Reason for erratic posting of material over the past several weeks

 Reason for erratic posting of material over the past several weeks

I am 77 and now undergoing chemotherapy treatment for fourth bout of cancer over the past 10 years. Some days I fell Ok and others I don't. It is difficult to focus on bad days, hence no posts. My doctors are cautiously optimistic that I can beat this cancer thing. Hoping and praying for the best.  Now you know.

Best regards,

Retired Analyst

AFP launches probe of Chinese ‘hacker’

From the Philippine Star (Jun 1, 2024): AFP launches probe of Chinese ‘hacker’ (By Michael Punongbayan, Emmanuel Tupas)

Yuhang Liu is booked on charges of grave threat as well as violating laws regulating guns and access devices before the Makati prosecutor’s office yesterday.

MANILA, Philippines — The military has initiated its own probe into the arrest of a Chinese man who yielded sophisticated hacking equipment in Makati City earlier this week.

“We are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the arrest of Yuhang Liu, who was detained by law enforcement for possessing unauthorized firearms and equipment potentially linked to communications hacking,” Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla announced yesterday.

“We understand the sensitive nature of this case, given the alleged involvement of a foreign national,” she told reporters, adding that the military is “collaborating closely with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and other relevant agencies to thoroughly examine the seized items and determine the intent and extent of the activities involved.”

Padilla, however, noted that for the time being, the AFP urges caution in drawing any conclusions regarding Liu’s affiliations or the implications of his actions until the investigation is complete.

“We are committed to maintaining transparency with the public and our international partners as we proceed. Our priority remains the security of our nation and the enforcement of our laws, irrespective of nationality,” she said.

Padilla said the AFP commends the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) and local law enforcers for their swift action in apprehending Liu, adding that “the discovery of firearms and sophisticated electronic equipment is concerning and underscores the importance of vigilance.”

“We are closely coordinating with relevant authorities to determine the full scope of this incident. Ensuring national security remains our top priority, and we are committed to supporting ongoing investigations,” she said.

The CIDG arrested Liu in Barangay San Isidro on Wednesday after receiving a report that the Chinese was threatening and forcing a Filipino to deliver communication hacking devices to his home in Parañaque.

Liu also allegedly ordered the victim to move to different vital installations and hack or access the international mobile equipment identities or IMEIs and other electronic devices.

The suspect, who was found in possession of a 9mm handgun, had several gadgets and electronic equipment that include an antenna system, battery units, a solar inverter, a radio receiver and transmitter, a router, a computer tablet, a computer laptop and cell phones in his vehicle.

His condominium unit on Pacific Avenue in Parañaque yielded an aerial drone, an inverter unit, a computer central processing unit, a portable power station and other gadgets.

Charges filed

CIDG agents brought Liu to the Makati prosecutor’s office, where he underwent inquest proceedings, yesterday afternoon under tight security.

Col. Jean Fajardo, PNP chief information officer, said charges of violating Republic Act 10591 or the Comprehensive Law on Firearms and Ammunition, RA 8484 or the Access Devices Regulation Law and grave threat were filed against Liu.

Fajardo said an extensive background investigation on Liu is underway as they want to find out if he has accomplices. She expressed alarm over the suspect’s possible intentions as the equipment found in his possession are usually used for hacking and surveillance.

Fajardo said investigators have applied for a warrant to examine computer data so that they can look into the laptop computer, cell phones and other gadgets seized from Liu for possible incriminating evidence that would indicate scamming, spying or surveillance activities.

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2024/06/01/2359458/afp-launches-probe-chinese-hacker

Western Visayas cops deployed to fight insurgency

From the Daily Guardian (Jun1, 2024): Western Visayas cops deployed to fight insurgency (By Jennifer P. Rendon)

The regional chaplain of the Police Regional Office (PRO) 6 blesses the police officers who will be deployed for the Revitalized-Pulis Sa Barangay (R-PSB) program. (RPIO/PRO-6 photo)

The Police Regional Office (PRO) 6 deployed hundreds of policemen to various barangays in Western Visayas during a send-off ceremony on Friday, May 31, at PRO-6 headquarters in Camp Martin Delgado, Iloilo City.

The deployment is part of the Philippine National Police’s (PNP) Revitalized-Pulis Sa Barangay (R-PSB) program, which was also launched at the event.

Major General Bernard Banac, director of the PNP Directorate for Police Community Relations, served as the guest of honor and speaker.

“The R-PSB is done in support of the policy direction of our government in ending the local armed conflict,” Banac said.

