From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 4): Indonesia suspends military cooperation with Australia
The Indonesian military has suspended all cooperation with Australia due to "technical matters", a military spokesman said Wednesday, following a local media report that some materials insulting Indonesia were found at an Australian military base.
"We suspended (military and defense) cooperation with Australia... for technical matters," Indonesian Defense Force spokesman Maj. Gen. Wuryanto said.
"It is only temporary. Once the technical matters are fixed, the cooperation will resume," he added. But the spokesman refused to provide details on what kind of "technical matters" were at issue.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=4&sid=&nid=4&rid=952625
Wednesday, January 4, 2017
18 of 41 missing firearms of Urdaneta City Police recovered
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 4): 18 of 41 missing firearms of Urdaneta City Police recovered
Eighteen of the 41 missing handguns in the armory of the Urdaneta City Police have so far been recovered, the Pangasinan Police Provincial Office (PPPO) reported Wednesday.
The last so far to surrender one of the missing Pietro Beretta 9 mm Parabellum pistol with one magazine at 8:55 a.m of January 3 was Leonardo Idos Francisco, a village councilor of Bayaoas, Urdaneta City.
The missing handguns included Beretta and Glock pistols, both standard firearms of the police.
Francisco told the Urdaneta City Police that the firearm was mortgaged to him by incumbent village chairman Mariano Loquiao of Dilan-Paurido sometime during the last week of November.
The surrendered firearm had a defaced serial number. It was verified to be a PNP property.
Francisco is now temporarily detained at the Urdaneta City Police Station for further investigation, while the surrendered firearm is now under the custody of the investigation section of the Urdaneta City Police Station (UCPS).
Supt. Jackie Candelario, deputy police provincial director for operations, said the UCPS is helping in the recovery of the missing firearms.
Seventeen of the 41 missing firearms were earlier voluntarily surrendered to the police by different persons, particularly businessmen since December 24, 2016.
Some of these businessmen confirmed that the handguns were either sold or pawned to them by policemen whose names are still being withheld.
Investigation of the missing handguns in the armory of the Urdaneta Police is being conducted jointly by the Pangasinan Police Provincial Office and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) on order of Police Regional Office 1 director Gregorio Pimentel.
This, after the National Police Commission (Napolcom) regional office conducted an inventory of firearms in the custody of the Urdaneta Police last December 8, 2016.
Nine personnel of the UCPS, eight of them organic members of the Philippine National Police (PNP) and a civilian employee were relieved of their posts and are now undergoing investigation in connection with the missing firearms.
All these were ordered to report to the Pangasinan Police Provincial Office in Lingayen where they are now restricted to quarters.
These reportedly include past and present logistic officers of the UCPS.
Meanwhile, a janitor of UCPS is now a vital witness under the custody of investigators after admitting that he sold some of the missing firearms to different persons.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=952557
Eighteen of the 41 missing handguns in the armory of the Urdaneta City Police have so far been recovered, the Pangasinan Police Provincial Office (PPPO) reported Wednesday.
The last so far to surrender one of the missing Pietro Beretta 9 mm Parabellum pistol with one magazine at 8:55 a.m of January 3 was Leonardo Idos Francisco, a village councilor of Bayaoas, Urdaneta City.
The missing handguns included Beretta and Glock pistols, both standard firearms of the police.
Francisco told the Urdaneta City Police that the firearm was mortgaged to him by incumbent village chairman Mariano Loquiao of Dilan-Paurido sometime during the last week of November.
The surrendered firearm had a defaced serial number. It was verified to be a PNP property.
Francisco is now temporarily detained at the Urdaneta City Police Station for further investigation, while the surrendered firearm is now under the custody of the investigation section of the Urdaneta City Police Station (UCPS).
Supt. Jackie Candelario, deputy police provincial director for operations, said the UCPS is helping in the recovery of the missing firearms.
Seventeen of the 41 missing firearms were earlier voluntarily surrendered to the police by different persons, particularly businessmen since December 24, 2016.
Some of these businessmen confirmed that the handguns were either sold or pawned to them by policemen whose names are still being withheld.
Investigation of the missing handguns in the armory of the Urdaneta Police is being conducted jointly by the Pangasinan Police Provincial Office and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) on order of Police Regional Office 1 director Gregorio Pimentel.
This, after the National Police Commission (Napolcom) regional office conducted an inventory of firearms in the custody of the Urdaneta Police last December 8, 2016.
Nine personnel of the UCPS, eight of them organic members of the Philippine National Police (PNP) and a civilian employee were relieved of their posts and are now undergoing investigation in connection with the missing firearms.
All these were ordered to report to the Pangasinan Police Provincial Office in Lingayen where they are now restricted to quarters.
These reportedly include past and present logistic officers of the UCPS.
Meanwhile, a janitor of UCPS is now a vital witness under the custody of investigators after admitting that he sold some of the missing firearms to different persons.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=952557
BJMP: BIFF behind North Cotabato jail attack
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 4): BJMP: BIFF behind North Cotabato jail attack
Military and police authorities here said outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) were the culprits in the daring attack on the North Cotabato provincial jail facility in the early hours of Wednesday.
Supt. Peter John Bungat, provincial jail warden, said three of those "rescued" were members of the outlawed armed men involved in bombings in North Cotabato.
