From the Reville columm by Ramon Farolan in the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Aug 15): Burial of an emperor
BREAKING NEWS. Maj. Gen. Rodolfo Canieso, PMA Class of 1956 and former commanding general of the Philippine Army, passed away at 4:20 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 13. Affectionately referred to as “Pilipino” by close colleagues and admirers, he embodied the finest qualities of the Filipino soldier in a lifetime of service to the nation.
Full military honors and a final resting place on the gentle slopes of the Libingan ng mga Bayani, just a short distance from Army headquarters, await him, drawing down the curtains on a career that began more than 60 years ago with the long, grey line at Fort Del Pilar in Baguio City......
http://opinion.inquirer.net/96520/burial-of-an-emperor
Sunday, August 14, 2016
Cotabato cops hunt down suspects in soldier's shooting
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 15): Cotabato cops hunt down suspects in soldier's shooting
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=913750
Police have launched here a manhunt against two men who
allegedly shot and seriously injured an Army non-commissioned officer Sunday
night, police said.
Senior Supt. Danny Reyes, city police director, identified
the victim as Senior Sgt. Ludovico Aguilar, 42, a member of the Army's 6th
Infantry Division based in Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao.
Reyes, quoting police station 2 report, said Aguilar was
inside his home in Barangay Rosary Heights 10 when two men, who remain
unidentified, arrived looking for Aguilar.
Without provocation, one of the two suspects opened fire on
Aguilar, using cal. 45 pistol. He sustained multiple gunshot wounds and in
critical condition at a government hospital.
Police investigators said the victim's relative could not
see any reason why Aguilar was shot.
Witnesses have provided the police with cartographic
sketches of the suspects believed to be gun for hire.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=913750
MNLF, MILF offer to help neutralize Moro lawless elements in Maguindano-N. Cotabato border
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 15): MNLF, MILF offer to help neutralize Moro lawless elements in Maguindano-N. Cotabato border
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=913759
MIDSAYAP, North Cotabato -- Members of the
Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF)
who maintain communities in the borders of Maguindanao and North
Cotabato have offered to help in the capture of Moks Masgal alias
"Commander Mabrook" and his heavily armed followers, police said.
Senior Inspector Relan Mamon, Midsayap town police chief,
said leaders of Moro fronts in Barangay Nabalawag and nearby communities said
they will help provide intelligence information on the where about of Commander
Mabrook, a lawless armed leader allied with outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom
Fighters (BIFF).
He did not name the MILF and MNLF officials who offered to
help.
Under the 1997 ceasefire agreement between the government
and the MILF, the rebels are bound to help the government in the arrest or
neutralization of lawless elements in their communities.
The MNLF, on the other hand, has signed a peace deal with Manila
"Illegal drugs is haram (forbidden) in Islam, so we are
against it because it destroys human brains and addicts tend to do crimes more
often," an MNLF leader, who introduced himself as "Commander
Talgo," told reporters in Filipino.
Mamon told DXMS-AM Radyo Bida that Mabrook has about 50
armed followers equipped with rocket propelled grenades, assault rifles and
explosives and survived operation by extortion, kidnapping, robbery in band and
sale of prohibited drugs.
"Our intelligence information showed he is now being
coddled by the BIFF in Liguasan marshland," an Army intelligence officer
said.
A big time operation was carried out by government forces
composed of Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), police and military at
about 4:00 a.m. Sunday against Mabrook but armed skirmishes erupted after his followers
sensed the coming government forces.
The operation left three government forces killed, a
civilian guide and four bandits. Nine followers of Mabrook, including his
brother, were injured in the ensuing fire fight. A villager was also hit by
stray bullets and died.
Eight soldiers, all belonging to 6th Infantry Division Recon
Company, were slightly injured.
Mamon said Commander Mabrook, a former MILF sub-leader
operating in the marshland of Maguindanao, was largely involved in distribution
of illegal drugs in several towns in North Cotabato
and Maguindanao.
He was listed as the number 1 most wanted drug personality
in adjoining provinces.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=913759
Military deploys transport assets, personnel to help Marikina residents affected by 'habagat'
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 15): Military deploys transport assets, personnel to help Marikina residents affected by 'habagat'
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=913778
The military's Joint Task Group-National Capital Region has
deployed 10 M-35 trucks and 187 personnel to help in the ongoing relief
operations for families who were severely affected by rains brought by the
southwest monsoon which has been battering the country for the past week.
In its 8:00 a.m. update, the National Disaster Risk
Reduction and Management Council said that this is part of the Armed Forces of
the Philippines
Aside from these assets, 11 KM-450 light trucks, three Elf
trucks, three ambulances, three rigid-hull boats, two fiber glass boats and two
pick-up trucks were also deployed in the government's ongoing relief efforts.
As of Sunday, around 2,807 families or 10,561 persons were
evacuated from the communities bordering the Marikina River
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=913778
Military 'WASAR' assets prepositioned in Marikina City
From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 15): Military 'WASAR' assets prepositioned in Marikina City
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=913783
With the danger of flooding still not over due to the
southwest monsoon, the military's Joint Task Group-National Capital Region has
deployed "WASAR" (water search-and-rescue) assets in flood-prone
communities in Marikina
City
This was stressed by the National Disaster Risk Reduction
and Management Council in its 8:00 a.m. update.