The PNP implemented the program to sustain the gains of the Community Support Program of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Retooled Community Support Program of local government units.

The initiative aims to prevent the resurgence of insurgency, protect unaffected communities from the recovery efforts of the Communist Terrorist Group, and assist communities in addressing their concerns and accessing basic government services.

Participants were selected from the Regional, Provincial, and City Mobile Forces based on their abilities and capabilities in fostering better community relations, enabling mutual trust and cooperation.

The R-PSB Team will be deployed in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs) and select urban barangays to assist the community and facilitate access to essential government services.

In Western Visayas, at least 17 barangays have been identified for the R-PSB deployment: three barangays in Tapaz, Capiz; two in Iloilo City; and four in Bacolod City. Additionally, there is one barangay each in Libacao, Aklan; Sibalom, Antique; Maasin, Tubungan, Lambunao, and Igbaras in Iloilo province; and Cadiz and Kabankalan in Negros Occidental.

“We want to engage with the community directly,” Banac said, emphasizing that the police will serve as facilitators and mentors in delivering services to the public, ensuring that the community feels and knows that the government cares for them.

Banac added that the police will work in partnership and support with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, particularly the Philippine Army.

https://dailyguardian.com.ph/western-visayas-cops-deployed-to-fight-insurgency/#google_vignette

US Army helps build 'emergency facility' on Philippines' Itbayat Island

Posted to Taiwan News (May 31, 2024): US Army helps build 'emergency facility' on Philippines' Itbayat Island (By Duncan DeAeth)

Itbayat Island is in Bashi Channel and 200 km south of Taiwan



US and Philippine soldiers work on construction of facility on Itbayat. (CNA photo)

TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — U.S. Army engineers have been working with the Philippines military to construct a weatherproof facility for emergencies on the island of Itbayat in the Bashi Channel, which separates Taiwan and the Philippines.

For the past three months, U.S. Army personnel have been working on the site, which is described as a “facility to store emergency equipment and provisions, and even use as shelter during natural disasters.” One soldier quoted in a press release by the U.S. Army referred to the facility as a “weatherproof warehouse for disasters.”

Early this year, Manila announced plans to invest resources and strengthen the infrastructure and defensive capacity of Batanes Province, the country’s northernmost territory. The news comes one week after reports the Philippine Coast Guard established a new monitoring station on Itbayat.

According to the press release, the new facility will serve as a secure location to provide communities with protection in the event of natural disasters or other emergencies. According to one U.S. officer working on the site, the engineers are the first U.S. Army personnel to visit the island of Itbayat since the 1960s.

Warrant Officer Elissa Pedely said, “There's been challenges in getting the right materials and approved permits, that's because we're building something that really hasn't been done here … These projects require very specific materials and very particular specifications that make construction in general a challenge.”

Late last year it was reported the U.S. military was in talks with Philippine officials to build a port facility on the Batanes Islands. In March there were further reports that a delegation from the U.S. Army was in talks with the provincial government to construct a seaport that would ostensibly aid in the rapid evacuation of Philippine citizens in the event of a Chinese attack on Taiwan.

The proposed location of the alleged port project, also touted as an alternate port in the province to receive cargo from Manila during the monsoon season, was never disclosed.

In April, when Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. was asked about the possibility of U.S. access to military bases being expanded to Batanes Province, Marcos denied any plans to expand the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement with the U.S.

https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/news/5881163

Processing of 20K amnesty appeals eyed with more local boards

 From the Philippine News Agency (May 31, 2024): Processing of 20K amnesty appeals eyed with more local boards (By Ma. Teresa Montemayor)

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE. Forty-four former rebels pledge their allegiance to the government at the National Capital Region Police Office hall in Taguig City on May 30, 2023. The rebel returnees, who also surrendered 11 firearms, underwent medical evaluation, livelihood training and other activities to assist them in reintegrating into society. (PNA photo by Yancy Lim)

MANILA – The National Amnesty Commission (NAC) is looking forward to process at least 20,000 amnesty applications of former rebels with the creation of more local amnesty boards.

NAC Chairperson Leah Tanodra-Armamento said there are nine local amnesty boards in charge of engaging persons deprived of liberty to apply for amnesty.

"We're still looking into establish[ing] additional 10 local amnesty board because of the concurrence of Congress on the proclamations granting amnesty to former rebels of the CPP-NPA-NDF under front organizations," she said in an interview with Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon Friday.

She said the NAC has received only 28 hard copies of amnesty applications so visits to places of detention are done to reach out to potential applicants.

Earlier, the NAC said it is preparing 100,000 applicants for amnesty.