Many of those who fled were also facing charges of illegal drug pushing.
The three inmates of Cell No. 8, later known as Tamayan and Salic brothers, were the prime object of rescue, Bungat said.
Abu Misry Mama, BIFF spokesperson, denied his group was involved but admitted some of those who fled belonged to the BIFF.
Only 21 jail officers are guarding 1,511 inmates on shifting basis. It was not clear how many guards were on duty during the attack.
Supt. Emmanuel Peralta, North Cotabato police director, said joint police and military operations are ongoing in the borders of Kidapawan City and the towns of Matalam and M'lang.
One jail officer was killed and an inmate was wounded.
Numbering about 100, the armed men first shot a power transformer that sent the jail facility in darkness. It was followed by a series of gunfire, according to Felix Capalla, one of the inmates' leaders.
Among those who fled were followers of big time drug lords Renz Tukuran and Mox Masgal, former Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) members engaged in illegal drugs in North Cotabato.
“It was not a jailbreak. It was a planned rescue of high profile detainees,” he told reporters.
The jail facility, also known as the Cotabato District Jail, is located at the back of the provincial capitol compound in Barangay Amas in Kidapawan City.
Before the raid, Capalla told Bungat of what he heard among the inmates - a plot that they will be rescued on New Year's Eve. This led to the deployment of Army and police forces as augmentation force on December 31.
However, the reinforcement was recalled on January 1 when no attack happened on New Year's Eve.
A village official was killed by government forces when he was seen transporting two inmates in Matalam, North Cotabato.
Mayor Joseph Evangelista of Kidapawan City has ordered the suspension of classes in public schools in Barangay Amas to ensure safety of children during manhunt operations.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=952612
Military and police authorities here said outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) were the culprits in the daring attack on the North Cotabato provincial jail facility in the early hours of Wednesday.
Supt. Peter John Bungat, provincial jail warden, said three of those "rescued" were members of the outlawed armed men involved in bombings in North Cotabato.
Many of those who fled were also facing charges of illegal drug pushing.
The three inmates of Cell No. 8, later known as Tamayan and Salic brothers, were the prime object of rescue, Bungat said.
Abu Misry Mama, BIFF spokesperson, denied his group was involved but admitted some of those who fled belonged to the BIFF.
Only 21 jail officers are guarding 1,511 inmates on shifting basis. It was not clear how many guards were on duty during the attack.
Supt. Emmanuel Peralta, North Cotabato police director, said joint police and military operations are ongoing in the borders of Kidapawan City and the towns of Matalam and M'lang.
One jail officer was killed and an inmate was wounded.
Numbering about 100, the armed men first shot a power transformer that sent the jail facility in darkness. It was followed by a series of gunfire, according to Felix Capalla, one of the inmates' leaders.
Among those who fled were followers of big time drug lords Renz Tukuran and Mox Masgal, former Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) members engaged in illegal drugs in North Cotabato.
“It was not a jailbreak. It was a planned rescue of high profile detainees,” he told reporters.
The jail facility, also known as the Cotabato District Jail, is located at the back of the provincial capitol compound in Barangay Amas in Kidapawan City.
Before the raid, Capalla told Bungat of what he heard among the inmates - a plot that they will be rescued on New Year's Eve. This led to the deployment of Army and police forces as augmentation force on December 31.
However, the reinforcement was recalled on January 1 when no attack happened on New Year's Eve.
A village official was killed by government forces when he was seen transporting two inmates in Matalam, North Cotabato.
Mayor Joseph Evangelista of Kidapawan City has ordered the suspension of classes in public schools in Barangay Amas to ensure safety of children during manhunt operations.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=952612
Troops repel lawless elements’ attack in Zambo Norte town
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 4): Troops repel lawless elements’ attack in Zambo Norte town
Police and military forces have strengthened security to deny lawless elements the opportunity to carry out further atrocities in a remote town of Zamboanga del Norte.
Senior Supt. Edwin Wagan, Zamboanga del Norte police director, on Wednesday disclosed that security was strengthened after the troops of the Army’s 42nd Infantry Battalion have repelled an attack in its detachment by lawless elements in the municipality of Sirawai.
Wagan said no one was killed or wounded during the attack that took place around 4:40 p.m. Tuesday in Barangay San Vicente, Sirawai, Zamboanga del Norte.
Wagan said the attackers were led by Yusop Jamaa, Yacob Isnain alias Bating, who are all followers of a certain Hadji Kandatin, a leader of a lawless group based in Barangay Sipakit, Sirawai.
He disclosed that 130 individuals have evacuated to safer areas for fear of their lives.
He said that police and military forces were deployed to track down the group of Kandatin while security measure has been strengthened.
Government authorities have identified the municipality of Sirawai as one of the critical areas in the province of Zamboanga del Norte.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=952681
Police and military forces have strengthened security to deny lawless elements the opportunity to carry out further atrocities in a remote town of Zamboanga del Norte.
Senior Supt. Edwin Wagan, Zamboanga del Norte police director, on Wednesday disclosed that security was strengthened after the troops of the Army’s 42nd Infantry Battalion have repelled an attack in its detachment by lawless elements in the municipality of Sirawai.
Wagan said no one was killed or wounded during the attack that took place around 4:40 p.m. Tuesday in Barangay San Vicente, Sirawai, Zamboanga del Norte.
