Wednesday, April 1, 2015

Mimaropa’s wanted man falls

From Tempo (Mar 31): Mimaropa’s wanted man falls

CALAMBA CITY – Laguna police arrested the third most wanted criminal in Mimaropa (Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, Palawan) region. Supt. Fernando Ortega said they arrested Allan Alarzar, 39, in Barangay Sto. Domingo, Sta. Rosa City, Laguna. around 11 a.m. on Sunday.

Alarzar, allegedly a member of the New People’s Army (NPA), faces three counts of murder in his home province, Oriental Mindoro. Ortega, the police chief of Calamba City, Laguna, is also a resident of Barangay Sto. Domingo, where Alarzar stayed for years as tricycle driver.

Ortega said he learned about the suspect’s real identity through the village officials.

Based on police intelligence records, the suspect was first arrested by government forces during an encounter with communist rebels in Oriental Mindoro in October 2001.

He, however, managed to escape and hide. Ortega said Alarzar was also a suspect in the October 2011 murder of Paquito Umbao, a court employee from Pinamalayan, Oriental Mindoro.

http://www.tempo.com.ph/2015/03/31/mimaropas-wanted-man-falls/

US asked to help citizen tagged as reb backer

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Apr 2): US asked to help citizen tagged as reb backer

BRANDON Lee, a US citizen that militant groups said is being branded as a communist rebel sympathizer because of his work with an Ifugao group      PHOTO FROM FACEBOOK

BRANDON Lee, a US citizen that militant groups said is being branded as a communist rebel sympathizer because of his work with an Ifugao group PHOTO FROM FACEBOOK

BAGUIO CITY – A left-leaning organization has asked the US government, through its embassy in Manila, to protect one of its citizens, whose association with an Ifugao community group has allegedly made him a target for “surveillance, vilification and harassment by the government.”


The Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) said the US government needs to protect Chinese-American Brandon Lee, who married a Filipina and raised a family in Ifugao province, where he works with the Ifugao Peasant Movement (IPM).

Lee is among IPM members and Ifugao human rights workers being accused of supporting the New People’s Army (NPA), the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines, Bayan USA chair Bernadette Ellorin said in a statement.

Citing leaflets being circulated in the Cordillera, Ellorin said: “One of the targets on the recent vilification and harassment campaign…is Lee, one of our community organizers in Bayan USA originally from the Northern California region. We cannot be silent, and we demand an end to the harassment and threats to life and for [the administration] to stop targeting innocent civilians and unarmed organizations.”

The leaflets also identified some IPM members and staff workers, village officials and local people’s organizations in the Ifugao towns of Lagawe and Tinoc as suspected NPA members or supporters.

“Cases like these and that of Melissa Roxas, another US citizen and member of Bayan USA who was abducted and tortured allegedly by government soldiers and eventually released in 2009, remind us that the Philippine government is still corrupt, repressive, malicious, and operates with a level of impunity acknowledged by the United Nations Human Rights Council,” Ellorin said.

The militant Cordillera Peoples Alliance recently launched a campaign urging residents to write letters asking President Aquino and their local officials and various agencies to stop the alleged harassment of human rights workers.
 http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/682914/us-asked-to-help-citizen-tagged-as-reb-backer

Opinion: Most Favored Contractor at DND and PNP?

Opinion piece from Erwin Tulfo in the Manila Times (Mar 31): Most Favored Contractor at DND and PNP?

Apparently, quite a number of President Noynoy’s cronies are still following the trail of the old “crooked path,” particularly at the Department of National Defense (DND).

One crony who is a fixture at Camp Aguinaldo is a contractor called “Jo Magcayle,” who figured in several questionable procurement of defective equipment for the Philippine Army (PA).

Magcayle is reportedly a contractor favored by DND officials in all types of contracts, including the supply of multi-million peso worth of “ready-to-eat” meals for the Army.

In 2010, she is said to have supplied the Army with mortars that turned out to be defective, which resulted in the death of several troopers in Basilan when their mortars failed to fire at the advancing Moro rebels.

Despite supplying the military with defective hardware, “Jo Magcayle” surprisingly has not been disqualified or banned from participating in the bidding for the supply of military equipment.