WASAR units were deployed in Marikina City
Deployed assets consist of three-rigid hull boats and two
fiber glass ones and their crews.
Also deployed were three medical teams to evacuation centers
located in Barangay Malanday, Nangka and H. Bautista.
As of Sunday, around 2,807 families or 10,561 persons were
evacuated from the communities bordering the Marikina River
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=913783
Rival Islamic groups to unite
From the Malay Mail Online (Aug 14): Rival Islamic groups to unite
(From left) Ghafar, Jesus, Johari and Murad at the launch of the peace accord yesterday. — Picture by Malay Mail
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) will join hands and work together with the Philippine government to achieve peace and security in Mindanao.
MILF chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim said the two organisations are working towards containing the ideology of Islamic State and groups that might be inspired by it.
“We have formed a special group to probe the possible infiltration of IS sympathisers, with other preventative programmes done to counter radicalisation in the area of our control."
“MNLF, under Nur Misuari, has deployed men to the Sulu islands to contain Abu Sayyaf. It is a collective effort that in the end will help the peace process in Mindanao,’’ he said.
Murad was speaking at the launch of the implementing phase of the Bangsamoro Peace Accord at the Palace of the Golden Horses in Sungei Besi yesterday.
The launch will see the end of 17 years of negotiations which have been mediated by the Malaysian government between the Philippine government and MILF as they now enter a formal partnership for peace.
The implementation phase will focus on how to implement the provisions of the Comprehensive Agreement on Bangsamoro after the non-passing of the Bangsamoro Basic Law during the country’s 16th Congress session.
According to Murad, he will extend an olive branch to those who share the same aspirations for peace and development of the welfare of the Bangsamoro.
“We need to achieve peace in the region to counter dissidents who could be susceptible to radicalisation. Groups such as Abu Sayyaf and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters were created during periods when peace talks were stalled.
“Their anger and frustration could have mutated. Coupled with an environment of uncertainty, they turned to armed conflict. But we are working very hard to present an alternative option for them,’’ he said.
Representative of the Philippine government and presidential advisor on the peace accord Secretary Jesus G. Dureza, who was also present, said they do not wish for further bloodshed, but said terrorist groups will be severely dealt with.
“Terror groups such as the Abu Sayyaf will be dealt with an iron fist. We strongly condemn the their behaviour and actions of kidnapping people for ransom, beheading their captives and other criminal activities.
“It will be a tough road ahead for all the stakeholders involved but we are committed to see it through,’’ he said.
Also present at the launch was was Deputy Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Johari Barum, facilitator of the Peace Process between the Philippine government and MILF Tengku Datuk Ab Ghafar Tengku Mohamed and Malaysian Armed Forces Chief Tan Sri Gen Zulkifeli Mohd Zin.
http://www.themalaymailonline.com/malaysia/article/rival-islamic-groups-to-unite
(From left) Ghafar, Jesus, Johari and Murad at the launch of the peace accord yesterday. — Picture by Malay Mail
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) will join hands and work together with the Philippine government to achieve peace and security in Mindanao.
MILF chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim said the two organisations are working towards containing the ideology of Islamic State and groups that might be inspired by it.
“We have formed a special group to probe the possible infiltration of IS sympathisers, with other preventative programmes done to counter radicalisation in the area of our control."
“MNLF, under Nur Misuari, has deployed men to the Sulu islands to contain Abu Sayyaf. It is a collective effort that in the end will help the peace process in Mindanao,’’ he said.
Murad was speaking at the launch of the implementing phase of the Bangsamoro Peace Accord at the Palace of the Golden Horses in Sungei Besi yesterday.
The launch will see the end of 17 years of negotiations which have been mediated by the Malaysian government between the Philippine government and MILF as they now enter a formal partnership for peace.
The implementation phase will focus on how to implement the provisions of the Comprehensive Agreement on Bangsamoro after the non-passing of the Bangsamoro Basic Law during the country’s 16th Congress session.
According to Murad, he will extend an olive branch to those who share the same aspirations for peace and development of the welfare of the Bangsamoro.
“We need to achieve peace in the region to counter dissidents who could be susceptible to radicalisation. Groups such as Abu Sayyaf and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters were created during periods when peace talks were stalled.
“Their anger and frustration could have mutated. Coupled with an environment of uncertainty, they turned to armed conflict. But we are working very hard to present an alternative option for them,’’ he said.
Representative of the Philippine government and presidential advisor on the peace accord Secretary Jesus G. Dureza, who was also present, said they do not wish for further bloodshed, but said terrorist groups will be severely dealt with.
“Terror groups such as the Abu Sayyaf will be dealt with an iron fist. We strongly condemn the their behaviour and actions of kidnapping people for ransom, beheading their captives and other criminal activities.
“It will be a tough road ahead for all the stakeholders involved but we are committed to see it through,’’ he said.
