From The Standard (Aug 4): MILF battles IS-linked BIFF
FORCES of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in Maguindanao clashed Wednesday with a breakaway faction of Bangsamoro Freedom Fighters which had allied itself with the extremist Islamic State of Iraq and Syria.
Initial reports by authorities said the MILF’s 118th Base Command under Ustadz Abdulwahid Tundok intercepted some 200 BIFF-ISIS men, all wearing black under Abu Torrette in Barangay Pusaw, Shariff Saidona Mustapha, Maguindanao.
Maj. Gen. Arnel dela Vega, Commander of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division in Maguindanao, said a defense cooperation mechanism had been in place involving state security forces and the local MILF base commands against extremists in Moro communities.
President Rodrigo Duterte met with senators on the same day, and said he had shared with the lawmakers matters of national security concerns.
One senator said the security concerns the Chief Executive raised during the meeting included information that the extremists had plotted anew to attack three more target places which were not identified.
Key population centers not far from the clash area are Tacurong City and Isulan town, both in Sultan Kudarat, Buluan town in Maguindanao, and Cotabato City.
“We wanted to prevent [this ISIS-inspired] BIFF [faction] from initiating terroristic actions against peaceful communities,” Dela Vega said in a press statement.
In his statement, Dela Vega acknowledged the encounter as one resulting from the “MILF leadership’s commitment” to help quell the “consolidation of Daesh-Inspired group(s).”
Meanwhile, an unidentified philanthropist from the business sector has donated P1 million to each of the families of fallen soldiers in Marawi, with the military in the final stretch of battle to defeat the Maute and Abu Sayyaf with some foreign ISIS fighters, Armed Forces chief Gen. Eduardo Año said Thursday.
‘‘The support from the entire nation is overwhelming. Donors are willing to give money and donations. In fact, a businessman gave a million each for the family of the fallen soldiers,” Año disclosed to the troops during his visit Wednesday at the battle ground.
MILF chairman Hadji Ibrahim Murad told a recent gathering of officials in Malacañang that the Daesh-inspired extremist groups wanted to sabotage the peace process and “change the narrative of the Moro struggle for self-determination.”
Military reports said the MILF troops belonged to the 118th Base Command under Abdul Karim Sinumagad, and 105th Base Command led by Hadjie Ali Omar, against the BIFF group of Ismael Abdul Malik alias Abu Toraype.
Civilians seeking safe refuge in nearby Datu Salibo town said Tundok’s MILF men blocked the local ISIS men, triggering the firefight that initially resulted in casualties on both sides.
Some local authorities have expressed fears the BIFF-ISIS Abu Toraype was growing in size, following its alleged receipt of huge funds for firearms and mobility, purportedly from their Maute allies in Lanao Sur.
Abu Toraype’s group reportedly broke away from the BIFF founded by the late Ustadz Ameril Umbra Kato, and pledged allegiance online to the foreign masked extremists’ ISIS.
Dela Vega said the wounding of the two MILF members in action showed their leadership’s “commitment of support to the ongoing peace process with the government.”
One of the things Ano promised to the soldiers was the issuance of the personal Glock automatic pistol and force protection equipment for “a job well done.”
He extolled the soldiers’ bravery and heroic deeds and soon as the battle against the terrorists and Marawi was liberated each of them would receive appropriate recognition.
Despite some criticisms of operational blunders that resulted in some unexpected casualties on the side of the government, Ano showed no regrets and told the soldiers their commander-in-chief, President Duterte, “has full confidence” in the military.
‘‘I am happy that we have the best officers and enlisted personnel who are fighting the terrorists. Stay safe, be bold, and daring, but be extra cautious. I want everyone to be alive when we finish this,” he said.
Western Mindanao Command commander Lt. Gen. General Carlito Galvez Jr. said all the soldiers needed was to see their commander-in-chief and chief of staff in “high spirits” to sustain the morale of the troops on the ground.
‘‘It is very rare that the head of our organization would risk his life and come to the battlefield in order to meet and motivate personally his officers and soldiers,” he said.
‘‘We are all in high spirits,” he added.
http://thestandard.com.ph/news/top-stories/243590/milf-battles-is-linked-biff.html
Saturday, August 5, 2017
Anakpawis blasts military’s ‘smear campaign’
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Aug 5): Anakpawis blasts military’s ‘smear campaign’
Anakpawis Party-list Rep. Ariel Casilao. PHOTO FROM ANAKPAWIS
A progressive lawmaker slammed on Saturday the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for linking its group to the rebel New People’s Army (NPA).
“Nothing’s new here. The [AFP] time and again has been on constant smear campaign not only against progressive organizations but also party-list groups like Anakpawis,” Anakpawis Party-list Representative Ariel Casilao said in a statement.
“Clearly, AFP’s hand is all over the latest smear campaign against our organization,” he added.
Casilao said it is “easy and convenient” for the AFP to tag persons being arrested as NPA members “to satisfy their malicious intention in dragging the progressive party-list groups” as part of the military’s “mind-conditioning strategy.”
AFP Spokesperson Brigadier General Restituto Padilla on Friday called for the investigation of on the alleged link of Ruel Cololot, a suspected NPA member arrested in Quezon, Bukidnon to Anakpawis Party-list.
Padilla said Cololot yielded an Anakpawis Party-list identification card upon his arrest.
READ: AFP wants probe on suspected NPA rebel with Anakpawis ID
Casilao said AFP’s “red-baiting” of his group is the same tactic of “implicating legitimate progressive organizations” as part of the “enemies of the state.”
He said these tactics will only result in “more worsening cases of human rights violations, particularly trump-up charges, illegal arrests, or worse, political killings, of peasants, indigenous and political activists nationwide.”
The lawmaker said Anakpawis Party-list’s regional chapter in northern Mindanao will check the validity of Cololot’s membership.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/920555/anakpawis-blasts-militarys-smear-campaign
Anakpawis Party-list Rep. Ariel Casilao. PHOTO FROM ANAKPAWIS
A progressive lawmaker slammed on Saturday the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for linking its group to the rebel New People’s Army (NPA).