Wagan said the attackers were led by Yusop Jamaa, Yacob Isnain alias Bating, who are all followers of a certain Hadji Kandatin, a leader of a lawless group based in Barangay Sipakit, Sirawai.
He disclosed that 130 individuals have evacuated to safer areas for fear of their lives.
He said that police and military forces were deployed to track down the group of Kandatin while security measure has been strengthened.
Government authorities have identified the municipality of Sirawai as one of the critical areas in the province of Zamboanga del Norte.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=952681
5 escapees of North Cotabato jail killed during manhunt
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 4): 5 escapees of North Cotabato jail killed during manhunt
The manhunt against escapees of the North Cotabato District Jail has left five inmates dead and a village councilman, raising the death toll to seven, jail officials said.
Supt. Peter John Bungat, jail warden, told a news conference that five of the inmates were found dead in the forested area at the rear of the jail facility.
At a news conference, Bungat said a village councilman in Matalam, North Cotabato was also killed after he transported two escapees. His two companions in a motorbike fled.
But the wife of Satar Manalundong told DXND Radyo Bida her husband was not harboring the escapees but was actually helping.
Supt. Emmanuel Peralta, North Cotabato police director, said manhunt continues and appealed to residents near the jail facility.
About 100 armed men believed to be members of Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) stormed the provincial jail in Barangay Amas at past midnight Wednesday, killing one jail guard and giving freedom to 158 others.
Joint Army and PNP forces have been hunting down the suspects while classes in at least five public schools in Barangay Amas, Kidapawan City have been suspended.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=952650
The manhunt against escapees of the North Cotabato District Jail has left five inmates dead and a village councilman, raising the death toll to seven, jail officials said.
Supt. Peter John Bungat, jail warden, told a news conference that five of the inmates were found dead in the forested area at the rear of the jail facility.
At a news conference, Bungat said a village councilman in Matalam, North Cotabato was also killed after he transported two escapees. His two companions in a motorbike fled.
But the wife of Satar Manalundong told DXND Radyo Bida her husband was not harboring the escapees but was actually helping.
Supt. Emmanuel Peralta, North Cotabato police director, said manhunt continues and appealed to residents near the jail facility.
About 100 armed men believed to be members of Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) stormed the provincial jail in Barangay Amas at past midnight Wednesday, killing one jail guard and giving freedom to 158 others.
Joint Army and PNP forces have been hunting down the suspects while classes in at least five public schools in Barangay Amas, Kidapawan City have been suspended.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=952650
Japanese, American warships docked in Subic Bay
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 4): Japanese, American warships docked in Subic Bay
Two Japanese warships on Wednesday arrived in Subic Bay, joining five other U.S. Navy ships docked in this Freeport since January 1.
The Murasame-class destroyer JS Inazuma (DD-105) and Akizuki-class destroyer JS Suzutsuki (DD-117) of the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) docked at the port of Subic for a three-day visit.
The ships are part of the Escort Division Four, commanded by Captain Atsushi Minami. JS Inazuma is commanded by Cdr. Soichiro Tashiro, while Cdr. Kentaro Nakayama commands the Suzutsuki.
This is the fourth port call of Japanese warships in Subic Bay.
Japan's maritime force made its first goodwill visit to the Philippines after 15 years in early April last year with its submarine JS Oyashio (SS-511) and two destroyer ships, the JS Ariake (DD-109) and JS Setogiri (DD-156) docking in Subic Bay, followed by the visit of Hyūga-class helicopter destroyer, JS Ise in late April, 2016.
In the meantime, five U.S. ships namely USS Pecos, USNS Tippecanoe, USNS Cesar Chavez, USNS Impeccable and USNS Bowditch docked and welcomed the new year here.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=952697
Two Japanese warships on Wednesday arrived in Subic Bay, joining five other U.S. Navy ships docked in this Freeport since January 1.
The Murasame-class destroyer JS Inazuma (DD-105) and Akizuki-class destroyer JS Suzutsuki (DD-117) of the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) docked at the port of Subic for a three-day visit.
The ships are part of the Escort Division Four, commanded by Captain Atsushi Minami. JS Inazuma is commanded by Cdr. Soichiro Tashiro, while Cdr. Kentaro Nakayama commands the Suzutsuki.
This is the fourth port call of Japanese warships in Subic Bay.
Japan's maritime force made its first goodwill visit to the Philippines after 15 years in early April last year with its submarine JS Oyashio (SS-511) and two destroyer ships, the JS Ariake (DD-109) and JS Setogiri (DD-156) docking in Subic Bay, followed by the visit of Hyūga-class helicopter destroyer, JS Ise in late April, 2016.
In the meantime, five U.S. ships namely USS Pecos, USNS Tippecanoe, USNS Cesar Chavez, USNS Impeccable and USNS Bowditch docked and welcomed the new year here.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=952697
Malacanang calls for calm & sobriety after attack on North Cotabato jail
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 4): Malacanang calls for calm & sobriety after attack on North Cotabato jail
Malacanang on Wednesday called for calm and sobriety following the attack on North Cotabato District Jail in Kidapawan City early morning Wednesday.