The processing of amnesty application from the time it is submitted to the NAC until it is forwarded to the Office of the President takes 90 days.

"It's the President's call now until when he finishes it but he said to us, with ES (Executive Secretary) Bersamin, 24 hours, we'll finish it, that's what he promised to us," Armamento said.

The application period for amnesty is only within two years since the time the Congress has concurred.

"So for the CPP-NPA (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army) it will be two years from March 13, 2024. For the rest, RPMP (Rebolusyonaryong Partido ng Manggagawa–Pilipinas), RPABB (Revolutionary Proletarian Army/Alex Boncayao Brigade), Moro Islamic Liberation Front and Moro National Liberation Front, it will be two years from March 4, 2024," Armamento said.

"It's in our rules of procedure, provided that the offense is committed before November 22, 2023 when the President issued the proclamation, the act of filing application for amnesty is considered as surrender," she said.

The NAC has signed a memoramdum of agreement with the National Commission of Muslim Filipinos, aiming to provide them with assistance in information dissemination about amnesty in areas in Mindanao unreached by radio, television and telecommunications.

"They will help us reach out and help our fellowmen who rebelled if they want to apply for amnesty. It's like, they will popularize the amnesty project of the government," Armamento said.

"If we can get a majority of members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and MNLF apply for amnesty then at least the program of the government towards peace, we'll be able to achieve it," she said.

The NAC was established during the Duterte administration under Executive Order No. 125, Series of 2021, which was later amended by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. with Executive Order No. 47.

Marcos signed Proclamations 403, 404, 405, and 406, which grant amnesty to members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, MNLF, RPMP-RPA-ABB, and former members or returnees of the CPP-NPA or their front organizations.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1225962

Thousands in Basilan join MNLF’s Bangsamoro party

From the Philippine Star (May 31, 2024): Thousands in Basilan join MNLF’s Bangsamoro party (By John Unson)

Local executives and senior police and military officials who provided security support for the activity placed at no fewer than 20,000 their estimate of the number of participants during May 30, 2024 sortie of the Bapa Party in Tuburan, Basilan.  Photo courtesy of Philstar.com / John Unson

COTABATO CITY —Thousands of residents from across the 11 towns and two cities in Basilan have pledged allegiance to the Bangsamoro Party of the Moro National Liberation Front during a gathering in the island province on Thursday.

The Bapa Party of MNLF, which has a final peace pact with Malacañang since Sept. 2, 1996, is popular for its paramount regulation strictly restraining members from attacking other regional political blocs and from engaging in hostile partisan discourses on social media and other communication platforms, including print and broadcast news.

Reports on Friday morning by different radio stations in Zamboanga City and in the Bangsamoro provinces stated that at least 20,000 people joined the Bapa Party’s first ever sortie in Basilan, held at Barangay Poblacion in Tuburan town and capped of with an oathtaking rite as prelude to their admission as party members.

They were sworn in by party officials led by Bangsamoro labor and Employment Minister Muslimin Sema and regional lawmakers Muslimin Jakilan and Hatimil Hassan of Basilan, Adzfar Usman of Sulu and Romeo Sema of Cotabato City, who are members of the 80-seat parliament of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao and are senior officials of the MNLF's top leadership core.

They took turns urging participants to the symbolic event to protect the gains of the MNLF’s final truce with the national government and support Malacañang’s compact with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, the Comprehensive Agreement on Bangsamoro, which is a product of 22 years of peace talks that led to the replacement in 2019 of the then 27-year Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao with a more administratively empowered BARMM.

The present chief minister of BARMM is Ahod Balawag Ebrahim, the chairman of the MILF’s central committee, whose office, as figurehead of the Bangsamoro parliament, and the MNLF are together overseeing the peace and socio-economic programs of the regional government.

https://www.philstar.com/nation/2024/05/31/2359389/thousands-basilan-join-mnlfs-bangsamoro-party

NAC to create more local boards as only 28 formally applied for amnesty

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (May 31, 2024): NAC to create more local boards as only 28 formally applied for amnesty (By: Gabriel Pabico Lalu)

MANILA, Philippines — The National Amnesty Commission (NAC), the body tasked to receive amnesty applications from former rebels, is looking to create more local boards as only 28 individuals have formally applied to the program.

In an interview with PTV’s Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon, NAC Chairperson Leah Tanodra-Armamento said that they have only received 28 hard copies of applications, but they are expecting to receive 20,000 applications by the time all local amnesty boards have been established.

There are nine established local amnesty boards as of now.