“Nothing’s new here. The [AFP] time and again has been on constant smear campaign not only against progressive organizations but also party-list groups like Anakpawis,” Anakpawis Party-list Representative Ariel Casilao said in a statement.
“Clearly, AFP’s hand is all over the latest smear campaign against our organization,” he added.
Casilao said it is “easy and convenient” for the AFP to tag persons being arrested as NPA members “to satisfy their malicious intention in dragging the progressive party-list groups” as part of the military’s “mind-conditioning strategy.”
AFP Spokesperson Brigadier General Restituto Padilla on Friday called for the investigation of on the alleged link of Ruel Cololot, a suspected NPA member arrested in Quezon, Bukidnon to Anakpawis Party-list.
Padilla said Cololot yielded an Anakpawis Party-list identification card upon his arrest.
READ: AFP wants probe on suspected NPA rebel with Anakpawis ID
Casilao said AFP’s “red-baiting” of his group is the same tactic of “implicating legitimate progressive organizations” as part of the “enemies of the state.”
He said these tactics will only result in “more worsening cases of human rights violations, particularly trump-up charges, illegal arrests, or worse, political killings, of peasants, indigenous and political activists nationwide.”
The lawmaker said Anakpawis Party-list’s regional chapter in northern Mindanao will check the validity of Cololot’s membership.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/920555/anakpawis-blasts-militarys-smear-campaign
Government seeks arrest of 21 NDF peace consultants
From the Philippine Star (Aug 5): Government seeks arrest of 21 NDF peace consultants
Solicitor General Jose Calida filed before different regional trial courts (RTCs) a manifestation seeking the issuance of recommitment orders against 21 NDF members who were allowed to post bail last year to participate in the peace talks in Norway. Facebook screengrab/Presidential Communications, File
The government yesterday formally filed in various courts petitions to have leaders and members of the communist National Democratic Front (NDF) re-arrested and jailed following President Duterte’s decision to cancel the peace talks.
Solicitor General Jose Calida filed before different regional trial courts (RTCs) a manifestation seeking the issuance of recommitment orders against 21 NDF members who were allowed to post bail last year to participate in the peace talks in Norway.
“Due to the eventual termination of the peace negotiations in Oslo, Norway and the cancellation of the backchannel talks in the Netherlands, the NDF consultants who were granted conditional release should be recommitted and their respective bonds should likewise be cancelled,” Calida explained yesterday.
The solicitor general argued that President Duterte’s declaration of the NDF and the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) as “enemy of the State signified that any peace negotiations with them have been rendered inutile and therefore must officially end.”
Calida explained that when the Supreme Court (SC) granted bail to them in its resolution in August last year, which was adopted by the RTCs, the SC had set specific conditions.
“One of the conditions is that once their participation ceases or the peace negotiations are terminated, their respective bonds shall be deemed automatically canceled,” he stressed.
It was the Office of the Solicitor General that sought temporary liberty for the 21 NDF consultants, including Benito and Wilma Tiamzon, last year for their participation in the peace process between the communist rebels and the government.
Apart from the Tiamzon couple, covered by the immigration lookout bulletin order (LBO) are Tirso Alcantara, Ma. Concepcion Bocala, Pedro Codaste, Renante Gamara, Alan Jazmines, Ernesto Lorenzo, Ma. Loida Magpatoc, Alfredo Mapano, Ruben Saluta, Adelberto Silva, Ariel Arbitrario, Renato Baleros Sr., Kennedy Bangibang, Jaime Soledad, Rafael Baylosis, Alex Birondo, Winona Birondo and Porferio Tuna.
Last February, the Department of Justice (DOJ) issued the LBO against the other NDF leaders.
The government called off the peace talks after recent attacks by the CPP’s armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA), on government troops.
It has also cancelled backchannel talks set later this month in Europe following the attack of suspected NPA rebels in North Cotabato last Wednesday that wounded five members of the Presidential Security Group.
Last May, President Duterte suspended formal peace talks after both sides failed to resolve a dispute over the CPP’s order for the NPA to step up attacks against the government.
Calida explained earlier that the communist leaders could not invoke the 1995 Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantee (JASIG) in invoking their right to remain outside of detention as it provided for their immunity from arrest.
“SC decisions form part of the law of the land. Hence, the resolution dated Aug. 2, 2016 supersedes the defunct 1995 JASIG agreement between the parties, which has become moot and academic,” he explained.
Meanwhile, the CPP tagged President Duterte as a lackey of the US yesterday for denouncing North Korea’s development of nuclear weapons.
Solicitor General Jose Calida filed before different regional trial courts (RTCs) a manifestation seeking the issuance of recommitment orders against 21 NDF members who were allowed to post bail last year to participate in the peace talks in Norway. Facebook screengrab/Presidential Communications, File
The government yesterday formally filed in various courts petitions to have leaders and members of the communist National Democratic Front (NDF) re-arrested and jailed following President Duterte’s decision to cancel the peace talks.
Solicitor General Jose Calida filed before different regional trial courts (RTCs) a manifestation seeking the issuance of recommitment orders against 21 NDF members who were allowed to post bail last year to participate in the peace talks in Norway.
“Due to the eventual termination of the peace negotiations in Oslo, Norway and the cancellation of the backchannel talks in the Netherlands, the NDF consultants who were granted conditional release should be recommitted and their respective bonds should likewise be cancelled,” Calida explained yesterday.
The solicitor general argued that President Duterte’s declaration of the NDF and the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) as “enemy of the State signified that any peace negotiations with them have been rendered inutile and therefore must officially end.”
Calida explained that when the Supreme Court (SC) granted bail to them in its resolution in August last year, which was adopted by the RTCs, the SC had set specific conditions.
“One of the conditions is that once their participation ceases or the peace negotiations are terminated, their respective bonds shall be deemed automatically canceled,” he stressed.
It was the Office of the Solicitor General that sought temporary liberty for the 21 NDF consultants, including Benito and Wilma Tiamzon, last year for their participation in the peace process between the communist rebels and the government.
