Unidentified men lobs grenade in ex-Maguindanao official's home

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 3): Unidentified men lobs grenade in ex-Maguindanao official's home

SHARIFF AGUAK, Maguindanao -- Unidentified men riding in tandem on a motorbike lobbed a hand grenade inside the residential compound of a former Maguindanao board member here on Tuesday night, police said.

Nobody was hurt in the incident as the grenade did not go off, said Chief Inspector Jonathan de Gracia, Shariff Aguak police chief.

"But it sent fears among the household members," De Gracia said.

Quoting members of the family of former Maguindanao Board Member Yasser Ampatuan, De Gracia said they heard a loud thud at past 9:45 p.m. inside the compound.

When checked, they found a live hand grenade, he said, adding that 45th Infantry Battalion bomb disposal team members safely took custody of the explosive.

“Wala kaming kalaban, wala kaming kaaway (We have no known enemies),” De Gracia quoted one of the family members as telling investigators.

Motive the grenade attack and its perpetrators remained unknown.

The grenade throwing incident came a day after unidentified men believed to be members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) hurled a hand grenade in Barangay Nabundas in nearby town of Mamasapano, Maguindanao while govenrment forces were proceeding to an area where the BIFF has been harassing civilians.

No one was hurt in that incident.

Earlier, three BIFF members were killed in a clash with government forces in Barangay Nabundas. Two soldiers were also slightly wounded.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=712123

Army’s 1st Infantry Division establishes IP desks

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 3): Army’s 1st Infantry Division establishes IP desks

The Army’s First Infantry Division has established Indigenous Peoples (IP) desks to attend to the concerns of IPs within its area of responsibility here in the region.

Capt. Franco Suelto, 1st Infantry Division information officer, said Wednesday the putting up of the IP desks is part of the command’s welfare program for the most vulnerable sector of the society.

Suelto said the IP desks are being handled by the office of the Civil-Military Operation (CMO) to attend to the concerns and needs of the IPs.

Suelto said the establishment of IP desks is in compliance and support to Republic Act 8371, otherwise known as the Indigenous People’s Rights Act of 1997.

“We have implemented the cultural sensitivity program. In the program, we conduct orientation, seminar-workshop to our soldiers who are socially immersed in the Subanen community to respect the rights to self-determination and to respect their cultural integrity as well,” Suelto said.

“Our soldiers assigned in the remote areas have also provided basic services to the IPs basic through medical civic action program (MEDCAP),” he said.

Meanwhile, Suelto said that several of the rebel- returnees, who are members of the IP community, have availed themselves of the Armed Forces’ Comprehensive Livelihood Program (CLIP) through the “Guns for Peace.”

The program provides the grant of cask incentives to rebels who voluntarily surrender along with their firearms.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=712234

NPA rebels abduct 2 soldiers, steal truck in Davao del Norte

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 3): NPA rebels abduct 2 soldiers, steal truck in Davao del Norte

NEW CORELLA, Davao del Norte –- Two soldiers were abducted by members of the New People’s Army on December 2 and stole a privately-owned truck in Barangay San Roque of this town.

In a statement sent Wednesday by 1Lt. Vergel Lacambra, 10th ID Division Public Affairs Office chief, two soldiers from the 60th Infantry Battalion under the 10th Infantry Division namely Pfc Mark Alvin Ricarte and Cpl Benjamin Samano were held at gunpoint by the NPA rebels at around 4:00 a. m. Tuesday.

He added that around 15 members of NPA were posing as workers of the banana plantation as they entered the premise and simultaneously seized the detailed security personnel.

Lacambra also confirmed that the rebels then commandeered the company’s elf truck with plate number PKB 360 which they used to escape towards the direction of Barangay Napungas, Asuncion Davao del Norte tagging along the two abducted troops.

He said that the abducted soldiers were securing an airstrip at the said area which has been under constant threat of sabotage and extortion by the rebels.

The 60th IB troops are now in hot pursuit of the rebels and checkpoints were established in coordination with nearby Philippine National Police (PNP) stations.

Meanwhile, a total of 216 rebels, who were mostly indigenous people of Ata Manobo origins, surrendered to the 60th Infantry Battalion in Barangay Gupitan, Kapalong during the Serbisyo Caravan of the Association of Regional Executives of National Agencies in Region XI (ARENA XI) on Sunday.

The Balik-Loob Ceremony was witnessed by 10th Infantry Division commanding officer Major General Eduardo Año, Davao del Norte Governor Rodolfo del Rosario and Kapalong Mayor Edgardo Timbol.

Major General Año encouraged the indigenous people to continue supporting the army to end the insurgency problem in Barangay Gupitan.

“To our Lumad brothers, continue your support to us to, once and for all, end our problem with the CPP-NPA in this area,” Año stressed.

Año assured the people that the military will serve 24 hours a day to ensure peace in the area as well as in the whole province.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=712303

Political detainees in Misamis Oriental on hunger strike

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 3): Political detainees in Misamis Oriental on hunger strike
 

Five political detainees at the provincial jail started a 10-day hunger strike here Wednesday, jail warden Dominador Tagarda said.Tagarda said that Alfredo Mapano, a.k.a “Paris,” former Secretary General of the North Central Mindanao Revolutionary Committee, led the hunger strike that started Wednesday morning.

He said that the political detainees were simply dramatizing support as the United Nation commemorates the International Human Rights Day on Dec. 10.

Tagarda also assured the families, relatives, and friends of the political detainees and all other prisoners that their rights are respected and uphold by the jail management.

“We have stern instruction from Gov. Yevgeny Vincente Emano to always observe and respect the rights of all prisoners without discrimination,” Tagarda said.

Mapano said that their hunger strike has nothing to do with the jail management, but as a manifestation of their support of the International Human Rights Day celebration.

He said that they will skip their breakfast and lunch, but shall take the dinner for the next 10-day period.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=712338

All military units ordered to give premium to human rights -- AFP

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 3): All military units ordered to give premium to human rights -- AFP

With National Human Rights Consciousness Week (NHRCW) celebrations to kickoff this Thursday, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) announced that all its units are instructed and trained to give a premium on the protection of people's rights, especially children.

The celebration starts on Dec. 4 and end on the 10th.

Major Emmanuel Garcia, AFP 7th Civil Relations Group commander, said that the military complies with this through strict observance of the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect to Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law or CARHRIHL.

"The AFP fully supports and cooperates with every government agencies especially the Department of Social Welfare and Development in protecting children particularly those involved in cases of children caught in armed conflict (CAC)," he added.

Aside from this, the AFP Human Rights Office was especially created in line with the military's efforts in protecting the rights of the people's especially the children.

"As a fresh start, the AFP also provides lectures, training and seminars on Human Rights, International Humanitarian Law and CARHRIL and Role of Law to newly recruited candidate soldiers as they undergo basic military training," Garcia stressed.

The same lectures are being repeated in every in-service training and career courses of officers and enlisted personnel.

"The AFP also conducts investigations so that individuals who are guilty of any offense against the people, particularly those involved in tarnishing the image of the AFP will be punished in accordance with our laws. In doing so, we as one people must be circumspect in dealing with the problem and not let the whole organization and the greater number of people suffer because of the mistakes of the few," Garcia disclosed.