Also present at the launch was was Deputy Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Johari Barum, facilitator of the Peace Process between the Philippine government and MILF Tengku Datuk Ab Ghafar Tengku Mohamed and Malaysian Armed Forces Chief Tan Sri Gen Zulkifeli Mohd Zin.
http://www.themalaymailonline.com/malaysia/article/rival-islamic-groups-to-unite
Ransom deadline for Indonesian sailors approaches
From Anadolu Agency (Aug 14): Ransom deadline for Indonesian sailors approaches
Daesh-linked group wants $5.6 million paid by Aug. 16 for 7 Indonesians it kidnapped June 20
Daesh-linked group wants $5.6 million paid by Aug. 16 for 7 Indonesians it kidnapped June 20
With the latest deadline for a ransom payment fast approaching, Indonesia says it has established intensive communication channels with the Philippines government for the release of seven its nationals.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Retno Marsudi was quoted as underlining to reporters Sunday that the situation is more difficult than in previous situations, as the kidnappers -- the Abu Sayyaf -- are currently involved in an offensive with the Philippines government in their southern Philippines island stronghold of Sulu.
"There is a lot of fighting on the ground which makes the situation more difficult than ever," Marsudi was quoted as saying by kompas.com.
The Abu Sayyaf militant group is holding seven Indonesians it kidnapped June 20 in the Southern Philippines jungles of Sulu, for which it has reportedly asked a ransom of 250 million pesos ($5.6 million) be paid by Aug. 15.
Complicating matters is that the Philippines -- in cooperation with a local Moro group, the Moro National Liberation Front -- is currently engaged in a large-scale effort to clamp down on the group and free the hostages.
Earlier this year, the Abu Sayyaf beheaded two Canadian hostages after ransoms failed to be paid. It has also threatened to decapitate a Norwegian captured with them in September if a 300 million pesos ransom demand is not met.
Marsudi said she continues to communicate with her counterpart in the Philippines, hoping that the military operation does not compromise the hostage safety.
"[However], we understand the dynamics of the situation on the ground," she underlined.
On June 20, the Abu Sayyaf ambushed a tugboat -- the TB Charles -- carrying 13 Indonesians in the waters of Sulu, in the southern Philippines.
While six of the crew were released, seven others were taken, their abductors then demanding the ransom.
The Abu Sayyaf is reported to have communicated the demand to the victims' families Aug. 1, along with a deadline of 14 days.
On Sunday, local news portal tribunnews.com reported a relative of one of those on board as saying that the families are extremely depressed over the situation.
"[But] we keep praying. We expect no bad things to happen to our family and the TB Charles crew," Elona -- many Indonesians have just one name -- said.
Outside of the seven men, the Abu Sayyaf is also reported to be holding the three-man Indonesian crew of a Malaysia-flagged fishing vessel abducted July 8.
The foreign ministry has said that four different kidnappings have occurred in Philippines waters this year, although 14 Indonesians were released following a double kidnapping in March.
Since 1991, the Abu Sayyaf group -- armed with mostly improvised explosive devices, mortars and automatic rifles -- has carried out bombings, kidnappings, assassinations and extortions in a self-determined fight for an independent province in the Philippines.
It is notorious for beheading victims after ransoms have failed to be paid for their release.
The Abu Sayyaf is one of two militant groups in the south that has pledged allegiance to Daesh, prompting fears during the stalling of a peace process with the country's largest Moro group, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front that Daesh, that they could make inroads in a region torn by decades of armed conflict.
CPP: Oppose the hero’s burial for fascist dictator Marcos
Propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (Aug 13): Oppose the hero’s burial for fascist dictator Marcos
The CPP condemns the plan of the Duterte regime to give the former fascist dictator Ferdinand Marcos a hero’s burial at the Libingan ng mga Bayani.
By claiming Marcos deserves to be buried with other former soldiers, Duterte is helping perpetuate the historical lies surrounding Marcos’ bogus medals and phoney Maharlika guerrilla unit. By further ordering that Marcos be accorded military honours befitting a former head of state, Duterte is virtually deleting Marcos’ bloody record as a military despot and the fascist violence, human rights violation, corruption and economic hardships he made the Filipino people suffer through 14 years of dictatorship.
The Filipino people hold all post-Marcos regimes equally culpable for the political restoration of the Marcos family—Imelda and their children, who all took part in the machinations of the Marcos dictatorship. According a hero’s burial to the dead dictator will complete the Marcoses’ political restoration and will complete the whitewash of all the crimes they perpetrated against the people.
Duterte is bull-headed with his decision to give Marcos a hero’s burial at the Libingan ng mga Bayani. He is determined to squander the historical lessons treasured by the Filipino people. They are being politically disarmed from preventing the rise to power of future dictators. Many fear this will be self-serving as Duterte bandies threats to declare martial law if he doesn’t get his way in the frenzied “war against drugs.”
By flaunting his ties and alliance with the Marcos family, Duterte is helping the Marcosian scheme to revise history and make the younger generations overlook the colossal plunder and sale of the country’s patrimony, his debt-borrowing debt spree, his legacy of gross cronyism, his family’s ostentatious lifestyle built upon the poverty of the people, and his martial law’s massacre of freedom and democracy.