Apart from the Tiamzon couple, covered by the immigration lookout bulletin order (LBO) are Tirso Alcantara, Ma. Concepcion Bocala, Pedro Codaste, Renante Gamara, Alan Jazmines, Ernesto Lorenzo, Ma. Loida Magpatoc, Alfredo Mapano, Ruben Saluta, Adelberto Silva, Ariel Arbitrario, Renato Baleros Sr., Kennedy Bangibang, Jaime Soledad, Rafael Baylosis, Alex Birondo, Winona Birondo and Porferio Tuna.
Last February, the Department of Justice (DOJ) issued the LBO against the other NDF leaders.
The government called off the peace talks after recent attacks by the CPP’s armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA), on government troops.
It has also cancelled backchannel talks set later this month in Europe following the attack of suspected NPA rebels in North Cotabato last Wednesday that wounded five members of the Presidential Security Group.
Last May, President Duterte suspended formal peace talks after both sides failed to resolve a dispute over the CPP’s order for the NPA to step up attacks against the government.
Calida explained earlier that the communist leaders could not invoke the 1995 Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantee (JASIG) in invoking their right to remain outside of detention as it provided for their immunity from arrest.
“SC decisions form part of the law of the land. Hence, the resolution dated Aug. 2, 2016 supersedes the defunct 1995 JASIG agreement between the parties, which has become moot and academic,” he explained.
Meanwhile, the CPP tagged President Duterte as a lackey of the US yesterday for denouncing North Korea’s development of nuclear weapons.
CPP splinter group denies terrorist plot
From the Manila Times (Aug 5): CPP splinter group denies terrorist plot
A splinter group of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) on Friday issued a statement denying allegations of the National Capital Region (NCR) police directorate that they are preparing to conduct terrorist operations in the metro.
Luis Carlos of the Revolutionary People’s Army-Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPA-ABB) National Military Secretariat said, “We categorically deny the latest statement made of NCRPO Director Oscar Albayalde, alleging that RPA-ABB members were recruited by Muslim extremists and converted into Islam, and are poised to conduct terrorist operations in NCR. The RPA-ABB remains to be a revolutionary army dedicated to defending the interests and rights of the working class and the masses, and will never resort to extremist terrorism as the latest NCRPO intelligence report suggests.”
The statement added, “The RPA-ABB denounces, in the highest possible terms, the proliferation of extremist terrorism, whose main purpose is to sow fear and terror in the hearts and minds of the masses. We call the attention of the NCRPO to refrain from issuing baseless and malicious statements against the revolutionary army. We also renew our commitment to serve the people, and shall continue to be bulwark of justice against oppression and exploitation of any form.”
http://www.manilatimes.net/cpp-splinter-group-denies-terrorist-plot/342479/
A splinter group of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) on Friday issued a statement denying allegations of the National Capital Region (NCR) police directorate that they are preparing to conduct terrorist operations in the metro.
Luis Carlos of the Revolutionary People’s Army-Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPA-ABB) National Military Secretariat said, “We categorically deny the latest statement made of NCRPO Director Oscar Albayalde, alleging that RPA-ABB members were recruited by Muslim extremists and converted into Islam, and are poised to conduct terrorist operations in NCR. The RPA-ABB remains to be a revolutionary army dedicated to defending the interests and rights of the working class and the masses, and will never resort to extremist terrorism as the latest NCRPO intelligence report suggests.”
The statement added, “The RPA-ABB denounces, in the highest possible terms, the proliferation of extremist terrorism, whose main purpose is to sow fear and terror in the hearts and minds of the masses. We call the attention of the NCRPO to refrain from issuing baseless and malicious statements against the revolutionary army. We also renew our commitment to serve the people, and shall continue to be bulwark of justice against oppression and exploitation of any form.”
http://www.manilatimes.net/cpp-splinter-group-denies-terrorist-plot/342479/
AFP: Fighting Maute group in Marawi becoming more challenging
From the Sun Star-Manila (Aug 4): AFP: Fighting Maute group in Marawi becoming more challenging
AS CRISIS in Marawi City entered the tenth week, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) admitted Friday that fighting Islamic State (IS)-inspired extremists in the war-torn city has become more challenging.
"As we go through the military operations, it becomes a very close fight and the complexities on the ground are really becoming much more challenging," AFP spokesperson Brigadier General Restituto Padilla Jr. said in a press conference.
Padilla said the government forces continued to beef up operations against Maute militant group in two villages of Marawi City, which remained "problematic" areas.
On May 23, Maute bandits stormed Marawi City to fulfill their intent to create an Islamic territory for IS fighters in Southeast Asia. The attack coincides with the military's manhunt operation against Isnilon Hapilon, and Abu Sayyaf leader and alleged IS emir.
The armed conflict in Marawi City prompted President Rodrigo Duterte to declare martial rule in beleaguered Mindanao to end insurgency of terrorist groups.
The proclamation is extended until end of December this year. Padilla reiterated that the military was determined to regain full control of Marawi City sans target deadline to ensure the safety of the civilians.
"Our troops are in high spirits following that visit and are all raring to execute the succeeding operations on the ground to complete the liberation of Marawi," he said.
"We have not set any deadline. We're giving the troops and the ground commanders all the leeway to execute their plans," he added.
Senior Deputy Executive Secretary Menardo Guevarra said casualties in the protracted battle between the security forces and Islamist gunmen stood at 686, as of August 3.
They include 522 terrorists, 119 government troops, and 45 civilians.
Padilla said the government could not still heed to the "constant request" of Marawi residents to return home "because of these challenges."
"Our local executives are very much aware of the conditions on the ground, as well as the dangers posed by so many of the risks that they will face in case they are permitted to go without the necessary clearing operations that are conducted by the military," he said.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/manila/local-news/2017/08/04/afp-fighting-maute-group-marawi-becoming-more-challenging-556661
AS CRISIS in Marawi City entered the tenth week, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) admitted Friday that fighting Islamic State (IS)-inspired extremists in the war-torn city has become more challenging.
"As we go through the military operations, it becomes a very close fight and the complexities on the ground are really becoming much more challenging," AFP spokesperson Brigadier General Restituto Padilla Jr. said in a press conference.