The NHRCW Celebration is in pursuant to the Republic Act No. 9201, otherwise known as the National Human Rights Consciousness Week of 2002.

This is in line with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) adopted by the United Nations (UN) in 1948.

The UDHR is a common standard of achievement for all peoples and all nations, to the end that every individual and every organ of society, keeping this Declaration;

Constantly in mind, shall strive by teaching and education to promote respect for these rights and freedoms and by progressive measures, national and international, to secure their universal and effective recognition and observance, both among the peoples of Member States themselves and among the peoples of territories under their jurisdiction.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=712051

Workers call for political prisoners’ release

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 3): Workers call for political prisoners’ release

Workers led by the Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU) on Wednesday held a protest in front of the Department of Justice (DOJ) to call for the immediate release of political prisoners.

Lito Ustarez, KMU vice-chairperson, called attention to the plight of the so-called “COURAGE 2,” Randy Vegas and Raul Camposano, two staff members of government employees’ Center Confederation for Unity, Recognition and Advancement of Government Employees (COURAGE) who were allegedly illegally arrested two years ago and continue to be detained over trumped-up charges.

“The continuing imprisonment of political prisoners Vegas and Camposano is a continuing attack on the country’s trade-union movement. There is no reason for the Courage 2 to stay in prison any minute longer,” Ustarez added.

He said that the two are being detained on the basis of fabricated charges over their alleged involvement in raids carried out by the New People’s Army (NPA) in the Bicol and Cordillera regions in 2012.

Ustarez also called for the immediate release of consultants of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP).

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=712210

Efforts ongoing to recover 2 abducted soldiers in Davao Del Norte

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 3): Efforts ongoing to recover 2 abducted soldiers in Davao Del Norte

All efforts are being undertaken to safely recover the two soldiers abducted by rebel forces in Davao Del Norte Tuesday.

This assurance was given by 10th Infantry Division commander Major Gen. Eduardo M. Año Wednesday.

He also expressed dismay in the recent terroristic act committed by the New People's Army (NPA).

“We condemn another terrorist act of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA), our soldiers were performing official duties by providing security assistance when illegally abducted by the CPP-NPA," Año stressed.

The latter has already ordered intensified military operations to immediately rescue the abducted soldiers and even lambasted the terrorist group for continuously violating human rights, international humanitarian law and the rule of law.

“We demand the immediate and unconditional release of our soldiers, we shall continue our military operations targeting the NPA group that abducted our soldiers without let up until they are rescued or released," Año disclosed.

The abducted soldiers were identified as Cpl. Benjamin T. Samano and Pfc. Mark Alvin Ricarte both from the 60th Infantry Battalion.

Reports said the rebels abducted the two at 4 a.m. Tuesday by posing as banana plantation workers.

The NPAs immediately disarmed the two and placed them aboard a stolen truck (PKB-360) which they used to escape towards the direction of Barangay Napunggas, Asuncion Davao Del Norte.

The rebels stole two M-16 automatic rifles, one shotgun, and one handheld radio and other personal belongings

The abducted soldiers were deployed to augment the company security guards securing the airstrip of Sumifru Banana Plantation which has been under constant threat of sabotage and extortion by the rebels.

60th Infantry Battalion troopers are now in pursuit of the rebels and checkpoints were established in coordination with nearby PNP stations.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=712418

Military peacekeepers given a clean bill of health

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 3): Military peacekeepers given a clean bill of health

The 107 military members of the 18th Philippine Contingent to Liberia were all given a clean bill of health following a routine medical screening at the Armed Forces of the Philippines Medical Center.

Medical examinations started around 10 p.m. Tuesday and ended 3 a.m. Wednesday, AFP public affairs office chief Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc said.

Cabunoc said that the peacekeepers arrived at the AFP Medical Center around 9 p.m. on Tuesday.

Earlier, the Philippine Navy announced that the peacekeepers, who were transported by the BRP Dagupan (LC-551) from Caballo Island, arrived at Naval Station Heracleo Alano, Sangley Point, Cavite around 7:30 p.m. Tuesday.

The vessel and its passengers left Caballo Island around 3 p.m., of the same day.

During their arrival, they were greeted by Joint Task Group Liberia commander Capt.Luz Camacho.

After greetings, the Caballo Island returnees where all transported by military buses to the AFP Medical Center.

All 107 peacekeepers were found to be clear of any disease or ailments, Cabunoc said.

He said that the medical screening is standard procedure for all returning Filipino peacekeepers.

After their medical screening, the 107 military personnel were immediately taken to the AFP Peacekeeping Operation Center barracks where they are now resting.

Earlier, the 24 Philippine National Police members and one Bureau of Jail Management and Penology operative, were taken custody by their parent units.

Cabunoc added that the peacekeeper, who suffered chest pains, while in quarantine at Caballo Island, will not be able to attend the welcoming and awarding ceremonies as he is scheduled for an angiogram.

AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Gregorio Pio P. Catapang Jr. will lead the welcome ceremony that will be held on 4:30 p.m. Thursday.

“I am very happy that the peacekeepers have successfully finished the quarantine without any untoward incident. I am commending them for their self-sacrifices to make our country Ebola virus-free,” he said.

Catapang has also prepared exciting prices for winners of the friendly competition such as essay writing, photo contest and sportsfest.

The AFP chief will award the UN Service Medal to the peacekeepers for their splendid performance and invaluable services as members of the peacekeeping contingent in Liberia.

The peacekeepers, members of the 18th Philippine Contingent to Liberia, were transported to Caballo Island on Nov. 13, a day after arriving at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City from Monrovia.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=712212

34th Infantry Battalion 'Bayanihan' team activities hailed by Northern Samar community

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 3): 34th Infantry Battalion 'Bayanihan' team activities hailed by Northern Samar community

Officers and enlisted personnel of the 34th Infantry Battalion have been lauded for their community development efforts in Barangay San Miguel, Las Navas town, Northern Samar.

Lt. Col. Edgar R. Delos Reyes, 34th Infantry Battalion commander, said that a "Bayanihan" team from his outfit was tasked to conduct a series of peace and development activities in the community.

The team was well received by Barangay San Miguel chair Apolinario Levico along with other barangay officials and the community.

“The activity was conducted in the area to protect the community from New People Army (NPA) rebels' extortion, deception and attacks on innocent civilians and properties,” Delos Reyes said.

“The collaboration between the local officials, community and the army team on peace and development outreach in the said barangay will send a strong message to the NPA leadership on the futility of their armed struggle,” he added.

Earlier, Las Navas town was declared as “Manageable Conflict-Affected and Development-Ready” municipality last Sept. 7.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=712172

AFP's first ever female Judge Advocate General retires Wednesday

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 3): AFP's first ever female Judge Advocate General retires Wednesday

Brig. Gen. Marian Aleido, the Armed Forces of the Philippines' first ever female Judge Advocate General, retired from the service Wednesday, Dec. 3.

Aleido was given a testimonial parade and review at around 9 a.m. at the AFP Grandstand.

This caps her successful career as the first female lawyer of the AFP that eventually led to her assumption as first female Judge Advocate General.

When she was appointed to the position in July 2012, Aleido made it her goal to prioritize the recruitment of more military lawyers who will become legal advisers for the AFP and the Department of National Defense.