However, Tanodra-Armamento said another way to address the low turnout of applicants is by visiting detention facilities to talk to persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) who were former members of the Communist Party of the Philippines, New People’s Army, and the National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) and other rebel organizations.

“So far, ang natanggap namin na talagang hard copy ng application is only 28, but we are going to places of detention kasi marami nang nandoon ang gusto mag-apply for amnesty. So we are looking forward na by the time na ma-establish namin ang lahat ng ating local amnesty board, at least maka-process na kami ng halos mga kalahati siguro, mga 20,000 ng mga applicants,” she said.

(So far, we have received 28 hard copies of the application, but we are going to places of detention because many people there want to apply for amnesty. So, we expect that by the time all our local amnesty boards are established, at least we can process around half of it, around 20,000 applicants.)

“Sa ngayon, siyam ang duly established na na local amnesty board natin at very, very active sila. Sila ‘yong mga nag-eenage sa ating mga persons deprived of liberty, ‘yong mga nasa kulungan, sila ‘yong mga dumadalaw at sila din ang nakikipag-usap sa ating security sector, sa mga pulis natin, at sa mga military natin” she added.

(As of now, there are nine duly established local amnesty boards, and they are very, very active. They are the ones engaging with our PDLs. They visit the PDLs and talk with our security sector, our police officers, and our military personnel.)

An additional 10 local boards may be established now that Congress has agreed with the call to give amnesty to former rebels.

“Sila ang nag-oorganize (The local boards organize talks). But we are still looking forward to establish [an] additional 10 local amnesty boards because of the concurrence of Congress on the proclamations granting amnesty to former rebels of the CPP-NPA-NDF under front organizations,” she noted.

Last November 22, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. issued a series of proclamations granting amnesty to communist and Moro secessionist rebels, even if peace agreements have been signed or are being pursued by the government with these groups.

Aside from the CPP-NPA-NDF, the proclamations from Marcos offered amnesty to certain members of the following groups:

Rebolusyonaryong Partido ng Manggagawa ng Pilipinas-Revolutionary Proletarian Army-Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPM-RPA-ABB)
Moro Islamic Liberation Front
Moro National Liberation Front

READ: Like predecessors, Bongbong Marcos offers amnesty to rebels

In early May, NAC Commissioner Nasser Marohomsalic of the National Amnesty Commission (NAC) said they expect 10,000 applicants to the amnesty program, with the bulk coming from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and leftist groups.

Partnership with NCMF

Tanodra-Armamento also said NAC hopes that a partnership with the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) may help spread the message about the government’s amnesty offer since there are times when the national government cannot reach far-flung areas.

“The goal of this program is for the [NCMF] to help us disseminate information regarding amnesty. Because there are places in Mindanao which we cannot reach, there are areas where there is no telephone signal, or even communities that have no access to radios or television channels,” she said.

“So they would help us to reach our fellow Filipinos who rebelled against the government, in case they want to apply for amnesty. So it’s them (NCMF) who would popularize the amnesty program of our government,” she added.

This would greatly boost the program because Moro separatists trust the NCMF more, Tanodra-Armamento said.

“This would be a big help because the NCMF can reach our Muslim Filipino brothers and sisters because of course, they have the trust of our Muslim communities,” she admitted.

“So they can help us and guide us, reach out to these Muslim Filipinos, eventually, if we can get a majority of our members of the MILF and MNLF to apply for amnesty, then at least we can achieve goal of the government’s program towards peace,” she added.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1947067/nac-to-create-more-local-boards-as-only-28-formally-applied-for-amnesty

SPECIAL REPORT\\\The Peacemakers: Showtime for former child warrior

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Jun 1, 2024): SPECIAL REPORT\\\The Peacemakers: Showtime for former child warrior (By: Fernando del Mundo)

REBUILDING Abdullah Macapaar, also known as “Commander Bravo” of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, says he is now a “man of peace.” He serves as member of parliament in the interim Bangsamoro government. —ZUHAIRA MANGANSAKAN/BDA

(First of a series)

CAMP BILAL, Lanao del Norte—Abdullah Macapaar’s Shangri-la is taking shape in his former forested battlefield.

On its terraced mountainsides stand schools, social halls, a well-staffed medical clinic, training centers, a fish pond, a vegetable garden and towering falkatas swaying in the wind.

Centerpiece of the facility is a parade ground, patterned after the Philippine Military Academy that Macapaar, known as “Commander Bravo” in the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, had visited.

On weekends, cyclists race on concrete roads to the top, where promenaders roam.

