MILF: MILF Jointly Celebrates with UNICEF Its Delisting from UN List of Organizations’ Recruiting Child Soldiers

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Dec 6): MILF Jointly Celebrates with UNICEF Its Delisting from UN List of Organizations’ Recruiting Child Soldiers



IN PHOTO- MILF Chairman Al Murad Ebrahim (Center) with UNICEF Officials, and delegation during their visit at Camp Darapanan

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) delegation headed by Ola Almgren, UN Resident Coordinator, Philippines, together with Julia Reese Deputy Representative Philippines and Andrew Morris, Chief, Mindanao Field Office met with MILF key officials, BIAF and BIWAB Commanders at the MILF Administrative Camp in Darapanan, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao yesterday, Monday, December 4, 2017.


The party composed of other UN Agencies were welcomed by MILF Chairman Al Haj Murad Ebrahim, other Central Committee officials namely, Chief of Staff Sammy Al-Mansor, Architect Edward Guerra, and Toks Ebrahim who were the MILF’s counterpart in the planning and completion of the UN-MILF Action Plan that led to the de-listing of Moro Islamic Liberation Front from annex of listed parties under the Report of the UN-Secretary General on Children and Armed Conflict.

Witnessing the UNICEF officers delivering congratulatory messages, and commendation to the MILF were U.N. partners, the Non Violent Peaceforce, and representatives from the Commission on Human Rights (CHR).

In addition, the UNICEF officers gave assurance of their full support in mutual endeavours, child protection programs, and health care.

USec Ronald Flores of Office of the President on the Peace Process read the message of OPAPP Secretary Jesus Dureza.

Chairman Al Haj Murad said that the occasion is another milestone in the MILF’s journey towards just and lasting peace in the Bangsamoro. The achievements are testaments to the MILF’s sincerity and commitment in protecting their children.

Chairman Al Haj Murad said further that, “With the on-going implementation of some aspects of the CAB, which is a negotiated political settlement, they are optimistic that situations engendering the indirect involvement of children in military activities would no longer present themselves now, and in the future.”

Chairman Al Haj Murad also emphasized that, “The MILF has been candid enough to admit that compelling situations in the past brought about by war, nay even existential moments, has unfortunately forced children to a situation where their services, though not necessarily military, are of such a character as to appear as such.”

“It is the joint efforts of UNICEF, and MILF in the completion of the UN-MILF Action Plan that we are here today in celebration” and took the opportunity to thank the UN and UNICEF for all the support given them the past years”, he added.

The meeting ended up with Almgren meeting the disengaged children from MILF-BIAF.

http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1111/milf_jointly_celebrates_with_unicef_its_delisting_from_un_list_of_organizations____recruiting_child_soldiers

NDF/NDF-FSMR: On the encounter incidents in Sitio Datal Bonglangon, Bgry. Ned, Lake Sebu

NDF-Far South Mindanao Region propaganda statement posted to the National Democratic Front Website (Dec 7): On the encounter incidents in Sitio Datal Bonglangon, Bgry. Ned, Lake Sebu

The 27th IB-AFP massacred civilian residents and not NPA members in a skirmish that took place in Sitio Datal Bonglangon, Brgy. Ned, Lake Sebu, South Cotabato in December 3, 2017.

The victims are members of the T’boli-Manobo S’daf Claimants Organization (TAMASCO), a group fighting for the tribe’s ancestral lands seized by the DMCI through the government’s IFMA program. The group found out that the government had rejected their claim by granting the renewal of Consunji’s IFMA contract. But the group continued to fight for their rights.

The NDF-FSMR strongly condemns this heinous crime and terroristic act perpetrated by the AFP against the civilians. This is clearly an antrocious violation of the human rights and the international humanitarian law.

Sityo Datal Bonglangon is a T’boli-Manobo community located within the vast coffee plantation of the Silvicultural Industries Inc.-DMCI. For a long time, sitio residents have persistently resisted the company’s efforts to evict them.

According to reports received by the NDF-FSMR, prior to the incident, Lumad residents have complained about the incessant intimidations done by DMCI company guards and government forces. Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc, the commanding officer of the 33rd IB-AFP, have also threatened to attack the sitio.