Padilla said the government forces continued to beef up operations against Maute militant group in two villages of Marawi City, which remained "problematic" areas.
On May 23, Maute bandits stormed Marawi City to fulfill their intent to create an Islamic territory for IS fighters in Southeast Asia. The attack coincides with the military's manhunt operation against Isnilon Hapilon, and Abu Sayyaf leader and alleged IS emir.
The armed conflict in Marawi City prompted President Rodrigo Duterte to declare martial rule in beleaguered Mindanao to end insurgency of terrorist groups.
The proclamation is extended until end of December this year. Padilla reiterated that the military was determined to regain full control of Marawi City sans target deadline to ensure the safety of the civilians.
"Our troops are in high spirits following that visit and are all raring to execute the succeeding operations on the ground to complete the liberation of Marawi," he said.
"We have not set any deadline. We're giving the troops and the ground commanders all the leeway to execute their plans," he added.
Senior Deputy Executive Secretary Menardo Guevarra said casualties in the protracted battle between the security forces and Islamist gunmen stood at 686, as of August 3.
They include 522 terrorists, 119 government troops, and 45 civilians.
Padilla said the government could not still heed to the "constant request" of Marawi residents to return home "because of these challenges."
"Our local executives are very much aware of the conditions on the ground, as well as the dangers posed by so many of the risks that they will face in case they are permitted to go without the necessary clearing operations that are conducted by the military," he said.
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/manila/local-news/2017/08/04/afp-fighting-maute-group-marawi-becoming-more-challenging-556661
Isabela military camp needs 500 soldiers
From the Manila Times (Aug 4): Isabela military camp needs 500 soldiers
GAMU, Isabela: The Philippine Army’s 5th Infantry Division (5ID) is in need of at least 500 new soldiers for deployment at the artillery unit of Camp Melchor Dela Cruz here.
Lt. Col. Calixto Cadamo, 5ID artillery unit commander, however, stressed the need for military personnel is not because of death among their men in the Marawi crisis and ambuscades by communist rebels but is a part of President Rodrigo Duterte’s directive to strengthen the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
The pre-qualifying examination for applicants is ongoing, comprising of 50 percent mathematics, 25 percent inductive reasoning and 25 percent basic English.
Applicants must be natural born Filipino citizens, at least 18-23 years old, at least 5 feet in height, single and without children and of good moral character.
They must pass the Philippine Army Aptitude Test Battery/Armed Forces of the Philippines Service Aptitude Test as well as pre-qualifying fitness test and medical exam and must be physically and mentally fit for military training.
http://www.manilatimes.net/isabela-military-camp-needs-500-soldiers/342422/
GAMU, Isabela: The Philippine Army’s 5th Infantry Division (5ID) is in need of at least 500 new soldiers for deployment at the artillery unit of Camp Melchor Dela Cruz here.
Lt. Col. Calixto Cadamo, 5ID artillery unit commander, however, stressed the need for military personnel is not because of death among their men in the Marawi crisis and ambuscades by communist rebels but is a part of President Rodrigo Duterte’s directive to strengthen the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
The pre-qualifying examination for applicants is ongoing, comprising of 50 percent mathematics, 25 percent inductive reasoning and 25 percent basic English.
Applicants must be natural born Filipino citizens, at least 18-23 years old, at least 5 feet in height, single and without children and of good moral character.
They must pass the Philippine Army Aptitude Test Battery/Armed Forces of the Philippines Service Aptitude Test as well as pre-qualifying fitness test and medical exam and must be physically and mentally fit for military training.
http://www.manilatimes.net/isabela-military-camp-needs-500-soldiers/342422/
Cop hurt in Maguindanao rebel attack
From the Philippine Star (Aug 5): Cop hurt in Maguindanao rebel attack
Members of the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters crawled near the police station of Datu Unsay and opened fire and provoked a gunfight. Philstar.com/File photo
A policeman was hurt when militants simultaneously attacked on Friday night a police station and two Army outposts in Maguindanao province.
The wounded PO1 Usman Datuan of the Datu Unsay municipal police is now recuperating in a hospital.
Senior Superintendent Agustin Tello, director of the Maguindanao provincial police, said members of the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters crawled near the police station of Datu Unsay and opened fire, provoking a gunfight.
Although outnumbered, the personnel of the Datu Unsay municipal police returned fire and outflanked their attackers, preventing them from closing in.
BIFF gunmen also fired assault rifles at two nearby Army detachments immediately after gunshots reverberated through the surroundings of the Datu Unsay town hall where its local police station is located.
No one was hurt from among soldiers inside the detachments in Barangay Meta in Datu Unsay and in nearby Datu Saudi town, also in Maguindanao, that bandits also attacked at the same time.
Local officials said the BIFF incursions Friday night were meant to avenge the deaths of six bandits in a military-supported anti-terror operation by the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in Sharif Saidona town in Maguindanao early this week.
Guerillas of the MILF attacked gunmen from a third faction in the BIFF in Barangay Pusaw, Sharif Saidona while converging there suspiciously, displaying the flag of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria.
The militants, led by Esmael Abdulmalik, escaped after a three-hour firefight with MILF guerillas carrying six dead companions.
The MILF and the government are bound by a 1997 security pact, the Agreement on General Cessation of Hostilities, to cooperate in neutralizing terrorists and criminals in potential flashpoint areas in the south.
Tello said police personnel in towns vulnerable to BIFF attacks are on full alert following Friday’s attack on the Datu Unsay municipal police station.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2017/08/05/1725474/cop-hurt-maguindanao-rebel-attack
Members of the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters crawled near the police station of Datu Unsay and opened fire and provoked a gunfight. Philstar.com/File photo
A policeman was hurt when militants simultaneously attacked on Friday night a police station and two Army outposts in Maguindanao province.
The wounded PO1 Usman Datuan of the Datu Unsay municipal police is now recuperating in a hospital.
Senior Superintendent Agustin Tello, director of the Maguindanao provincial police, said members of the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters crawled near the police station of Datu Unsay and opened fire, provoking a gunfight.