Because of this, she led the recruitment of additional lawyers, increasing the total number of military lawyers from 70 to 104.

Moreover, she also empowered more female lawyers to join the military.

“My appointment as The Judge Advocate General (TJAG) of the AFP is a recognition of the AFP on the competence and importance of the role of women in nation-building. Right now, we have more or less 40 female lawyers,” Aleido said.

In addition to this, she also made a commitment to expedite military cases and enhance the military justice system.

“We focused on our efforts to expedite the administration of military justice and pursued the resolution of cases through various collaboration and coordination with our counterparts in the government, including the Solicitor General and that of the Philippine National Police,” Aleido added.

She will be replaced by Col. Al Perreras, the Philippine Navy Judge Advocate General (NJAG), a position he has held since 2006.

He is an expert military lawyer with over 29 years of experience in the service.

Perreras entered the military in 1985 after he received his Bachelor of Laws from the San Beda College of Law in 1984.

Before he was tasked to lead the AFP’s top legal office, Perreras has already held various positions in the OTJAG (Office of the Judge Advocate General).

He was its Deputy Judge Advocate General from May to August 2006 and Executive Officer from August 2004 to May 2006.

He was also the Command Judge Advocate of the Northern Luzon Command from 2003 to 2004.

Apart from his expertise as a military lawyer, Perreras is also a sharpshooter, having received Marksmanship Badges for the M-16 and Cal. 5.56mm rifles.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=712213

Southern Luzon Command beefs up preparation for 'Hagupit'

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 3): Southern Luzon Command beefs up preparation for 'Hagupit'

With "Hagupit" threatening a huge part of the Philippines, the Lucena-based Southern Luzon Command has alerted all its disaster response units (DRUs) for possible severe effects of the typhoon in the region.

"Southern Luzon is bracing against the typhoon which is expected to enter Philippine Area of Responsibility this weekend and will be renamed 'Ruby'," Major Angelo Guzman, the command's spokesperson, said.

Guzman said that Southern Luzon Command head Major Gen. Ricardo R. Visaya has already directed all his units to be prepared – equipment and manpower wise.

He directed subordinate commanders to make proper coordination with their counterparts in the DRRMCs (Disaster Risk Reduction Management Councils).

9th Infantry Division’s chief-for-operations Lt. Col. Michael Buhat said that all Army units in Bicol were already alerted and their respective DRUs are all on standby in their headquarters.

Buhat said that the Office of the Civil Defense (OCD) 5 called for a meeting with line agencies Tuesday.

In Albay, Col. Raul Farnacio, 901st Infantry Brigade commander, said that they are already in coordination with OCD 5 after the weather bureau warned of a possible landfall.

“All units with disaster response operations capabilities were tasked to standby by their forces,” Farnacio said.

He also said that he has instructed the commanding officers of the 2nd Infantry Battalion in Albay and the 83rd Infantry Battalion in Catanduanes to coordinate with local government units and disaster response agencies in their respective area.

Col. Cesar Idio, 903rd Infantry Brigade commander, said that in Sorsogon, his unit has a regular Disaster Response Task Group that is automatically alerted even before a typhoon threatens Sorsogon and Masbate.

The 903rd Infantry Brigade has a platoon-sized DRU on standby and is equipped with mobility asset, chainsaws, utility ropes, lifesaving vests, hard hats and other rescue equipment in performing their tasks.

“In this region that is frequented by natural calamities, humanitarian assistance and disaster response is a major effort of the Southern Luzon Command,” Visaya said.

He said that if needed, all available lift and mobility assets will be utilized.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=712248

Eastern Mindanao Command prepares for 'Hagupit'

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 3): Eastern Mindanao Command prepares for 'Hagupit'

The Eastern Mindanao Command has alerted all its disaster response units in preparation for the expected entry of typhoon Hagupit on Thursday.

The typhoon is packing winds up to 230 kph, latest weather forecast stated.

"With this looming calamity, the Eastern Mindanao Command is preparing for readiness its disaster response capability," Eastern Mindanao Command spokesperson Major Ezra Balagtey said.

All subordinate units of the Eastern Mindanao Command has already been ordered to prepare and activate designated disaster response units (DRU) and coordinate with their respective local disaster risk reduction management council.

“We are preparing for two scenarios, one is if the tropical storm will landfall within the Eastern Mindanao Command AOR (area of responsibility) and, the second is if it will hit the Visayas. The command is prepared for both scenarios that necessitate Disaster Response Units to be deployed in affected areas,” Eastern Mindanao Command chief Lt. Gen. Aurelio Baladad said.

During the onslaught of Typhoon Yolanda, the Eastern Mindanao Command sent its Task Force “Tambayayong” to Leyte for humanitarian and disaster response operations.

The same readiness will be demonstrated by the command in case the Visayas will be hit badly by the storm.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=712263

CIDG arrested BIFF member in Central Mindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 3): CIDG arrested BIFF member in Central Mindanao

After a month of in-depth investigation and surveillance, Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) head Director Benjamin B. Magalong on Wednesday reported that a member of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) was arrested by detectives of the CIDG Central Mindanao.

Magalong said that the suspect Abubakar Abdul Mantis was arrested on Wednesday morning in Cabacan town in North Cotabato on the strength of a search warrant issued by Judge Laureano Alzate of Branch 22, Cabacan.

Magalong said the suspect was caught in possession of a white crystalline substance, believed to be methamphetamine hydrochloride or shabu, weighing about 50 grams, a caliber .45 pistol, homemade 12-gauge shotgun, a caliber .38 revolver and 3 fragmentation grenades.

He added that the operatives also discovered that Mantis was in possession of a BIFF identification card under his name.

He said the detectives are now conducting an indepth investigation in order to validate this information.

Magaong said Mantis is presently in the custody of the CIDG Central Mindanao while charges for violations of RA 10591 (Comprehensive Law on Firearms and Ammunition) and RA 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002) are being prepared to be filed against him.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=712305

4 soldiers, 1 rebel die in Bukidnon encounter

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 3): 4 soldiers, 1 rebel die in Bukidnon encounter

Four troopers from the Army's 68th Infantry Battalion were killed along with one New People's Army (NPA) rebel following an encounter in San Fernando town, Bukidnon province early Wednesday morning.

The encounter stemmed from rebel efforts to torch heavy equipment on an ongoing road construction project around 5:00 a.m. at Sitio Salinguton, Barangay Magkalungay, San Fernando, said 10th Infantry Division spokesperson 1st Lt. Vergel Lacambra.

At the time of the rebel attack, troopers from the 68th Infantry Battalion were on routine security patrol along the Barangay Bacnotan-Halapitan roadnet when informed by concerned civilians of the large NPA presence in the area.

Lacambra said the rebels detonated a landmine after spotting the responding soldiers, triggering a heavy firefight which lasted for 30 minutes.

Four of the heavily outnumbered soldiers and one rebel were killed in the ensuing gun battle.

The names of the fallen soldiers were not revealed pending notification of their next-of-kin.

Lacambra said the NPAs immediately retreated leaving their slain companion. Soldiers recovered one M-653 automatic rifle.

Reinforcing government troopers also recovered dozens of backpacks and other war materiel.