Reports said that at around 12:25 in the afternoon in December 3, forces of the 27th IB-AFP conducting military operations arrive in the community. The soldiers approached the house of the chieftain Datu Victor Danyan and opened fire. This prompted the residents, armed with 12-gauge shotguns and indigenous weapons, to fight back.

The firefight resulted to the death of eight individuals namely Datu Victor Danyan Sr., Victor Danyan Jr., Artemio Danyan, Pato Celardo, To Diamante, Bobot Lagase, and Mateng Bantal. A number were also wounded that includes Luben Laod and Teteng Laod, and a minor that was taken to a hospital.

According to witnesses, three 27th IB soldiers were also killed and three others were wounded.

A unit of the Mt. Daguma Operations Command-NPA operating in area immediately responded to rescue the fleeing civilians. They engaged the maneuvering forces of the 33rd IB-AFP a kilometer away from the community.

A Red fighter was martyred in the gunfight.

The 33rd IB indiscriminately bombed the place after the successive encounters. At least fifteen 105 mortar shells were fired by the AFP from 2:00 o’clock until 4:30 in the afternoon that day.

Hundreds of families in Datal Bonglangon and adjacent sitios evacuated as a result of the incidents and the continuing presence of government armed troops in the area.

Ka Efren Aksasato
Spokesperson, NDF-FSMR

https://www.ndfp.org/on-the-encounter-incidents-in-sitio-datal-bonglangon-bgry-ned-lake-sebu/

CPP/NDF-FSM: On the encounter incidents in Sitio Datal Bonglangon, Bgry. Ned, Lake Sebu

NDF-Far South Mindanao propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines Website (Dec 7): On the encounter incidents in Sitio Datal Bonglangon, Bgry. Ned, Lake Sebu

Ka Efren Aksasato, Spokesperson
NDFP Far South Mindanao

6 December 2017

The 27th IB-AFP massacred civilian residents and not NPA members in a skirmish that took place in Sitio Datal Bonglangon, Brgy. Ned, Lake Sebu, South Cotabato in December 3, 2017.

The victims are members of the T’boli-Manobo S’daf Claimants Organization (TAMASCO), a group fighting for the tribe’s ancestral lands seized by the DMCI through the government’s IFMA program. The group found out that the government had rejected their claim by granting the renewal of Consunji’s IFMA contract. But the group continued to fight for their rights.

The NDF-FSMR strongly condemns this heinous crime and terroristic act perpetrated by the AFP against the civilians. This is clearly an antrocious violation of the human rights and the international humanitarian law.

Sityo Datal Bonglangon is a T’boli-Manobo community located within the vast coffee plantation of the Silvicultural Industries Inc.-DMCI. For a long time, sitio residents have persistently resisted the company’s efforts to evict them.

According to reports received by the NDF-FSMR, prior to the incident, Lumad residents have complained about the incessant intimidations done by DMCI company guards and government forces. Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc, the commanding officer of the 33rd IB-AFP, have also threatened to attack the sitio.

Reports said that at around 12:25 in the afternoon in December 3, forces of the 27th IB-AFP conducting military operations arrive in the community. The soldiers approached the house of the chieftain Datu Victor Danyan and opened fire. This prompted the residents, armed with 12-gauge shotguns and indigenous weapons, to fight back.

The firefight resulted to the death of eight individuals namely Datu Victor Danyan Sr., Victor Danyan Jr., Artemio Danyan, Pato Celardo, To Diamante, Bobot Lagase, and Mateng Bantal. A number were also wounded that includes Luben Laod and Teteng Laod, and a minor that was taken to a hospital.

According to witnesses, three 27th IB soldiers were also killed and three others were wounded.

A unit of the Mt. Daguma Operations Command-NPA operating in area immediately responded to rescue the fleeing civilians. They engaged the maneuvering forces of the 33rd IB-AFP a kilometer away from the community. A Red fighter was martyred in the gunfight.

The 33rd IB indiscriminately bombed the place after the successive encounters. At least fifteen 105 mortar shells were fired by the AFP from 2:00 o’clock until 4:30 in the afternoon that day.

