Thursday, September 11, 2014

AFP chief vows to help LGUs in implementing programs, projects in far flung areas

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 11): AFP chief vows to help LGUs in implementing programs, projects in far flung areas

Newly-installed Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Gregorio Pio Catapang has vowed to help all local government units in the country in implementing development programs and projects in far flung areas.

Catapang made the assurance during his visit to the 5th Infantry Division, Philippine Army based in ttis town Wednesday where he personally extended the commendation to the soldiers who had an encounter with the New Peoples Army (NPA) remnants in Lacub, Abra last week.

He said the soldiers in the country are closely coordinating with local government units to implement their development programs and projects particularly in areas where there are threats of insurgency.

He said the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is mandated to protect the internal and external threats to ensure a safe place for Filipinos to live in.

“The government is pursuing to implement programs and projects in the country and the soldiers are diligently cooperating with the government to ensure prompt implementation of all programs and projects for the benefit of the people”, Catapang said.

Catapang said the soldiers are also coordinating with national government agencies in implementing their respective programs and projects like the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of Education (DepEd), Department of Health (DOH), Department of Agriculture (DA) and other government agencies in the country.

The AFP chief called on all sectors in the area of operations of 5th Infantry Division, Philippine Army to coordinate and cooperate in the in the implementation of their programs and projects for the benefit of everyone.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=682864

AFP on high alert for 'sympathy attacks' over US airstrikes vs ISIS

From the Philippine Star (Sep 11): AFP on high alert for 'sympathy attacks' over US airstrikes vs ISIS

With an impending airstrike the United States (US) forces, military and police forces in Mindanao have remained on heightened alert against possible terror plots of the Abu Sayyaf group (ASG) and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) viewed as sympathy attacks for the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIS).

US President Barack Obama announced on Wednesday its systematic campaign of airstrikes as part of its objective to degrade and destroy the ISIL through a comprehensive and sustained counter-terrorism strategy.

Despite being on heightened alert, the Philippine military believes the Abu Sayyaf group and BIFF militants have no direct coordination with the ISIS group from the Middles East to launch sympathy attack in the local fronts.

“The most that we can see is that they (Abu Sayyaf and BIFF) are just riding on the international attention it (ISIS) is getting,” said Lt. Gen. Rustico Guerrero, Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) commander.

Guerrero said the Abu Sayyaf and its terrorist cohorts have been monitored planning terror attacks in the local areas even without the international terrorists.

He said they are increasing the military operation against the local terror groups, Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) and the BIFF militants that recently pledged support for the ISIS.

“With or without international terrorists, the local terrorists like ASG continue to be monitored planning out nefarious activities against communities,” Guerrero said. “That’s why the (Westmincom) remained on heightened alert in coordination with PNP (Philippine National Police).”

Guerrero said the Westmincom and the Directorate for Integrated Police Operation (DIPO) signed early this week a joint coordinated effort to maximize its campaign in addressing security concern in the region.

The area of responsibility of both commands cover Central and Western Mindanao, areas known to have presence of the BIFF and the Abu Sayyaf group which were coddling the JI militants.

http://www.philstar.com/nation/2014/09/11/1367935/afp-high-alert-sympathy-attacks-over-us-airstrikes-vs-isis

Army deploys 65 paramilitary men in northern Negros hinterlands

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 11): Army deploys 65 paramilitary men in northern Negros hinterlands
 
Sixty-five Special Cafgu Active Auxiliary (SCAA) personnel were deployed by the Philippine Army in the far-flung areas in Sagay City, Negros Occidental.

Lt. Col. Rommel Cordova, commander of 62nd Infantry Battalion, said the 65 SCAA members recently graduated Monday from a two-month basic military training at the 303rd Infantry Brigade headquarters in Murcia town.

The SCAA personnel will be placed under the supervision of the 12th IB, and the operational control of the 62nd IB in northern Negros.

Cordova said the arrival of the paramilitary men for the detachments in the hinterlands of Sagay City is a big boost to their visibility operations.

Col. Jon Aying, commander of the 303rd Infantry Brigade, and Mayor Alfredo MaraƱon III witnessed the graduation rites of the SCAA men at the Kauswagan Hall in Sagay City.

In August, the 303rd IB also deployed 270 Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) members in the insurgency-affected areas of central Negros.

Based on military records, there are now more than 1,000 CAFGUs assigned in various areas in Negros Occidental under the supervision of the 12th IB.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=683043

Army repulse BIFF attempt to over run Army detachments in NorCot

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 11): Army repulse BIFF attempt to over run Army detachments in NorCot

Renegade Moro bandits at it again.

Hours after the draft Bangsamoro Basic Law was submitted by Malacanang to Congress, renegade Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) tried anew but failed to retake its former stronghold in Maguindanao by harassing government forces.

Alert government forces repulsed the attempt of the guerillas to take over Army positions.

No one was hurt on government forces when BIFF, armed with assault rifles and rifle grenades, simultaneously attacked Army bases in Midsayap, North Cotabato.

But the series of gun bursts caused widespread panic among residents in surrounding villages.

The soldiers manning the detachments in Midsayap’s Barangays Polomogen and Baliki, and another near Barangay Indatun in Northern Kabuntalan, Maguindanao managed to drive the attacking bandits away after heavy exchanges of gunfire.

Col. Dickson Hermoso, speaking for the 6th Infantry Division, could not say whether the attack was related to the submission of draft BBL to Congress Wednesday.

He said the harassment started early Wednesday night until dawn Thursday.

“But the incident triggered panic among peasant families in surrounding areas,” Hermoso said.

Hermoso said the Army’s 40th Infantry Battalion, which has jurisdiction over Midsayap and Northern Kabuntalan towns, deployed more combatants in the detachments that came under fire to forestall a repeat of the BIFF incursions.

Abu Misry Mama, spokesman of the BIFF, confirmed to reporters that their forces were indeed responsible for the latest attacks in the two towns.

But local officials said the BIFF attacks were meant to show the group’s opposition to the on-going peace efforts of the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

The BIFF is not covered by the government-MILF 1997 Agreement on General Cessation of Hostilities.

The group, which is fighting for an Islamic state, is opposed to the creation of a Bangsamoro self-governing entity based on the final peace accord between the government and the MILF, the March 27, 2014 Comprehensive Agreement on Bangsamoro.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=682992

Military, police troops arrest Abu Sayyaf brigand and KFRG follower

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 11): Military, police troops arrest Abu Sayyaf brigand and KFRG follower

Combined military and police forces have arrested an Abu Sayyaf brigand and a kidnap-for-ransom-group (KFRG) member on separate operations here in the region.