Pursuit operations are ongoing.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=712417

People advised not to rely on gov’t alone

From the Sun Star-Cagayan de Oro (Dec 2): People advised not to rely on gov’t alone

TO PUT an end to human rights violations, the people must stand together and address this issue collectively rather than solely relying on the government, a lawyer-activist said Monday.

Lawyer Beverly Musni, of the Union of People’s Lawyer in Mindanao (UPLM) and regional chair of the human rights group Karapatan, said the people’s organizations and civil society groups play an important role in making sure that cases of human rights violations (HRV) will be reported and documented properly.

Despite the sheer number of human rights violations committed for this year alone, Musni is still hopeful that these can be resolved, but the citizenry must not let down its vigilance and commitment.

“Dili lang ta mohunong, since this is justice for every victim, dili ‘ni pwede katulgan. If we sleep on these cases, we will be a party to the perpetuation of these human rights violations,” she told Sun.Star Cagayan de Oro in an interview Monday.

‘A thousand victims’

Musni was one of the resource speakers of the public presentation of the Northern Mindanao regional yearend human rights report held in a hotel in Cagayan de Oro City on Tuesday.

In a data provided by Karapatan to the media, from January to November, this year, there were more than a thousand victims of HRV in 54 incidents.

Among the HRV cases, Karapatan noted, were extra-judicial killings, frustrated killings, threat, harassment and intimidation, trumped-up charges, illegal or arbitrary arrest, arrest and detention, divestment and destruction of property, indiscriminate firing, forced evacuation, bombing, physical assault and injury.

Most of the HRV incidents committed were threat, harassment and intimidation with 749 cases; destruction of property, 23 household; indiscriminate firing, 168 individuals; and forced evacuation, 319 persons.

Musni said every incident of HRV, no matter how small, must not be taken for granted.
“I-address gyud na siya, pangitaan og accountability. Itaral kinsay nakasala og hatagan og relief ang nasal-an. That’s essential to justice,” she added.

Musni said all the HRV cases in region 10 had already been reported to the United Nations Human Rights Council, the Commission on Human Rights, and the human rights committees of the House of Representatives and the Senate.

Datu Santiago Agdahan Jr., chair of the Tribal Indigenous Oppressed Group Association (Tindoga), said most of his members had experienced HRV last year when armed men began firing indiscriminately in their direction in a village in Quezon, Bukidnon.

Tindog is one of the groups of the Manobo-Pulangihon clans that petitioned the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) to award them a 623-hectare ranch owned by a private company, under the Ancestral Domain claims.

Agdahan said the NCIP has awarded them with the Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title (CADT) sometime last year.

Agdahan said the harassment happened while they were about to be installed as rightful owners of the land.

He recalled a group of armed men stormed the area where they were gathered and opened fire as they were told to get away from the site. Their houses were also demolished in the process.

Because of the indiscriminate firing, he said the more than a hundred Tindoga members, including nuns from the Rural Missionaries of the Philippines (RMP), fled in different directions. Some hid in trees and structures.

Agdahan said he was almost shot when he stood up and shouted “Magbayad mo sa inyong gibuhat (You will pay for what you’ve done)!”

Traumatized

Although no one was killed in the melee, he said it traumatized some of the Tindoga members. A woman had bouts of mental breakdowns and has neglected to take care of her children.

Because of the experience, one of Agdahan’s nephews got sick and eventually died.
Agdahan said they reported the incident to the law enforcers, but the municipal police chief only ordered the arrest of the goons who were caught holding shotguns but not those who were shooting indiscriminately using high-powered firearms.

With the incident that they had been through, Agdahan said they are hoping that it will not be repeated and that the rule of law will prevail within their ancestral domain area.

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/cagayan-de-oro/local-news/2014/12/02/people-advised-not-rely-gov-t-alone-379891

4 soldiers killed in Bukidnon NPA clash

From ABS-CBN (Dec 3): 4 soldiers killed in Bukidnon NPA clash

Four government soldiers were killed in an encounter with suspected New People's Army (NPA) rebels in San Fernando, Bukidnon on Tuesday.

First Lieutenant Vergel Lacambra of the Philippine Army's 10th Infantry Division said government troops engaged suspected communist rebels in a gun battle in Sitio Halapitan in Barangay Bonacao at around 7 a.m.

Aside from the four soldiers, who were also from the 68th Infantry Battalion, a suspected NPA rebel also died in the clash.

Prior to the gun battle, a bomb attack hit one of the vehicles owned by the 68th Infantry Battalion.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/12/03/14/4-soldiers-killed-bukidnon-npa-clash

MILF: Editorial -- Moro self-rule has antecedent

Editorial posted to  the MILF Website (Dec 2): Moro self-rule has antecedent

The ongoing rumbling for federalism in the country is a natural way of expression, in pursuit of people’s right of determination. The MILF neither supports nor disapproves of it. Let it be distinct and separate from the ambit of the current GPH-MILF discourses in solving the Bangsamoro Question or Problem.

Of course, federalism movements have been strong in Bicol, Negros, Bohol, Cebu, and Northern Mindanao. This has been abetted strongly by over-centralism of powers and resources in “Imperial Manila”. Imagine two brothers and a brother and sister, who are members of the Senate, come only from Metropolitan Manila.

However, unlike other assertions, the Bangsamoro people’s quest for genuine self-rule has a longer history; in fact, the past is replete with evidences of Moro sovereignty and later of real autonomy. For 320 years, Mindanao remained a virtual independent country from the control of Spain. The Sultanate of Sulu and Sultanates of Maguindanao and Buayan, not to mention the other players, continued to control much of this region. Spanish sovereignty was only effectively implemented inside their garrisons and fortifications. During the American regime, Moro affairs were administered separately from Luzon and Visayas through the creation of the Moro Province in 1903. (The Mountain Province, which was mainly populated by indigenous tribes, was also created to administer their affairs).

This is the reason that for those who are complaining during congressional hearings on the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) about giving many concessions to the MILF and the Moros in Mindanao should read history very well and reflect on it sincerely.  They are either well-intentioned, due to lack of foreknowledge of correct history or are outright “spoilers” who hate anything associated with Moros and Islam in this country.

The BBL did not come from nowhere; it is the offshoot of more than four decades of fighting between Moro and government forces and 17 years of long, hard, and arduous negotiations.  It is written in the blood of Moro martyrs, past and current, and a menu to frustrate any secession bid in the future. If a good law comes out of Congress, it will bind the whole nation and country and could signal its progress and development. Peace and tranquility would gradually happen in Mindanao.

If we only have to make an earnest computation, what the Moros are getting from the BBL is much, much below the losses they have incurred as a result of this “imposed war” on them. They lost their sovereignty, more of than 70% of their ancestral landholdings, and were virtually reduced to second-class citizens, oppressed, persecuted, and marginalized.  They were looked down, hated, and despised. 