Hundreds of families in Datal Bonglangon and adjacent sitios evacuated as a result of the incidents and the continuing presence of government armed troops in the area.

https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statements/20171206-on-the-encounter-incidents-in-sitio-datal-bonglangon-bgry-ned-lake-sebu

CPP/NDF-Bicol: Hinggil sa terorismo ng rehimeng Duterte

NDF-Bicol propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines Website (Dec 7):
Hinggil sa terorismo ng rehimeng Duterte

Maria Roja Banua, Spokesperson
NDFP Bicol Region (Region V)

7 December 2017

Mariing kinukundena ng NDF-Bikol ang lantarang panghaharas ng mga bayarang ahente ng teroristang estado kay Chito Banzuela, isang organisador ng Bayan Muna sa Brgy. Salvacion, Sto. Domingo, Albay.

Liban dito’y masinsing minamanmanan ang lahat ng mga upisina ng progresibong organisasyon, mga relihiyosong institusyon, mga personalidad sa akademya at ang lahat ng mga lider masa’t personalidad na mahigpit at matagal nang Sa balangkas ng malalim na kilusang lihim, marapat na panghawakan ang pagsisiguro sa seguridad ng bawat indibidwal at buong organisasyon. nagtataguyod sa mga demokratikong karapatan ng mamamayan.

Sa iba pang panig ng bansa, hinuli si George San Mateo, lider-masa ng Piston, matapos na matagumpay na mailunsad ang iba’t ibang porma ng kilos protesta sa buong bansa. Sa Nueva Ecija, pinatay si Marcelito ‘Fr. Tito’ Paez, mahigpit na tagapagtaguyod ng karapatang tao.

Patunay ng mga sunud-sunod na paglabag sa karapatang pantao’t paghahasik ng takot ng rehimeng Duterte na handa itong salaulain ang mga pinakabatayang karapatan ng mamamayan para isulong ang pagpapalawig ng kanyang pampulitikang kapangyarihan. Bahagi ito ng kampanyang pandarahas ng estado matapos ibaba ang PP 360 kung saan tuluyang tinuldukan ng maka-imperyalistang si Duterte ang usapang pangkapayapaan sa pagitan ng CPP-NPA-NDFP at GRP. Kasabay nito ang pagdeklara na teroristang organisasyon ang CPP-NPA-NDFP at iba bang makakaliwang organisasyon at mga personahe.

Sa pagdedeklarang terorista ang mga legal na organisasyong masang pangunahing nagsusulong ng adhikain para sa mga demokratikong karapatan ng mamamayan, walang ibinibigay na puwang ang rehimeng Duterte sa mamamayan kung hindi isulong ang digmang bayan.

Kinikilala ng NDF-Bikol ang mahalagang papel ng hayag na kilusang masa sa kalunsuran. Hinaharap nito ang walang kapagurang pagsusulong ng mga demokratikong karapatan sa kabila ng sala-salabat na makinarya ng estado para supilin ang mga ligal na pakikibaka.

Nananawagan ng NDF-Bikol na lalong palawakin at patatagin ang hanay ng kilusang lihim. Hinihingi ng pagkakataon na higit na maging mapanlikha ang bawat elemento sa pagpapatuloy ng mga gawain sa pag-oorganisa, pagmumulat at pagpapakilos ng mamamayan nang may mataas na pagpapahalaga sa seguridad ng bawat indibidwal at ng buong kilusang lihim. Mahusay na nakapagpalakas at nakapagpalawak ang buong rebolusyonaryong kilusan sa ilalim ng Batas Militar ng diktador na Marcos. Magsisilbing inspirasyon at gabay ang mga karanasan at sakripisyo ng mga kasama sa pagharap sa hamon ng malalim na kilusang lihim.

Huwag mag-atubiling paghusayin ang manera ng pagkilos sa tarangkahan ng balwarte ng kaaway sa uri. Bilang mga propesyunal na rebolusyonaryo, tanganan ang mahusay na pagkapit sa prinsipyo ng buo at tagos sa pusong pagsisilbi sa sambayanan.

Naghihintay at handang yakapin ng malawak na kanayunan ang lahat ng kadre’t aktibista na nagmula sa kalunsuran. Sa panahong tinutugis ang malawak na mamamayan, walang ibang pinakamahusay na gawin kundi ang tanganan ang armas at ipalasap sa mga mga berdugong ahente ng teroristang estado ang angil ng punglong ginagabayan ng makatarungang digma!

