From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Apr 20): Valencia City councilor and rice trader denies NPA claim she hoards rice in Bukidnon
Valencia City Councilor Helen Bernal, a rice trader and owner of a warehouse in that Bukidnon city, denied allegations made by the New People’s Army that she has been hoarding rice and taking advantage of farmers through usury.
Bernal, in a radio interview Wednesday afternoon, made the denial after New People’s Army rebels carted away 1,384 sacks of rice and several appliances, including two Sony flat screen TVs during a raid on her warehouse on Monday.
READ: NPA seizes 1,384 sacks of rice from Bukidnon trader, calls her hoarder
She added that the warehouse had no security guard because her family had no known enemies in Bukidnon. She said she was grateful that nobody was killed during the NPA attack.
Ariel “Inda” Magbanwag, spokesperson of the NPA’s South-Central Bukidnon Subregional Command, issued a statement saying the rice confiscated from the warehouse of Bernal would be distributed to residents affected by the drought.
“Within 15 minutes, the NPA confiscated 1,384 sacks of rice and loaded them into four trucks,” Magbanwag said.
The NPA spokesperson then accused Bernal of being a rice hoarder.
The Bukidnon provincial police said the warehouse secretary Connie Martinez told investigators that 60 armed men entered the compound and commandeered four trucks of rice with an estimated worth of P2.476 million.
Police added that the rebels also carted away a television set, a computer unit, a printer, 15 cellular phone batteries and P30,000 in cash.
But Magbanwag revealed the rebels also took two Sony flat screen TVs, CCTV monitors, an Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR) and sander tools.
Magbanwag said the confiscated rice would be immediately distributed to villagers affected by the drought in Bukidnon.
Magbanwag said more than a thousand sacks of rice would not be enough to end the hunger of the farmers hit by the drought but the rice would still be a minor relief.
He did not say what the NPA would do with the computer monitors, the AVR and sander tools.
Magbanwag accused Bernal and her family of being the “biggest comprador-usurer in the whole rice paddy area in Valencia City and its adjacent towns.”
“She controls the lives of the numerous peasants under her wide network of usury operations. She also controls other small rice traders in almost the whole of Bukidnon. Whoever intends to invest in the Valencia rice fields would be required to negotiate with her to avoid bankruptcy,” Magbanwag said.
Magbanwag also accused Bernal of being involved in alleged anomalous transactions with the National Food Authority (NFA) and rice smugglers in Iligan City.
“She is also associated with the big officials of the said agency. For a long time now, it has been her modus to re-mill and re-sack NFA rice and then sells them to traders as well-milled and premium rice. She accumulates super-profits from this crooked transaction,” Magbanwag said.
“Despite the worsening hunger …and the scarcity of rice … due to the prolonged drought, the thousands of sacks of rice owned by the taxpayers were discovered by the NPA attackers hidden in her giant warehouse complex, which measures approximately three hectares,” Magbanwag said.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/780585/bukidnon-town-councilor-and-rice-trader-denies-npa-claim-she-hoards-rice
Thursday, April 21, 2016
Alleged NPA rebels seize Army soldier in North Cotabato
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Apr 21): Alleged NPA rebels seize Army soldier in North Cotabato
Suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels seized an Army soldier at a roadblock they set up in Makilala, North Cotabato on Thursday, the police said.
Chief Insp. Elias Colonia, Makilala police chief, said Private First Class Edgardo Hilaga, Jr. a resident of Barangay (village) Kisante, also in Makilala, and a member of the 7th Infantry Battalion based in Mlang town, was on a Honda XRM motorcycle when seized at an NPA roadblock in Sitio Balawan in Barangay Malasila.
Colonia said the rebels also flagged down other vehicles passing the highway.
One commuter, Richard Bitalas, an employee of Dole Stanfilco, claimed the rebels confiscated his two-way radio as well.
Lt. Col. Harold Argamosa, commander of the 39th IB, said an operation was immediately launched against the rebels, who were believed to be members of the NPA’s Guerilla Front 72—which operates in the boundaries of North Cotabato, Davao del Sur, South Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat. http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/780755/alleged-npa-rebels-seize-army-soldier-in-north-cotabato
Suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels seized an Army soldier at a roadblock they set up in Makilala, North Cotabato on Thursday, the police said.
Chief Insp. Elias Colonia, Makilala police chief, said Private First Class Edgardo Hilaga, Jr. a resident of Barangay (village) Kisante, also in Makilala, and a member of the 7th Infantry Battalion based in Mlang town, was on a Honda XRM motorcycle when seized at an NPA roadblock in Sitio Balawan in Barangay Malasila.
Colonia said the rebels also flagged down other vehicles passing the highway.
One commuter, Richard Bitalas, an employee of Dole Stanfilco, claimed the rebels confiscated his two-way radio as well.
Lt. Col. Harold Argamosa, commander of the 39th IB, said an operation was immediately launched against the rebels, who were believed to be members of the NPA’s Guerilla Front 72—which operates in the boundaries of North Cotabato, Davao del Sur, South Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat. http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/780755/alleged-npa-rebels-seize-army-soldier-in-north-cotabato
US aircraft conduct first air mission in Philippines
From the Philippine Star (Apr 21): US aircraft conduct first air mission in Philippines
In this 2003 photo, A-10 Thunderbolt IIs are lined up on the flightline of Tallil Air Base in southern Iraq awaiting pilots. On Tuesday, A-10s and HH-60s engaged in a maritime situational awareness operation and flew through international airspace to the west of Luzon.
Four A-10C Thunderbolt IIs and two HH-60G Pave Hawks which remained behind in the country after Balikatan 2016 conducted their first flight out of Clark Air Base this week, the US Embassy in Manila said Thursday.
In this 2003 photo, A-10 Thunderbolt IIs are lined up on the flightline of Tallil Air Base in southern Iraq awaiting pilots. On Tuesday, A-10s and HH-60s engaged in a maritime situational awareness operation and flew through international airspace to the west of Luzon.
Four A-10C Thunderbolt IIs and two HH-60G Pave Hawks which remained behind in the country after Balikatan 2016 conducted their first flight out of Clark Air Base this week, the US Embassy in Manila said Thursday.