"We appeal for calm and sobriety,” Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said in a statement even as he assured that manhunt operations on the escapees are now underway as the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology in Region 12 and nearby provinces are on heightened alert.
On Tuesday night, a two-hour long firefight ensued between prison guards and more than 100 armed men who attacked the jail, which led to the escape of 158 inmates.
He also said the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) were “working closely to capture the escapees.”
Police have accused the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, a breakaway group from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, of pulling the jailbreak.
“No specific information as to the identity of the armed group has been revealed, though speculation is rife. Some sources claim the group was headed by a certain Commander Derbi. However, General Alamanzor, chief of staff of the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces of the MILF, denied that they have any member bearing that name,” Abella said.
Meanwhile, local authorities investigating the jail break said on Wednesday that five of the 158 escapees were killed during pursuit operations while eight others had either been recaptured or had surrendered.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=952798
Malacanang on Wednesday called for calm and sobriety following the attack on North Cotabato District Jail in Kidapawan City early morning Wednesday.
"We appeal for calm and sobriety,” Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said in a statement even as he assured that manhunt operations on the escapees are now underway as the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology in Region 12 and nearby provinces are on heightened alert.
On Tuesday night, a two-hour long firefight ensued between prison guards and more than 100 armed men who attacked the jail, which led to the escape of 158 inmates.
He also said the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) were “working closely to capture the escapees.”
Police have accused the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, a breakaway group from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, of pulling the jailbreak.
“No specific information as to the identity of the armed group has been revealed, though speculation is rife. Some sources claim the group was headed by a certain Commander Derbi. However, General Alamanzor, chief of staff of the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces of the MILF, denied that they have any member bearing that name,” Abella said.
Meanwhile, local authorities investigating the jail break said on Wednesday that five of the 158 escapees were killed during pursuit operations while eight others had either been recaptured or had surrendered.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=952798
Cebu City cops hold ‘bombing simulation exercise’ to prepare for Sinulog Festival
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 4): Cebu City cops hold ‘bombing simulation exercise’ to prepare for Sinulog Festival
The Cebu City Police Office (CCPO) on Wednesday afternoon held a bombing simulation exercise as part of the security preparations for the Sinulog Festival on Jan. 15 in the city.
In the simulated scenario, the police received a report that an explosive device was detonated at the crowded Fuente Osmena rotunda in the heart of uptown Cebu City.
Police on board patrol cars with wailing sirens immediately responded, followed by ambulances, ordnance and explosives experts, K9 units, Armed Forces of the Philippines troops, firefighters and a Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team.
The wounded were immediately evacuated, while the K9 unit searched the area for a secondary bomb, which was later confirmed by bomb-sniffing dogs.
Senior Superintendent Joel Doria, CCPO director, said the exercise was necessary especially with the recent bombing in Hilongos, Leyte which left 34 persons injured.
”Everything went on smoothly, but we don’t have bomb suits to protect our explosives team,” Doria said.
But Doria said other first responders were not able to reach the scene of the simulated bombing because of the heavy traffic in the area.
Senior Superintendent Rey Lyndon Lawas, Police Regional Office (PRO) deputy director for operations, said they were not satisfied with the results of the simulation exercise.
”I will recommend to the PRO 7 that the drill will be repeated until the CCPO will perfect it,” Lawas said.
Sinulog organizers said they will deploy at least 5,000 security personnel during the Sinulog Grand Parade on Jan. 15.
Among them are police personnel and soldiers from the Armed Forces Central Command based in Cebu City who will secure participants in the Sinulog and Fiesta Señor activities.
Chief Supt. Noli Talino, PRO 7 director, said they have not received any threat to the Sinulog festivities in Cebu City capped with the grand parade on Jan. 15.
But Talino said they are not taking any chances, and he may get more than 1,000 military reservists and additional police personnel from neighboring provinces if needed.
This will be on top of the 5,000 police personnel and troops from the Armed Forces of the Philippines Central Command that will be deployed during the Sinulog Grand Parade.
The Cebu City Police Office (CCPO) will also impose a gun and liquor ban starting on Friday until the closing of the Sinulog celebrations on Jan. 20 as additional security measures.
Superintendent Artemio Ricabo, CCPO deputy city director for administration, also advised the public to avoid using backpacks, especially during the grand parade on Jan. 15.
Cebu City Mayor Tomas Osmeña said he considers the bombing in Hilongos, Leyte last week as a “very big threat.”
Osmena also said he cannot give Cebuanos any assurance of security because his request for jamming devices, which he made last year to Philippine National Police Director General Ronald dela Rosa and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, has not been answered.
He said he would have wanted these placed in the Cebu City Sports Center grandstand, which can accommodate some 10,000 persons and which is where the Sinulog contingents put on a show for the judges.
“I wanted to make the grandstand a dead spot because improvised explosive devices can’t detonate without a signal. But I didn’t get any response to my request,” Osmeña said.
He also said he has not invited any VIPs because he’s “focused on peace and order.”
“I don’t need to invite anyone. They’ll come on their own as Sinulog is known worldwide,” he said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=952727
The Cebu City Police Office (CCPO) on Wednesday afternoon held a bombing simulation exercise as part of the security preparations for the Sinulog Festival on Jan. 15 in the city.
In the simulated scenario, the police received a report that an explosive device was detonated at the crowded Fuente Osmena rotunda in the heart of uptown Cebu City.