Nananawagan ang NDF-Bikol sa lahat ng tapat na lingkod bayan na harapin ang panahon. Panahon ito ng pagpili ng papanigan. Huwag maging bahagi ng terorismo ng estado pagkat kasaysayan ang huhusga. Ikaw ba’y para sa mamamayan? O ikaw ba’y kaaway ng mamamayan?

Mamamayan, mangahas na tumindig laban sa pandarahas!
Lumahok sa digma ng pagpapalaya!
Pakamahalin ang taumbayan!

https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statements/20171207-hinggil-sa-terorismo-ng-rehimeng-duterte

CPP/Information Bureau: On Duterte’s Proclamation 374

CPP Information Bureau propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines Website (Dec 7): On Duterte’s Proclamation 374



Information Bureau
Communist Party of the Philippines

7 December 2017

The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) strongly rejects Proclamation 374 issued by #1 terrorist Rodrigo Duterte declaring the CPP and the New People’s Army (NPA) as “terrorist organizations” on the basis that both groups are listed as “foreign terrorist organizations” in the US State Department. This declaration conveniently places his regime, particularly his main fascist machinery—the AFP—as a strong contender for increased military aid and weaponry under the US bloated budget for its “global war on terror.” By kowtowing to the US line of “counterterrorism,” Duterte is opening wide the door for increased US military intervention across the country, as he did in Marawi and Mindanao when he declared the now defunct Maute group as “terrorists.” Duterte’s shameless puppetry to his US imperialist masters is unbounded when it comes to furthering his own fascist ambitions.

Furthermore, the declaration not only targets the CPP and the NPA but moreso persons and organizations that Duterte and his miltiary cabal can designate at will as terrorists for “financing and aiding” the CPP and the NPA. This clearly targets the national democratic legal mass movement which he has repeatedly threatened with a crackdown for supposedly “conspiring” with the NPA.

Duterte will also be able to shakedown or extort from corporations and businesses by simply associating them with the NPA. He has already done so by threatening mining companies which he accuses of “aiding” the NPA by paying revolutionary taxes.

https://www.philippinerevolution.info/statements/20171207-on-dutertes-proclamation-374

Concreting of ‘NPA highway’ in Cotabato starts next week

From Malaya Business Insight (Dec 8): Concreting of ‘NPA highway’ in Cotabato starts next week

The concreting of a 40-kilometer road through the mountains, known as the “New People’s Army highway,” will start next week to open access to five towns in the upper valley area of this province and General Santos City.

The P700-million road access project will pass through the foothills of barangays Afus and T’bolok, and portions of barangays Mongocayo, Basag, and Maan, all said to be routes used by the communist rebels operating in the tri-boundary area of the provinces of South Cotabato, Sarangani and Sultan Kudarat.

“Its construction is expected to unlock economic and eco-tourism opportunities of our town,” Mayor Dibu Tuan of T’boli said on Wednesday in an interview.

T’boli is the home of some 90,000 B’laan and T’boli tribesmen, scattered in 25 barangays. It is also known for huge gold deposits and exotic falls.

The access road to General Santos City is also expected to benefit the other upper valley area localities, like the towns of Banga, Surallah, Norala, Sto. Niño, and Lake Sebu because travel from and going to General Santos City would be shortened.

“Through the road project, the residents will directly access the General Santos City’s airport in Barangay San Jose there,” Tuan said.

Tuan said he has been told by South Cotabato Rep. Ferdinand “Dinand” Hernandez that aside from concreting the access road, the Department of Public Works and Highways will also construct three bridges.

DPWH in the Central Mindanao region is the implementing agency of the road access project.

Hernandez, deputy speaker for Mindanao, lobbied also for the funding of the Lake Sebu-Maitum access road project worth P1 billion.

“It was a dream come true for all of us and for my father because after 32 years of waiting, it was finally realized,” said Tuan, who thanked Hernandez for getting funds from the national government for the access road.

Tuan said it was the dream of his late father “Mai Tuan,” the first town mayor appointed by then President Ferdinand Marcos, to make T’boli a “gateway” to General Santos City.

Two soldiers were hurt in clashes between government forces and NPA rebels in Himamaylan, Negros Occidental early Thursday.

Reports reaching Camp Crame said a platoon of Army soldiers led by 1st Lt. John William Portillano were on combat operation in Sitio Cunalom, Barangay Carabalan when they chanced upon an undetermined number of NPA rebels at around 6:30 a.m.