On Tuesday, April 19, the A-10s and HH-60s engaged in a maritime situational awareness operation and flew through international airspace to the west of Luzon.
The aircraft are part of the US Pacific Command’s Air Contingent deployed at the Philippine Air Force base in Clark. They remained in the country after this year’s joint military drills which ended on April 15.
The embassy said the mission promotes “transparency and safety of movement in international waters and airspace.”
It was also a showcase of commitment of the US to its ally and partner nations, and the continued stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region’s continued stability, the statement said.
“Interoperability with the Philippine military is at the forefront of our mission,” said Col. Larry Card, Commander of the Air Contingent.
“The standup of the Air Contingent promotes this collective focus as we build upon our already strong alliance, and reaffirm our commitment to the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.”
According to the US Embassy in Manila the deployed aircraft would conduct operations such as “air and maritime domain awareness, personnel recovery, combating piracy, and helping to assure that all nations have access to air and sea domains throughout the region in accordance with international law.”
UK warns citizens vs travel to PH
From ABS-CBN (Apr 21): UK warns citizens vs travel to PH
The United Kingdom has issued a warning to its citizens against travelling to the Philippines due to threats of violence.
In its latest advisory, the UK noted that national elections in the Philippines will be held on May 9, 2016, and the campaign period has traditionally led to a spike in political violence.
"You should avoid large crowds and demonstrations and follow the advice of the local authorities. The Philippine Bureau of Immigration has warned foreigners not to participate in political rallies. Any foreign nationals taking part in these events could be subject to arrest and/or deportation," it said.
It also warned against travelling to southwest Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago because of ongoing terrorist activities and clashes between the military and insurgent groups.
"There is a high threat from terrorism, including kidnapping," it said, adding that lawless groups "have the capability to target locations frequented by tourists in southern Palawan, southern Negros and Siquijor."
The UK, meanwhile, also advised its citizens to take appropriate precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes, noting there have been elevated levels of dengue cases in the Philippines this year.
It also noted that around 20 typhoons hit the Philippines each year, most of which occur from June to December.
"There may be flooding and landslides. You should monitor the progress of approaching storms and follow the advice of the local authorities, including any evacuation orders," it said.
http://news.abs-cbn.com/nation/04/21/16/uk-warns-citizens-vs-travel-to-ph
The United Kingdom has issued a warning to its citizens against travelling to the Philippines due to threats of violence.
In its latest advisory, the UK noted that national elections in the Philippines will be held on May 9, 2016, and the campaign period has traditionally led to a spike in political violence.
"You should avoid large crowds and demonstrations and follow the advice of the local authorities. The Philippine Bureau of Immigration has warned foreigners not to participate in political rallies. Any foreign nationals taking part in these events could be subject to arrest and/or deportation," it said.
It also warned against travelling to southwest Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago because of ongoing terrorist activities and clashes between the military and insurgent groups.
"There is a high threat from terrorism, including kidnapping," it said, adding that lawless groups "have the capability to target locations frequented by tourists in southern Palawan, southern Negros and Siquijor."
The UK, meanwhile, also advised its citizens to take appropriate precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes, noting there have been elevated levels of dengue cases in the Philippines this year.
It also noted that around 20 typhoons hit the Philippines each year, most of which occur from June to December.
"There may be flooding and landslides. You should monitor the progress of approaching storms and follow the advice of the local authorities, including any evacuation orders," it said.
http://news.abs-cbn.com/nation/04/21/16/uk-warns-citizens-vs-travel-to-ph
Indonesia fears piracy surge could turn regional waters into 'new Somalia'
From ABS-CBN (Apr 21): Indonesia fears piracy surge could turn regional waters into 'new Somalia'
Indonesia fears piracy on a busy shipping route along its maritime border with the Philippines could hit levels seen in Somalia unless security is tightened, the chief security minister said on Thursday, following a spate of kidnappings.
The waters form part of major shipping arteries that carry $40 billion worth of cargo a year, analysts say, and the corridor is used by fully laden supertankers from the Indian Ocean that cannot use the crowded Malacca Strait waterway.
A total of 18 Indonesians and Malaysians have been taken captive in three separate attacks on tugboats in Philippine waters along the route, by groups suspected of ties to the al-Qaeda linked Abu Sayyaf militant network in the Philippines.
Abu Sayyaf, a group known for kidnappings, beheadings, bombings and extortion, has demanded 50 million pesos ($1.1 million) to free the Indonesian crew.
READ: Abu Sayyaf bandits abduct 10 Indonesian sailors
READ: 4 Indonesian sailors abducted in Tawi-Tawi
"We don't want to see this become a new Somalia," Indonesian chief security minister Luhut Pandjaitan told reporters, referring to the southern Philippine waters of the Sulu Sea, where the abductions took place.
Piracy near Somalia's coast has largely subsided in the past few years, mainly due to shipping firms hiring private security details and the presence of international warships.
The foreign ministers of Malaysia and the Philippines will meet their Indonesian counterpart in Jakarta to discuss the possibility of "joint patrols in order to secure the passage from Indonesia to the Philippines," Pandjaitan said.
He did not give a date for the meeting, although he added that armed forces chiefs of the three countries would also meet in Jakarta on May 3.
Indonesian security and transport officials met on Thursday to discuss stepping up security in the area.
The Kuala Lumpur-based Piracy Reporting Centre this week warned all vessels sailing in the Celebes Sea and northeast of the Malaysian state of Sabah on the island of Borneo to stay clear of small suspicious vessels.
For the first time, the rising tide of maritime attacks by suspected Islamist militants is disrupting coal trade between the southeast Asian neighbours.
Indonesia, the world's largest thermal coal exporter, supplies 70 percent of the Philippines' coal import needs.
But as security concerns rise, authorities at several Indonesian coal ports have blocked further departures of ships for the Philippines, threatening the shipment schedules of some of the country's top producers.
"The Indonesians' move to ban coal shipments are their own domestic actions, thus it's their prerogative," said a spokeswoman for the Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia (ReCAAP).
The government-to-government group based in Singapore, which cooperates on anti-piracy issues, is in touch with Malaysia and the Philippines on the hijackings, she added.