Duterte’s decision on the Marcos burial displays extreme insensitivity to the sensibilities of thousands of victims, families and survivors of martial law barbarities. He insults the memory of thousands of patriotic Filipinos from all walks of life who gave up their lives at the prime of their youth to fight for the dictatorship’s overthrow.
Riding on surveys claims of high approval ratings, Duterte taunts the people to protest as much as they want in the streets. He reveals his indifference to people’s demands.
The CPP supports the people’s protests against the Duterte regime’s plan to give a hero’s burial to Marcos at the Libingan ng mga Bayani. The revolutionary forces continue to stand against the political restoration of the Marcoses and demand that they be made to pay for all the crimes against the Filipino people.
http://www.cpp.ph/oppose-heros-burial-fascist-dictator-marcos/
The CPP condemns the plan of the Duterte regime to give the former fascist dictator Ferdinand Marcos a hero’s burial at the Libingan ng mga Bayani.
By claiming Marcos deserves to be buried with other former soldiers, Duterte is helping perpetuate the historical lies surrounding Marcos’ bogus medals and phoney Maharlika guerrilla unit. By further ordering that Marcos be accorded military honours befitting a former head of state, Duterte is virtually deleting Marcos’ bloody record as a military despot and the fascist violence, human rights violation, corruption and economic hardships he made the Filipino people suffer through 14 years of dictatorship.
The Filipino people hold all post-Marcos regimes equally culpable for the political restoration of the Marcos family—Imelda and their children, who all took part in the machinations of the Marcos dictatorship. According a hero’s burial to the dead dictator will complete the Marcoses’ political restoration and will complete the whitewash of all the crimes they perpetrated against the people.
Duterte is bull-headed with his decision to give Marcos a hero’s burial at the Libingan ng mga Bayani. He is determined to squander the historical lessons treasured by the Filipino people. They are being politically disarmed from preventing the rise to power of future dictators. Many fear this will be self-serving as Duterte bandies threats to declare martial law if he doesn’t get his way in the frenzied “war against drugs.”
By flaunting his ties and alliance with the Marcos family, Duterte is helping the Marcosian scheme to revise history and make the younger generations overlook the colossal plunder and sale of the country’s patrimony, his debt-borrowing debt spree, his legacy of gross cronyism, his family’s ostentatious lifestyle built upon the poverty of the people, and his martial law’s massacre of freedom and democracy.
Duterte’s decision on the Marcos burial displays extreme insensitivity to the sensibilities of thousands of victims, families and survivors of martial law barbarities. He insults the memory of thousands of patriotic Filipinos from all walks of life who gave up their lives at the prime of their youth to fight for the dictatorship’s overthrow.
Riding on surveys claims of high approval ratings, Duterte taunts the people to protest as much as they want in the streets. He reveals his indifference to people’s demands.
The CPP supports the people’s protests against the Duterte regime’s plan to give a hero’s burial to Marcos at the Libingan ng mga Bayani. The revolutionary forces continue to stand against the political restoration of the Marcoses and demand that they be made to pay for all the crimes against the Filipino people.
http://www.cpp.ph/oppose-heros-burial-fascist-dictator-marcos/
Malaysia Will Continue Contibuting To Bangsamoro Capacity Building
From Bernama (Aug 14): Malaysia Will Continue Contibuting To Bangsamoro Capacity Building
Malaysia will continue to contribute to the Bangsamoro capacity building programme towards the establishment of its political entity.
The Foreign Ministry, in a statement, today said Malaysia also gave assurance on the continuation of its committment as facilitator to the peace process between the Government of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
"Malaysia has stressed on the importance of both countries to continue strengthening their long standing cooperation," said the statement.
It was among matters raised during the courtesy call by the Philippines Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Perfecto Yasay on Foreign Minister, Datuk Seri Anifah Aman yesterday.
This was the first meeting between the two ministers since Yasay was appointed to his current post.
However the Wisma Putra statement did not specify where the meeting was held.
Also joining in the meeting was the Foreign Ministry's Bilateral Relations deputy secretary general, Datuk Muhammad Shahrul Ikram Yaakob and the ministry's senior officials while Yasay was accompanied by the Philippines' Ambassador to Malaysia, J.Eduardo Malaya and senior officials of that country.
During the meeting, Malaysia emphasised on the importance of working closely with Indonesia and the Philippines in enhancing cooperation and coordination among the three countries to improve maritime security in the waters, particularly to curb incidents of abduction.
The statement said the three countries should also take action towards finalising the relevant standard operating procedure (SOP) under the Framework for Indonesia-Malaysia-The Philippines Trilateral Cooperative Arrangement in the Maritime Areas of Common Concern signed on July 14, 2016.
Malaysia also outlined the need for both countries to cooperate closely within the ASEAN solidarity spirit and as neighbours in addressing issues such as cross border crimes, radicalisation and terrorism as well as the South China Sea.
The Philippines expressed its thanks to Malaysia for its continual commitment and support in the southern Philippines peace process.