Convention halls, livelihood training centers, more school buildings and dormitories, and a playground for children are on the drawing boards.

“Before there was no road here,” Bravo said.

But as the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front began negotiations to end a bloody conflict and initiate development as a vehicle for peace, Bravo began to rebuild.‘A man of peace’

Community and Family Services International (CFSI), a Philippine-based humanitarian organization, and the Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA) helped in the process with support from various partners, including the World Bank.

“It was a struggle. I had to keep my focus,” said Bravo, juggling a role as an Moro Islamic Liberation Front commander and a member of parliament in the interim Bangsamoro government.

Camp Bilal now serves as a showcase in the recovery and reconstruction program.

“I was a child warrior,” he said in an interview in his office where half a dozen of his high-powered firearms were on display on a wall behind him. “Now I am a man of peace.”

Bravo remembered that as a 7-year-old, his father, a Maranao sultan, had led him to repel an attack by the Ilagas, a paramilitary group seeking to drive indigenous peoples from their ancestral lands, sparking the Moro rebellion.

On his declaration of martial law in 1972, President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. sent troops to disarm combatants. War simmered, culminating in President Joseph Estrada’s “all-out war” against the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in 2000.

Estrada was ousted the following year and his successor, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, began for the first time to negotiate peace with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

A peace agreement was formally signed in March 2014 and the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front mounted a recovery and development program.

Specifically targeted were six acknowledged Moro Islamic Liberation Front camps—Bilal, Abubakar, Badre, Omar, Rajamuda and Bushra—embracing largely agricultural and forestlands in six provinces.

Funding came from the government and a $38-million Mindanao Trust Fund (MTF), financed by international development partners and administered by the World Bank.

A DECADE HENCE President Marcos leads a ceremony at the Marine headquarters in Barira,Maguindanao del Norte, on April 29 marking the 10th anniversary of the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro. —RENE DILAN/PPA POOL

Political realignments

Between 2006 and 2017, the MTF supported socioeconomic activities, health services and access to education, benefiting 638,000 people, 52 percent of whom were women. Additionally, MTF benefited 55,000 people in 2018-2020 and 39,000 in 2020-2021.

Bravo’s core bailiwick is way ahead in development, compared with the five other camps.

For example, the heart of Camp Badre in Maguindanao del Sur remains largely rough mountain terrain.

Last year, a $4-million Bangsamoro Camp Transformation Project (BCTP) was launched to improve access to socioeconomic services and basic infrastructure in the six Moro Islamic Liberation Front camps. Implemented by CFSI and BDA, the BCTP was funded by the Bangsamoro Normalization Trust Fund, a new funding facility administered by the World Bank.

On the 10th anniversary of the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. traveled to Camp Abubakar in Maguindanao del Norte.

Mr. Marcos rejected calls for the extension of the interim Bangsamoro parliament proposed by Ahod “Al Haj Murad” Ebrahim, its first chief minister, and that elections would be held as scheduled next year to usher in full autonomy.

Realignments have emerged in the ranks of the Moro leaders—some pleading that the interim arrangement remain, saying not all the conditions for the holding of a regular government have been met.

This includes the decommissioning of 40,000 combatants, each promised P1 million in cash and kind. As of August 2023, some 26,000 of them have each received P100,000 and other assistance.

Ali Salik, 76, a member of the Bangsamoro parliament’s central committee, remains upbeat despite an apparent air of uncertainty from the upcoming political exercise.

“Almost 85 percent of the political objectives have been met,” said Salik. “Normalization remains slow, but the government is pushing the momentum faster,” said Salik, called the “maestro.”

“Our problem is Moro between Moro,” he said. “Sometimes, the problem is fighting over land. The population is growing, the space is becoming smaller and smaller.”
Peace is irreversible

Salik said Ebrahim has remained true to the leadership guideposts laid down by the late Hashim Salamat, the Egyptian-educated cleric who broke away from Nur Misuari’s Moro National Liberation Front and formed the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

“There is no difference,” said Salik, a schoolteacher who fought alongside Salamat and Ebrahim.

“He follows Ustadz Salamat,” Bravo agreed of Ebrahim. Bravo had escaped to Riyadh during the Estrada campaign and studied Islam while working as a taxi driver. He came under the influence of Salamat in the cleric’s Islamic academy in Pakistan and went on to Afghanistan to join the Mujahideen war against the Soviet occupation forces.

Back home, he took over the leadership of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front northwestern front, taking over from his brother, “Commander James Bond.”

Bravo said that if the government continued its development programs, “peace may be irreversible.”(The writer is a former reporter and aid worker who has been assigned in conflict zones in Asia, Africa, the Balkans and the Middle East.)