In a bid to stop a kidnap "industry" from emerging, the Philippines military has urged the shipping companies involved not to pay ransoms for captives held by Islamist militants.
The last outbreak of Somali piracy, at the end of the previous decade, cost the world's shipping industry billions of dollars as pirates paralyzed shipping lanes, kidnapped hundreds of seafarers and seized vessels more than 1,000 miles from Somalia's coastline.
http://news.abs-cbn.com/nation/regions/04/21/16/indonesia-fears-piracy-surge-could-turn-regional-waters-into-new-somalia
Indonesia fears piracy on a busy shipping route along its maritime border with the Philippines could hit levels seen in Somalia unless security is tightened, the chief security minister said on Thursday, following a spate of kidnappings.
The waters form part of major shipping arteries that carry $40 billion worth of cargo a year, analysts say, and the corridor is used by fully laden supertankers from the Indian Ocean that cannot use the crowded Malacca Strait waterway.
A total of 18 Indonesians and Malaysians have been taken captive in three separate attacks on tugboats in Philippine waters along the route, by groups suspected of ties to the al-Qaeda linked Abu Sayyaf militant network in the Philippines.
Abu Sayyaf, a group known for kidnappings, beheadings, bombings and extortion, has demanded 50 million pesos ($1.1 million) to free the Indonesian crew.
READ: Abu Sayyaf bandits abduct 10 Indonesian sailors
READ: 4 Indonesian sailors abducted in Tawi-Tawi
"We don't want to see this become a new Somalia," Indonesian chief security minister Luhut Pandjaitan told reporters, referring to the southern Philippine waters of the Sulu Sea, where the abductions took place.
Piracy near Somalia's coast has largely subsided in the past few years, mainly due to shipping firms hiring private security details and the presence of international warships.
The foreign ministers of Malaysia and the Philippines will meet their Indonesian counterpart in Jakarta to discuss the possibility of "joint patrols in order to secure the passage from Indonesia to the Philippines," Pandjaitan said.
He did not give a date for the meeting, although he added that armed forces chiefs of the three countries would also meet in Jakarta on May 3.
Indonesian security and transport officials met on Thursday to discuss stepping up security in the area.
The Kuala Lumpur-based Piracy Reporting Centre this week warned all vessels sailing in the Celebes Sea and northeast of the Malaysian state of Sabah on the island of Borneo to stay clear of small suspicious vessels.
For the first time, the rising tide of maritime attacks by suspected Islamist militants is disrupting coal trade between the southeast Asian neighbours.
Indonesia, the world's largest thermal coal exporter, supplies 70 percent of the Philippines' coal import needs.
But as security concerns rise, authorities at several Indonesian coal ports have blocked further departures of ships for the Philippines, threatening the shipment schedules of some of the country's top producers.
"The Indonesians' move to ban coal shipments are their own domestic actions, thus it's their prerogative," said a spokeswoman for the Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia (ReCAAP).
The government-to-government group based in Singapore, which cooperates on anti-piracy issues, is in touch with Malaysia and the Philippines on the hijackings, she added.
In a bid to stop a kidnap "industry" from emerging, the Philippines military has urged the shipping companies involved not to pay ransoms for captives held by Islamist militants.
The last outbreak of Somali piracy, at the end of the previous decade, cost the world's shipping industry billions of dollars as pirates paralyzed shipping lanes, kidnapped hundreds of seafarers and seized vessels more than 1,000 miles from Somalia's coastline.
http://news.abs-cbn.com/nation/regions/04/21/16/indonesia-fears-piracy-surge-could-turn-regional-waters-into-new-somalia
2 alleged NPA killed in encounter in Davao
From ABS-CBN/ANC (Apr 21): 2 alleged NPA killed in encounter in Davao
Two alleged members of the New People’s Army (NPA) were killed in an encounter with soldiers at Barangay Lumiad, Paquibato District, Davao City.
Reports said the casualties were among those who attacked a Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit (Cafgu) detachment on Monday.
One of them was identified as Bernie Pepito, whose parents only learned about his being a member of the rebel group after the incident.
-ANC's Dateline Philippines, April 20, 2016
http://news.abs-cbn.com/video/nation/regions/v1/04/21/16/2-alleged-npa-killed-in-encounter-in-davao
Reports said the casualties were among those who attacked a Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit (Cafgu) detachment on Monday.
One of them was identified as Bernie Pepito, whose parents only learned about his being a member of the rebel group after the incident.
-ANC's Dateline Philippines, April 20, 2016
http://news.abs-cbn.com/video/nation/regions/v1/04/21/16/2-alleged-npa-killed-in-encounter-in-davao
6 US aircraft conduct first post-Balikatan 'flight out'
From GMA News (Apr 21): 6 US aircraft conduct first post-Balikatan 'flight out'
Six US
The aircraft — four A-10C Thunderbolt IIs and two HH-60G
Pave Hawks — flew "through international airspace to the west of Luzon ," the embassy said.
"Missions such as this one promote transparency and
safety of movement in international waters and airspace, and showcase the US
The aircraft, which are based in Clark Air Base in Pampanga
province, were part of the fleet that took part in the Balikatan exercises that
ended on April 15.
The exercises are an annual training activity between the US
The six aircraft are part of the five A-10 jet
aircraft, three HH-60Gs Pave Hawk search and rescue helocopters and a MC-130H
Combat Talon transport plane left behind by US to do training with their
Filipino counterparts and to conduct patrol in the disputed areas in the South China Sea .
“Interoperability with the Philippine military is at the
forefront of our mission,” Col. Larry Card, Commander of the Air
Contingent, said in the statement.
"The standup of the Air Contingent promotes this
collective focus as we build upon our already strong andreaffirm our commitment
to the Indo-Asia-Pacific region," he added.
The embassy said the aircraft left behind will be
conducting varied operations such as air and maritime domain awareness,
personnel recovery, combating piracy, and helping to assure that all nations
have access to air and sea domains throughout the region in accordance with
international law.
"All operations and deployments are planned and
executed with the consent and cooperation of the Philippine government,"
it said.