At the same time, the Philippines said they were in the midst of dealing with security issues in the south of the country, especially pertaining to abduction and terrorism and would continue to cooperate with Malaysia to combat these threats.
On the issue of the Philippines' claim over Sabah, Malaysia reiterated its stand that Sabah was part of this country, added the statement.
http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v8/ge/newsgeneral.php?id=1272759
Malaysia will continue to contribute to the Bangsamoro capacity building programme towards the establishment of its political entity.
The Foreign Ministry, in a statement, today said Malaysia also gave assurance on the continuation of its committment as facilitator to the peace process between the Government of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).
"Malaysia has stressed on the importance of both countries to continue strengthening their long standing cooperation," said the statement.
It was among matters raised during the courtesy call by the Philippines Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Perfecto Yasay on Foreign Minister, Datuk Seri Anifah Aman yesterday.
This was the first meeting between the two ministers since Yasay was appointed to his current post.
However the Wisma Putra statement did not specify where the meeting was held.
Also joining in the meeting was the Foreign Ministry's Bilateral Relations deputy secretary general, Datuk Muhammad Shahrul Ikram Yaakob and the ministry's senior officials while Yasay was accompanied by the Philippines' Ambassador to Malaysia, J.Eduardo Malaya and senior officials of that country.
During the meeting, Malaysia emphasised on the importance of working closely with Indonesia and the Philippines in enhancing cooperation and coordination among the three countries to improve maritime security in the waters, particularly to curb incidents of abduction.
The statement said the three countries should also take action towards finalising the relevant standard operating procedure (SOP) under the Framework for Indonesia-Malaysia-The Philippines Trilateral Cooperative Arrangement in the Maritime Areas of Common Concern signed on July 14, 2016.
Malaysia also outlined the need for both countries to cooperate closely within the ASEAN solidarity spirit and as neighbours in addressing issues such as cross border crimes, radicalisation and terrorism as well as the South China Sea.
The Philippines expressed its thanks to Malaysia for its continual commitment and support in the southern Philippines peace process.
At the same time, the Philippines said they were in the midst of dealing with security issues in the south of the country, especially pertaining to abduction and terrorism and would continue to cooperate with Malaysia to combat these threats.
On the issue of the Philippines' claim over Sabah, Malaysia reiterated its stand that Sabah was part of this country, added the statement.
http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v8/ge/newsgeneral.php?id=1272759
Indonesia, Malaysia asked to tighten border patrol
From the Philippine Star (Aug 15): Indonesia, Malaysia asked to tighten border patrol
JOLO, Sulu, Philippines – A military official on Saturday urged Malaysian and Indonesian authorities to intensify their border security as most of the kidnappings in the area occurred along their corridors.
Lt. Gen. Mayoralgo dela Cruz, chief of the Western Mindanao Command, said measures on how to strengthen the border security have been discussed during a tripartite level meeting with the two countries.
“Most of the kidnappings occurred on their sides of the border and not in the Philippines, so they should strengthen their patrol,” Dela Cruz said.
The official urged his Malaysian and Indonesian counterparts to share information so they could quickly respond to any incident in the area.
“It usually takes two to three days for us to get the information and it’s too late to respond,” Dela Cruz said.
He stressed the importance of coordination in the immediate dispatch of troops to track down the possible entry points of kidnappers.
“It could be possible that a kidnapping was carried out by someone from their side and the captives were merely turned over to the bandits here,” Dela Cruz said.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2016/08/15/1613528/indonesia-malaysia-asked-tighten-border-patrol
JOLO, Sulu, Philippines – A military official on Saturday urged Malaysian and Indonesian authorities to intensify their border security as most of the kidnappings in the area occurred along their corridors.
Lt. Gen. Mayoralgo dela Cruz, chief of the Western Mindanao Command, said measures on how to strengthen the border security have been discussed during a tripartite level meeting with the two countries.
“Most of the kidnappings occurred on their sides of the border and not in the Philippines, so they should strengthen their patrol,” Dela Cruz said.
The official urged his Malaysian and Indonesian counterparts to share information so they could quickly respond to any incident in the area.
“It usually takes two to three days for us to get the information and it’s too late to respond,” Dela Cruz said.
He stressed the importance of coordination in the immediate dispatch of troops to track down the possible entry points of kidnappers.
“It could be possible that a kidnapping was carried out by someone from their side and the captives were merely turned over to the bandits here,” Dela Cruz said.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2016/08/15/1613528/indonesia-malaysia-asked-tighten-border-patrol
Ex-NPA rebels shot dead
From the Philippine Star (Aug 14): Ex-NPA rebels shot dead
Two former New People’s Army rebels were gunned down in Masbate and Isabela on Thursday.
Reports reaching Camp General Simeon Ola identified one of the victims as Benjamin Condrillon, a resident of Sitio Talisay in Barangay Pasiagon in Placer, Camarines Norte.
In Isabela, Orland Quimado, 44, was shot dead by unidentified men in front of his wife and children at his farm in Barangay Rizaluna in Cordon, Isabela.