Of course, the BBL is not a magic formula for empowerment and to uplift the living conditions of the Bangsamoro people. Much of the success could depend on themselves. Freeing people from bondage comes mainly from within themselves. Blaming the government for all the messes in their life is cowardice to face the truth. Let us be men and, insha Allah, we can stand on our feet, with minimal help from the Central Government, because we are still part of this country.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/editorial/item/1379-moro-self-rule-has-antecedent

MILF: MILF-BIAF 114th Base Command holds forum on BBL in Lamitan City

Posted to the MILF Website (Dec 3): MILF-BIAF 114th Base Command holds forum on BBL in Lamitan City

 

The 114th Base Command of the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (BIAF) held one-day forum on Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) on November 28, 2014 at Barangay Baas, Lamitan City Basilan for professionals and barangay officials. The activity was spearheaded by Rajan Abdurahman, Unit commander of the 114th Base Command.
  

The resource speakers were Abbas Salung, Chairman of MILF-CCCH, Ungkung Ampao, BIAF Planning Officer, and Mr. Suaib Musa. 

Haji Salih, a participant said, “This activity is very important because most of us registered voters are not aware of the contents of BBL and the plebiscite for the ratification of the BBL will soon take place”.

Mr. Salung spoke on Normalization. He said that “Normalization is very crucial for the MILF because it involves decommissioning of firearms; very hard to do because guns are part of Moro culture since time immemorial to protect and defend themselves against those that will provoke or hurt them and their families”. “It is also very important as deterrent to criminalities in our localities”.

One of the questions asked by Haji Musa Abubakar, a Medical Technologist from City of Lamitan goes like this, “What would be the guarantee that the plebiscite would be fair and impartial, no coercion especially from the powerful politicians as per our experience in this province?

Mr. Ampao answered, “In shaa Allah it will not happen as local and international election monitors would be present during the plebiscite and oversee the conduct of the plebiscite”.  “It is also one’s duty and responsibility to protect his/her vote as the outcome of the plebiscite is for the general welfare of today’s generation and the generations to come”.

The activity ended at 330PM.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/1384-milf-biaf-114th-base-command-holds-forum-on-bbl-in-lamitan-city

MILF: MILF Political Committee holds Speaker’s Pool Orientation in Maguindanao town

Posted to the MILF Website (Dec 3): MILF Political Committee holds Speaker’s Pool Orientation in Maguindanao town

The MILF Political Committee held ‘Speakers’ Pool Orientation’ on Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) on November 29, 2014 at the PACOMA Multi-purpose Hall in Parang, Maguindanao attended by mixed MNLF-MILF members, traditional leaders, professionals, academicians and women.
  

The activity was aimed at enhancing peace advocacy initiatives of different stakeholders through massive information campaign on the current situation specifically the normalization process and the BBL in support to public hearings being conducted by the Ad hoc Committee of the House of Representative.

Professor Adam Abdula from the Office of the Second Vice Chairman for Political Affairs of the MILF organized the activity supported by Abu Asma, Provincial Director of the Committee on Information of Iranun province.

Mr. Nas Pulindao, Information Officer from the Committee on Information gave inputs on the current situation particularly the Annex on Normalization and the importance of the BBL to the people of Mindanao. He made mention of the decommissioning process to be worked out by an Independent Decommissioning Body. He assured the audience that the aspiration of the Bangsamoro people for right to self-determination, the dawning of peace and development in Moro Homeland can be achieved if all of are determined and shall work hard.

The Bangsamoro Transition Commission - Communication Group (BTC-ComGroup) sent Jude Jaafar to discuss the salient provisions of the BBL. Mr. Jaafar spoke on parliamentary system and cited the example of Japanese Government. Also in the attendance was Haron Salah of BTC, ComGroup.

During the open forum some participants raised their concerns. Former Buldon Sangguniang Bayan member Abdulaziz Ragundo took notice of the importance of a political party as a way of winning majority seats by MILF in the Bangsamoro Parliament.

Commander Indar Carodin of Moro National Liberation Front said that he will exert efforts to strengthen his advocacy campaign for the BBL and support to Bangsamoro.

 Commander Carodin is hopeful that the Bangsamoro Coordination Forum shall become the venue for the unity of the MILF and the MNLF.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/1383-milf-political-committee-holds-speaker’s-pool-orientation-in-maguindanao-town

MILF: MILF-BIAF 115th Base Command members attend UNICEF Orientation on Child Soldier

Posted to the MILF Website (Dec 2): MILF-BIAF 115th Base Command members attend UNICEF Orientation on Child Soldier



Malabang, Lanao del Sur /November 29, 2014 – In compliance with signed Memorandum of Agreement between UN-Philippines and MILF on the issue of “Non-Recruitment and Use of Child Soldiers in Armed Conflict”,” members of the MILF 115th Base Command of the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces, Western Mindanao Front led by its base commander attended a one-day UNICEF orientation on November 29, 2014 at a makeshift tent in the scenic breezy hilltop of Barangay Bantayan,  Pualas, Lanao del Sur overlooking Lake  Lanao on northern side and  Lake Dapao on the southern side. 
   

The whole day action planning activity consisted of four (4) modules was attended by about 500 “Mujahideens”. Madam Shree Nadarajah, UNICEF Child Care Specialist in Mindanao who travelled all the way from their base in Iligan City emphasized that soldiers are ages 18 and below and shall not be recruited, trained and used in armed conflict according to existing laws of the United Nation.

To the applause of the participants, she even extolled the MILF for being the only revolutionary group in the whole world that “signed” the agreement with the UN Philippines. Hence, the inclusion of the MIILF in the blacklisted groups in the Philippines allegedly employing child soldiers is a challenge and must be cleared before the the setting up of the Bangsamoro Government. 
     
Furthermore, the benchmarks of compliance set in the MOA were clearly highlighted by Madam Shree with the appointment of the 115th Chief Administrative Officer Datu Terry Bangbang as Base Focal Officer. 
During the open forum, several questions were raised, one by the Base Civil Military Coordinator Mr. Hezami Amerol on the possible program intervention by MILF hierarchy, which the lecturer from the BDA gladly explained.

The assembly was an indication of the peoples’ overwhelming support for the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) as a solution to their life’s woes, where even civilians took interest in attending and listening to the UNICEF orientation.

The 115th Base Commander Emran AlShura, as a rejoinder and   speaking on behalf of his more than 500 men that attended assured their visitors/lecturers that his base is never known to have recruited child soldiers since then and until now in compliance to U.N. laws.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/1381-milf-biaf-115th-base-command-members-attend-unicef-orientation-on-child-soldier

MILF: BDA conducts Values Transformation Training in Balabagan

Posted to the MILF Website (Dec 2): BDA conducts Values Transformation Training in Balabagan



Balabagan, Lanao Del Sur – A 3-day Seminar-Workshop on Values Transformation was held on November 25-27, 2014 at Barangay Purakan, Balabagan, Lanao Del Sur (Balabagan is within the Iranun Province in the MILF Political Setting). The said training was organized by Bangsamoro Development Agency’s Provincial Catalyst Ustadz Ahmad Hassan and his staff.
  

There were 317 women mostly from the Social Welfare Committee attended the program.

Some members of the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF) under Brigade Commander Zaldy and the Provincial Police Force were visible in the vicinity to secure the venue and environs.

The program was coordinated with the local Philippine National Police (PNP) and the military headed by CPI Jay P. Napolean and Mark Pardo of the 6th Infantry Battalion, respectively who also joined in the program and attentively listened.

BDA Regional Management Office (RMO) Shiek Abdul Rasid Ambil confirmed the participants.