Indonesia instructs commercial vessels to avoid piracy-prone Southern Philippines
From GMA News (Apr 21): Indonesia instructs commercial vessels to avoid piracy-prone Southern Philippines
The Indonesian Navy has instructed all commercial vessels to avoid piracy-prone waters around the southern Philippines, a spokesman for the Indonesian military said on Thursday, following a spate of kidnappings and piracy in recent weeks.
“The Indonesian Navy, through the Western Sea Security Cluster, is increasing the intensity of patrols up to the exclusive economic zone border with the Philippines and Malaysia to prevent acts of piracy and hijacking,” Indonesian military spokesman Tatang Sulaiman told Reuters in a text message.
The busy shipping route along Indonesia's maritime border with the Philippines carries $40 billion worth of cargo each year, notably fully laden supertankers from the Indian Ocean that cannot use the crowded Malacca Strait.
“The most important thing for the Indonesian military is how in the near term to implement an MOU (memorandum) on coordinated patrols between Indonesian, Philippine and Malaysian armed forces in that maritime region,” Sulaiman said.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/563564/news/world/indonesia-instructs-commercial-vessels-to-avoid-piracy-prone-southern-philippines
The Indonesian Navy has instructed all commercial vessels to avoid piracy-prone waters around the southern Philippines, a spokesman for the Indonesian military said on Thursday, following a spate of kidnappings and piracy in recent weeks.
“The Indonesian Navy, through the Western Sea Security Cluster, is increasing the intensity of patrols up to the exclusive economic zone border with the Philippines and Malaysia to prevent acts of piracy and hijacking,” Indonesian military spokesman Tatang Sulaiman told Reuters in a text message.
The busy shipping route along Indonesia's maritime border with the Philippines carries $40 billion worth of cargo each year, notably fully laden supertankers from the Indian Ocean that cannot use the crowded Malacca Strait.
“The most important thing for the Indonesian military is how in the near term to implement an MOU (memorandum) on coordinated patrols between Indonesian, Philippine and Malaysian armed forces in that maritime region,” Sulaiman said.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/563564/news/world/indonesia-instructs-commercial-vessels-to-avoid-piracy-prone-southern-philippines
Cops nab soldier, 2 others, seize high powered guns
From the Visayan Daily Star (Apr 21): Cops nab soldier, 2 others, seize high powered guns
The three arrested suspects and the seized firearms during a buy-bust operation in Bacolod City yesterday.
Nine guns, mostly high-powered, 15 magazines, two silencers, and eight ammunition were seized from three suspects, one of them a soldier, in an entrapment operation at the South Ceres Terminal at Luzuriaga Street in Bacolod City, at about 5:30 a.m. yesterday.
Recovered were a 9mm caliber pistol, a 9mm Ingram, a 9mm KG9 sub machine pistol, two .357 caliber revolvers, two .9mm black widow revolvers, two .45 caliber pistols, 15 magazines, two silencers, and eight ammunition, a police report said.
Four cellular phones, P3,840 in cash, and the buy-bust money consisting of P1,000 in marked bills inserted in a bundle of boodle money worth P47,000 were also confiscated, police records show.
Police Insp. Renoli Bagayao, head of Criminal Investigation and Detection Group-Bacolod, said the entrapment also led to the arrest of Corporal Kim Gavasan, 36, Franklin Olimpo, 30, of Murcia town, and Bal dela Peña, 33, of Escalante City, Negros Occidental.
Gavasan is still in active service and is assigned at the Civil Military Operation Batallion, 32nd Company of the Philippine Army, based in Danao City, Cebu province, Bagayao said.
The firearms were wrapped in paper and hidden in two big backpacks containing clothes, Bagayao said.
He said a police poseur-buyer transacted to buy a .45 caliber pistol worth P17,000 and a KG9 sub machine pistol worth P35,000 from the suspects.
After the buy-bust, the operatives searched Gavasan, Olimpo and dela Peña and recovered guns from them, Bagayao said, adding that the suspects failed to present documents for the firearms.
Gavasan, who is from Cebu, transported the guns via a roll-on-roll-off vessel going to Escalante, where he picked up dela Peña. They then boarded a bus going to the Bacolod North Terminal, Bagayao said.
Dela Peña and Gavasan proceeded to Bacolod South Terminal where Olimpo, who made the gun transaction with the police poseur-buyer, was waiting for them, Bagayao said.
The suspects, who had been under surveillance for a year now, told the police the other guns were to be delivered to Binalbagan and some to Kabankalan, where they have contacts who would distribute them.
Bagayao said the seized guns, which are all homemade, are not government-owned, but there is posibility that these will be used in the coming elections.
The police are also investigating whether the suspects are part of a group selling guns, or are involved in gun-running activities in the Negros Island Region, as their transactions cover not only in Negros Occidental but also Negros Oriental, Bagayao said.
He said they will verify from the Camp Crame if the guns are licensed or not.
Bagayao said charges for violation of Republic Act 10591 or illegal selling and possession of firearms and ammunition, and the Commission on Elections gun ban, which are not bailable, are being readied against Gavasan, Olimpo and dela Peña.
The DAILY STAR reached the suspects, who are now detained at the CIDG-Bacolod lock-up cell, but they refused to be interviewed.
The entrapment was a joint operation of the Bacolod CIDG as lead unit, with the Negros Occidental CIDG and Negros Occidental Police Public Safety Company-Special Weapons and Tactics Unit operatives, and in coordination with the Bacolod City Police Office.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2016/April/21/topstory1.htm
The three arrested suspects and the seized firearms during a buy-bust operation in Bacolod City yesterday.
Nine guns, mostly high-powered, 15 magazines, two silencers, and eight ammunition were seized from three suspects, one of them a soldier, in an entrapment operation at the South Ceres Terminal at Luzuriaga Street in Bacolod City, at about 5:30 a.m. yesterday.
Recovered were a 9mm caliber pistol, a 9mm Ingram, a 9mm KG9 sub machine pistol, two .357 caliber revolvers, two .9mm black widow revolvers, two .45 caliber pistols, 15 magazines, two silencers, and eight ammunition, a police report said.
Four cellular phones, P3,840 in cash, and the buy-bust money consisting of P1,000 in marked bills inserted in a bundle of boodle money worth P47,000 were also confiscated, police records show.