Police on board patrol cars with wailing sirens immediately responded, followed by ambulances, ordnance and explosives experts, K9 units, Armed Forces of the Philippines troops, firefighters and a Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team.
The wounded were immediately evacuated, while the K9 unit searched the area for a secondary bomb, which was later confirmed by bomb-sniffing dogs.
Senior Superintendent Joel Doria, CCPO director, said the exercise was necessary especially with the recent bombing in Hilongos, Leyte which left 34 persons injured.
”Everything went on smoothly, but we don’t have bomb suits to protect our explosives team,” Doria said.
But Doria said other first responders were not able to reach the scene of the simulated bombing because of the heavy traffic in the area.
Senior Superintendent Rey Lyndon Lawas, Police Regional Office (PRO) deputy director for operations, said they were not satisfied with the results of the simulation exercise.
”I will recommend to the PRO 7 that the drill will be repeated until the CCPO will perfect it,” Lawas said.
Sinulog organizers said they will deploy at least 5,000 security personnel during the Sinulog Grand Parade on Jan. 15.
Among them are police personnel and soldiers from the Armed Forces Central Command based in Cebu City who will secure participants in the Sinulog and Fiesta Señor activities.
Chief Supt. Noli Talino, PRO 7 director, said they have not received any threat to the Sinulog festivities in Cebu City capped with the grand parade on Jan. 15.
But Talino said they are not taking any chances, and he may get more than 1,000 military reservists and additional police personnel from neighboring provinces if needed.
This will be on top of the 5,000 police personnel and troops from the Armed Forces of the Philippines Central Command that will be deployed during the Sinulog Grand Parade.
The Cebu City Police Office (CCPO) will also impose a gun and liquor ban starting on Friday until the closing of the Sinulog celebrations on Jan. 20 as additional security measures.
Superintendent Artemio Ricabo, CCPO deputy city director for administration, also advised the public to avoid using backpacks, especially during the grand parade on Jan. 15.
Cebu City Mayor Tomas Osmeña said he considers the bombing in Hilongos, Leyte last week as a “very big threat.”
Osmena also said he cannot give Cebuanos any assurance of security because his request for jamming devices, which he made last year to Philippine National Police Director General Ronald dela Rosa and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, has not been answered.
He said he would have wanted these placed in the Cebu City Sports Center grandstand, which can accommodate some 10,000 persons and which is where the Sinulog contingents put on a show for the judges.
“I wanted to make the grandstand a dead spot because improvised explosive devices can’t detonate without a signal. But I didn’t get any response to my request,” Osmeña said.
He also said he has not invited any VIPs because he’s “focused on peace and order.”
“I don’t need to invite anyone. They’ll come on their own as Sinulog is known worldwide,” he said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=952727
Davao police office raises security status after North Cotabato jailbreak
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 4): Davao police office raises security status after North Cotabato jailbreak
Davao City Police Office (DCPO) is now on heightened alert after the jailbreak by over a hundred inmates of North Cotabato Provincial Jail in Amas early morning Wednesday. This means there will be more random checkpoints in the city.
This was announced in Wednesday’s AFP-PNP Press Corps forum by spokesperson Sr. Inspector Catherine dela Rey, who said that inspection will be more strict to avert any incident arising from the jailbreak.
Armed men believed to be members of the Bangsamoro Independent Freedom Fighters (BIFF) stormed the North Cotabato Provincial Jail to free their comrades. Other inmates also took the opportunity to escape.
Dela Rey also asked the people to be on alert and report to the authorities any suspicious persons in their areas.
DCPO chief Sr. Supt. Michael John Dubria also said they have raised their guards in all exit and entry points of the city to prevent escapees cross the city boundary.
He ordered all units to be alert and harden targets. Davao City is just 3 hours away from the location of the District Jail of North Cotabato.
“We have strengthened our defenses so that they will be prevented to enter the city. At the same time, the Police Regional Office (PRO) 11 has directed the Davao del Sur Provincial Police Office to conduct round the clock checkpoint on the boundaries of Davao del Sur and North Cotabato area,” Dubria said.
He said that they are in close coordination with the Management of the District Jail of North Cotabato to gather the identification of the escapees.
Meanwhile, Task Force Davao Commander Col Erwin Bernard Neri said that the TFD has not let their guards down even after the holiday season for their counter terrorism activities.
“We did not downgrade the alert level of the city after the holiday season, we still continue all the security measures that we had implemented because of the high threat of terrorism in Mindanao,” he said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=952724
Davao City Police Office (DCPO) is now on heightened alert after the jailbreak by over a hundred inmates of North Cotabato Provincial Jail in Amas early morning Wednesday. This means there will be more random checkpoints in the city.
This was announced in Wednesday’s AFP-PNP Press Corps forum by spokesperson Sr. Inspector Catherine dela Rey, who said that inspection will be more strict to avert any incident arising from the jailbreak.
Armed men believed to be members of the Bangsamoro Independent Freedom Fighters (BIFF) stormed the North Cotabato Provincial Jail to free their comrades. Other inmates also took the opportunity to escape.
Dela Rey also asked the people to be on alert and report to the authorities any suspicious persons in their areas.
