM president, appealed for a speedy and impartial investigation to give justice to Mantawil and other victims. Garcia said the university will extend assistance to the students.
North Cotabato Governor Emmylou Mendoza and Kabacan Mayor Herlo Guzman have offered a combined P200,000 reward for the arrest of the suspects.
Authorities blamed the extremist Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) or illegal drugs groups for the bombing.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/99555/suspects-in-north-cotabato-bombing-identified-hunted-down
BIFF reportedly seizes sitio in Cotabato province
From GMA News (Nov 20): BIFF reportedly seizes sitio in Cotabato province
The Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters have reportedly seized a sitio in Midsayap town in Cotabato province, a television report said Thursday.
Headed by Ameril Umbra Kato, the BIFF had led attacks in Mindanao in 2008 after the Supreme Court thumbed down a memorandum of agreement on ancestral domain.
Ilaga movement
In 2013, a report on the Philippine Star said the Ilaga (Visayan for rat) movement was a Philippine Catholic extremist militia predominantly composed of Visayan groups mixed deep in Shamanism and amulets that operated, had been led and largely used by the defunct Philippine Constabulary as a militia force during the 1970s.
The vigilante group "Bag-ong Ilaga" (new or reformed Ilaga) surfaced in 2005, declaring their mission is to eliminate "terrorists."
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/388940/news/regions/biff-reportedly-seizes-sitio-in-cotabato-province
The Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters have reportedly seized a sitio in Midsayap town in Cotabato province, a television report said Thursday.
A report on GMA News TV's "News TV Live" said some 300 BIFF fighters entered Sitio Bentad in Barangay Baliki in Midsayap, and drove away the civilians there.
After the attack, they reportedly set up a camp in the area.
But while the BIFF also tried to enter another sitio, they were met by the "Reform Ilaga Movement" group, and a firefight ensued.
The firefight lasted about an hour before both groups withdrew when they saw soldiers arriving.
Meanwhile, the Reform Ilaga Movement said they are ready for another attack by the BIFF.
A separate report on Bombo Radyo said the attacks occurred before dawn Thursday.
The BIFF is a splinter group of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, which is in peace efforts with the government.
Ilaga movement
In 2013, a report on the Philippine Star said the Ilaga (Visayan for rat) movement was a Philippine Catholic extremist militia predominantly composed of Visayan groups mixed deep in Shamanism and amulets that operated, had been led and largely used by the defunct Philippine Constabulary as a militia force during the 1970s.
The vigilante group "Bag-ong Ilaga" (new or reformed Ilaga) surfaced in 2005, declaring their mission is to eliminate "terrorists."
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/388940/news/regions/biff-reportedly-seizes-sitio-in-cotabato-province
Farmer accused of being a military informant shot dead in Sorsogon
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Nov 20): Farmer accused of being a military informant shot dead in Sorsogon
A farmer whom communist rebels allegedly blamed for the death of eight of their leaders and comrades in 2013, including National Democratic Front-Bicol spokesman Greg Bañares, was shot dead in Sorsogon Tuesday, the military said on Wednesday.
Emilio Oplida, 41, was killed by three suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA) near his residence in Barangay (village) Calmayon, Juban, Sorsogon, around 9 a.m. Tuesday, said Major Angelo Guzman, spokesman of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Southern Luzon Command (AFP-Solcom) based in Camp Guillermo Nakar, Lucena City, quoting police records.
He said the initial investigation conducted by the Juban Municipal Police revealed that Oplida was on his way to the house of his neighbor Aldrin Desabalya when he was waylaid by three armed men who shot him three times in different parts of his body.
The brother of the victim, whom Guzman did not name, told police that sometime in July, Oplida was approached by a certain Ka Jack, believed to be an NPA member. Ka Jack allegedly threatened Oplida because of his supposed participation in the death of eight high-ranking NPAs in an encounter with Army soldiers under the 9th Infantry Division on July 4, 2013, he said.
Among those who were killed in the encounter was Bañares, whose real name was Frankie Joe Soriano, the spokesman of the NDF in Bicol.
Guzman said Oplida was accused by the NPA of being a military informer because the encounter happened in his hut where Bañares and his companions had taken shelter at the time.
The Juban police have taken custody of Oplida’s body for an investigation into his killing, Guzman said.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/651830/farmer-accused-of-being-a-military-informant-shot-dead-in-sorsogon
A farmer whom communist rebels allegedly blamed for the death of eight of their leaders and comrades in 2013, including National Democratic Front-Bicol spokesman Greg Bañares, was shot dead in Sorsogon Tuesday, the military said on Wednesday.
Emilio Oplida, 41, was killed by three suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA) near his residence in Barangay (village) Calmayon, Juban, Sorsogon, around 9 a.m. Tuesday, said Major Angelo Guzman, spokesman of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Southern Luzon Command (AFP-Solcom) based in Camp Guillermo Nakar, Lucena City, quoting police records.
He said the initial investigation conducted by the Juban Municipal Police revealed that Oplida was on his way to the house of his neighbor Aldrin Desabalya when he was waylaid by three armed men who shot him three times in different parts of his body.
The brother of the victim, whom Guzman did not name, told police that sometime in July, Oplida was approached by a certain Ka Jack, believed to be an NPA member. Ka Jack allegedly threatened Oplida because of his supposed participation in the death of eight high-ranking NPAs in an encounter with Army soldiers under the 9th Infantry Division on July 4, 2013, he said.
Among those who were killed in the encounter was Bañares, whose real name was Frankie Joe Soriano, the spokesman of the NDF in Bicol.
Guzman said Oplida was accused by the NPA of being a military informer because the encounter happened in his hut where Bañares and his companions had taken shelter at the time.
The Juban police have taken custody of Oplida’s body for an investigation into his killing, Guzman said.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/651830/farmer-accused-of-being-a-military-informant-shot-dead-in-sorsogon
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