Although outnumbered, the personnel of the Datu Unsay municipal police returned fire and outflanked their attackers, preventing them from closing in.
BIFF gunmen also fired assault rifles at two nearby Army detachments immediately after gunshots reverberated through the surroundings of the Datu Unsay town hall where its local police station is located.
No one was hurt from among soldiers inside the detachments in Barangay Meta in Datu Unsay and in nearby Datu Saudi town, also in Maguindanao, that bandits also attacked at the same time.
Local officials said the BIFF incursions Friday night were meant to avenge the deaths of six bandits in a military-supported anti-terror operation by the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in Sharif Saidona town in Maguindanao early this week.
Guerillas of the MILF attacked gunmen from a third faction in the BIFF in Barangay Pusaw, Sharif Saidona while converging there suspiciously, displaying the flag of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria.
The militants, led by Esmael Abdulmalik, escaped after a three-hour firefight with MILF guerillas carrying six dead companions.
The MILF and the government are bound by a 1997 security pact, the Agreement on General Cessation of Hostilities, to cooperate in neutralizing terrorists and criminals in potential flashpoint areas in the south.
Tello said police personnel in towns vulnerable to BIFF attacks are on full alert following Friday’s attack on the Datu Unsay municipal police station.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2017/08/05/1725474/cop-hurt-maguindanao-rebel-attack
President Duterte distributes G-shock military watches to Marawi troops
From Update Philippines (Aug 5): President Duterte distributes G-shock military watches to Marawi troops
President Rodrigo Duterte has distributed G-shock military watches and other goods as well as inspired the troops in the front line in Marawi City, the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) announced Saturday.
Duterte arrived 30 minutes past 4:00 p.m. Friday and “entered the main battle area and visited the soldiers and policemen fighting in Marawi City” amid a heavy downpour.
“Even the heavy rain could not stop the Commander-in-Chief in visiting his troops in the front line yesterday (Friday, August 4),” the Westmincom said.
His visit came days after the troops successfully gained control of strategic structures previously occupied by the ISIS-inspired Maute group.
He was welcomed by Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., Westmincom chief; Brig. Gen. Rolando Joselito Bautista, Joint Task Force Marawi commander; Maj. Gen. Danilo Pamonag, Special Operations Command chief; Brig. Gen. Ramiro Rey, Joint Task Force Ranao commander; and other ground commanders.
In his message to the troops, President Duterte said he wanted them to stay alive and “practice caution until the end of the war.”
“Malapit na itong matapos, konting tiis nalang. Just make sure na buhay kayo pag natapos itong gyera na ito,” the President told around 300 soldiers and policemen who excitedly listened to him.
President met with ground commanders who are in the main battle area, “to show them that he is, all the way, with them in this fight.”
The President also pledged to put up a PhP50-billion trust fund for the soldier’s and policemen’s dependents.
He added that scholarship grants will also be accorded to the children of uniformed men.
The soldiers were all in smiles after meeting and personally seeing their Commander-in-Chief, who left the front line an hour later.
Drenched in the rain, President Duterte spent about 20 minutes taking “selfies and groupies with the troops before he left the vicinity.”
He was accompanied by National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr; Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana; AFP Chief of Staff, Gen. Eduardo Año; Army Chief, Lt. Gen. Glorioso Miranda; Navy Flag Officer in Command, Vice Admiral Ronald Joseph Mercado; and Air Force Chief, Lt. Gen. Edgar Fallorina.
https://www.update.ph/2017/08/president-duterte-distributes-g-shock-military-watches-to-marawi-troops/19718
President Rodrigo Duterte has distributed G-shock military watches and other goods as well as inspired the troops in the front line in Marawi City, the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) announced Saturday.
Duterte arrived 30 minutes past 4:00 p.m. Friday and “entered the main battle area and visited the soldiers and policemen fighting in Marawi City” amid a heavy downpour.
“Even the heavy rain could not stop the Commander-in-Chief in visiting his troops in the front line yesterday (Friday, August 4),” the Westmincom said.
His visit came days after the troops successfully gained control of strategic structures previously occupied by the ISIS-inspired Maute group.
He was welcomed by Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., Westmincom chief; Brig. Gen. Rolando Joselito Bautista, Joint Task Force Marawi commander; Maj. Gen. Danilo Pamonag, Special Operations Command chief; Brig. Gen. Ramiro Rey, Joint Task Force Ranao commander; and other ground commanders.
In his message to the troops, President Duterte said he wanted them to stay alive and “practice caution until the end of the war.”
“Malapit na itong matapos, konting tiis nalang. Just make sure na buhay kayo pag natapos itong gyera na ito,” the President told around 300 soldiers and policemen who excitedly listened to him.
President met with ground commanders who are in the main battle area, “to show them that he is, all the way, with them in this fight.”
The President also pledged to put up a PhP50-billion trust fund for the soldier’s and policemen’s dependents.
He added that scholarship grants will also be accorded to the children of uniformed men.
The soldiers were all in smiles after meeting and personally seeing their Commander-in-Chief, who left the front line an hour later.
Drenched in the rain, President Duterte spent about 20 minutes taking “selfies and groupies with the troops before he left the vicinity.”
He was accompanied by National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr; Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana; AFP Chief of Staff, Gen. Eduardo Año; Army Chief, Lt. Gen. Glorioso Miranda; Navy Flag Officer in Command, Vice Admiral Ronald Joseph Mercado; and Air Force Chief, Lt. Gen. Edgar Fallorina.
https://www.update.ph/2017/08/president-duterte-distributes-g-shock-military-watches-to-marawi-troops/19718
LOOK: Military adds more firepower in Marawi
From Update Philippines (Aug 5): LOOK: Military adds more firepower in Marawi
IN PHOTO: A trailer truck carries an armored car at the Iligan port after it was unloaded from the Philippine Navy’s BRP Davao del Sur. BRP Davao del Sur docked at the Iligan City Port on Wednesday night.
The military says more hardware is coming as operations against the Daesh-inspired terrorist group in Marawi City enters its third month.