The program was opened with a Quranic reading by Ustadz Junaid Abbas followed by an inspiring message from Municipal Chairman Ben Mangigin who said: “This is truly a very remarkable occasion and part of a very crucial struggle that we Bangsamoro are envisioning for.
A devoted woman who is prepared to correct a western-adopted system that is alien to the Bangsamoro must do it according to Islamic values and teachings, Chairman Mangigin further said.

He also said, “That ‘rido’ or clan feud is our enormous problem affecting our daily lives that we firmly believed that once Bangsamoro is in place, this problem can be resolved, in shaa Allah – so we must do what has been prescribed to us by Islam so that once and for all – we shall become a model for our children and the generations to come”.

He was followed by message of impressions from selected participants.

Abu Asma, Director of Iranun Provincial information Committee gave updates on the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) and other related issues. He began by quoting Malcom X or Hadji Malik Shabaz, a Black American Muslim Leader who once said:

“The future belongs to the people who prepared for it today”.

“This is preparation – remember an old Chinese proverb: “if you want to see the extent of civilization, see the woman” – and whenever, you see a woman who are wearing hijab, clothed like what you are today – no one can deny that these are Muslim women and that is what we want to see. Bangsamoro Women are respected in all aspects…

Aside from the latest updates on the BBL, Abu Asma also mentioned the November 25 Kuala Lumpur special meeting between the GPH and MILF Peace Panels that created the Coordinating Team for Transition (CT4T). The conversion of six (6) formerly MILF major camps into productive communities will not only benefit local folks but also members of the BIAF as well. 

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/1380-bda-conducts-values-transformation-training-in-balabagan

CPP: No NPA threat against Pope Francis—CPP

Propaganda statement posted to the CPP Website (Dec 3): No NPA threat against Pope Francis—CPP

Communist Party of the Philippines

 

The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) today issued the following statement dismissing military claims of an “NPA threat” against Pope Francis who is set to visit the Philippines in January.

The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) categorically denies the preposterous claims made by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that the New People’s Army (NPA) poses a threat to the security of Pope Francis who will be visiting the country in January 2015.

The AFP’s claims, made the other day by its Central Command spokesman, are only meant to justify the deployment of large numbers of troops and the imposition of repressive policies against the people, especially in Samar and Leyte and other areas to be visited by the Pope.

Together with the rest of the Filipino people, the CPP, the NPA and all revolutionary forces look forward to Pope Francis’ visit to the Philippines. Through his visit, the Filipino people hope to draw attention to the outstanding problems of poverty, exploitation of workers, land monopolies and feudal oppression, the wide gap between the super-rich ruling elite and the rest of the toiling people, human rights violations and the widespread use of state terror against the people.

http://www.philippinerevolution.net/statements/20141203_no-npa-threat-against-pope-francis-cpp

MILF assures UNICEF: No more child soldiers

From GMA News (Dec 3): MILF assures UNICEF: No more child soldiers



UNICEF country representative Lotta Sylwander (right) and Moro Islamic Liberation Front first vice-chairman Ghadzali Jaafar swap tokens during a ceremony on the UN-MILF Action Plan on protecting children against recruitment and use in combat. Ferdinandh Cabrera

CAMP DARAPANAN, SULTAN KUDARAT, Maguindanao - The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) is set to make history as the only non-state armed organization seriously exerting all means to remove itself from the United Nations list of armed groups using child soldiers.

 

MILF first vice-chairman Ghadzali Jaafar signified this intention on Tuesday during the orientation of MILF base commanders on the UN-MILF Action Plan on the recruitment and use of children. The event was attended by UNICEF officials and MILF commanders headed by Jaafar.

 

Jaafar said he hopes this will set an example to other armed groups like the New People's Army, Abu Sayyaf, and Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, among others in the country, to respect international children’s rights.

 

“We approved this code of conduct as our sincere effort to show our concern to children’s future, but it was never the policy of the MILF to use children,” he said.

 

Child soldiers have figured in the battlefield, said one MILF element who refused to be identified.

 

He added it is hard to exclude young soldiers who want to join the rebel troops especially when their loved ones or male family members had already sacrificed and there is no one else to continue the struggle.

 

“But now realizing the improvements of the peace talks and the recent developments with the sincerity of the present government, we rather wanted to see young fighters in schools,” he said.

 

“MILF is the only non-state armed group in the whole world attempting to be delisted from the list of armed groups that engage children in armed conflict and this is something very very unique,” UNICEF country representative Lotta Sylwander said.

 

Aside from MILF officials, military commanders and troops also underwent a series of orientation sessions on the Action Plan to ensure that its command structure adheres to international law.

 

740,000 people killed annually

 

Globally, every year, at least 740,000 people die directly or indirectly as a result of armed violence.

 

One third of these deaths can be attributed to armed conflicts in war zones.

 

In the Philippines, it is estimated that around 30,000 to 50,000 children were displaced by armed conflict every year for the past years, of which the majority were in the southern Philippines.

 

The UN-MILF Action Plan is a key component in ensuring that children in situations of armed conflict are protected.

 

Originally signed in 2009, the Action Plan commits the MILF to concrete, time-bound activities pertaining to the prevention of recruitment and use of children as combatants or in supporting roles.

It also commits the MILF to the separation of any children under 18 from the command structure, unimpeded access for UN verification, and awareness raising on child rights and child protection for its military rank and file, as well as for MILF communities.

 

Orientations are currently being carried out across all 31 MILF base commands and seven front commands in Mindanao for Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF) commanders and troops.

 

So far, 4,151 BIAF elements from 26 base commands and four fronts have received these trainings. 

 

At the end of these sessions, MILF front and base commanders publicly commit to ensure that no children are associated with their respective commands, and that if there are cases, these children will be separated from the command structure.

 

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/390825/news/nation/milf-assures-unicef-no-more-child-soldiers

No graduation for Air Force cadets in Batangas hazing incident

From GMA News (Dec 3): No graduation for Air Force cadets in Batangas hazing incident

The Air Force cadets implicated in a hazing incident involving two fellow cadets will not be graduating this month pending the result of the ongoing investigation, Air Force spokesman Lt. Col. Enrico Canaya said Wednesday.

“By simple analysis, since ongoing pa  'yung investigation nila, it is unlikely na makasama sila sa batch nila,” Canaya said.

He said the 21 cadets of the Officer of Candidate School will not march to receive their diplomas this month after they are implicated in a hazing incident last August.

Aside from the cadets, one junior officer who was part of the training program was also implicated.

The 22 were ordered restricted at the Villamor Airbase in Pasay City while undergoing investigation.

Canaya said the cadets will only be allowed to graduate once they are cleared by the investigation.

“If they are not guilty it is possible na sumali sila sa next batch, 'yan 'yung mga possible scenarios dyan,” he said.

Canaya couldn't say when the investigation will be completed. "We cannot anticipate talaga 'yung conclusion ng investigation kung when ma-complete. We do this to make sure that ginagawa natin 'yung tama,” he said.

He said nine of the personnel were recommended to be dismissed from service, while the remaining 13 will undergo preliminary investigation.