The firefight led to the wounding of Sgt. Jomar Dolorfino.

Some three hours later, the same group of soldiers was conducting pursuit operations when they encountered another NPA group.

Pvt. Jelord Para-onda was wounded in the clash.

http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/concreting-%E2%80%98npa-highway%E2%80%99-cotabato-starts-next-week

Military urges 1-year martial law extension

From Malaya Business Insight (Dec 8): Military urges 1-year martial law extension

THE Armed Forces has recommended to President Duterte a one-year extension of martial law in Mindanao, which is due to end on December 31, so ground units will continue to have teeth in going after terrorists.

A military source said the recommendation was submitted to the President on Monday and was based on the inputs of ground commanders.

Duterte has been saying his decision would depend on the recommendation of security officials.

Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez asked the President to decide soon on whether he would ask Congress to extend his martial law proclamation, saying lawmakers have only a week left before they go on Christmas break.

He said it would be difficult to call for one with senators during the holidays “because all lawmakers are programmed to go on vacation.”

 “You have to understand, it’s Christmas. It’s not just any other break that we can easily call legislators (to attend a special session). This time, it’s Christmas. So it’ll really be difficult,” he said.

Alvarez, a representative of the first district of Davao del Norte, reiterated his position of placing the whole of Mindanao under martial law until the end of Duterte’s term in 2022 “so we (can) feel secure and safe.”

The House of Representatives and the Senate, in a joint session in July, voted to grant Duterte’s request to extend martial law which he proclaimed on May 23, the day the Islamic State-inspired Maute Group attacked Marawi City. Duterte cited continuing terrorist threat in asking for the extension.

Government forces battled the Maute for five months. Clearing operations in Marawi continue despite the termination of combat activities.

The source said most of the ground commanders said “they need martial law at this time.”

“They need the mechanism, especially the suspension of the writ (of habeas corpus). That is the important component,” the source said on the reasons given by the military in calling for another extension.

The source said government troops can  easily arrest suspected terrorists if they are sighted if there is martial law. “Without martial law, you cannot do that,” the source said adding that without martial law, security forces have to apply for arrest or search warrants.

Asked if the military is confident the President will approve its recommendation, the source said: “I think he (Duterte) will defer to what was recommended by the AFP. The coverage is Mindanao, that’s definite.”

The source noted ISIS-inspired groups have intensified recruitment after the conclusion of the Marawi conflict on October 23.

The fighting left 974 Maute members, 165 soldiers and policemen, and 47 civilians.

“Recruitment has continued during the lull after Marawi. There are recruitment efforts in the Lake Lanao area and even here in Manila,” the source said. The military earlier said the terrorists are recruiting relatives of slain Maute members.

The source also said the military is monitoring possible tactical alliance between the IS-inspired groups and the communist New People’s Army which Duterte classified as a terrorist organization this week.

“It’s still unverified but that is possible. It’s (alliance) logical because of the development. The NPA is looking for an ally. I think it’s going to be a marriage of convenience,” the official also said.

http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/military-urges-1-year-martial-law-extension

Crackdown on communist financiers, backers eyed

From Malaya Business Insight (Dec 8): Crackdown on communist financiers, backers eyed

SECURITY officials have started discussions on a possible crackdown on supporters and financiers of the Communist Party of the Philippines and the New People’s Army which were declared by President Duterte this week as terrorist organizations.

A security official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said defense and military officials are weighing the pros and cons of arresting communist supporters from front organizations and personalities providing financial support to the communists.

“Meetings are ongoing and I understand there is already a list of personalities who may be arrested in connection with the declaration of the CPP and NPA as terrorist organizations,” he said.

He said the list included “supporters, members of front organizations, and financiers.”

“It’s clear that they are serving as the muscle, so we’re thinking of going after them,” he also said.

The military in the past named a number of NPA front organizations, some of them represented in Congress through the party-list system.

“There is an apparent need to cut the support and logistical lines of the communists,” said the source, adding that more meetings have been scheduled to finalize the position of the Armed Forces and the defense department on the issue.

He said there may be a need to consult the Department of Justice and the PNP on the matter. “There will be due process. There will no wanton disregard of rights. Due process will still be followed,” the source said.