PNA photo
https://www.update.ph/2017/08/look-military-adds-more-firepower-in-marawi/19721
IN PHOTO: A trailer truck carries an armored car at the Iligan port after it was unloaded from the Philippine Navy’s BRP Davao del Sur. BRP Davao del Sur docked at the Iligan City Port on Wednesday night.
The military says more hardware is coming as operations against the Daesh-inspired terrorist group in Marawi City enters its third month.
PNA photo
https://www.update.ph/2017/08/look-military-adds-more-firepower-in-marawi/19721
Photo: Maj. Gen. Jon Aying, commander of the Army's 3rd Infantry Division briefs leaders of three major sugar federations
From the Visayan Daily Star (Aug 5): Photo: Maj. Gen. Jon Aying, commander of the Army's 3rd Infantry Division briefs leaders of three major sugar federations
Maj. Gen. Jon Aying, commander of the Army's 3rd Infantry Division briefs leaders of three major sugar federations on the peace and order security situation of Negros Island Region.* ( GPB photo )
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2017/August/05/index.htm
Maj. Gen. Jon Aying, commander of the Army's 3rd Infantry Division briefs leaders of three major sugar federations on the peace and order security situation of Negros Island Region.* ( GPB photo )
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2017/August/05/index.htm
1,000 Army 3 rd ID soldiers helping to liberate Marawi
From the Visayan Daily Star (Aug 5): 1,000 Army 3 rd ID soldiers helping to liberate Marawi
About 1,000 soldiers of the Army's 3rd Infantry Division intended to battle communist insurgents in Negros and Panay, will form the second line of defense of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in liberating Marawi from the occupation of the ISIS-inspired Maute terrorist group.
Maj. Gen. Jon Aying, 3ID commanding general, yesterday said the 15th and 82nd Infantry Battalions that used to be assigned in Negros and Iloilo, respectively, are supporting the main effort of the AFP to destroy the Maute terrorist group.
The 11th Infantry Battalion that used to be assigned in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental, is being deployed in Zamboanga.
The 15IB has suffered three casualties, who include SSgt. Joseph Villanueva of La Castellana, Negros Occidental, military records showed.
But four other Negrenses assigned to other Army infantry units, including 2Lt. McGlen Abuyabor, Corporals Ariel Arquio, Ramonito Occena III and Arjay Baroa, also died in the assault on Maute group strongholds in Marawi City.
All of them were accorded military honors upon the return of their remains to their respective homes in the Negros Island Region.
Aying, who recently visited his troops in Marawi City to check on their morale, said he expects the return of 3ID troops to Negros and Panay, although there is no definite time yet.
He said the area occupied by the Maute terrorists has been reduced to about two barangays. But since these are highly-urbanized barangays, with the size of about four football fields, filled with concrete multi-story buildings, Aying said “It is very difficult to clear or assault”, as the terrain situation hampers the movement and clearing operations of the military”.
Miltary records show that 124 government troops have already died while fighting with the Maute terrorist group, who have suffered more than 400 casualties
Aying noted that majority of soldiers were injured by improvised explosives devices, RPG (rocket propelled grenade) explosions. At the same time, he also observed that many of the soldiers killed were hit by the sniper fires.
The main battle area of Marawi is being occupied by four task groups, the Scout Ranger and Light Reaction Regiments, Marines and the Army's 103 Infantry Brigade.
Aying said they are simultaneously attacking the main line defense of the Maute Group, with the 15IB and 82IB supporting them.
While they are in the second line of defense, Aying said his troops are also being hit by stray bullets.
Aside from the usual benefits accorded to slain soldiers by the AFP, Aying said President Rodrigo Duterte also gave financial assistance to their widows and children.
As stipulated in the Comprehensive Social Benefits Program of the government, families of the slain soldiers and policemen will receive P500,000 as well as shelter, educational and health assistance.
A policeman or soldier injured in battle may also receive P250,000 assistance from the government.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2017/August/05/topstory4.htm
About 1,000 soldiers of the Army's 3rd Infantry Division intended to battle communist insurgents in Negros and Panay, will form the second line of defense of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in liberating Marawi from the occupation of the ISIS-inspired Maute terrorist group.
Maj. Gen. Jon Aying, 3ID commanding general, yesterday said the 15th and 82nd Infantry Battalions that used to be assigned in Negros and Iloilo, respectively, are supporting the main effort of the AFP to destroy the Maute terrorist group.
The 11th Infantry Battalion that used to be assigned in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental, is being deployed in Zamboanga.
The 15IB has suffered three casualties, who include SSgt. Joseph Villanueva of La Castellana, Negros Occidental, military records showed.
But four other Negrenses assigned to other Army infantry units, including 2Lt. McGlen Abuyabor, Corporals Ariel Arquio, Ramonito Occena III and Arjay Baroa, also died in the assault on Maute group strongholds in Marawi City.
All of them were accorded military honors upon the return of their remains to their respective homes in the Negros Island Region.
Aying, who recently visited his troops in Marawi City to check on their morale, said he expects the return of 3ID troops to Negros and Panay, although there is no definite time yet.
He said the area occupied by the Maute terrorists has been reduced to about two barangays. But since these are highly-urbanized barangays, with the size of about four football fields, filled with concrete multi-story buildings, Aying said “It is very difficult to clear or assault”, as the terrain situation hampers the movement and clearing operations of the military”.
Miltary records show that 124 government troops have already died while fighting with the Maute terrorist group, who have suffered more than 400 casualties
Aying noted that majority of soldiers were injured by improvised explosives devices, RPG (rocket propelled grenade) explosions. At the same time, he also observed that many of the soldiers killed were hit by the sniper fires.
The main battle area of Marawi is being occupied by four task groups, the Scout Ranger and Light Reaction Regiments, Marines and the Army's 103 Infantry Brigade.
Aying said they are simultaneously attacking the main line defense of the Maute Group, with the 15IB and 82IB supporting them.
While they are in the second line of defense, Aying said his troops are also being hit by stray bullets.
Aside from the usual benefits accorded to slain soldiers by the AFP, Aying said President Rodrigo Duterte also gave financial assistance to their widows and children.