Military and police officials said that Ismael Cawa alias Abu Ismael and Masdal Sabtal, were arrested in the provinces of Basilan and Zamboanga Sibugay, respectively.

Army’s 4th Special Forces Battalion commander Lt. Co. Eliglen Villaflor said Cawa was arrested around 10 a.m. Wednesday at Sitio Balawatin, Barangay Makiri, Isabela City, Basilan.

Villaflor said Cawa, a member of the Basilan-based Abu Sayyaf Group, was arrested following information about his presence in the area.

Villaflor said Cawa has standing warrants of arrest for kidnapping with serious illegal detention with ransom issued by a Court in Isabela City.

He said Cawa was turned over to the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG).

Police Regional Office-9 (PRO-9) Information Officer-in-Charge Insp. Dahlan Samuddin said Sabtal was arrested around 4:20 p.m. Wednesday off shore Zamboanga Sibugay.

Samuddin said the joint police and military forces were conducting maritime interdiction and law enforcement operation when they chanced upon Sabatal along the seawater of Zamboanga Sikbugay province.

Samuddin said Sabtal is a follower of the KFRG known as the “Mamay Aburi Group.”

He said Sabtal has standing warrant of arrest for kidnapping and serious illegal detention and robbery issued by a court in Zamboanga Sibugay.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=683089

Asia arms up to counter growing Chinese might

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Sep 11): Asia arms up to counter growing Chinese might

Asian countries now account for about half of the world’s arms imports.
  • China’s goal is to dislodge the US as the dominant power in the Pacific, says a geopolitical analyst
  • Compared to Vietnam and Japan, the Philippines is lagging behind.

In this May 24, 2014 photo, China’s Harbin (112) guided missile destroyer, left, and DDG-139 Ningbo Sovremenny class Type-956EM destroyer, right, take part in a week-long China-Russia “Joint Sea-2014″ navy exercise at the East China Sea off Shanghai, China. Several Asian nations are arming up, their wary eyes fixed squarely on one country: a resurgent China that’s boldly asserting its territorial claims all along the East Asian coast. The scramble to spend more defense dollars comes amid spats with China over contested reefs and waters. Other Asian countries such as India and South Korea are quickly modernizing their forces, although their disputes with China have stayed largely at the diplomatic level. AP

Vietnam has nearly doubled its military spending, Japan is requesting its biggest-ever defense budget and the Philippines is rushing to piece together a viable navy.

Several Asian nations are arming up, their wary eyes fixed squarely on one country: a resurgent China that’s boldly asserting its territorial claims all along the East Asian coast.

The scramble to spend more defense dollars comes amid spats with China over contested reefs and waters. Other Asian countries such as India and South Korea are quickly modernizing their forces, although their disputes with China have stayed largely at the diplomatic level.

Asian countries now account for about half of the world’s arms imports, with China leading the way by quadrupling its annual military budget over the past decade. The growth in military spending has largely kept pace with economic expansion, although it’s been pulling ahead in China, Vietnam and several other countries this year.

China’s goal is to dislodge the US as the dominant power in the Pacific, said Robert D. Kaplan, chief geopolitical analyst for the US-based intelligence research firm Stratfor. Among the stakes are vital shipping lanes in the South China Sea and potentially lucrative pockets of oil and natural gas under East Asian waters.

“The Chinese bet is that it can increase its military capacity in the South and East China seas faster than Vietnam and the Philippines can do so,” Kaplan said. “If China is able to move freely and exercise more control of its adjacent seas, it will become a full-fledged naval power.”

Beijing hasn’t yet caught up to the US, which at $665 billion a year, spends more on its military than the next eight countries combined and triple that of China, according to the Stockholm International Peace Institute, a think tank. Still, China’s spending nearly equals the total defense budgets of all 24 other countries in East and South Asia.

Drawing the most attention is China’s submarine fleet, which is projected to match US numbers by 2020, at 78 vessels each. Many of the Chinese submarines will be stationed at a giant underwater base on Hainan island, which juts into the South China Sea.

China’s moves have spurred a submarine shopping spree across Asia. This year, Vietnam received the third of six submarines it ordered from Russia plus maritime patrol aircraft capable of hunting down Chinese subs. Russia is the top military exporter to Asia, followed by the US and then European countries such as the Netherlands.

Over the summer, Vietnamese and Chinese ships rammed each other repeatedly after China moved an oil rig into waters claimed by both countries. Vietnam’s military spending expanded by 83 percent over the past five years, making up 8 percent of government spending.

Similarly, Japan is replacing its entire fleet with more modern submarines, South Korea is adding bigger attack submarines and India plans to build six new subs.

“Submarines are seen as a potential for an underdog to cope with a large adversary,” said Siemon Wezeman, a senior researcher at the Stockholm institute. “They can move silently and deny aerial or maritime control.”

Compared to Vietnam and Japan, the Philippines is lagging behind. After helplessly watching China build atop reefs in the Spratly Islands, which both countries claim, the Philippines welcomed US troops back to its bases after 20 years away. And it plans to boost spending on maritime patrol aircraft, bombers and other hardware.

“The Philippines is doing a lot of work to invest in military modernization,” said Jon Grevatt, Asia Pacific defense analyst at the research group IHS Jane’s. “For many years its economy has been growing and for many years it hasn’t been able to respond to these requirements.”

Even in southern Asia, where China has taken a relatively hands-off approach, India has bought so many tanks and jet fighters that it’s become the biggest arms importer in the world. India has also opened a 100,000-person-strong mountain corps near disputed stretches of its border with China.

Despite the focus on marquee hardware, much of the action so far has involved Coast Guard ships that can easily jockey for control of disputed islands and fishing waters.

In June, Japan agreed to donate six Coast Guard vessels to Vietnam, after pledging 10 to the Philippines last year. On its own, Vietnam has nearly doubled its Coast Guard fleet to 68 vessels over the past five years, according to the UK based International Institute for Strategic Studies. And Japan has expanded its main Coast Guard fleet by 41 vessels, for a total of 389 ships.

Japan has used such vessels over the past two years to defend its claims to several uninhabited islands it calls the Senkakus, which the Chinese claim as the Diaoyus.

“Given that all the countries are trying to avoid outright military conflagration, they’ve been keeping things at the level of paramilitary forces,” said Sam Perlo-Freeman, head of the military expenditure program at the Stockholm institute. “They’re trying to establish some sort of armed presence without ramping things up to a much more dangerous level.”

Japan, however, appears to be preparing itself for possible escalation.

Last month, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s government requested his country’s biggest-ever military budget — $48 billion — with outlays for P-1 surveillance aircraft, stealth fighters and other US-built hardware.