Police Insp. Renoli Bagayao, head of Criminal Investigation and Detection Group-Bacolod, said the entrapment also led to the arrest of Corporal Kim Gavasan, 36, Franklin Olimpo, 30, of Murcia town, and Bal dela Peña, 33, of Escalante City, Negros Occidental.
Gavasan is still in active service and is assigned at the Civil Military Operation Batallion, 32nd Company of the Philippine Army, based in Danao City, Cebu province, Bagayao said.
The firearms were wrapped in paper and hidden in two big backpacks containing clothes, Bagayao said.
He said a police poseur-buyer transacted to buy a .45 caliber pistol worth P17,000 and a KG9 sub machine pistol worth P35,000 from the suspects.
After the buy-bust, the operatives searched Gavasan, Olimpo and dela Peña and recovered guns from them, Bagayao said, adding that the suspects failed to present documents for the firearms.
Gavasan, who is from Cebu, transported the guns via a roll-on-roll-off vessel going to Escalante, where he picked up dela Peña. They then boarded a bus going to the Bacolod North Terminal, Bagayao said.
Dela Peña and Gavasan proceeded to Bacolod South Terminal where Olimpo, who made the gun transaction with the police poseur-buyer, was waiting for them, Bagayao said.
The suspects, who had been under surveillance for a year now, told the police the other guns were to be delivered to Binalbagan and some to Kabankalan, where they have contacts who would distribute them.
Bagayao said the seized guns, which are all homemade, are not government-owned, but there is posibility that these will be used in the coming elections.
The police are also investigating whether the suspects are part of a group selling guns, or are involved in gun-running activities in the Negros Island Region, as their transactions cover not only in Negros Occidental but also Negros Oriental, Bagayao said.
He said they will verify from the Camp Crame if the guns are licensed or not.
Bagayao said charges for violation of Republic Act 10591 or illegal selling and possession of firearms and ammunition, and the Commission on Elections gun ban, which are not bailable, are being readied against Gavasan, Olimpo and dela Peña.
The DAILY STAR reached the suspects, who are now detained at the CIDG-Bacolod lock-up cell, but they refused to be interviewed.
The entrapment was a joint operation of the Bacolod CIDG as lead unit, with the Negros Occidental CIDG and Negros Occidental Police Public Safety Company-Special Weapons and Tactics Unit operatives, and in coordination with the Bacolod City Police Office.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2016/April/21/topstory1.htm
Comval Governor condemns killing of town Purok leader
From the Philippine Information Agency (Apr 21): Comval Governor condemns killing of town Purok leader
Gov. Arturo Uy expressed his dismay on the recent killing perpetrated to a Purok Chairman and youth volunteer in Maragusan early morning on April 21.
A report from the ComVal Provincial Police Office (CVPPO) reveals that Jesus “Yokyok” Balucos, 38 years old, single and a farmer was shot to death at around 5 o'clock in the morning by unidentified gunmen in Barangay Mahayahay.
The initial investigation conducted by Maragusan Municipal Police Station further showed that “the victim left from his house and went to his piggery adjacent from his house to feed his swine but before reaching the same, he was blocked by two (2) unidentified suspects wearing bonnet and without any word, one of the suspects shot the victim several times.” Yokyok was a Purok chairman in Purok Magbayabas, Brgy. Mahayahay and a known campaign leader of Mayor Cesar Colina and the governor.
“I strongly condemn the senseless killing of Balucos this morning. While investigation is still ongoing but there are speculations na posibleng politika,” the Governor said.
He then called on CVPPO under PSSupt. Albert Ignatius D. Ferro to investigate the incident and monitor the movement of the alleged private armed groups with high powered guns in the area.
The Governor also extended his deepest sympathy to the family of the victim.
“Our condolence to the family. Rest assured justice will be served ug mahatagan jud nato ug hustisya ang iyang kamatayun whatever it takes,” Gov Uy ended.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1591461225446/comval-governor-condemns-killing-of-town-purok-leader
Gov. Arturo Uy expressed his dismay on the recent killing perpetrated to a Purok Chairman and youth volunteer in Maragusan early morning on April 21.
A report from the ComVal Provincial Police Office (CVPPO) reveals that Jesus “Yokyok” Balucos, 38 years old, single and a farmer was shot to death at around 5 o'clock in the morning by unidentified gunmen in Barangay Mahayahay.
The initial investigation conducted by Maragusan Municipal Police Station further showed that “the victim left from his house and went to his piggery adjacent from his house to feed his swine but before reaching the same, he was blocked by two (2) unidentified suspects wearing bonnet and without any word, one of the suspects shot the victim several times.” Yokyok was a Purok chairman in Purok Magbayabas, Brgy. Mahayahay and a known campaign leader of Mayor Cesar Colina and the governor.
“I strongly condemn the senseless killing of Balucos this morning. While investigation is still ongoing but there are speculations na posibleng politika,” the Governor said.
He then called on CVPPO under PSSupt. Albert Ignatius D. Ferro to investigate the incident and monitor the movement of the alleged private armed groups with high powered guns in the area.
The Governor also extended his deepest sympathy to the family of the victim.
“Our condolence to the family. Rest assured justice will be served ug mahatagan jud nato ug hustisya ang iyang kamatayun whatever it takes,” Gov Uy ended.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1591461225446/comval-governor-condemns-killing-of-town-purok-leader
Troops overran NPA camp as army, bandits clash anew in Bukidnon
From the Philippine Information Agency (Apr 21): Troops overran NPA camp as army, bandits clash anew in Bukidnon
Soldiers of the 8th Infantry Battalion (8IB), 4th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army overran a NPA camp after a clash with more or less 30 suspected New People’s Army bandits coming from Sangay sa Partidong Pampropaganda (SPP) TOTO, Guerilla Front 4B of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee, April 15, 2016, around 4:30 p.m., in a forested area near Sitio Kalampigan, Brgy. Kalabugao, Impasugong town, Bukidnon.