The alleged hazing incident, where two cadets ended up in a hospital due to injuries, reportedly occurred during a training in Lipa City in Batangas last August.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/390840/news/nation/no-graduation-for-air-force-cadets-in-batangas-hazing-incident

Duterte wants immunity for Nur Misuari

From Ang Malaya (Dec 3): Duterte wants immunity for Nur Misuari

Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte calls to give Nur Misuari an immunity from charges resulting from Zamboanga siege last year. He added that the Aquino administration should talk to Misuari to prevent another siege.

“We might succeed in convincing everyone to agree on the Bangsamoro, including the courts, but the problem is, what about Misuari,” Duterte said in his weekly TV program few weeks ago.

“I’ve been telling the peace panel ever since, do not forget Misuari. If I were to be there to talk about peace, I would like to include everyone because Misuari, for all of his faults, is still a man to reckon with,” the mayor added.

“I mean, there are enemies that you cannot kill.” Duterte believes that their is no other influential Muslim leader than Misuari.

Nur Misuari remains at large.

http://www.angmalaya.net/nation/2014/12/03/6375-duterte-wants-immunity-for-nur-misuari

AFP gives high importance on human rights, indoctrinates recruits

From Ang Bayan (Dec 3): AFP gives high importance on human rights, indoctrinates recruits

Armed Force of the Philippines shows full support in protecting human rights as National Human Rights Consciousness Week starts December 4.

AFP 7th Civil Relations Group commander Major Emmanuel Garcia says, “The AFP fully supports and cooperates with every government agencies especially the Department of Social Welfare and Development in protecting children particularly those involved in cases of children caught in armed conflict.”

In basic military training, AFP incorporates Human Rights, International Humanitarian Law, Comprehensive Agreement on Respect to Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law and Role of Law.

“The AFP also conducts investigations so that individuals who are guilty of any offense against the people, particularly those involved in tarnishing the image of the AFP will be punished in accordance with our laws. In doing so, we as one people must be circumspect in dealing with the problem and not let the whole organization and the greater number of people suffer because of the mistakes of the few,” Major Garcia said.

http://www.angmalaya.net/nation/2014/12/03/6425-afp-gives-high-importance-on-human-rights-indoctrinates-recruites

Agusanons conduct 'Crusade for Peace'

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 3): Agusanons conduct 'Crusade for Peace'

CAMP JAIME FERRER SR, Maharlika, Bislig City -- Some 100 relatives and friends of massacred civilian of Barangay Marfil, Rosario, Agusan del Sur on November 30, 2014 initiated on Tuesday the “Crusade for Peace.” 

The said crusade was held at the Bus Terminal of San Francisco, Agusan del Sur on December 2, 2014 condemning the atrocities made by the Guerilla Front Committee (GFC) 14 of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New Peoples Army-National Democratic Front (CNN) under Leonida Belarmino Sanches (Aka Susay/Monique).

More or less 500 demonstrators participated by different groups to include the Anti Communist Movement Association (ACMA) led by Tatay Boom, a former front secretary of GFC 21 and a close relative of the massacred victims.  The group also denounced the CNN's activities such as arson, extortions, bombings, ambuscades and lately the killing of four innocent civilians to include the pregnant woman, wounding of four to include an eight year-old child and the barangay chairman of the place.

Ltc Noman Alcovindas, commanding officer of the 75th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army said that the series of atrocities made by the CNN only shows that their existence is already irrelevant.

"Killing of innocent civilians, targeting ambulance and using of Improvised Explosive Device (IED) is a clear violation of CARHRIHL. It only shows that they are already desperate in convincing people to join their cause," he said.

He also believes that the CNN's existence is to sow terror victimizing innocent civilians for their personal interest.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1701417568245/agusanons-conduct-crusade-for-peace-

Kidapawan City LGU, intensifies security measures against possible IED attacks

From the Philippine Information Agency (Dec 3): Kidapawan City LGU, intensifies security measures against possible IED attacks

KIDAPAWAN CITY, North Cotabato -- Local authorities here have initiated target hardening of all business establishments as means of strengthening security measures against Improvised Explosive Device (IED) threats.

City Mayor Joseph Evangelista ordered the move after IED attacks took place in the neighboring municipalities of Pikit, Kabacan and M'lang that recorded fatalities and casualties.

“We are doing this for the safety of everybody here in the city,” Mayor Evangelista said.

Recently, operatives from the City Public Safety Office together with the Explosive Ordnance Unit of the Philippine Army and City PNP did a series of target hardening in several business establishments based here.

Among those who participated were big department stores such as the Gaisano Grand Mall and Sugni Superstore, local banks and fast food chains as well as store owners occupying stalls along the Mega Market and night time barbeque and balut vendors.

The activity taught participants on how to identify IEDs as well as the proper protocol to be observed if and when IEDs are present in their vicinities.

To further educate the participants, Army EOD and PNP brought with them the actual composition of an IED like blasting caps, switches, timing devices, wirings, C4 as well as empty projectiles of Rocket Propelled Grenades and empty shells of 60 mm and 81 mm mortars that are commonly use as ordnance of Improvised Explosive Devices.

With this effort, participants were thankful that they were timely educated as this will add to their vigilance in avoiding  possible IED attacks now  that heavier volume of costumers are expected because of the Christmas Season.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2301417585949/kidapawan-city-lgu-intensifies-security-measures-against-possible-ied-attacks

Army, Militant Groups Plan Separate Rallies on Human Rights Day

From the Negros Daily Bulletin (Dec 3): Army, Militant Groups Plan Separate Rallies on Human Rights Day

The government and militant groups have two separate and simultaneous activities on the celebration of International Human Rights Day on December 10, at 3:00 p.m..

The militant groups composed of KARAPATAN, Bayan Muna, GABRIELA, KADAMAY, Kilusang Mayo Uno, Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (KMP), and a lot more, will have a march rally. They will be in two groups. One group will assemble at the Capitol Lagoon, and the other at Lupit church, then they will converge at the Bacolod Public Plaza. Christian Tuayon of Karapatan also said they have reserved voluminous issues against the administration of Pres. Noynoy Aquino and the military whereby several have been victims of human rights violations.

While on the part of the government, relative to the 10-day peace celebration that will culminate on December 10, there will be march rally also to be staged by multisectoral groups lead by the police and the army, who will converge at the North Capitol Gate.

There are three assembly points. Groups from the south lead by the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) will assemble at the Bacolod City Public Plaza, and will march to Capitol Lagoon. Their route will be from the plaza to Rizal Street, Lacson Street and to the South Capitol Road gate.

The group from central Bacolod lead by the Negros Occidental Provincial Police Office will assemble at the West Negros University and will march through PNP Station 4, Burgos Street, Hilado Street to 6th Street Lacson, to the Capitol Lagoon.

The group coming from the north lead by 303rd Infantry Brigade, Philippine Army, will assemble in front of ABS-CBN. They will pass through Lacson Street, North Capitol Road, then the North Capitol gate. At the convergence area, there will be a program celebrating peace. This is a synchronized nationwide activity accord-ing to TSgt Rolanie Dabi, manager, Radyo Commando.