In July, Abe’s Cabinet approved a reinterpretation of the country’s constitution allowing it to defend American and other foreign troops under attack. Earlier this month, Japan and India pledged to share defense technologies and hold joint military exercises.

“If China is being more bellicose, it’s because they see winds of opportunity,” said Bernard Loo Fook Weng, a military studies expert at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore. “This may all step toward a more violent situation.”

 http://globalnation.inquirer.net/110960/asia-arms-up-to-counter-growing-chinese-might

Philippine Marine Corps sets recruitment campaign in Negros Oriental

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 11): Philippine Marine Corps sets recruitment campaign in Negros Oriental

Interested applicants to the Philippine Marine Corps are encouraged to apply for enlistment and take the examinations this month in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental.

Members of the Philippine Marine Corps, led by M/Sgt. Josefino T. Dionson, paid a courtesy call on Sr. Supt. Mariano Natuel, Jr., OIC provincial police director of Negros Oriental, on Thursday afternoon to request permission to conduct an information campaign in the towns and cities of the province.

According to Dionson, the Philippine Marine Corps will be accepting applicants for Officer Candidate (OC) with the following qualifications: must be a natural born Filipino citizen and of good moral character; 21-28 years old; unmarried and with no child to support; graduate of any Baccalaureate Degree; at least 5’4” for male and 5’2” for female in height; must not have any pending civil/criminal case; mentally, physically and psychologically fit for military training; and must pass the AFPTB, IQ and SWE exams, said SPO1 Edilberto Euraoba III, Information Officer of the Negros Oriental Provincial Police Office.

For Candidate Soldier, the qualifications include: must be a natural born Filipino citizen and of good moral character; 18-23 years old; unmarried and with no child to support; holder of at least 72 Units or a Graduate of any TESDA Course; height of at least 5’4” for male and 5’2” for female; must not have any pending civil/criminal case and must be mentally, physically and psychologically fit for military training.

The registration of applicants will be at the Lamberto Macias Sports and Cultural Complex in Dumaguete City starting Monday September 16 through September 26 while the schedule of the exams will be on September 27 to 29.

 http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=683226

China disputes Vietnam claim of boat attack

Posted to the Manila Standard Today (Sep 11): China disputes Vietnam claim of boat attack



An officer on the Vietnamese Coast Guard vessel
No. 8003 looks on as it is flanked by a Chinese
Coast Guard ship, right, in disputed waters claimed
by both China and Vietnam west of the Paracel
islands on May 14, 2014.  BLOOMBERG


Vietnam should prevent illegal fishing in Chinese waters, China’s foreign ministry said, dismissing claims its boats attacked Vietnamese fishermen near disputed islands in the South China Sea.

Vietnam’s foreign ministry said Sept. 9 that it demanded compensation after Chinese vessels last month rammed and robbed three fishing vessels off the Paracel Islands, known as the Xisha Islands in Chinese. Vietnam and China both claim the islands and surrounding waters.

The accusation is “far from the truth,” Hua Chunying, a spokeswoman for China’s foreign ministry, said yesterday at a briefing. A Vietnamese vessel on Aug. 15 illegally entered waters off the islands to blow up fish and China’s law enforcement authority boarded the ship and confiscated explosives, she said.

Tensions between the neighbors whose coasts abut the resource-rich South China Sea remain elevated even after China removed an oil exploration rig from the waters on July 15. China, which claims a large part of the South China Sea under a 1940s-era map, has stepped up its assertions to the Paracel Islands and the more southerly Spratly Islands, where it is building artificial islands in areas contested by the Philippines.

“China urges the Vietnamese side to take concrete actions to strengthen education and management of Vietnamese fishermen and stop the illegal fishing activities in waters off China’s Xisha Islands,” Hua said. China introduced fishing rules in January requiring foreign vessels to seek permission before entering waters off its southern coast.

Last week Vietnam said that the opening of a cruise ship route from Hainan to the Paracels violated its sovereignty.

http://manilastandardtoday.com/2014/09/11/china-disputes-vietnam-claim-of-boat-attack/

Families displaced by BIFF attacks in N. Cotabato return home

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 11): Families displaced by BIFF attacks in N. Cotabato return home

About 500 families here who fled their homes when Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) harassed several villages of Midsayap, North Cotabato Thursday, have started returning home, officials on Friday said.

Relief distribution by the local government unit is underway as the displaced families slowly returning home.

Superintendent Reynante delos Santos, Midsayap police chief, said most of the displaced families have returned home Friday morning.

Midsayap Mayor Romeo Arania has ordered relief distribution to some 300 families from Barangay Polomogen now temporarily housed in Barangay Bual Norte, also in Midsayap.

Other displaced families from two sub-villages, about 225, are now housed in Barangay Malingao center.

About 50 BIFF men first harassed Barangay Baliki, near the border of Midsayap and Datu Piang, but alert soldiers and infantry men repulsed the attackers who fled toward Barangay Polomogen en route to northern Kabuntalan area in Maguindanao.

Delos Santos said an improvised explosive device, made of 81 mm mortar with cellphone as mobile phone as trigger mechanism, was recovered by Army bomb experts.

“The bombs were for pursuing soldiers,” Delos Santos said.

Midsayap has returned to normalcy but police and military forces remained on alert.

“We have reports BIFF will carry out diversionary tactics like setting off bombs in the town center, so we are on alert,” he said, adding that some BIFF are already in town with explosives.

Colonel Dickson Hermoso, speaking for the 6th Infantry Division, said the recent harassment by the BIFF has bearing with the submission of the draft Bangsamoro Basic Law to Philippine Congress.

After clearing operations, 10 BIFF guerrillas and two soldiers were killed while more than a dozen other bandits were hurt and carried away by retreating gunmen.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=683343

Photo: Old reliable

From the Manila Standard Today (Sep 12): Photo: Old reliable



Soldiers size up refurbished M16 rifles at the arsenal in Camp General Antonio Luna, Limay, Bataan on September 11, 2014. About 70 reconditioned .45-caliber, M1911 pistols and 160 M16s will be turned over to the Navy and Marines. DANNY PATA

http://manilastandardtoday.com/2014/09/12/old-reliable-2/

2 MNLF integrees killed in NorCot firefight with BIFF to receive posthumous awards

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 12): 2 MNLF integrees killed in NorCot firefight with BIFF to receive posthumous awards

Two Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) military integrees killed in Thursday’s battle against radical Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters(BIFF) in Midsayap, North Cotabato, would be conferred with posthumous citations, the Army’s Sixth Infantry Division (6ID) here, said.