As stipulated in the Comprehensive Social Benefits Program of the government, families of the slain soldiers and policemen will receive P500,000 as well as shelter, educational and health assistance.
A policeman or soldier injured in battle may also receive P250,000 assistance from the government.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2017/August/05/topstory4.htm
‘NPA remains a threat'
From the Visayan Daily Star (Aug 5): ‘NPA remains a threat'
The New People's Army remains the imminent threat to peace and order in the Visayas, for now, despite terror threats, Maj. Gen. Jon Aying, Army's 3rd Infantry Division commander, said.
“That is why we do current operations against the NPA”, Aying, who briefed yesterday members of the different sugar planters organizations of Negros Island Region security, said. But, at the same time, we are working on, creating, establishing, sustaining and improving the peace and security resiliency infrastructures against possible spillover or attacks by the ISIS-inspired terrorist group, he added.
The NPA recently claimed responsibility for the killing of six policemen and injuring of three others in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental, and the raid of the Maasin Police Station in Iloilo, where communist rebels took more than 30 high-powered firearms.
Aying said the operations against the NPA is a continuing process. While they have yet to pinpoint their exact location, Aying said he is optimistic that they will get them soon.
He admitted that the NPA managed to consolidate their forces during the peace talks.
Aying also disclosed that they recently monitored movements of NPA transferring from one island to another in the Visayas. That is why, we are also doing counter measures to isolate each island, and deny them the chance to support each other, he said.
CEBU, BOHOL SITUATION
There is need for Negros and Panay to help each other, Aying said, as he noted that Cebu and Bohol are insurgency-free. But he admitted that Panay and Negros are potentials for their organizations that can help resurrect Cebu and Bohol.
They (NPA) are struggling, but they are doing it, Aying said. That is what are trying to do also because we want Cebu and Bohol to be vigilant, to prevent the resurgence of the communist movement there.
The province of Negros Occidental recently allocated a P21.2 million budget for the projects and activities of Task Force Buglas, that was organized through an executive order issued by Governor Alfredo Marañon Jr. to address the threat of terrorism, among other peace and security-related concerns.
Aying yesterday enlisted the help of sugar farmers in Negros island against violent extremism, adding that they could be also part of the community information networks by providing early warning, and also responders in cases of disaster, calamities and emergencies.
COMMUNITY ROLE
. He underscored the vital role of communities in preventing lawlessness.
“If we are active and prompt in the delivery of information, we can have a good prevention and deterrence against lawlessness, rather than wait to become victims, followed by disasters,” Aying said.
. He explained that the task force, working under the Provincial Peace and Order Council and Pro-PIDU ( Peace,Integration and Development Unit), is designed for the four major threats or challenges to peace and national security, apparently referring to the CPP-NPA, terrorism and illegal drugs.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2017/August/05/topstory2.htm
The New People's Army remains the imminent threat to peace and order in the Visayas, for now, despite terror threats, Maj. Gen. Jon Aying, Army's 3rd Infantry Division commander, said.
“That is why we do current operations against the NPA”, Aying, who briefed yesterday members of the different sugar planters organizations of Negros Island Region security, said. But, at the same time, we are working on, creating, establishing, sustaining and improving the peace and security resiliency infrastructures against possible spillover or attacks by the ISIS-inspired terrorist group, he added.
The NPA recently claimed responsibility for the killing of six policemen and injuring of three others in Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental, and the raid of the Maasin Police Station in Iloilo, where communist rebels took more than 30 high-powered firearms.
Aying said the operations against the NPA is a continuing process. While they have yet to pinpoint their exact location, Aying said he is optimistic that they will get them soon.
He admitted that the NPA managed to consolidate their forces during the peace talks.
Aying also disclosed that they recently monitored movements of NPA transferring from one island to another in the Visayas. That is why, we are also doing counter measures to isolate each island, and deny them the chance to support each other, he said.
CEBU, BOHOL SITUATION
There is need for Negros and Panay to help each other, Aying said, as he noted that Cebu and Bohol are insurgency-free. But he admitted that Panay and Negros are potentials for their organizations that can help resurrect Cebu and Bohol.
They (NPA) are struggling, but they are doing it, Aying said. That is what are trying to do also because we want Cebu and Bohol to be vigilant, to prevent the resurgence of the communist movement there.
The province of Negros Occidental recently allocated a P21.2 million budget for the projects and activities of Task Force Buglas, that was organized through an executive order issued by Governor Alfredo Marañon Jr. to address the threat of terrorism, among other peace and security-related concerns.
Aying yesterday enlisted the help of sugar farmers in Negros island against violent extremism, adding that they could be also part of the community information networks by providing early warning, and also responders in cases of disaster, calamities and emergencies.
COMMUNITY ROLE
. He underscored the vital role of communities in preventing lawlessness.
“If we are active and prompt in the delivery of information, we can have a good prevention and deterrence against lawlessness, rather than wait to become victims, followed by disasters,” Aying said.
. He explained that the task force, working under the Provincial Peace and Order Council and Pro-PIDU ( Peace,Integration and Development Unit), is designed for the four major threats or challenges to peace and national security, apparently referring to the CPP-NPA, terrorism and illegal drugs.
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2017/August/05/topstory2.htm
WATCH | MNLF underscores commitment to BBL in Duterte-Misuari eyeball at Malacañang
From News 5/InterAksyon (Aug 5): WATCH | MNLF underscores commitment to BBL in Duterte-Misuari eyeball at Malacañang
Brotherly hug between President Rodrigo Duterte and MNLF founder Nur Misuari.
President Duterte and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) founder Nur Misuari had a brief meeting at Malacañang on Thursday, where they warmly embraced and also posed for souvenir pictures with Misuari’s entourage, which included Misuari’s wife and a son.
The MNLF party went to Malacañang for a meeting, the details of which were not disclosed.
The office of the President had recently submitted its draft of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL), which aims to institutionalize autonomous governance of places that would be included in Muslim Mindanao.
According to Deputy Executive Secretary Menardo Guevarra, the MNLF delegation underscored its commitment toward the implementation of BBL and also to the roadmap toward lasting peace.