DCPO chief Sr. Supt. Michael John Dubria also said they have raised their guards in all exit and entry points of the city to prevent escapees cross the city boundary.
He ordered all units to be alert and harden targets. Davao City is just 3 hours away from the location of the District Jail of North Cotabato.
“We have strengthened our defenses so that they will be prevented to enter the city. At the same time, the Police Regional Office (PRO) 11 has directed the Davao del Sur Provincial Police Office to conduct round the clock checkpoint on the boundaries of Davao del Sur and North Cotabato area,” Dubria said.
He said that they are in close coordination with the Management of the District Jail of North Cotabato to gather the identification of the escapees.
Meanwhile, Task Force Davao Commander Col Erwin Bernard Neri said that the TFD has not let their guards down even after the holiday season for their counter terrorism activities.
“We did not downgrade the alert level of the city after the holiday season, we still continue all the security measures that we had implemented because of the high threat of terrorism in Mindanao,” he said.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=952724
ASG seajacking attempt off Basilan coast foiled
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 4): ASG seajacking attempt off Basilan coast foiled
Prompt response from her own crew and nearby naval units prevented Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits from attacking and boarding the container ship M/V Ocean Kingdom as it was passing off Sibago Island, Basilan on Tuesday afternoon.
Western Mindanao Command (WMC) spokesperson Major Filemon Tan said the incident took place 3:24 p.m.
He added that the M/V Ocean Kingdom, which was headed for Davao City after leaving Zamboanga City, when fired upon by six automatic rifle-armed ASG bandits aboard two motor boats.
Tan said the ship sustained gunshot holes in her port and starboard freeboard but fortunately not one of her crewmen was wounded.
Due to the vigilance of her crew and the prompt response of naval troops, the armed perpetrators aborted their attempt to seajack the vessel and retreated towards Moro Gulf.
"The Naval Forces Western Mindanao Command deployed naval vessels with the Naval Special Operations Unit in the area. Air assets were also deployed to conduct aerial reconnaissance and later on pre-positioned in the area as government forces continue to monitor transiting vessels at Basilan Strait and Zamboanga City waters," the WMC spokesperson said.
He added Joint Task Forces Zamboanga, Basilan, and Sulu were already alerted and directed to look out and pursue the perpetrators.
As of this posting, M/V Ocean Kingdom and its 27 crewmen have resumed their voyage to Davao City.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=952534
Prompt response from her own crew and nearby naval units prevented Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits from attacking and boarding the container ship M/V Ocean Kingdom as it was passing off Sibago Island, Basilan on Tuesday afternoon.
Western Mindanao Command (WMC) spokesperson Major Filemon Tan said the incident took place 3:24 p.m.
He added that the M/V Ocean Kingdom, which was headed for Davao City after leaving Zamboanga City, when fired upon by six automatic rifle-armed ASG bandits aboard two motor boats.
Tan said the ship sustained gunshot holes in her port and starboard freeboard but fortunately not one of her crewmen was wounded.
Due to the vigilance of her crew and the prompt response of naval troops, the armed perpetrators aborted their attempt to seajack the vessel and retreated towards Moro Gulf.
"The Naval Forces Western Mindanao Command deployed naval vessels with the Naval Special Operations Unit in the area. Air assets were also deployed to conduct aerial reconnaissance and later on pre-positioned in the area as government forces continue to monitor transiting vessels at Basilan Strait and Zamboanga City waters," the WMC spokesperson said.
He added Joint Task Forces Zamboanga, Basilan, and Sulu were already alerted and directed to look out and pursue the perpetrators.
As of this posting, M/V Ocean Kingdom and its 27 crewmen have resumed their voyage to Davao City.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=952534
Russian Navy open to have joint exercises with PHL counterparts
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 4): Russian Navy open to have joint exercises with PHL counterparts
The Russian Navy is more than willing to show and demonstrate the use of its various combat systems to its Filipino counterparts once an agreement is inked allowing the joint training of Philippine and Russian maritime forces.
This was disclosed by Russian Pacific Fleet flotilla deputy commander Rear Admiral Eduard Mikhailov when asked what benefits the Philippines can get training with them.
"Maybe in the future, we'll have exercises with your (and we'll teach you) maneuvering and use of combat systems," he added.
Also, when the proper time comes, Mikhailov said Russia, the Philippines, China and Malaysia can participate in one big naval exercise in the South China Sea.
He added that this is possible as all the above-mentioned countries are concerned with the safety and security of the region.
Mikhailov made this statement during the sidelights of Tuesday's official welcoming ceremonies for Udaloy-class destroyer/large anti-submarine ship, Admiral Tributs and the Boris Chilikin-class fleet oiler, Boris Butoma, which arrived Monday night at Pier 15, South Harbor, Manila.
The former is the head of the Russian naval delegation which is on a six-day goodwill visit to the country which will end on Saturday.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=952539
The Russian Navy is more than willing to show and demonstrate the use of its various combat systems to its Filipino counterparts once an agreement is inked allowing the joint training of Philippine and Russian maritime forces.
This was disclosed by Russian Pacific Fleet flotilla deputy commander Rear Admiral Eduard Mikhailov when asked what benefits the Philippines can get training with them.
"Maybe in the future, we'll have exercises with your (and we'll teach you) maneuvering and use of combat systems," he added.