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1947128/the-peacemakers-showtime-for-former-child-warrior

Drug den in North Cotabato province shutdown, 3 operators nabbed

Posted to Notre Dame Broadcasting Corporation (NDBC) (May 31, 2023): Drug den in North Cotabato province shutdown, 3 operators nabbed (By: John Felix Unson)

The three drug den operators arrested in Barangay Poblacion in Pikit in Cotabato on Thursday are now in the custody of PDEA-12. (From office of PDEA-12 Director Aileen Lovitos)

COTABATO CITY - Anti-narcotics agents seized P85,000 worth of shabu and arrested three alleged drug den operators, suspected of sharing earnings with two local terrorist groups, in a raid on Thursday in Piki, North Cotabato.

Aileen Lovitos, regional director of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency-12, told reporters on Friday morning that they are now in custody of suspects Leo Wacad Magno, Carl Winkie Opeña Magno and Brixbaine Jan Barraca Sangco, to be prosecuted for violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

They yielded peacefully when PDEA-12 agents, backed by operatives from different units of the Police Regional Office-12, barged into their drug den along Vidal Cabañog Street in Barangay Poblacion in Pikit and showed them a search warrant from a court.

PDEA-12 agents and policemen found P86,000 worth of shabu and drug-sniffing paraphernalia in their den that neighbors frequented, according to local officials.

Courts, as a judicial policy, do not set bail for drug den operators arrested in PDEA or police anti-narcotics operations.

Local officials told reporters on Friday that PDEA-12 and the police should together look into assertions by people privy to the illegal activities of the suspects that they shared earnings to the Dawlah Islamiya and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, which are both known for providing drug dealers sanctuary in exchange for money.

There is the presence of the two terrorist groups in interior barangays in Pikit and in the nearby 220,000-hectare Liguasan Delta.

https://ndbcnews.com.ph/news/drug-den-north-cotabato-province-shutdown-3-operators-nabbed

Marawi siege veteran takes command of Eastmincom in Davao

From Rappler (May 31, 2024): Marawi siege veteran takes command of Eastmincom in Davao (By FROILAN GALLARDO)

Major General Jose Maria Cuerpo II replaces retiring Lieutenant General Greg Almerol in Davao City

CAGAYAN DE ORO, Philippines – A veteran of the 2017 Marawi siege assumed his post as the chief of the Armed Forces Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) in Davao City on Friday afternoon, May 31.

Major General Jose Maria Cuerpo II, commander of the Army’s 4th Infantry Division based in Cagayan de Oro, replaced Eastmincom commander Lieutenant General Greg Almerol, who reached the mandatory retirement age of 56.

Cuerpo, however, will continue to serve as the 4th ID commander in the meantime.

NEW EASTMINCOM CHIEF. Major General Jose Maria Cuerpo II, commander of the Army’s 4th Infantry Division, carries a machine gun seized from rebels by soldiers in Bukidnon on May 8, 2024. Cuerpo has assumed his post as head of the military’s Eastern Mindanao Command based in Davao City. Froilan Gallardo/Rappler

The change of command ceremony was held at the Naval Station Felix Apolinario in Camp Panacan, Davao City.

Other Stories

Marcos: Any Filipino death from foreign attack triggers US-PH defense pact

In April, Marcos said the Philippines' Mutual Defense Treaty with the US would be invoked if a foreign power kills a Filipino serviceman. He now expands the list to include any Filipino citizen, and says their death would be 'very close to... an act of war.'

US, China defense chiefs lock horns on Taiwan at Asia security summit

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Chinese defense minister,Dong Jun also discuss the South China Sea and the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza on the sidelines of the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore

Almerol, who hails from Cagayan de Oro City, served as the AFP’s Eastmincom commander since March 8, 2021, after the passage of Republic Act No. 11939, which amended a provision about the tour of duty of key military officers.

Cuerpo, a member of the Philippine Military Academy’s “Bigkis-Lahi” Class of 1990 and a native of Iligan City, is a veteran in the fight against the Dawlah Islamiyah-Maute Group, a group linked to ISIS, in Mindanao, specifically in Marawi City.

He has been leading the 4th ID in scoring several victories that significantly weakened the New People’s Army in the Northern Mindanao and Caraga regions.

https://www.rappler.com/philippines/mindanao/marawi-siege-veteran-takes-command-of-eastmincom-in-davao/

U.S. boosts PCG surveillance in WPS with new equipment

From Palawan News (May 31, 2024): U.S. boosts PCG surveillance in WPS with new equipment



The U.S. government has provided the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) with a range of grant equipment aimed at boosting its reconnaissance and communication capabilities within its nautical territorial boundaries, especially in the West Philippine Sea.