Click and watch this video report:
Brotherly hug between President Rodrigo Duterte and MNLF founder Nur Misuari.
President Duterte and Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) founder Nur Misuari had a brief meeting at Malacañang on Thursday, where they warmly embraced and also posed for souvenir pictures with Misuari’s entourage, which included Misuari’s wife and a son.
The MNLF party went to Malacañang for a meeting, the details of which were not disclosed.
The office of the President had recently submitted its draft of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL), which aims to institutionalize autonomous governance of places that would be included in Muslim Mindanao.
According to Deputy Executive Secretary Menardo Guevarra, the MNLF delegation underscored its commitment toward the implementation of BBL and also to the roadmap toward lasting peace.
Click and watch this video report:
WATCH | Govt forces wrest Mapandi stronghold from Maute Group in Marawi
From InterAksyon (Aug 1): WATCH | Govt forces wrest Mapandi stronghold from Maute Group in Marawi
The national colors fly over Mapandi in Marawi after troops of the Philippine Marines retake the redoubt from the hands of the Maute Group.
Government forces on Monday announced that they have taken the Barangay Mapandi neighborhood in the Islamic City of Marawi, which has served as one of the bastions of holdout elements of the terrorist Maute Group, even as the whereabouts of captive Catholic priest Chito Suganob remains unclear.
The fall of Mapandi from enemy hands came about after more than two months of intense fighting.
Mapandi is one of four remaining redoubts still held by the terrorists, who have strategically emplaced sniper nests and booby traps to resist the government security forces.
Capt, Jo-Ann Petinglay, Spokesperson of Joint Task Force Marawi, said, “Mapandi is one of their significant areas and staging points, one of the most difficult objectives in this theater. Last week, our Marines were successful in wresting the place from the enemy.”
Troops of the First Marine Brigade could be seen in a photograph with the Philippine flag flying in the background in Mapandi.
The count so far is 493 of the enemy killed in this standoff.
They are believed to hold between 50 and 80 civilian hostages. The military was also careful to note that there is, as yet, “no proof of life” regarding Fr. Suganob.
On the government side, the toll has been 114 lives, so far.
Many of the deaths have been due to improvised explosive devices and booby traps planted by the Maute Group’s jihadist fighters.
Click and watch this video report below:
The national colors fly over Mapandi in Marawi after troops of the Philippine Marines retake the redoubt from the hands of the Maute Group.
Government forces on Monday announced that they have taken the Barangay Mapandi neighborhood in the Islamic City of Marawi, which has served as one of the bastions of holdout elements of the terrorist Maute Group, even as the whereabouts of captive Catholic priest Chito Suganob remains unclear.
The fall of Mapandi from enemy hands came about after more than two months of intense fighting.
Mapandi is one of four remaining redoubts still held by the terrorists, who have strategically emplaced sniper nests and booby traps to resist the government security forces.
Capt, Jo-Ann Petinglay, Spokesperson of Joint Task Force Marawi, said, “Mapandi is one of their significant areas and staging points, one of the most difficult objectives in this theater. Last week, our Marines were successful in wresting the place from the enemy.”
Troops of the First Marine Brigade could be seen in a photograph with the Philippine flag flying in the background in Mapandi.
The count so far is 493 of the enemy killed in this standoff.
They are believed to hold between 50 and 80 civilian hostages. The military was also careful to note that there is, as yet, “no proof of life” regarding Fr. Suganob.
On the government side, the toll has been 114 lives, so far.
Many of the deaths have been due to improvised explosive devices and booby traps planted by the Maute Group’s jihadist fighters.
Click and watch this video report below:
WATCH | Military checks reports of fresh Maute infiltration to retake MSU
From InterAksyon (Aug 5): WATCH | Military checks reports of fresh Maute infiltration to retake MSU
Scene of heavy fighting in Marawi City.
News5 has obtained a copy of a video clip showing a passageway opened up between buildings in Barangay Marinuot that could have been used by alleged reinforcements of the terrorist Maute Group to infiltrate into the battle zone at the Islamic City of Marawi.
These improvised openings are useful also for the terrorists battling government security forces to scoot from one enclave to the next in the running battles that have been going on for more than two months now.
A source has indicated that, just on Tuesday this week, as many as 50 jihadist fighters were able to infiltrate through the city’s perimeter cordon to reinforce their fellow extremist fighters.
The supposed objective, they elaborated, could be to retake the campus of the Mindanao State University (MSU).
The information is now the subject of military intelligence verification.
While the identity of these alleged reinforcements remains vague, News5 has been told time and again that some relatives of the holdout Maute fighters are itching to join the fray.
Zia Alonto Adiong, Spokesman of the Provincial Crisis Management Committee of Lanao del Sur, appealed to the community not to allow MSU to be retaken, as the university is the symbol of the youth and future of Marawi: “It will be like consigning the future of our children to oblivion. If that future is obliterated, it’s like obliterating our home.”
Click and watch this clip from Kaye Imson’s video report:
Scene of heavy fighting in Marawi City.
News5 has obtained a copy of a video clip showing a passageway opened up between buildings in Barangay Marinuot that could have been used by alleged reinforcements of the terrorist Maute Group to infiltrate into the battle zone at the Islamic City of Marawi.
These improvised openings are useful also for the terrorists battling government security forces to scoot from one enclave to the next in the running battles that have been going on for more than two months now.
A source has indicated that, just on Tuesday this week, as many as 50 jihadist fighters were able to infiltrate through the city’s perimeter cordon to reinforce their fellow extremist fighters.
The supposed objective, they elaborated, could be to retake the campus of the Mindanao State University (MSU).
The information is now the subject of military intelligence verification.
While the identity of these alleged reinforcements remains vague, News5 has been told time and again that some relatives of the holdout Maute fighters are itching to join the fray.
Zia Alonto Adiong, Spokesman of the Provincial Crisis Management Committee of Lanao del Sur, appealed to the community not to allow MSU to be retaken, as the university is the symbol of the youth and future of Marawi: “It will be like consigning the future of our children to oblivion. If that future is obliterated, it’s like obliterating our home.”
Click and watch this clip from Kaye Imson’s video report:
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