Lt Col Lennon G. Babilonia, commanding officer of the 8IB said the fierce firefight lasted for about one hour and twenty minutes, which caused the bandits to withdraw and scamper to different directions bringing along their wounded comrades as evidenced by bloodstain found by troops in their withdrawal route. Troops were also able to recover one Improvised Explosive Device (IED), live ammunitions of AK-47 and M16 rifles, five back packs and subversive documents.
The 8IB has intensified its security operations to rescue its Philippine National Police (PNP) counterparts after NPA bandits kidnapped Senior Police Officer 1 Warren Coñales and Police Officer 3 Edwin Castor when the armed group blocked a portion of Sayre Highway in Brgy. Capitan Bayong of Impasugong town and flagged down commuters last April 3, 2016, around 5:30 a.m.
Responding to a report from the Lumad community in Sitio Kalampigan, troops of the 8IB proceeded to the area where the locals saw the armed group who allegedly had with them two persons who were hog tied. The rebels, however, fired upon the troops, as they approached the area that caused the firefight.
Meanwhile, no soldiers were hurt during the clash while it is believed that the NPA had several casualties as reported by the Lumads residing in nearby communities.In his statement, LtCol Babilonia condemned the NPA leaders for depriving their wounded comrades for proper medical care.
"Our friends in the nearby Indigenous Peoples (IP) communities tell us that the NPA suffered several casualties during the firefight. My fellow tribal elders even informed me that at least three NPA members died from their wounds. This is just so unfortunate for our brothers who were deceived to join the armed struggle only to realize its futility and injustice as they were denied their rights to have proper medical care. The NPA leaders could have just allowed our soldiers to help their wounded comrades and not deny them of their rights. We condemn such acts for this is banditry at its best. The right thing for the NPA leaders to do now is to inform the poor families of these casualties and turn over their cadavers, but unfortunately, they don't practice such humane acts and they will just leave their dead comrades half buried somewhere in the dense jungle just to fuel their propaganda and lies," said Lt. Col. Babilonia, who was ordained and adopted by the Higaonon as one of their elders.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1501461219672/troops-overran-npa-camp-as-army-bandits-clash-anew-in-bukidnon
Soldiers of the 8th Infantry Battalion (8IB), 4th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army overran a NPA camp after a clash with more or less 30 suspected New People’s Army bandits coming from Sangay sa Partidong Pampropaganda (SPP) TOTO, Guerilla Front 4B of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee, April 15, 2016, around 4:30 p.m., in a forested area near Sitio Kalampigan, Brgy. Kalabugao, Impasugong town, Bukidnon.
Lt Col Lennon G. Babilonia, commanding officer of the 8IB said the fierce firefight lasted for about one hour and twenty minutes, which caused the bandits to withdraw and scamper to different directions bringing along their wounded comrades as evidenced by bloodstain found by troops in their withdrawal route. Troops were also able to recover one Improvised Explosive Device (IED), live ammunitions of AK-47 and M16 rifles, five back packs and subversive documents.
The 8IB has intensified its security operations to rescue its Philippine National Police (PNP) counterparts after NPA bandits kidnapped Senior Police Officer 1 Warren Coñales and Police Officer 3 Edwin Castor when the armed group blocked a portion of Sayre Highway in Brgy. Capitan Bayong of Impasugong town and flagged down commuters last April 3, 2016, around 5:30 a.m.
Responding to a report from the Lumad community in Sitio Kalampigan, troops of the 8IB proceeded to the area where the locals saw the armed group who allegedly had with them two persons who were hog tied. The rebels, however, fired upon the troops, as they approached the area that caused the firefight.
Meanwhile, no soldiers were hurt during the clash while it is believed that the NPA had several casualties as reported by the Lumads residing in nearby communities.In his statement, LtCol Babilonia condemned the NPA leaders for depriving their wounded comrades for proper medical care.
"Our friends in the nearby Indigenous Peoples (IP) communities tell us that the NPA suffered several casualties during the firefight. My fellow tribal elders even informed me that at least three NPA members died from their wounds. This is just so unfortunate for our brothers who were deceived to join the armed struggle only to realize its futility and injustice as they were denied their rights to have proper medical care. The NPA leaders could have just allowed our soldiers to help their wounded comrades and not deny them of their rights. We condemn such acts for this is banditry at its best. The right thing for the NPA leaders to do now is to inform the poor families of these casualties and turn over their cadavers, but unfortunately, they don't practice such humane acts and they will just leave their dead comrades half buried somewhere in the dense jungle just to fuel their propaganda and lies," said Lt. Col. Babilonia, who was ordained and adopted by the Higaonon as one of their elders.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1501461219672/troops-overran-npa-camp-as-army-bandits-clash-anew-in-bukidnon
Isabela City remembers April 13 bombings; Inter-Faith lights candle for peace
From the Philippine Information Agency (Apr 20): Isabela City remembers April 13 bombings; Inter-Faith lights candle for peace
“Thank you for coming together for remembering those who have shared their blood just to tell us, ‘Look, peace is worth dying for’.”
This was the statement of Claret College of Isabela President Rev. Fr. Edgar G. Rivero in his message during the Inter-religious Candle-Lighting for Peace held at Isabela City Plaza last April 13.
The event was led by the Prelature of Isabela de Basilan together with the Basilan Supreme Ulama Council and United Evangelical Church, in remembrance of the 6th year anniversary of the bomb-blast which shattered the west-side of Sta. Isabel de Portugal Cathedral Parish, and killed a number of people during a crossfire between the security forces and the brigands in a simultaneous incident of terror-attack in Isabela City.
“It is very clear that they are relentless in sowing fear in every corner of the island province. We should not only match their being relentless but also we try to overcome what they are doing—of course not with arms but in solidarity with prayers,” Fr. Rivero said.
Moreover, Rivero stressed that unpeace is not something new not only here in Basilan, but history will tell,that lawless elements are advancing their cause not only locally but globally.
“Those who don’t want peace are inclined on advancing their cause. If we will be put in a situation like them, remember that we are not alone and the God that we believe in, regardless what we call Him, will be on our side because God is Peace and Peace is God,” Fr. Rivero emphasized.
The people can contribute “prayer and concern for each other in order to overcome the relentless effort of these people trying to put us in situation of fear,” Rivero added.