An investigation into the killings is underway.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2016/08/14/1613104/ex-npa-rebels-shot-dead
Two former New People’s Army rebels were gunned down in Masbate and Isabela on Thursday.
Reports reaching Camp General Simeon Ola identified one of the victims as Benjamin Condrillon, a resident of Sitio Talisay in Barangay Pasiagon in Placer, Camarines Norte.
In Isabela, Orland Quimado, 44, was shot dead by unidentified men in front of his wife and children at his farm in Barangay Rizaluna in Cordon, Isabela.
An investigation into the killings is underway.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2016/08/14/1613104/ex-npa-rebels-shot-dead
MILF on alert, probes possible ISIS infiltration
From the Daily Tribune (Aug 14): MILF on alert, probes possible ISIS infiltration
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has expressed alarm over the possible infiltration of the international terrorist group Islamic State in its ranks.
“We have formed a special MILF group that is probing the possible penetration and inspiration of some MILF members by ISIS (or IS),” MILF Chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim told reporters in a press conference alongside Malacañang’s top representative Presidential Peace Adviser Secretary Jesus Dureza.
Verifying what President Rodrigo Duterte previously spilled in one of his Army camp visits, Ebrahim said there are already ISIS-inspired groups operating in Mindanao but clarified that these organizations are not ISIS per se.
“There are groups that are inspired by ISIS. But as far as we’re concerned, there is still no ISIS organization in Mindanao,” the MILF leader said.
Tengku Dato Ab Ghafar Tengku Mohamed, Malaysian third party representative in the GRP-MILF talks, for his part, suggested that once the insurgency issues are resolved soon, the ISIS threat will eventually be toned down.
“Peace in Mindanao will deter radicalization of people. We call on all groups in Mindanao to reject extremism,” Dato Tengku said.
Relatedly, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) will be coordinating with law enforcement and security agencies in connection with the President’s order to arrest and deport alleged ISIS indoctrinators in Mindanao.
“Given the pronouncement of the President we coordinate with law enforcement and security agencies such as if they want us to identify a certain person,” said BI spokesman Antonette Mangrobang.
“We coordinate with law enforcement and intelligence when it comes to anti-crime,” she added.
Mangrobang noted that the bureau remains committed to enforce its mandate against undesirable aliens especially terrorists.
With this, the BI official called on the people to report to them any suspicious individuals in their areas.
“We are asking the public if they see any suspicious presence in their area to inform the BI,” she added.
On Thursday, Duterte ordered the military to validate reports about the presence of Arab-looking missionaries in the southern part of the country.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/milf-on-alert-probes-possible-isis-infiltration
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has expressed alarm over the possible infiltration of the international terrorist group Islamic State in its ranks.
“We have formed a special MILF group that is probing the possible penetration and inspiration of some MILF members by ISIS (or IS),” MILF Chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim told reporters in a press conference alongside Malacañang’s top representative Presidential Peace Adviser Secretary Jesus Dureza.
Verifying what President Rodrigo Duterte previously spilled in one of his Army camp visits, Ebrahim said there are already ISIS-inspired groups operating in Mindanao but clarified that these organizations are not ISIS per se.
“There are groups that are inspired by ISIS. But as far as we’re concerned, there is still no ISIS organization in Mindanao,” the MILF leader said.
Tengku Dato Ab Ghafar Tengku Mohamed, Malaysian third party representative in the GRP-MILF talks, for his part, suggested that once the insurgency issues are resolved soon, the ISIS threat will eventually be toned down.
“Peace in Mindanao will deter radicalization of people. We call on all groups in Mindanao to reject extremism,” Dato Tengku said.
Relatedly, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) will be coordinating with law enforcement and security agencies in connection with the President’s order to arrest and deport alleged ISIS indoctrinators in Mindanao.
“Given the pronouncement of the President we coordinate with law enforcement and security agencies such as if they want us to identify a certain person,” said BI spokesman Antonette Mangrobang.
“We coordinate with law enforcement and intelligence when it comes to anti-crime,” she added.
Mangrobang noted that the bureau remains committed to enforce its mandate against undesirable aliens especially terrorists.
With this, the BI official called on the people to report to them any suspicious individuals in their areas.
“We are asking the public if they see any suspicious presence in their area to inform the BI,” she added.
On Thursday, Duterte ordered the military to validate reports about the presence of Arab-looking missionaries in the southern part of the country.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/milf-on-alert-probes-possible-isis-infiltration
2 more communist leaders to be released to join peace talks—Dureza
From GMA News (Aug 14): 2 more communist leaders to be released to join peace talks—Dureza
Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza announced Sunday that two more members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) will soon be released to join the peace talks.
Dureza said CPP-NPA members Ariel Arbitrario and Porferio Tuna are set to be temporarily released. Dureza: Two members CPP members who will be released soon, Ariel Arbitrario and Porferio Tuna @gmanews — Joseph Morong (@Joseph_Morong) August 14, 2016
Dureza is currently in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia for the resumption of negotiations between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front on the creation of a Bangsamoro autonomous region.
Arbitratio, together with his brother Crispolo, was arrested last February 2016 in Tagum City, during a joint police and military operation by virtue of an arrest warrant for murder.