Also, when the proper time comes, Mikhailov said Russia, the Philippines, China and Malaysia can participate in one big naval exercise in the South China Sea.
He added that this is possible as all the above-mentioned countries are concerned with the safety and security of the region.
Mikhailov made this statement during the sidelights of Tuesday's official welcoming ceremonies for Udaloy-class destroyer/large anti-submarine ship, Admiral Tributs and the Boris Chilikin-class fleet oiler, Boris Butoma, which arrived Monday night at Pier 15, South Harbor, Manila.
The former is the head of the Russian naval delegation which is on a six-day goodwill visit to the country which will end on Saturday.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=952539
Chinese cohort of Marine officer implicated in PHP380-M drug bust surrenders to NBI
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 4): Chinese cohort of Marine officer implicated in PHP380-M drug bust surrenders to NBI
The Chinese cohort of Marine Lt. Col. Ferdinand Marcelino who was implicated in a PHP380 million drug-bust in Sta. Cruz, Manila last year, surrendered to the National Bureau of Investigation, Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II said on Wednesday.
Aguirre said that Yan Yi Shuo a.k.a Randy, surrendered Tuesday night to the NBI Special Task Force headed by Head Agent Moises Tamayo. The Special Task Force was constituted by NBI Director Dante Gierran to handle delicate missions of similar nature.
“We are proud to announce that Yan Yi Shuo a.k.a Randy is now under the custody of the NBI. This is a welcome development insofar as our pursuit of this case is concerned,” Aguirre said adding that the alleged companion of Col. Marcelino in the illegal drugs case filed by the Department of Justice.
Under the stewardship of Secretary Aguirre and Director Gierran, the NBI has made great achievements in President Duterte’s War on Drugs including the successful PHP 6-billion drug haul last December 2016. This is the largest drug raid in the history of the Philippine’s fight against illegal drugs.
“As I have said before, we shall be relentless in this fight,"Aguirre added.
The Manila Regional Trial Court Branch 49 issued an arrest warrant against Marcelino and Chinese co-accused Yan Yi Shou last Dec. 22 after turning down their motion to dismiss the drug charges against them.
The two men were nabbed by anti-narcotics operatives last Jan. 21, 2016 in an abandoned shabu laboratory at the Celadon Residences in Sta. Cruz, Manila where authorities seized 76,697.7 grams of shabu worth over PHP380 million.On Tuesday, the DOJ filed an urgent motion before the Manila Regional Trial Court (RTC) which seeks the issuance of a hold departure order against of Marcelino and his Chinese cohort over the drug case filed by the DOJ against them last September.
“It is most respectfully prayed of his Honorable Court that the urgent motion for the issuance of hold departure order be granted and a HDO be issued against accused Lt. Colonel Ferdinand Marcelino and Yan Yi Shou, directing the Bureau of Immigration to include them in its hold departure list to prevent any possibility of their flight to another country to avoid prosecution of the case against them,” Senior Deputy State Prosecutor Richard Anthony Fadullon said in a three-page urgent motion filed before Manila RTC Branch 49 Judge Daniel Villanueva.
“The prosecution dreads and believes that both accused may leave the country to escape prosecution and avoid facing up their liability and thus frustrates the end of justice,” it added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=952535
The Chinese cohort of Marine Lt. Col. Ferdinand Marcelino who was implicated in a PHP380 million drug-bust in Sta. Cruz, Manila last year, surrendered to the National Bureau of Investigation, Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II said on Wednesday.
Aguirre said that Yan Yi Shuo a.k.a Randy, surrendered Tuesday night to the NBI Special Task Force headed by Head Agent Moises Tamayo. The Special Task Force was constituted by NBI Director Dante Gierran to handle delicate missions of similar nature.
“We are proud to announce that Yan Yi Shuo a.k.a Randy is now under the custody of the NBI. This is a welcome development insofar as our pursuit of this case is concerned,” Aguirre said adding that the alleged companion of Col. Marcelino in the illegal drugs case filed by the Department of Justice.
Under the stewardship of Secretary Aguirre and Director Gierran, the NBI has made great achievements in President Duterte’s War on Drugs including the successful PHP 6-billion drug haul last December 2016. This is the largest drug raid in the history of the Philippine’s fight against illegal drugs.
“As I have said before, we shall be relentless in this fight,"Aguirre added.
The Manila Regional Trial Court Branch 49 issued an arrest warrant against Marcelino and Chinese co-accused Yan Yi Shou last Dec. 22 after turning down their motion to dismiss the drug charges against them.
The two men were nabbed by anti-narcotics operatives last Jan. 21, 2016 in an abandoned shabu laboratory at the Celadon Residences in Sta. Cruz, Manila where authorities seized 76,697.7 grams of shabu worth over PHP380 million.
“It is most respectfully prayed of his Honorable Court that the urgent motion for the issuance of hold departure order be granted and a HDO be issued against accused Lt. Colonel Ferdinand Marcelino and Yan Yi Shou, directing the Bureau of Immigration to include them in its hold departure list to prevent any possibility of their flight to another country to avoid prosecution of the case against them,” Senior Deputy State Prosecutor Richard Anthony Fadullon said in a three-page urgent motion filed before Manila RTC Branch 49 Judge Daniel Villanueva.