The ceremony took place on May 29 at the PCG’s headquarters in Port Area, Manila, and was attended by Coast Guard Special Operations Force Commander Rear Admiral Inocencio Rosario Jr., Coast Guard Weapons, Communications, Electronics, and Information Systems Command Commander Commodore Joeven Fabul, and Lieutenant Commander Nathan Penka, a representative from the Joint United States Military Assistance Group-Philippines (JUSMAG-PHIL).

“The pieces of equipment strongly support the agency’s current initiatives of enhancing capabilities for surveillance and communications operations in the country’s maritime jurisdiction, particularly in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) and nearby areas,” Fabul said during his opening remarks.

Penka emphasized that the assistance provided is a modest representation of ongoing support to the Philippines, with continued commitment to enhancing the capabilities of the PCG.

“This is just a small token of our commitment to the Philippines, and we have no intention of slowing down to provide assistance in enhancing the capabilities of the PCG,” he said.

Rosario, on behalf of PCG Commandant, Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, extended his gratitude and appreciation to the U.S. government for their continued support and donation to the PCG that will greatly help with the enforcement of the mandated function of the organization.

https://palawan-news.com/u-s-boosts-pcg-surveillance-in-wps-with-new-equipment/

Sulu Governor Abdusakur Tan to challenge Murad in BARMM

From Rappler (May 18, 2024): Sulu Governor Abdusakur Tan to challenge Murad in BARMM (By FROILAN GALLARDO)

Amir Mawalli, spokesperson of the newly formed BARMM Grand Coalition, says four parties endorse Tan's candidacy for the BARMM parliament in 2025

CAGAYAN DE ORO, Philippines – Sulu Governor Abdusakur Tan will challenge the leadership of Chief Minister Ahod “Al-Hajj Murad” Balawag Ebrahim in the 80-member Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) in 2025.

Tan made his announcement to run as party representative and challenge the current BARMM leadership during a big political rally in Maimbung town in Sulu province Saturday, May 18.

Four political parties attended the rally and formed the BARMM Grand Coalition (BGC).

The political parties are Serbisyong Inklusibo-Alyansa Progresibong Party (SIAP) led by Lanao del Sur Governor Mamintal Adiong Jr., Al-Ittihad-UKB founded by Secretary Suharto Mangudadatu, Tan’s Salam Party, and Bangsamoro People’s Party led by Basilan Representative Mujiv Hataman.

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BGC spokesperson Amir Mawalli said the four parties had endorsed Tan’s candidacy for the BARMM parliament in 2025.

“Governor Tan will run for member of the BARMM parliament under the banner of BARMM Grand Coalition,” Mawalli said.

If he wins in the parliament elections, Mawalli said Tan will have to get the majority votes in the 80-member BARMM parliament.

The BARMM parliament consists of 40 party representatives, 32 district representatives, and eight sectoral representatives. Presently, the parliament is dominated by Ebrahim’s party mates in the United Bangsamoro Justice Party.

Ebrahim, a former leader of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, is the first chief minister of the BARMM parliament, which was formed after the Bangsamoro Organic Law was ratified in January 2019.

SIAP president and Lanao del Sur Vice Governor Mohammad Khalid Raki-in Adiong said Tan was the natural choice for chief minister by the coalition since talks started in January this year.

“Tan is our unanimous candidate and all of us will endorse him 100%,” Adiong said.

In a statement, the BGC said Tan’s record as governor is a testament of good governance, and that through his leadership, the threat of the Abu Sayyaf in Sulu was eliminated.

https://www.rappler.com/philippines/mindanao/sulu-governor-abdusakur-tan-challenge-murad-barmm-2025/

Peace Development Center to be established in Cadiz

From the Visayan Daily Star (May 30, 2024): Peace Development Center to be established in Cadiz (By GILBERT P. BAYORAN)

OPAPRU representatives and Philippine Army engineers, escorted by 79IB soldiers, visiting the proposed resettlement areas for former RPA-ABB members in Brgy. Celestino Villacin, Cadiz City.* PA photo

The Peace Development Center (PDC), or resettlement areas, for members of the defunct Revolutionary Proletarian Army – Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPA-ABB) is up for establishment in Sitio Huebesan, Barangay Celestino Villacin, Cadiz City, Negros Occidental.