“The slain soldiers displayed exemplary bravery in safeguarding peace. They deserve the awards,” Col. Dickson Hermoso, 6th ID spokesperson, said.

Hermoso identified the fatalities as Pfcs. Merham Dalimbang and Marlie Kalilangan, both Muslims and integrated with the Army’s 40th Infantry Battalion in the area.

He added that six other soldiers, identified as Sgts. Jose Navarro and Dante Alfonso; Cpl. Darwin Timbang; and Pfcs. Jeffrey Daza, Ronnie Abas and Melron Balolong, were wounded in same incident.

An update said a dozen BIFF rebels were killed in the running gun battle that lasted for 12 hours.

The rebels, armed with high-powered assault rifles and rocket-propelled grenades, simultaneously attacked on Thursday dawn the detachments of the 40th IB in Barangay Polomogen in Midsayap and Makabimban in adjacent Northern Kabuntalan, Maguindanao, forcing over a 1,000 civilian families to flee their homes.

Government troopers held their position throughout the duration of the firefight, forcing the rebels to withdraw later due to heavy casualties.

Hermoso said Dalimbang and Lalilangan, who were both part of a military reinforcement dispatched to the site of battle, were felled by rebel fire who set up an ambush along the road leading to Polomogen.

The slain soldiers were part of some 7,100 MNLF members integrated into the Armed Forces of the Philippines as part of the provisions of the Sept 2, 1996 GRP-MNLF final peace accord.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=683344

PHL supports fight against Islamic State ‘in principle’ – Palace

From GMA News (Sep 11): PHL supports fight against Islamic State ‘in principle’ – Palace

The Philippine government supports the United States' campaign against the Islamic State militant group "in principle," MalacaƱang said Thursday.

"Iyong posisyon kasi ng Pilipinas ay ‘yung paglaban din sa mga acts of terror saan man ito magaganap," Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said at a press briefing.

"Ang tinutukoy na acts of terror ay kinokondena, hindi lamang ng Estados Unidos, pero ng Pilipinas at ng lahat ng mga bansang pinapahalagaan ang buhay at ang katahimikan at kaayusan sa ating bansa at sa daigdig," he said.

Earlier in the day, US President Barack Obama announced that he had authorized air strikes in Syria and Iraq to combat the militant Islamic State.

The US is also leading a "broad coalition" of nations to help Iraq fight Islamic State jihadists, who control large swathes of Iraqi and Syrian territory, and have been accused of atrocities in these areas.

Last month, Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) and the Abu Sayyaf rebels also reportedly pledged allegiance to the Islamic State jihadists.

Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte has meanwhile said the Islamic State has recruited Filipinos in Mindanao, but the military said this claim has yet to be verified.

The Philippines sent medics, engineers, and troops to support coalition forces in Iraq in 2003 but pulled out in 2004 after a Filipino truck driver was kidnapped. He was released after the Philippine contingent agreed to pull out.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/378767/news/nation/phl-supports-fight-against-islamic-state-in-principle-palace

(Update) 12 killed, six wounded as Army clashes anew with BIFF in North Cotabato

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 11): (Update) 12 killed, six wounded as Army clashes anew with BIFF in North Cotabato

Twelve people, 10 of them Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), were killed and another six were wounded following another clash in Barangay Palongogue, Midyasap town, North Cotabato Thursday morning.

Major Gen. Edmundo Pangilinan, 6th Infantry Division commander, said the clash took place between troopers of the 40th Infantry Battalion and 20 armed BIFF members.

In the issuing firefight, which took place 6:40 a.m., 10 BIFF men were killed along with two government troopers.

Six soldiers were also wounded in the encounter, Pangilinan said.

He added that the death report for the BIFF came from civilians living in the area.

Pursuit operations are still ongoing as of this posting.

The first firefight happened around 10 p.m. Wednesday where BIFF brigands fired on a detachment of the 40th Infantry Battalion, also in Barangay Palongogue, resulting in no casualties to government troopers manning the outpost.

Pangilinan attributed the attacks to the progress in the ongoing peace talks with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), which was highlighted by the submission on Wednesday of the draft Bangsamoro Basic Law to Congress.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=683050

Plan to fence, upgrade PMA facilities now in the works

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 11): Plan to fence, upgrade PMA facilities now in the works

The Philippine Military Academy (PMA) is developing a plan which will fence and upgrade the dilapidated facilities of the country's premier military school.

The Department of National Defense (DND), in Tuesday's budget hearing at the House of Representatives, stated that there is a need to fence the PMA's 300-hectare complex to prevent squatters from encroaching.

The DND is requesting a budget of Php141.85 billion for 2015.

Aside from fencing, the plan will also upgrade worn and dilapidated barracks, school rooms and offices, in order to make it more conducive for the study and training of military cadets.

The DND said that PMA development plan will be out by December.

It also expressed hope that Congress will provide the necessary funds needed for the PMA upgrade.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=683077

Abu Sayyaf member arrested in Basilan

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Sep 11): Abu Sayyaf member arrested in Basilan

A member of Islamic extremist group Abu Sayyaf has been arrested on Wednesday in Basilan, a military official said Thursday.

Lieutenant Colonel Eliglen Villaflor, 4th Special Forces Battalion Commander, said Ismael Cawa alias Abu Ismael was arrested in Sitio Balawatin, Makiri, Isabela City, Basilan after government troops responded to a tip from a concerned citizen.

Judge Leo Jay Principe issued the warrant of arrest for Cawa, who was charged with serious illegal detention and kidnapping, at Regional Trial Court Branch 1, Isabela City Basilan.

Cawa abducted 15 people in Golden Harvest Plantation in June 2001, the time when the Abu Sayyaf “was at its strongest” as Villaflor said.

Villaflor then “immediately organized” two Special Forces teams with Captain Jay Namoca, Commanding Officer of the 15th Special Forces Company, as head.

“True enough, the said Abu Sayyaf member was at the said place,” Villaflor said. “Thereafter, the warrant of arrest was served.”

Villaflor said that they monitored the movements of Cawa before the arrest and the Muslim rebel did not put up any resistance.

Cawa would be brought to the 9th Regional Criminal Investigation and Detention Group at Camp Batalla,Cawa Cawa, Zamboanga City for proper disposition.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/637193/abu-sayyaf-member-arrested-in-basilan-3

Troops arrest bandit, kidnapper

From the Sun Star-Zamboanga (Sep 11): Troops arrest bandit, kidnapper

JOINT military and police forces have arrested an Abu Sayyaf bandit and a member of the kidnap-for-ransom-group (KFRG) in separate operations in Zamboanga Peninsula.