Tuna alias Ka Simon, meanwhile, was nabbed in Tagum City last October 2015 on kidnapping and serious illegal detention charges. Tuna is reportedly the spokesman of the NPA in Mindanao.
The impending release of Arbitratio and Tuna follows the release of communist leaders Benito and Wilma Tiamzon and Adelberto Silva last Friday.
The Tiamzon couple and Silva posted a P100,000-bail each for their temporary liberty to join the resumption of peace negotiations between the government and the CPP-NPA late this month.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/577594/news/nation/2-more-communist-leaders-to-be-released-to-join-peace-talks-dureza
Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza announced Sunday that two more members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) will soon be released to join the peace talks.
Dureza said CPP-NPA members Ariel Arbitrario and Porferio Tuna are set to be temporarily released. Dureza: Two members CPP members who will be released soon, Ariel Arbitrario and Porferio Tuna @gmanews — Joseph Morong (@Joseph_Morong) August 14, 2016
Dureza is currently in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia for the resumption of negotiations between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front on the creation of a Bangsamoro autonomous region.
Arbitratio, together with his brother Crispolo, was arrested last February 2016 in Tagum City, during a joint police and military operation by virtue of an arrest warrant for murder.
Tuna alias Ka Simon, meanwhile, was nabbed in Tagum City last October 2015 on kidnapping and serious illegal detention charges. Tuna is reportedly the spokesman of the NPA in Mindanao.
The impending release of Arbitratio and Tuna follows the release of communist leaders Benito and Wilma Tiamzon and Adelberto Silva last Friday.
The Tiamzon couple and Silva posted a P100,000-bail each for their temporary liberty to join the resumption of peace negotiations between the government and the CPP-NPA late this month.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/577594/news/nation/2-more-communist-leaders-to-be-released-to-join-peace-talks-dureza
Hangars prove China plan to 'militarize' islands
From Rappler (Aug 14): Hangars prove China plan to 'militarize' islands
'China wants to establish effective control over the sea and airspace in the South China Sea,' analyst Gregory Poling tells Rappler
The Chinese hangars being constructed in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea) prove that China is planning to "militarize" its artificial islands there, an expert told Rappler.
'China wants to establish effective control over the sea and airspace in the South China Sea,' analyst Gregory Poling tells Rappler
FIERY CROSS REEF. Construction of fighter-jet hangars appears complete at the southern end of the runway and is well-advanced along the middle of the airstrip,€™ the AMTI says of this satellite image dated June 3. Photo courtesy of CSIS/AMTI and DigitalGlobe
The Chinese hangars being constructed in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea) prove that China is planning to "militarize" its artificial islands there, an expert told Rappler.
Gregory Poling, director of the Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative (AMTI), said constructing hangars "was likely the plan" since different forms of construction there began.
"This is just the smoking gun that proves what we already knew – that China always intended to 'militarize' these artificial islands," Poling said in an email to Rappler on Wednesday, August 10.
After all, he said, "China didn't build 3,000-meter reinforced runways tailored to military aircraft if it didn’t plan to deploy them."
Poling made these remarks after AMTI, part of the Washington-based Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), released photos that show China building hangars on its artificial islands.
The AMTI's images, the latest of which was dated July 24, show hangars under construction on Zamora Reef (Subi Reef), Panganiban Reef (Mischief Reef), and Kagitingan Reef (Fiery Cross Reef).
Many of these photos had been taken after an arbitral tribunal in The Hague, Netherlands, struck down China’s expansive claim over the West Philippine Sea on July 12.
Poling explained why he thinks China is constructing these hangars.
"China wants to establish effective control over the sea and airspace in the South China Sea. Being able to project air power throughout the nine-dash line is a key part of that," he said.
'Part of development plan'
"Combined with the increase in Chinese naval, coast guard, and fishing militia presence that is being allowed by these bases, it is going to make it very difficult for Southeast Asian claimants like the Philippines to maintain access to contested waters and airspace," he added.
Poling also said China’s facilities on these artificial islands "make it clear that China wants de facto control, even if it can't have legal control, over the South China Sea."
"It is key that Southeast Asian states and their partners, including the United States, continue to assert their rights to access these waters and airspace despite the increase in Chinese military and law enforcement presence we will soon see," he said.
M. Taylor Fravel, political science professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, said the construction of the hangars "probably began at least 6 months ago, and photos from May and June show completed hangars on Fiery Cross Reef."
Fravel, an international relations expert who studies China and East Asia, told Rappler that the construction of the hangars "is part of the overall development plan for the islands."
"The real question concerns whether China decides to use these facilities for military purposes, as forward bases for Chinese airpower that could directly threaten the other states that occupy land features in the South China Sea," Fravel said.
Tagum court OKs temporary release of NDF members
From Rappler (Aug 14): Tagum court OKs temporary release of NDF members
Two more members of the NDF are set to be given temporary liberty as the government readies for the resumption of peace talks
NDF CONSULTANTS. A rally outside the Quezon City Hall of Justice calling for the release of the Tiamzons. Rappler file photo
At least two more members of the National Democratic Front (NDF) are “set to be released” by Monday, August 15, as peace talks between the government and the Communist rebels are set to begin on August 22 in Oslo, Norway.