Aside from the police and army, other participants of the march rally are NGOs, government offices, academe, religious groups and others.

http://ndb-online.com/december0314/army-militant-groups-plan-separate-rallies-human-rights-day

UNICEF orients MILF on recruitment and use of children

From the Manila Times (Dec 3): UNICEF orients MILF on recruitment and use of children

Top representatives of the United Children’s Fund, formerly United Nations International Children Emergency Fund (UNICEF), visited Tuesday Camp Darapanan, the main bastion of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao, for updates on the progress of a UN-MILF Action Plan to eliminate recruitment and use of children.

The estimated 11,000-strong MILF, is currently involved in peace negotiations with the government, as its field lieutenants and troops recently underwent a series of orientation sessions on the Action Plan to ensure that its command structure adheres to international law.

Originally signed in 2009, the Action Plan commits the MILF on the prevention of recruitment and use of children as combatants or in supporting roles, the separation of any children under 18 from the command structure, unimpeded access for UN verification, and awareness raising on child rights and child protection for its military rank and file, as well as for MILF communities.

“UNICEF recognizes armed conflict as a grievous violation on child rights. Children living in conflict areas in the Philippines are among the most vulnerable, and together with its partners, UNICEF is working for all of their rights to be realized and protected,” said UNICEF Philippines Representative Lotta Sylwander.

Prior to peace overture with the government, the MILF, a faction of the mainstream Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) that inked a final peace deal with the government in 1986, had been waging a Moro rebellion for self-determination since the 1970s.

Globally, at least 740,000 people die directly or indirectly because of armed violence every year, the UNICEF said.

UNICEF data also revealed that one-third of such deaths could be attributed to armed conflicts in war zones, with the remainder of violent deaths occurring in lower- and middle-income settings otherwise unaffected by warfare.

In the Philippines, it is estimated that around 30,000 to 50,000 children were displaced by armed conflict ever year for the past years, of which the majority were in the Southern Philippines.

The UN-MILF Action plan is a key component in ensuring that children in situations of armed conflict are protected.

Orientations are currently being carried out across all 31 MILF base commands and seven front commands in preparation for the highly-anticipated entry of the Bangsamoro political entity that would replace the 25-year-old, graft-ridden Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

The Bangsamoro entity forms part of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro inked on March this year between the government and MILF to end the decades-old Moro rebellion in Mindanao.

The orientations focus on setting out the roles and responsibilities of MILF military leadership and rank and file when it comes to preventing and addressing the recruitment and use of children, as well as explaining what the sanctions are if they do not comply.

Such engagements are also used to raise awareness on child protection, including the definition of a child under International Law, grave violations against children, as well as legal frameworks on child protection.

“The UNICEF commends the MILF for its commitment to address this issue and for the steady progress being made in the implementation of the action plan,” Sylwander said.

UNICEF is currently working on 190 countries and territories to translate that commitment into practical action, focusing special effort on reaching the most vulnerable and excluded children.

http://www.manilatimes.net/unicef-orients-milf-on-recruitment-and-use-of-children/146135/

AFP spokesperson Tutaan retires Thursday

From the Manila Times (Dec 3): AFP spokesperson Tutaan retires Thursday

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson, Major Gen. Domingo Tutaan, Jr., will retire from the service Thursday after reaching the mandatory retirement age of 56.

Tutaan, who also holds the position as AFP Internal Auditor, will hand over his post to Col. Restituto Padilla Jr in a simple turnover ceremony at the AFP Grandstand, Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

“In more than a year of service as military spokesperson, Tutaan successfully represented the AFP to the public amid burning issues affecting the military institution,” said AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Gregorio Pio P. Catapang, Jr.

Tutaan used his expertise having served as AFP Human Rights Office chief, in advancing the gains of the military in its adherence to Human Rights, International Humanitarian Law, and Rule of Law.

During his stint, he was also at the center of the AFP’s public affairs campaign during the defense of Zamboanga City, the aftermath of Supertyphoon “Yolanda”, and the Golan Heights stand-off.

He was chosen to represent the AFP by former chief-of-staff Gen. Emmanuel T. Bautista in May 2013 to replace former spokesperson Col. Arnulfo Marcelo B. Burgos, Jr.

Tutaan remained as spokesperson under Catapang.

Bautista, Catapang and Tutaan are members of the Philippine Military Academy “Dimalupig” Class of 1981.

During his 38 years in the military, Tutaan also held important positions in the military, including stints as 1003rd Infantry Brigade chief and AFP Human Rights Office head.

A native of Laguna, Tutaan is a well-decorated officer who received two Outstanding Achievement Medals, four Distinguished Service Stars, nine Bronze Cross Medals, two Gawad sa Kaunlaran Medals, and numerous military merit and commendation medals.

During the turnover ceremony on Thursday, he will also be awarded the Distinguished Service Star and the Gawad sa Kapayapaan for his meritorious and valuable service rendered as the AFP Internal Auditor and Spokesperson, respectively.

“I feel excited in the sense that I completed my tour of duty since I entered the military after my graduation in the Philippine Military Academy until I reach the mandatory retirement age,” Tutaan said.

He also said that his retirement is a nostalgic and bittersweet experience.

“Bitter in the sense that I won’t be wearing my military uniform anymore, sweet because I can now explore life as a civilian,” he added.

A few days before his retirement, Tutaan sees his experience as the AFP spokesperson as a constructive experience.

“The whole time that I was the spokesperson, it was an experience that was very constructive because it helped me develop on the personal level,” Tutaan said.

He also stressed that he gives much importance on the friendship that he developed with the media during his time as the spokesperson and the rest of his over 37 years in the military.

After his retirement on Thursday, Tutaan also revealed that he has plans of joining the private sector and will make use of the knowledge he acquired while in the uniformed service.

“I will draw strength from all the support I am receiving and will bring whatever I learned; the experiences and the best practices; as I venture into a new career in the corporate world,” he said.

http://www.manilatimes.net/breaking_news/afp-spokesperson-tutaan-retires-thursday/

Outrage as 2nd soldier in NPA ambush dies

From the Manila Bulletin (Dec 2): Outrage as 2nd soldier in NPA ambush dies

An indignation rally, led by mostly students, rolled out into the streets of Sagada, Mountain Province yesterday to deplore violence sowed by the New People’s Army (NPA) in the area as news spread that a second soldier wounded in Monday’s rebel ambush had died.

The military announced yesterday the deaths of Privates First Class (PFCs) Moses Ing-inga and Kidja Hancel Onnon, both from army’s 54th Infantry Battalion. Five other troopers wounded in the same ambush staged by the NPA around 10 p.m. Sunday are recuperating at the Bontoc General Hospital in Mountain Province.

The soldiers, it will be recalled, were attacked as they were returning from the three-day Youth Leadership Summit (YLS) at Sagada National High School in Sagada.

Yesterday, 400 students and teachers from Sagada National High School, Antadao National High School, Bangaan National High School and St. Mary High School, all in Sagada, staged a rally in Barangay Poblacion.

Joined by local officials and elders led by Sagada Mayor Eduardo T. Latawan, Jr., they deplored the violent attacks waged by the NPA in the province as the region tries to rise from the influence of insurgency and look forward to peace and progress.

Finch Luna, the Sagada YLS president, said the youth of Sagada were saddened over had what happened to the soldiers who taught them the proper way of reaching out to local folk and strive for genuine peace and development.

http://www.mb.com.ph/outrage-as-2nd-soldier-in-npa-ambush-dies/