Arrested were Ismael Cawa alias Abu Ismael, a member of the Basilan-based Abu Sayyaf Group, and Masdal Sabtal, a KFRG member.

Army’s 4th Special Forces Battalion commander Lieutenant Colonel Eliglen Villaflor said Cawa was arrested around 10 a.m. Wednesday at Sitio Balawatin in the village of Makiri, Isabela City, the capital of Basilan province.

Villaflor said Cawa’s arrest came after receipt of information about his presence in the village of Makiri.

Villaflor said Cawa has standing warrants of arrest for kidnapping with serious illegal detention with ransom issued by a Court in Isabela City.

Police Regional Office-Zamboanga Peninsula (PRO-9) Information officer-in-charge Inspector Dahlan Samuddin said Sabtal was arrested around 4:20 p.m. Wednesday off shore Zamboanga Sibugay.

Samuddin said the joint police and military forces were conducting maritime interdiction and law enforcement operation when they spotted Sabatal along the seawater of Zamboanga Sibugay province.

Samuddin said Sabtal is a follower of the KFRG known as the “Mamay Aburi Group.”

He said Sabtal has standing warrant of arrest for kidnapping and serious illegal detention and robbery issued by a Court in Imelda, Zamboanga Sibugay.

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/zamboanga/local-news/2014/09/11/troops-arrest-bandit-kidnapper-365008

IS inspires Southeast Asian terrorists - implications for the region and the US

From UPI (Sep 11): IS inspires Southeast Asian terrorists - implications for the region and the US

IS isn't just targeting the Middle East and the US. It's aiming at Southeast Asia, too. Malaysian authorities recently stopped a major IS-influenced attack, and Indonesian and Philippine officials are scrambling to prevent their own growing flocks of IS-inspired terrorists from going on the rampage. IS is a global threat.

The Philippines' Foreign Ministry says that 200 of its citizens have gone to war under IS's flag in the Middle East. Most of these are orphans of dead fighters from domestic Islamist insurgent groups such as the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) and Moro National Liberation Front.
 
Retired General Rodolfo Mendoza, head of the Institute for Peace, Violence and Terrorism Research, says, "They answer to no one and consider themselves one with the Islamic caliphate."  
 
The ASG and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) announced their allegiance with IS in August.
 
Other Philippine groups such as the Khilafah Islamiyah Movement (KIM), responsible for shopping center and hotel bombings, are inspired by IS and crave a caliphate.  
 
Indonesia, long troubled by radicals that have fought for a caliphate for decades, recently banned its citizens from joining IS. Jailed terrorist kingpin Abu Bakar Ba'asyir, who heads Jemmah Anshorut Tauhid (JAT), reportedly pledged allegiance to IS in July.
 
On August 9th, Indonesia's police counter terror unit, Detachment 88, arrested JAT official Afif Abdul Majid and two others for joining IS. Majid has helped carry out scores of operations in Indonesia, including suicide bombings against a church and a mosque in 2011.
 
"We have found the [IS] flag on every terrorist arrested this year," Indonesian Police spokesman Boy Rafli Amar recently said.  
 
At least 56 Indonesians have joined the IS fight in the Middle East. Malaysian Special Branch (SB) arrested 19 IS-inspired suspects between April and June.
 
Their mission was to attack civilian targets and overthrow Putrajaya, the "Washington DC of Malaysia," and replace it with a caliphate. Ayub Khan, head of SB's Counter Terror Division, says the targets included "...a disco, pubs in Kuala Lumpur and a Carlsberg [beer] factory."
 
The accused included everyday professionals and two housewives. They had raised thousands of dollars for their plot and purchased aluminum powder, a common ingredient of homemade bombs.
 
Mr. Khan said, "In terms of ideology and intention, it was very clear. It would have been carried out."  Malaysia says at least 20 of its citizens -- and probably more -- have joined IS in the Middle East, and at least three have been killed. One was a suicide bomber who died in Iraq in May.  
 
What's it all mean? First, IS's growing influence across Southeast Asia indicates trouble for the region. Malaysia will remain under threat, and IS-inspired fighters will worsen the low intensity conflicts in Indonesia and the Philippines. By default, this puts ever-vigilant Singapore at risk, which is always in the crosshairs of Islamist jihadists. IS might also inspire Thailand's otherwise local Islamist-Pattani nationalist insurgency that has increased violence in the face of failing negotiations with the government. According to the rebel manual, Fight for the Liberation of Pattani, they want a local caliphate, too. Burma's small Muslim vs. Buddhist conflict has already spilled over into Indonesia and Malaysia with a few bombings and assassinations. It's a candidate for IS provocation as well. 
 
Second, IS's actions in Malaysia prove that it's not necessarily about concrete terror networks. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid said recently IS couldn't attack the US at the moment, saying, "ISIS, they have no tentacles here yet." He's wrong.
 
IS is primarily about inspiring individuals -- even housewives -- through its victories and successful Islamist jihadi "brand" that set up a large caliphate. Terrorist networking -- intelligence, planning, and logistics -- simply follows after these radicals coagulate. 
 
Third, IS's activities in Southeast Asia indicate what it might do in America. Congressman Mike Rogers, Chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, says hundreds of Americans are fighting for IS in the Middle East, in part funneled there by a long standing "twin city" terror pipeline in Minneapolis-Saint Paul.
 
The motivation of Islamist jihadists to attack America is here, IS has capitalized on it, and there are people to carry out these threats, just like Southeast Asia
 
Ultimately, not countering IS "out there" before they "get here" has been a colossal strategic miscalculation by the Obama administration. "It is a threat to the United States," says Secretary of Defense Hagel. "...A clear threat to our partners in that area, and it is imminent."
 
President Obama decisively defining the threat and what to do about is what America needs. Instead, it was British PM David Cameron who, on August 29th, gave a rousing, leadership-drenched speech declaring that it was IS's Islamist jihadi ideology that was the main threat to the UK. He then listed decisive steps to thwart it.
 
In stark contrast, President Obama, even in his September 10th speech announcing strikes against IS in Iraq, continued to dance around this subject, pretending Islamist jihadi ideology is not an issue. It is a continuation of the Ostrich doctrine, which serves to protect no one. 
 
[Jeff Moore, Ph.D., is the chief executive officer of Muir Analytics, which assesses threats from insurgent and terror groups against corporations. He is the author of the recently published book, The Thai Way of Counterinsurgency.]
 