The two are part of the 11-member NDF delegation that will be part of the peace talks, according to the office of Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza said in a release to media on Sunday, August 14.
Based on a list of 22 NDF consultants whose temporarily liberties are being sought for the peace talks, there are two members with cases pending before the Tagum City Regional Trial Court. One is facing serious illegal detention charges while the other faces raps for the illegal possession of firearms.
Both are supposedly protected under the Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees (JASIG), which guarantees NDF negotiators “immunity from surveillance, harassment, search, arrest, detention, prosecution and interrogation or any other similar punitive actions due to any involvement or participation in the peace negotiations.”
More releases
Earlier, a Manila court granted Benito and Wilma Tiamzon, and Adelberto Silva the same temporary liberty to join the peace talks.
Dureza’s office noted that “3 local courts in Visayas” granted the same motion for another consultant, but they did not say which court granted the motion and for whom it was filed.
The government panel welcomed these developments, with panel member Angela Librado-Trinidad noting the importance for the NDF panel to be completed once peace talks begin.
Labor Secretary and chief negotiator Silvestre Bello III urged the public “not to be swayed by the sharp exchanges” between President Rodrigo Duterte and members of the NDF.
Recently, the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), announced its withdrawal of support for Duterte’s war on illegal drugs. Duterte and CPP founder Jose Maria Sison traded barbs over the media, after the breakdown of a unilateral ceasefire that Duterte announced during his first State of the Nation Address.
The NDF is the political umbrella of the CPP and the New People’s Army. Sison, who is in exile in the Netherlands, is currently the NDF’s chief political adviser.
“We have no doubt in our mind that the president is determined to pursue peace negotiations with the NDF. We have to understand that both parties will try to come to the peace table with our own and respective agenda and formula,” added Bello.
The Supreme Court had earlier thumbed down the Duterte’s administration’s appeal for the release of the NDF members, but only because it said it did not have jurisdiction over the cases, which were still being heard by lower courts.
The SC directed Solicitor General Jose Calida to file the motions before the lower courts. Calida’s office has since been present during bail hearings, “vigorously representing the government peace panel to underscore the immediacy of the peace process,” a release from the government peace panel noted.
More motions are expected to be granted this week.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/143028-peace-talks-release-ndf-negotiators
Two more members of the NDF are set to be given temporary liberty as the government readies for the resumption of peace talks
NDF CONSULTANTS. A rally outside the Quezon City Hall of Justice calling for the release of the Tiamzons. Rappler file photo
At least two more members of the National Democratic Front (NDF) are “set to be released” by Monday, August 15, as peace talks between the government and the Communist rebels are set to begin on August 22 in Oslo, Norway.
The two are part of the 11-member NDF delegation that will be part of the peace talks, according to the office of Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza said in a release to media on Sunday, August 14.
Based on a list of 22 NDF consultants whose temporarily liberties are being sought for the peace talks, there are two members with cases pending before the Tagum City Regional Trial Court. One is facing serious illegal detention charges while the other faces raps for the illegal possession of firearms.
Both are supposedly protected under the Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees (JASIG), which guarantees NDF negotiators “immunity from surveillance, harassment, search, arrest, detention, prosecution and interrogation or any other similar punitive actions due to any involvement or participation in the peace negotiations.”
More releases
Earlier, a Manila court granted Benito and Wilma Tiamzon, and Adelberto Silva the same temporary liberty to join the peace talks.
Dureza’s office noted that “3 local courts in Visayas” granted the same motion for another consultant, but they did not say which court granted the motion and for whom it was filed.
The government panel welcomed these developments, with panel member Angela Librado-Trinidad noting the importance for the NDF panel to be completed once peace talks begin.
Labor Secretary and chief negotiator Silvestre Bello III urged the public “not to be swayed by the sharp exchanges” between President Rodrigo Duterte and members of the NDF.
Recently, the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), announced its withdrawal of support for Duterte’s war on illegal drugs. Duterte and CPP founder Jose Maria Sison traded barbs over the media, after the breakdown of a unilateral ceasefire that Duterte announced during his first State of the Nation Address.
The NDF is the political umbrella of the CPP and the New People’s Army. Sison, who is in exile in the Netherlands, is currently the NDF’s chief political adviser.
“We have no doubt in our mind that the president is determined to pursue peace negotiations with the NDF. We have to understand that both parties will try to come to the peace table with our own and respective agenda and formula,” added Bello.
The Supreme Court had earlier thumbed down the Duterte’s administration’s appeal for the release of the NDF members, but only because it said it did not have jurisdiction over the cases, which were still being heard by lower courts.
The SC directed Solicitor General Jose Calida to file the motions before the lower courts. Calida’s office has since been present during bail hearings, “vigorously representing the government peace panel to underscore the immediacy of the peace process,” a release from the government peace panel noted.
More motions are expected to be granted this week.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/143028-peace-talks-release-ndf-negotiators
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