Meanwhile, Basilan Supreme Ulama Council Ustadz Abdulagaiz Abibon prayed, “Linisin mo [Allah] ang aming kalooban mula sa dungis at umiwas sa iyong ipinagbabawal lalung-lalo na sa aming mga kabataan na siyang pag-asa ng ating bayan na naghahangad ng kapayapaan.”
Despite, differences in beliefs, social standing and political affiliations, UECI Pastor Paulino said, “We can truly come together as member of one big family even we may come from different denominations”.
“Let us set aside our religion and instead focus in praying to Almighty to have mercy and give us peace here in Basilan,” said Most Rev. Martin S. Jumoad, DD as he invited the people to light a candle for peace..
The event was participated by parishioners, private and government agencies, non-government organizations, military personnel and religious leaders.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1421461124070/isabela-city-remembers-april-13-bombings-inter-faith-lights-candle-for-peace
“Thank you for coming together for remembering those who have shared their blood just to tell us, ‘Look, peace is worth dying for’.”
This was the statement of Claret College of Isabela President Rev. Fr. Edgar G. Rivero in his message during the Inter-religious Candle-Lighting for Peace held at Isabela City Plaza last April 13.
The event was led by the Prelature of Isabela de Basilan together with the Basilan Supreme Ulama Council and United Evangelical Church, in remembrance of the 6th year anniversary of the bomb-blast which shattered the west-side of Sta. Isabel de Portugal Cathedral Parish, and killed a number of people during a crossfire between the security forces and the brigands in a simultaneous incident of terror-attack in Isabela City.
“It is very clear that they are relentless in sowing fear in every corner of the island province. We should not only match their being relentless but also we try to overcome what they are doing—of course not with arms but in solidarity with prayers,” Fr. Rivero said.
Moreover, Rivero stressed that unpeace is not something new not only here in Basilan, but history will tell,that lawless elements are advancing their cause not only locally but globally.
“Those who don’t want peace are inclined on advancing their cause. If we will be put in a situation like them, remember that we are not alone and the God that we believe in, regardless what we call Him, will be on our side because God is Peace and Peace is God,” Fr. Rivero emphasized.
The people can contribute “prayer and concern for each other in order to overcome the relentless effort of these people trying to put us in situation of fear,” Rivero added.
Meanwhile, Basilan Supreme Ulama Council Ustadz Abdulagaiz Abibon prayed, “Linisin mo [Allah] ang aming kalooban mula sa dungis at umiwas sa iyong ipinagbabawal lalung-lalo na sa aming mga kabataan na siyang pag-asa ng ating bayan na naghahangad ng kapayapaan.”
Despite, differences in beliefs, social standing and political affiliations, UECI Pastor Paulino said, “We can truly come together as member of one big family even we may come from different denominations”.
“Let us set aside our religion and instead focus in praying to Almighty to have mercy and give us peace here in Basilan,” said Most Rev. Martin S. Jumoad, DD as he invited the people to light a candle for peace..
The event was participated by parishioners, private and government agencies, non-government organizations, military personnel and religious leaders.
http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1421461124070/isabela-city-remembers-april-13-bombings-inter-faith-lights-candle-for-peace
Japanese carrier JS Ise coming to Philippines
From Update.Ph (Apr 21): Japanese carrier JS Ise coming to Philippines
The JS Ise (DD-182), one of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense’s most modern ships, will be docking at Alava Pier, Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Olongapo City this coming April 26 for a three-day goodwill visit.
JS Ise’s visit to the country will end on the April 29. This marks the third time a Japanese naval vessel will dock at the Philippines.
The former is designated a destroyer/helicopter carrier having the capacity to carry and house four rotary-winged aircraft.
JS Ise is commanded by Capt. Masaki Takada.
Philippine Navy spokesperson Lt. Cmdr. Marineth Domingo said they will render the customary welcome ceremony upon the arrival of the vessel to be followed by a port briefing aboard ship.
Takada, will also hold a press briefing at the port.
During the visit, JMSDF delegates will visit the San Antonio, Zambales-based Naval Education and Training Command (NETC) which is commanded by Rear Admiral Renan C. Suarez.
Visiting navy personnel will engage with their Filipino counterparts, particularly those assigned at NETC through shipboard tour on the Japanese ship and visit at NETC facilities.
JS Ise is a Hyuga-class helicopter destroyer a type of helicopter carrier. It is the second ship to be named Ise, the first being the Imperial Japanese Navy World War II-era battleship Ise.
The ship was built by IHI Marine United and commissioned into service on March 16, 2011.
She weighs 13,950 tons and can cruise at speed faster than 30 knots.
JS Ise assisted in post-typhoon Haiyan disaster relief efforts in the Philippines as part of the Japan Self Defense Force’s Operation Sankai.
http://www.update.ph/2016/04/japanese-carrier-js-ise-coming-to-philippines/4582
The JS Ise (DD-182), one of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense’s most modern ships, will be docking at Alava Pier, Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Olongapo City this coming April 26 for a three-day goodwill visit.
JS Ise’s visit to the country will end on the April 29. This marks the third time a Japanese naval vessel will dock at the Philippines.
The former is designated a destroyer/helicopter carrier having the capacity to carry and house four rotary-winged aircraft.
JS Ise is commanded by Capt. Masaki Takada.
Philippine Navy spokesperson Lt. Cmdr. Marineth Domingo said they will render the customary welcome ceremony upon the arrival of the vessel to be followed by a port briefing aboard ship.
Takada, will also hold a press briefing at the port.
During the visit, JMSDF delegates will visit the San Antonio, Zambales-based Naval Education and Training Command (NETC) which is commanded by Rear Admiral Renan C. Suarez.
Visiting navy personnel will engage with their Filipino counterparts, particularly those assigned at NETC through shipboard tour on the Japanese ship and visit at NETC facilities.
JS Ise is a Hyuga-class helicopter destroyer a type of helicopter carrier. It is the second ship to be named Ise, the first being the Imperial Japanese Navy World War II-era battleship Ise.
The ship was built by IHI Marine United and commissioned into service on March 16, 2011.
She weighs 13,950 tons and can cruise at speed faster than 30 knots.