“The awakening of Unity”

Posted to the MILF Website (Sep 12): “The awakening of Unity”



An event entitled “UNITY: Our Mission” organized by UNION of MUSLIM YOUTH ORGANIZATIONS composed of  UVPN, MSA, IUB, INFO, BRO, JTO, Mujaddidat, Anfal Brothers, TRO, MYRO, MYS, BASEDMin, DYMAMin, BSIE & SSG-CCSPC, UNYPhil, YDP, KCASA, BUM, SI, Jum’iyatul Huffadz bil Filibeen and in coordination with MPDA was conducted last September 8, 2014 held at Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao Gymnasium.
  
More than 1000 participants from different schools, government and private agencies attended the said activity. In attendance were Muslims and non-Muslims graced by Sultan Kudarat Municipal Mayor - Datu Shameem B. Mastura and the rest of the municipal officials and employees. Invited speakers were Prof. Raby B. Angkal of the Mindanao Alliance for Peace (MAP) and Ustaadz Ismael Andil Tuanadatu, Director of Hayatul Muslimeena for Da’wah, and others.

The program was supposed to start at 8 am to 4 pm but it started one hour later and ended at 12 pm. The topics discussed were updates on the GPH-MILF Peace Agreements by Prof. Raby Angkal, followed by “Message of Unity” by Uz.  Andil Tuanadatu.

The supposed highlight of the program was a lecture by Dr. Abu Ameenah Bilal Philips, a Jamaican Muslim Preacher, the Founder and Dean of Islamic Online University (IOU), but unfortunately a night before he was invited to a police station by members of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI)-Davao City for questioning as he is considered a “blacklisted” foreigner.

 In a separate report, his arrest was made upon request of Zamboanga City Mayor Maria Isabelle Climaco-Salazar, a staunch critic of the proposed Bangsamoro new political entity.

Dr. Philips was supposed to discuss a topic about Jesus where he will make clear to the Bangsamoro about misconceptions about Islam and the real identity of Jesus as a Prophet for Muslims.

According to some participants of the Youth Conference, “He was arrested with no warrant of arrest issued by a court at David Hall, Sunny Point Hotel - Davao City at around 8pm of September 7, 2014”.

The program ended with an emotional announcement by Engr. Zubair A. Guiaman, Head of the Steering Committee about the signature campaign condemning the arrest of Dr. Philips which he consider a sabotage to the Islamic activity held at Sultan Kudarat.  “This is clearly a form of sabotage… Dr. Philips is going to different parts of Mindanao to promote peace and unity among people of different beliefs and perspective.  “Discrimination and injustices has been committed to Muslims for a long time”, said Engr. Guiaman.

The program ended up awakening the Bangsamoro People about the need for unity in diversity holding hands together, side by side to achieve one mission with one goal carrying One RABB (Lord), One DEEN (Religion) and One UMMAH (Nation) and UNITY as the only goal.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/1202-“the-awakening-of-unity

MILF: Switzerland welcomes submission of draft BBL to Congress

Posted to the MILF Website (Sep 12): Switzerland welcomes submission of draft BBL to Congress



In a press release dated September 11, Switzerland through the Swiss Embassy welcomes yesterday’s formal submission by President Benigno S. Aquino III of the draft Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) for enactment into law by Philippine Congress.
   
The drafting of the basic law is contained in the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB) on 15 October 15, 2012 and the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro signed on 27 March 2014.

Switzerland said in its press release that the submission of BBL is another major step in  the  process  to bring peace to the Southern Philippines.

Switzerland congratulates the Government of the Philippines, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Bangsamoro Transitional Commission (BTC) for reaching this milestone. This important achievement together with the forthcoming substantive debate  of  the  bill  by  Congress  represent  another  testament  to  the  commitment  of  all sides for the creation of the Bangsamoro, and to bring durable peace, justice, development and security to Mindanao.

Together with the international community, in particular the International Contact Group, which comprises the Geneva-based “Center for Humanitarian Dialogue” (CHD), Switzerland  is  committed  as  an  active  partner  to  support  the  establishment  of  the Bangsamoro.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/1201-switzerland-welcomes-submission-of-draft-bbl-to-congress

CPP/NPA: Capture of ex-NPA in Cagayan de Oro, desperate move of the AFP-PNP

NPA propaganda statement posted to the CPP Website (Sep 10): Capture of ex-NPA in Cagayan de Oro, desperate move of the AFP-PNP


Logo.bhb
Alan Juanito
Spokesperson
NPA North Central Mindanao Regional Operations Command (Julito Tiro Command)
 
The police and armed forces issued a false statement in saying that Victoriano Dimco, whom they captured in September 5, 2014 in Brgy. Puerto, Cagayan de Oro City, is an active member of the New People’s Army in North Central Mindanao. This is merely a desperate move on the part of the Aquino regime to save face amidst offensive actions of the NPA in the region.

Victoriano Dimco, aka “Ka Berting” is a former NPA member. After almost a decade of service in the revolutionary movement as a Red fighter, he quit in 2007. In fact, he surrendered to the government so he can work and provide for his poor family as an ordinary civilian. Since then he has had no further connection with the revolutionary movement in the region whatsoever. It is not true that he was sent to do intelligence operations while working as a construction worker in Cagayan de Oro where he was arrested.

The arrest serves no other purpose than creating an illusion in the eyes of the public that the Aquino regime’s counterinsurgency campaign in the region under Oplan Bayanihan is successful despite the fact that the 4th ID is like a panicking firefighter desperately trying to douse the flames of the revolutionary movement in its area of responsibility.

With this arrest, they further exposed the farce that is the government’s surrender campaign for Red fighters. After using the millions of pesos of funds for the program as a source of ill-gotten wealth for corrupt military officials, they capture those who swallow the bait or those who surrender like Mr. Dimco.

Ironically, the AFP and PNP made the devious arrest while the NPA is processing the formal release of its two prisoners of war in Bukidnon as a gesture of goodwill and sincerity of the revolutionary movement in relation to the resumption of peace-talks between the National Democratic Font of the Philippines and the government of the Philippines.

The reactionary government should see and understand that terrorizing civilians in the name of suppressing the intensifying civil war is a futile task. If anything, it will only fan the flames of the people’s revolutionary resistance.

http://www.philippinerevolution.net/statements/20140910_capture-of-ex-npa-in-cagayan-de-oro-desperate-move-of-the-afp-pnp

CPP/NPA: Promotion of brutal 4th ID commander, furtherance of Palparan culture

NPA propaganda statement posted to the CPP Website (Sep 10): Promotion of brutal 4th ID commander, furtherance of Palparan culture

Logo.bhb
Alan Juanito
Spokesperson
NPA North Central Mindanao Regional Operations Command (Julito Tiro Command)
 
The promotion of 4th Infantry Division commander Major General Ricardo Visaya to the Southern Luzon Command in September 10, 2014 is a furtherance of the Palparan culture in the Armed Forces of the Philippines. The only basis for his promotion is his bloody record of human rights violations and massive corruption amidst the AFP’s failure to curtail the growing strength of the revolutionary movement in the region.