“The prosecution dreads and believes that both accused may leave the country to escape prosecution and avoid facing up their liability and thus frustrates the end of justice,” it added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=952535
Follower of ASG leader killed in Basilan operations
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 4): Follower of ASG leader killed in Basilan operations
Military from the Western Mindanao Command have shot and killed a notorious follower of ranking Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) commander Furuji Indama during operations in Basilan Wednesday early morning.
The incident took place around 5:40 a.m. at Barangay Sapah Bulak, Sumisip town, WMC spokesperson Major Filemon Tan said.
Slain during the operations was an ASG bandit identified only as Garabat.
Seized from his possession was an R-4 carbine.
"The Abu Sayyaf members withdrew towards the direction of Sitio Pandekepan through Sitio Gantalan, Barangay Sapah Bulak, Basilan," Tan added.
Troops under the Joint Task Force Basilan proceeded to the encounter to provide follow-on and augmentation forces.
Tan said all other troops were alerted and continue to conduct inspection on all vehicles going to and from the vicinity.
"Pursuit operations are ongoing as of this time," he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=952549
Military from the Western Mindanao Command have shot and killed a notorious follower of ranking Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) commander Furuji Indama during operations in Basilan Wednesday early morning.
The incident took place around 5:40 a.m. at Barangay Sapah Bulak, Sumisip town, WMC spokesperson Major Filemon Tan said.
Slain during the operations was an ASG bandit identified only as Garabat.
Seized from his possession was an R-4 carbine.
"The Abu Sayyaf members withdrew towards the direction of Sitio Pandekepan through Sitio Gantalan, Barangay Sapah Bulak, Basilan," Tan added.
Troops under the Joint Task Force Basilan proceeded to the encounter to provide follow-on and augmentation forces.
Tan said all other troops were alerted and continue to conduct inspection on all vehicles going to and from the vicinity.
"Pursuit operations are ongoing as of this time," he added.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=952549
AFP deploys units to help in ongoing pursuit ops vs escaped North Cotabato District Jail inmates
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 4): AFP deploys units to help in ongoing pursuit ops vs escaped North Cotabato District Jail inmates
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has deployed units to help in the recapture of an estimated 130 inmates who were set free by still unidentified armed men from North Cotabato District Jail in Kidapawan City early Wednesday morning.
This was disclosed by AFP public affairs office chief Col. Edgard Arevalo who said that two squads (roughly 24 troops) are now helping police operatives in the ongoing pursuit operations against the escaped inmates.
He added more military units will be deployed if more ground forces are needed.
Earlier, an estimated 100 heavily armed men attacked the North Cotabato District Jail past 12:30 a.m., killing one jail guard and wounding another before freeing around 130 inmates.
Witnesses said the attackers first unlocked Cell No. 8 where the Salik and Camayo brothers, suspected Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) members, were detained.
The gunmen also unlocked other cells. It was the third attack in the provincial jail facility since 2007.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=952639
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has deployed units to help in the recapture of an estimated 130 inmates who were set free by still unidentified armed men from North Cotabato District Jail in Kidapawan City early Wednesday morning.
This was disclosed by AFP public affairs office chief Col. Edgard Arevalo who said that two squads (roughly 24 troops) are now helping police operatives in the ongoing pursuit operations against the escaped inmates.
He added more military units will be deployed if more ground forces are needed.
Earlier, an estimated 100 heavily armed men attacked the North Cotabato District Jail past 12:30 a.m., killing one jail guard and wounding another before freeing around 130 inmates.
Witnesses said the attackers first unlocked Cell No. 8 where the Salik and Camayo brothers, suspected Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) members, were detained.
The gunmen also unlocked other cells. It was the third attack in the provincial jail facility since 2007.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=952639
PNP beefs up security for Feast of Black Nazarene
From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 4): PNP beefs up security for Feast of Black Nazarene
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has beefed up security measures for the Feast of the Black Nazarene on Monday (Jan. 9).
The “heightened alert status” of the PNP will remain up with the expected millions of devotees from “all walks of life” of the Black Nazarene, particularly during the “Traslacion” or procession.
National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) chief Director Oscar Albayalde on Wednesday said there is no direct threats to security during the duration of the “Traslacion”.
Nevertheless, Albayalde said that as part of the security measures, the NCRPO has again recommended the installation of “signal jammer” in the route to be traversed by the image of the Black Nazarene.
The bringing of backpacks are also prohibited for those who would join the procession because they will be approached by policemen.
The NCRPO will deploy more than 2,000 policemen who will be assigned in the entire route of the Traslacion.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=952629
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has beefed up security measures for the Feast of the Black Nazarene on Monday (Jan. 9).
The “heightened alert status” of the PNP will remain up with the expected millions of devotees from “all walks of life” of the Black Nazarene, particularly during the “Traslacion” or procession.
National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) chief Director Oscar Albayalde on Wednesday said there is no direct threats to security during the duration of the “Traslacion”.
Nevertheless, Albayalde said that as part of the security measures, the NCRPO has again recommended the installation of “signal jammer” in the route to be traversed by the image of the Black Nazarene.
The bringing of backpacks are also prohibited for those who would join the procession because they will be approached by policemen.
The NCRPO will deploy more than 2,000 policemen who will be assigned in the entire route of the Traslacion.
http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=952629
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