The site assessment was jointly initiated by representatives of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU), former RPA-ABB members now known as KAPATIRAN, 542nd Engineering Construction Battalion, escorted by the Army’s 79th Infantry Battalion soldiers.

The OPAPRU PAMANA (Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan) program is a key component of the national government’s comprehensive peace process program for convergence of peace and development.

It is regarded as the ultimate and definitive settlement of the peace deal that put an end to years of armed confrontation between the state and the RPA-ABB, according to a statement issued by the 79IB.

It added that the PDC will serve as a symbol of the KAPATIRAN’s transition to the mainstream society, their key role in peace-building efforts, and their reaffirmation of their commitment for the progress of the country, especially in northern Negros.

Another PDC is also up for establishment in Brgy. Locotan, Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental.*

https://visayandailystar.com/peace-development-center-to-be-established-in-cadiz/

Maj Gen Cuerpo is the new Eastmincom chief

From MindaNews (May 31, 2024): Maj Gen Cuerpo is the new Eastmincom chief (By FROILAN GALLARDO)

MGen Jose Maria Cuerpo. MindaNews file photo taken March 23, 2023 by FROILAN GALLARDO

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (MindaNews / 31 May) – Maj Gen Jose Maria Cuerpo II, commanding general of the Army 4th Infantry Division, will replace Lt Gen Greg Almerol as commander of the Eastern Mindanao Command of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Cuerpo will remain as 4ID commander in a concurrent capacity.

The change of command ceremony will be held at the Naval Station Felix Apolinario in Camp Panacan, Davao City on Friday afternoon, the day Almero reaches the mandatory retirement age of 56.

Almerol, who hails from Cagayan de Oro City, had been the Eastmincom commander since March 8, 2021 after the passage of Republic No. 11939 that amended the tour of duty of key military officers.

Cuerpo, a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Bigkis-Lahi” Class of 1990 and who hails from Iligan City, is a veteran in the fight against the ISIS-inspired Dawlah Islamiyah.

He has also led the 4ID in scoring several tactical victories against the New People’s Army in northern and northeastern Mindanao. (Froilan Gallardo/MindaNews)

https://mindanews.com/top-stories/2024/05/maj-gen-cuerpo-is-the-new-eastmincom-chief/#gsc.tab=0

BRP Gabriela Silang arrives in Davao for ASEAN Coast Guard Forum

From the Mindanao Times (May 30, 2024): BRP Gabriela Silang arrives in Davao for ASEAN Coast Guard Forum (By RHODA GRACE SARON)

 


 Photo by Bing Gonzales

THE COAST Guard District Southeastern Mindanao (CGDSEM) welcomed the arrival of the BRP Gabriela Silang (OPV-8301) on Wednesday, May 29, in preparation for the upcoming ASEAN Coast Guard Forum (ACF).

CGDSEM commander Commodore Rejard Marfe said BRP Gabriela Silang would bolster security for the Coast Guard forum from June 4 to 7, specifically in the Island Garden City of Samal.

“Because we are expecting 8 to 10 commandants and 200 delegates from the same countries that will participate in the said event,” Marfe said in his message on Wednesday afternoon during the arrival ceremony at DPWH Panacan wharf.

Marfe emphasized the importance of securing international delegates and expressed gratitude for the additional support.

“The international community will also be here and there is really a need to secure our delegates that is why I’m extending the highest gratitude to the Coast Guard and sending another capital ship in Southeastern Mindanao as an augmentation vessel during the ACF,” he added.

In his message, Coast Guard Captain Lawrence Roque, the ship commander, said they recently concluded an escort mission to Bajo de Masinloc before arriving in Davao City.

“We are honored to be welcomed by the Davaoeños and Coast Guard personnel,” Roque said, adding they will also conduct border patrols in Balut Island and Indonesia.

After the augmentation until the end of June, he said the ship will proceed to Negros Occidental for the annual marine pollution exercise to be hosted by the Philippines to be participated by Indonesia, Japan, Vietnam, and other ASEAN countries on June 24 to 28.

BRP Gabriela Silang (OPV-8301) is an offshore patrol vessel of the Philippine Coast Guard.

Silang is the first offshore patrol vessel and currently, the second largest and most modern vessel of the Philippine Coast Guard. Named after Gabriela Silang, a revolutionary leader during the Philippine struggle for independence from Spain.

It was constructed by French shipbuilder OCEA S.A. based on the OPV-270 Mk II design, in Les Sables-d’Olonne, France.

https://mindanaotimes.com.ph/brp-gabriela-silang-arrives-in-davao-for-asean-coast-guard-forum/