If Maj. Gen Visaya has had any success during almost a year and a half as 4th ID commander, it is in fattening his purse through corruption, particularly from the funds for the four batches of fake surrender ceremonies. Here he has starkly exposed to the public the systematic plunder of military officers and their exploitation of the poverty of the more than 200 civilians they used in the program.

As a former right-hand man of (Ret.) Gen. Jovito Palparan, Visaya’s uniform and medals are bathed in blood with his countless violations of human rights of civilians. Under his command, troops of the 8th IB and Salusad’s paramilitary group killed lumad leaders Mabini Manobia and Zaldy Ambayot in San Fernando, Bukidnon in October 17, 2013; they ambushed and killed the peasant leader, Julieto Lauron, last February 5 in Valencia City, wounding his companion, Nermie Lapatis; 8th IB troops also killed the activist, Maricel Lambon in August 15, 2014 in Impasug-ong, Bukidnon; and 26th IB troops strafed and killed the peasants, Iya Manlapinday and Oto Prisyoso in San Luis, Agusan del Sur last August 15, 2014.

In April 27, 2014, they arrested Estelita Tacalan in Cagayan de Oro and falsely accused her of being an NPA leader. Reynaldo Gundaya, Dodo Bernas and Joel Yagao were also imprisoned for trumped-up charges in Misamis Oriental. They are among the 27 people falsely accused of the killing of the escorts of former Gingoog City Mayor Ruthie Guingona. Just this September 5, 2014, they even arrested a former NPA member who already surrendered to them and worked as a construction worker in Cagayan de Oro. Victoriano Dimco was presented as vice-chairman of a front committee.

Furthermore, thousands were victimized by indiscriminate bombing, strafing, forced evacuations, hamletting, food blockades, intimidation, robbery and other military abuses in the course of combat, intelligence and psywar operations of the 4th ID in the countryside. Even the city of Cagayan de Oro, where the people’s militant movement is strong, was militarized through the Bayanihan Alert for Peace and Development (BAPD) program.

But the greatest blow against Visaya is the intensifying NPA offensive actions in the region even as he continually downplays the strength of the revolutionary movement. He failed to protect exploitative companies like Del Monte, Sumifru, Dole, Shannalyne, Provident Tree Farm Inc., Mega Farm, Agrinanas, Kiantig Farm and others from being attacked by the NPA.
In encounters with the NPA, the 4th ID, as well as the Marine Battalion Landing Team 3 that was assigned here last year, suffered hundreds of casualties. The NPA attacked many of their detachments and the detachment in Lantad was stripped of its whole armory in September 2013. Despotic politicians with crimes against the people were also punished.
Carmen Mayor Ramon Calo was raided and disarmed while Impasug-ong Mayor Mario Okinlay and Opol Councilor Anggong Abuhan were killed.

Before leaving, Maj. Gen. Visaya neglected the two soldiers, Pfc. Cinches and Pfc. Yorong, who were captured by the NPA in Bukidnon. The 4th ID insisted on rescuing the two through their military operations which further endangers the lives of the prisoners of war. In refusing to suspend their operations so the NPA can release the two, the AFP rejected the revolutionary movement’s gesture of goodwill and sincerity for the resumption of peace talks with the Aquino government.

Upon leaving the 4th ID, Visaya brings along his failures as well as the people’s indignation. This certainly is a serious challenge for his replacement, Maj. Gen. Oscar Laktaw.

http://www.philippinerevolution.net/statements/20140910_promotion-of-brutal-4th-id-commander-furtherance-of-palparan-culture

PA artillery, Air Force units to participate in ‘PHIBLEX 15′

From AngMalaya (Sep 11): PA artillery, Air Force units to participate in ‘PHIBLEX 15′

Units from the Philippine Army and Air Force will be participating in Amphibious Landing Exercise 2015 (PHIBLEX 15) this coming Sept. 29 to Oct. 10.

Lt. Cmdr. Marineth Domingo, Philippine Navy (PN) public affairs office chief, said one platoon from the PA Field Artillery and aircraft and personnel from the Air Force will participate in the annual maneuvers.

Around 2,000 American Marines, two US Navy ships and 700 Filipino Marines earlier earn-marked for “PHIBLEX 15″.

Domingo said that Filipino and American troops will take part in a large-scale military exercise to be held in various areas in Luzon and in Palawan

“The US contingent is bigger because although it is not yet definite, I think two US Navy ships will be arriving,” Domingo said.

The PN public affairs office chief added that “PHIBLEX 15″ will trace the footsteps of the previous “Balikatan” (shoulder-to-shoulder) and the Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) that were earlier in Luzon.

Domingo said that training for “PHIBLEX 15″ will be split in the following areas which include Palawan, Marine Base Ternate in Cavite, Naval Education and Training Command (NETC) in San Antonio, Zambales; Clark Air Field in Pampanga, Subic, and Crow Valley in Tarlac.

In Palawan, there will be military exchanges in tactical warfare simulation, amphibious operations and maritime security planning, and command post exercise.

Domingo added that non-combatant evacuation operations (NEO) is scheduled in the Subic and Clark areas, while mechanized assault operation will be conducted at the NETC.Other events include small arms and artillery live fire training, ship-to-shore movement and combined arms training, and civil-military operations. including various humanitarian and civic assistance projects.

Domingo said the goal of “PHIBLEX 15″ is to improve interoperability and combat readiness of the participating forces, the Philippines and the US forces, and enhance security cooperation in the Asia-Pacific Region.

http://www.angmalaya.net/nation/2014/09/11/4250-pa-artillery-air-force-units-to-participate-in-phiblex-15

Ancient maps show disputed shoal in WPS is part of Manila’s territory

From AngMalaya (Sep 11): Ancient maps show disputed shoal in WPS is part of Manila’s territory

Replicas of ancient maps showing the location of a disputed shoal off the West Philippine Sea were showcased in an exhibit Thursday, in another attempt by the Philippines to contradict China’s claim over the resource-rich territory.

Some 60 map illustrations by Western and local cartographers were unveiled to the public at the De La Salle University, showing that Scarborough Shoal, known locally as Panatag or Bajo de Masinloc, has always been part of the Philippines.

Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario called the exhibit, entitled “Historical Truths and Lies: Scarborough Shoal in Ancient Maps,” “a compelling argument” against China’s indisputable claim over nearly the entire South China Sea.