When the position is finalized, it will be forwarded to President Duterte for his approval.

Duterte on Wednesday threatened “mass arrest” of communist leaders and consultants who were released from detention last year to enable them to participate in peace negotiations. He officially cancelled the formal peace talks last month because of continued NPA attacks on government forces, and some civilians.

“The AFP and the DND will not move without the President’s consent. We will always follow the commander-in-chief. If there is no specific order, we won’t move. We follow the chain of command,” the source said.

The source declined to identify the specific front organizations, whose members may be arrested. “If you are supporting them (CPP and NPA), you may be considered as terrorists also,” the official said.

Told that these organizations, including Bayan and the human rights group Karapatan, are denying accusations that they are front organizations of the CPP/NPA, the source said: “That’s just a matter of semantics.”

The source also acknowledged that some mining firms are providing financial support to the communists, echoing President Duterte’s earlier remarks that some of these firms “are contributing to the revolutionary warfare, funding the NPA.”

The source could not say if these firms are providing funds to the communists voluntarily. The NPA is known to be forcing firms to pay “revolutionary taxes,” a euphemism for extortion. Firms which refuse to heed the NPA demand are subjected to attacks.

Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II, complying with Duterte’s order, directed the Office of the Prosecutor General to file a formal plea before a regional trial court to legally declare the CPP/NPA as a terrorist organization.

The CPP-NPA has been in the US list of foreign terrorist organizations since 2002.

Under the Human Security Act of 2007, the justice department must first seek clearance from a court before a group of persons, organization, or association could be declared a terrorist group.

http://www.malaya.com.ph/business-news/news/crackdown-communist-financiers-backers-eyed

WATCH | Beyond Marawi: Maute-ISIS ramping up recruitment drive, possibly in Manila – AFP

From News InterAksyon (Dec 6): WATCH | Beyond Marawi: Maute-ISIS ramping up recruitment drive, possibly in Manila – AFP

 

The Battle of Marawi may have concluded, but the war is not yet over. Zia Alonto Adiong, Spokesman of Lanao del Sur Provincial Crisis Management Council, tells journalists that the government is aware of apparent moves by remnants of the terrorist Maute Group and its ISIS-linked supporters to ramp up the recruitment drive to beef up its rank of fighters.

 

ISIS stands for Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, a jihadist militant organization out to establish a caliphate, or Islamic state in Sunni majority regions of Iraq and Syria but had recently been crushed in its overt territories and has melted, so to speak, underground to continue waging a guerilla-style conflict.

“We have been receiving reports from the military that the recruitment is ongoing, because they have leaders who managed to slip away during the height of the fight [in Marawi], and these personalities are the ones starting to regroup again and recruit fighters,” Adiong said.

There are sources who say the Maute-ISIS group is offering a bonus of as much as PhP100,000 to entice new members.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) suspects that at the helm of the recruitment drive is a person identified as Abu Dar, who is wanted by the military.

 

Adiong added that there have been persistent feedback about looting that took place during the Marawi standoff, and the government believes much of the material loot, in cash and in kind, have been scooped away by the terrorists to beef up their financial resources: “Remember, this is a global war against terrorism, and this is an organized, well-organized, group, a well-financed group. That’s why we hear about them using money to entice potential fighters to join them.”

Other sources have indicated the possibility that the terrorists could likewise be headhunting not just in Mindanao. “Possibly, in Metro Manila and nearby areas.”

 

Indeed, some terrorists killed in Marawi were discovered to have been from Luzon.

At the same time, the AFP assures the public that there’s no reason to panic, as there is as yet no clear and present danger in the national capital region.

Soldiers continue to conduct interfaith and community immersion programs at Muslim enclaves in Metro Manila, on the belief that these activities can help promote open communication and protect communities from being infiltrated by extremist ideologies.

 

http://www.interaksyon.com/watch-beyond-marawi-isis-ramping-up-recruitment-drive-possibly-in-manila-afp/

2 troops wounded in clashes with NPA in Negros

From InterAksyon (Dec 7): 2 troops wounded in clashes with NPA in Negros



(UPDATE – 1:52 p.m.) At least two soldiers were wounded in ongoing clashes with communist rebels in southern Negros Occidental Thursday morning, December 7, authorities said.