JS Ise assisted in post-typhoon Haiyan disaster relief efforts in the Philippines as part of the Japan Self Defense Force’s Operation Sankai.
http://www.update.ph/2016/04/japanese-carrier-js-ise-coming-to-philippines/4582
China protests US military support to Philippines
From Update.Ph (Apr 21): China protests US military support to Philippines
The Chinese government has protested United States’ military aid to the Philippines saying US is the one pushing for tension in West Philippine Sea.
“What stands out is the more frequent and high-profile appearances of US military jets and vessels. Just the day before yesterday, the US Ambassador to the Philippines assured the Philippines of an observation blimp and 42 million US dollars’ worth of military equipment. The fact is that if the situation in the South China Sea gets tense, then the US is the biggest pusher behind it,” Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hua Chunying said in a press conference April 20.
She added that “blaming the tense situation in the South China Sea on China getting aggressive is calling white [a] black and confusing right and wrong.”
“The so-called tense situation in the South China Sea is a drama jointly staged by the US and the Philippines for their own political motives,” Hua Chunying said.
This statement from the Chinese spokesperson came after British Minister of State for the Foreign Office Hugo Swire told a forum that tensions in West Philippine Sea are driven by China’s assertive actions.
Swire added that the arbitral tribunal’s ruling on case filed by Philippines should be binding on both China and the Philippines. The UK will stand alongside the US in support of the ruling.
http://www.update.ph/2016/04/china-protests-us-military-support-to-philippines/4590
The Chinese government has protested United States’ military aid to the Philippines saying US is the one pushing for tension in West Philippine Sea.
“What stands out is the more frequent and high-profile appearances of US military jets and vessels. Just the day before yesterday, the US Ambassador to the Philippines assured the Philippines of an observation blimp and 42 million US dollars’ worth of military equipment. The fact is that if the situation in the South China Sea gets tense, then the US is the biggest pusher behind it,” Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hua Chunying said in a press conference April 20.
She added that “blaming the tense situation in the South China Sea on China getting aggressive is calling white [a] black and confusing right and wrong.”
“The so-called tense situation in the South China Sea is a drama jointly staged by the US and the Philippines for their own political motives,” Hua Chunying said.
This statement from the Chinese spokesperson came after British Minister of State for the Foreign Office Hugo Swire told a forum that tensions in West Philippine Sea are driven by China’s assertive actions.
Swire added that the arbitral tribunal’s ruling on case filed by Philippines should be binding on both China and the Philippines. The UK will stand alongside the US in support of the ruling.
http://www.update.ph/2016/04/china-protests-us-military-support-to-philippines/4590
Dead bodies of NPA ranking leaders recovered in Davao City (Photos)
From Update.Ph (Apr 21): Dead bodies of NPA ranking leaders recovered in Davao City (Photos)
Philippine Army 10th Infantry Division (10ID) is confirming the death of two high ranking leaders of New People’s Army, now being referred to as Armed Lawless Group (ALG) by the military. The dead bodies were recovered by troops of 84th Infantry Battalion last April 18 and 19 at Sitio Banban, Barangay Lumiad, Paquibato District, Davao City.
They were leaders of Pulang Bagani Company 1 (PBC 1).
10ID said the two were identified as Bernie Pepito Alima alias King, Vice-CO of Andoy Platoon of PBC 1 and Levy Boy Almosara alias Rexan, CO of Basil Platoon of PBC 1.
The Army division said “the two were killed during a series of encounters on April 18 between the ALG and troops of 84IB, who were conducting pursuit and rescue operations of the five PNP personnel earlier abducted by the ALG. The first firefight happened at 8:00 a.m. and second encounter occurred at 12:25 p.m. on April 18.”
“Alias King’s dead body and an armalite rifle were recovered by the troops after the 12:25 pm encounter. The dead body of alias Rexan and other war materiel were recovered at around 9:00 a.m. the following day, April 19,” 10ID said.
Levy Boy Almosara alias Rexan, CO, Basil Platoon of the Pulang Bagani Company 1. 10ID Photo
Bernie Pepito Alima alias King, Vice-CO, Andoy Platoon of the Pulang Bagani Company 1. 10ID Photo
Said ALG leaders are believed to be part of the group that attacked Quiman-anao CAFGU Detachment and abducted the five police officers on April 16, 2016, both in Paquibato District, Davao City.
“The death of these ALG leaders shows that the long arms of the law will sooner get all those who espouse and use violence to achieve their goals,” 10ID commander Major General Rafael C Valencia said.
http://www.update.ph/2016/04/dead-bodies-of-npa-ranking-leaders-recovered-in-davao-city-photos/4606
Philippine Army 10th Infantry Division (10ID) is confirming the death of two high ranking leaders of New People’s Army, now being referred to as Armed Lawless Group (ALG) by the military. The dead bodies were recovered by troops of 84th Infantry Battalion last April 18 and 19 at Sitio Banban, Barangay Lumiad, Paquibato District, Davao City.
They were leaders of Pulang Bagani Company 1 (PBC 1).
10ID said the two were identified as Bernie Pepito Alima alias King, Vice-CO of Andoy Platoon of PBC 1 and Levy Boy Almosara alias Rexan, CO of Basil Platoon of PBC 1.
The Army division said “the two were killed during a series of encounters on April 18 between the ALG and troops of 84IB, who were conducting pursuit and rescue operations of the five PNP personnel earlier abducted by the ALG. The first firefight happened at 8:00 a.m. and second encounter occurred at 12:25 p.m. on April 18.”
“Alias King’s dead body and an armalite rifle were recovered by the troops after the 12:25 pm encounter. The dead body of alias Rexan and other war materiel were recovered at around 9:00 a.m. the following day, April 19,” 10ID said.
Said ALG leaders are believed to be part of the group that attacked Quiman-anao CAFGU Detachment and abducted the five police officers on April 16, 2016, both in Paquibato District, Davao City.
“The death of these ALG leaders shows that the long arms of the law will sooner get all those who espouse and use violence to achieve their goals,” 10ID commander Major General Rafael C Valencia said.
http://www.update.ph/2016/04/dead-bodies-of-npa-ranking-leaders-recovered-in-davao-city-photos/4606
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