Manila calls China’s far-reaching claims “excessive” and “a violation of international law” as it infringes on the territories of its Asian neighbors, including the Philippines.

“This meaningful exhibit strengthens our resolve to pursue not just any kind of resolution to our maritime dispute but a just and lasting solution grounded on international law,” Del Rosario said in his speech at the exhibit’s launching ceremony.

Del Rosario admitted that “international courts and tribunals have taken a cautious approach in the use of maps or any cartographic evidence in their rulings,” but noted that “they have nonetheless used maps as secondary or corroborating evidence in establishing facts.”

He said a “good number” of the maps on display were included in the Philippines’ voluminous written pleading that was submitted to an arbitral tribunal in The Hague, Netherlands which will hear Manila’s complaint against China’s massive territorial claim.

“Contrary to its claims, China has not used or controlled the South China Sea since time immemorial,” Del Rosario said.

http://www.angmalaya.net/nation/2014/09/11/4256-ancient-maps-show-disputed-shoal-in-wps-is-part-of-manilas-territory

China reacts to increase military spending of PH, Japan, Vietnam

From AngMalaya (Sep 11): China reacts to increase military spending of PH, Japan, Vietnam

In a press conference conducted by Chinese Foreign Ministry, a journalist asked a topic regarding the increase in military spending of three countries involve in maritime spat with China.

“There is a review saying that countries like Japan, the Philippines and Vietnam have been increasing their military spending in recent years in response to China’s growing military expenditure and expansion. Does China agree with this? Or are there any other reasons,” the journalist asked.

Spokesperson Hua Chunyin answered, “You mentioned that those countries expand their military in response to China’s military expansion. There are several loopholes in this logic.”

“China has reiterated that China is committed to a path of peaceful development and adopts a national defense policy that is defensive in its nature. Our national defense expenditure is transparent and moderate and meets our need to safeguard national security.”

“You may find that it is not China who takes provocative and aggressive actions, but those countries you mentioned,” adding that to protect their sovereignty they have implemented some countermeasures.

“We hope that relevant countries can view China’s development with a correct attitude, work together with China and contribute positive energy to maintaining and promoting peace and stability in Asia,” she added.

http://www.angmalaya.net/world/2014/09/12/4258-china-reacts-to-increase-military-spending-of-ph-japan-vietnam

Ex-Negros Army officer takes over 4ID

From the Visayan Daily Star (Sep 11): Ex-Negros Army officer takes over 4ID

Maj. Gen. Oscar Lactao, who was commander of the 303rd Infantry Brigade in Negros Occidental for almost two years, now heads the 4th Infantry Division in Cagayan de Oro.

Lactao replaced Maj. Gen. Ricardo Visaya, who will be the commanding general of the Armed Forces Southern Luzon Command.

Lactao, then a colonel, was commander of the 303rd IB from 2011 to 2013 and was later transferred to Camp Emilio Aguinaldo in Quezon City as the chief of the AFP Command Center. He was promoted to brigadier general last year.

He was again promoted to major general months after he was designated AFP deputy chief of staff for Operations, military records show.

The 4ID area of operations includes the provinces of Cagayan de Oro, Bukidnon, Misamis Oriental, Agusan del Sur and Norte, Surigao del Sur and Norte, all in Eastern Mindanao.

On Sept. 4, Maj. Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero, former Army chief of staff, assumed command of the 3rd Infantry Division in Jamindan, Capiz. He and Lactao are members of the Philippine Military Academy Class 1984.

Guerrero used to serve as commanding officer of the 61st Infantry Battalion in southern Negros, 3ID assistant chief of staff for Intelligence, and later as chief of staff of the same infantry division unit, military records also showed.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2014/September/11/negor4.htm

12 killed in clashes as draft Bangsamoro law reaches Congress

From Rappler (Sep 11): 12 killed in clashes as draft Bangsamoro law reaches Congress

The BIFF is the breakaway group of the MILF, the dominant Muslim group that is negotiating a new autonomous government in Mindanao

ATTACKS: This file photo shows Al Qaeda's black flag that was seized in a BIFF camp in February 2014. Military photo
ATTACKS: This file photo shows Al Qaeda's black flag that was seized in a BIFF camp in February 2014. Military photo

Government troops clashed with members of the breakaway Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) Thursday morning, September 11, leaving 2 soldiers and 10 rebels killed, the military said.

"We engaged them around 6:40 am. We suffered 2 killed and 6 wounded. The enemy suffered 10 killed. Our troops are now scouring the area," said Army Major General Edmundo Pangilinan, commander of the 6th Infantry Division based in Maguindanao.

 
READ: Aquino submits draft Bangsamoro law to Congress

The residents reported the 10 fatalities on the side of the BIFF, Pangilinan said in a phone interview.

The BIFF reportedly started harassing troops of the 40th Infantry Battalion 10 pm Wednesday, hours after President Benigno Aquino III submitted to Congress the proposed law creating a new autonomous government in Mindanao.

The troops pursued the rebels and a 2-hour firefight erupted early morning Thursday. About 20 rebels were supposedly involved.

Pangilinan said the situation is now under control and there is no danger that the firefights will escalate. The military has coordinated with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) about the military operations.

"We told them that we are only after the BIFF," Pangilinan said.

The BIFF is the breakaway group of the MILF, the dominant Muslim group that negotiated a peace pact with the government.

Pangilinan said it was likely BIFF's way to protest the submission of the Bangsamoro draft law.

"Everytime there is a breakthrough in the peace process, they conduct these kinds of offensives and terroristic activities not only against our soldiers but against civilians," said Pangilinan.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has expressed its full support for the peace talks with their former enemies in the MILF and vowed to protect the process from "spoilers" such as the BIFF.

“The AFP welcomes the announcement of the President that the BBL will be submitted to Congress this week. We believe that the successful implementation of the peace process with the eventual establishment of the Bangsamoro will provide the political solution that will end the four-decade conflict in Mindanao,” said AFP chief General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr.


READ: Real peace means the guns will have to go away

Until the new Bangsamoro entity as envisioned in the proposed law is in place, the military and the MILF share the responsibility of securing large parts of central Mindanao. In February, cooperation between the 2 groups led to the capture of BIFF camps.

The BIFF has been identified as one of the biggest challenges that has to be addressed to make the peace agreement successful.

The BIFF should not be allowed to be the new MILF, according to officers, referring to the MILF's split from the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) after it signed a peace pact with government in 1996.

 http://www.rappler.com/nation/68812-clashes-biff-draft-bangsamoro-law