Meanwhile, the military helicopter that ferried the injured troops to a hospital had to make an emergency landing in Hinigaran town after developing trouble.

Col. Eliezer Lozañes, commander of the 303rd Infantry Brigade, told media the helicopter had rushed he wounded soldiers to Kabankalan City and was on its way back to Bacolod City to refuel when the incident happened.

An advisory from Police Regional Office 6 said the first clash broke out around 6:30 a.m. in Sitio Cunalom, Barangay Carabalan, Himamaylan City when a platoon of the Army’s 62nd Infantry Battalion on combat operations ran into an unknown number of rebels.

Sergeant Jomar Dolorfino was wounded in this encounter.

A 9:15 a.m., the same unit again clashed with rebels, leaving Private Jelord Para-onda wounded.

http://www.interaksyon.com/2-troops-wounded-in-clashes-with-npa-in-negros/

Martial law extension needed to address continuing armed threats – AFP

From InterAksyon (Dec 8): Martial law extension needed to address continuing armed threats – AFP


(Reuters file)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines has recommended the extension of martial law in Mindanao, saying it is needed to decisively resolve the various armed threats in the south.

Brigadier General Restituto Padilla said the recommendation had been submitted to Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana who, “after duly studying it has forwarded the recommendation to Malacañang,” although he admitted “I don’t have the details as to the length” of time the military wants martial rule prolonged.

Nevertheless, “there is a recommendation to similarly support the recommendation of the Philippine National Police,” Padilla said, referring to the police recommendation for a yearlong extension, which ha been endorsed by acting Interior Secretary Catalino Cuy.

President Rodrigo Duerte declared Mindanao under martial law on May 23, shortly after fighting broke out between government forces and extremist gunmen in Marawi City.

When the 60-day period the Constitution sets for the initial declaration lapsed, Duterte sought and was granted an extension by Congress until the end of the year.

After Marawi had been retaken, Duterte said he would leave it to security forces to determine if martial law needs to be extended further.

Explaining why the military still needed what he called “the cover of martial law”, Padilla pointed to the threats posed by extremists on one hand — remnants of the Marawi gunmen, banded under the Khilafa Islamiyah Mindanao who “still remain to be a threat” even if “significantly degraded,” the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters in Maguindanao, Lanado del Sur and the Cotabato provinces, and the Abu Sayyaf in Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi — and communist rebels

He said extremists who survived the five-month battle for Marawi “remain at large and are attempting to recover by recruiting” new members from “vulnerable” sectors — students, children, women and relatives of those who died in the fighting, mainly through “enticements” like money.

Padilla, however, said the threat from the Abu Sayyaf had been significantly reduced that there have been no recent kidnappings of foreign sailors from vessels passing through the country’s southern waters. He attributed this to the continued military operations in the southern island provinces and the air and maritime patrols carried out by Philippine, Indonesian and Malaysian forces.

The AFP spokesman said the government also had to prepare to face increasing violence from the New People’s Army following the termination by Duterte of formal peace talks with the communists.

He also accused the communists of insincerity in seeking peace, noting a “tremendous increase” of 65 percent in rebel attacks from January to November 30 in Eastern and Western Mindanao.

Of the 617 NPA operations recorded over the year, Padilla said, 382 happened in Eastern Mindanao, where Duterte’s hometown Davao City is located.

He said that economic losses from arson alone accounting for P2.4 billion this year, a “2000 percent increase” from an estimated P100 million in 2016.

http://www.interaksyon.com/martial-law-extension-needed-to-address-continuing-armed-threats-afp/

PAF chopper makes emergency landing in NegOcc

From Update Philippines (Dec 8): PAF chopper makes emergency landing in NegOcc



A Philippine Air Force (PAF) Huey combat utility helicopter made an emergency landing after suffering some electrical problems while on a routine mission in Negros Occidental Thursday afternoon.

Maj. Aristides Galang, PAF spokesperson, said the UH-1 helicopter, with tail number 516, was conducting its assigned mission when it encountered electrical problems, prompting pilots to land at the highway between Hinigan and Binalbagan, Negros Occidental past noon.

“Pilots decided to perform the said landing to check and correct such discrepancy as a standard procedure for safety,” he said.

Both aircraft and crew returned to their base in the province after fixing the problem, Galang added.

The PAF operates 30 to 40 units of the Huey helicopters for transport, supply and medical evacuation missions.

https://www.update.ph/2017/12/paf-chopper-makes-emergency-landing-in-negocc/23212

Air Force conducts recruitment drive

From Update Philippines (Dec 8): Air Force conducts recruitment drive


The Philippine Air Force (PAF) is conducting a recruitment drive starting December 9 until January 15 for Candidate Soldier positions. PAF bases in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao will be designated as examination areas.

Below is the list of examination areas and schedule of examinations provided by PAF.
PAF photo

Initial requirements include: a) Duly accomplished Application Form, b) NSO Birth Certificate (Original & Photocopy), c) Transcript of Records (College & K to 12 Graduates)/ Certificate of Grades (atleast 72 College Units), d) 2 pieces 2X2 ID picture with white background, e) Other essential documents like Armed Forces of the Philippines Service Aptitude Test (AFPSAT) Individual Result Form (IRF) (IF
TAKEN): Original and Photocopy.
An applicant must be a natural born Filipino, Kto12 graduate or at least completed 72 units in college, must be at least 18 years old but not a day older than 26 on May 23, 2018, at least 5 feet tall, with good moral character, and must be single, never been married and never borne or sired a child.

https://www.update.ph/2017/12/air-force-conducts-recruitment-drive/23199

Mayor Sara scraps talks with NPA terrorists

From Update Philippines (Dec 7): Mayor Sara scraps talks with NPA terrorists



Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte has scrapped the localized peace talks with the the New People’s Army (NPA) after her father President Rodrigo Duterte declared the communists fighters as terrorists.

“Since the policy of the government is to never negotiate with terrorists, what we are going to do is to talk to the community about their issues through the DC-PEACE Dev,” Mayor Sara said.

She renamed the Davao City Peace committee (DC-PEACE) that previously led the talks with communists to Davao City Advisory Committee for Peace and Development (DC PEACE Dev).

She said the new body would serve as the medium between the city government and far-flung communities to resolve their issues and concerns.

“The output of the talk will be used by the city government of Davao to address the issues the communities are experiencing. We acknowledge that they have issues with regard to the services of the government,” Mayor Sara said.

“What we are going to do is go to the hinterlands and build peace tables, where the community can raise their concerns so that the government can address it,” she said.

https://www.update.ph/2017/12/mayor-sara-scraps-talks-with-npa-terrorists/23186

Senator Chiz hopes NPA terrorist tag just a negotiating tactic

From Update Philippines (Dec 7): Senator Chiz hopes NPA terrorist tag just a negotiating tactic



Senator Chiz Escudero is hoping that the tagging of Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) – New People’s Army (NPA) as terrorist group by President Rodrigo Duterte is just a negotiating tactic.

“I hope this terror tag on CPP-NPA is just a hiccup or a negotiating tactic in the peace process. I am still optimistic that peace talks between the government and the CPP-NPA will soon resume and prosper under cooler situation,” Senator Escudero said in a release statement.

Escudero, former chairman of the Senate Committee on Justice and Human Rights, also said President Duterte’s declaration removes the possibility of peace talks. “And given the government policy, we don’t negotiate with terrorists.”

He also reminded the police and the military to strictly observe the provisions of the Human Security Act (HSA) in the conduct of their operation after the government had officially declared the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its armed wing, the National People’s Army (NPA), as terrorist organizations.

“Any offense committed under HSA necessitates stronger evidentiary requirements. You can’t just file murder, illegal possession of firearms or any non-bailable offense. Government has to follow and adhere to the stringent requirements provided by the law, and these requirements carry corresponding penalties against violators,” Escudero said.

“Ang nakakalungkot dito, marami na namang maiipit na iba’t ibang lugar sa bansa at mga sibilyan dahil sa umpugan ng NPA at ng gobyerno. At magpapatuloy pa rin ang patayan ng Pilipino at kapwa Pilipino,” he said.

“I believe that peace negotiation should be exhausted to bring the armed conflict to a permanent and just closure,” Escudero added.

The senator also noted that Republic Act 9372 or the HSA defines terrorism, as well as provides for the procedure should the government seek to tag a group as terrorist.

https://www.update.ph/2017/12/senator-chiz-hopes-npa-terrorist-tag-just-a-negotiating-tactic/23182