In 2013, “Jo Magcayle” failed to deliver the much-needed bulletproof vests for Army troopers battling with the loyal supporters of MNLF Commander Nur Misuari during the Zamboanga siege. MNLF snipers killed several soldiers during that weeklong firefight.

The AFP has been demanding for a refund of the money she got for the body undelivered armour, to the tune of over P100 million. However, she reportedly continues to ignore the demands of the General Headquarters or GHQ. Again, she was not given any sanctions by the bids and awards committee.

And last year, she was also involved in the failed bidding for the supply of bulletproof vests for the entire AFP, when her credentials and compliance of documentary requirements were questioned.

To cut the story short, a more deserving contractor won in the bidding.

But guess what, the DND project was scrapped because the funds earmarked for the bulletproof vests were found “missing,” diverted to another project.

This only goes to show that the diversion of public funds, such as the P880 million intended for the shipping of 114 M113 APCs donated by the US government, is common at the DND.

“Jo Magcayle” should be summoned before the Blue Ribbon Committee to explain why she should not be charged in court for delivering defective military equipment, including her failure to deliver much needed hardware for the troops in the war zone.

* * *

Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and his cohorts have found a convenient defense or alibi against an impending Senate inquiry into DND’s anomalous procurement contracts since 2010.

They are saying now that Sen. Chiz Escudero and Sen. JV Ejercito are merely “grandstanding” in pushing for a probe on the DND transactions as part of their 2016 positioning.

Sen. Escudero chairs the Senate Committee on Finance while Sen. Ejercito filed the resolution seeking a Senate investigation into these questionable deals.

Why, these conspirators at Camp Aguinaldo have the guts to accuse the two senators of grandstanding for taking action on the discovery of these DND anomalies.

The purchase of defective UH-1D helicopters and overpriced M113 tanks are but two of many dubious contracts that Gazmin approved.

Instead of giving a flimsy alibi, Gazmin should welcome the Senate investigation as an opportunity to clear his name.

To avoid being labelled as incompetent, the defense secretary must respond to reports alleging that a “son” of his has brokered a number of sweetheart deals that the DND entered into in the past four years.

We would welcome Gazmin’s response or explanation on this issue, which is said to be an “open secret” at Camp Aguinaldo.

The latest of the alleged sweetheart deals is the procurement of 28 overpriced M113 armored personnel carriers (APCs) from Israel for P880 million. It turned out that the M113s were “third-hand,” or used tanks that the United States donated to Belgium, and later sold to Israel.

Gazmin’s son allegedly closed the deal where the DND paid P31.4 million for each of the World War II vintage junks.

The P880 million funds allegedly used for this transaction was originally earmarked for the transportation and refurbishment cost of the 114 M113s donated by the US.

Department of Budget and Management officials must also explain why it allowed the diversion of funds (not a US grant as earlier reported) for this questionable procurement. The money could have been used instead for the shipment of the 114 APCs given free by the US.

The broker who pushed this juicy DND deal must be very influential.

Who would laugh at a kickback of P88 million (10 percent of P880 million)?

I don’t think Sen. Escudero and Sen. Ejercito will see this gross abuse of discretion and technical malversation by DND officials as a laughing matter.

etulfo2011@yahoo.com

http://www.manilatimes.net/most-favored-contractor-at-dnd-and-afp/173197/

PNP says Koreans in Zambo new target of Abu Sayyaf

From the Zamboanga Today (Mar 31): PNP says Koreans in Zambo new target of Abu Sayyaf

The Zamboanga City local police is tightening security on Korean nationals in the city due threats of abduction and kidnapping from terrorist groups and criminal elements.
 
This after receiving reports that Korean nationals are the latest targets for kidnapping and other related illegal activities from the Abu Sayyaf group.
 
Zamboanga City Police Office City Director Sr. Supt. Angelito Casimiro said that target hardening on Korean nationals is being made following abduction incidents involving Koreans in Lanao del Norte and Zamboanga Sibugay. 
 
The police is currently engaging the Korean community in Zamboanga to enforce strict security measures. 
 
Majority of Korean nationals in the city are engaged in business activities.
 
Local police is reportedly focusing its security efforts on a school owned by Koreans in the Limpapa area due to its distance from the city proper.
 
There is reportedly no mobile signal in the area and the nearest security checkpoint is one kilometer away.
 
Based on police records, there are reportedly nine Korean families in Zamboanga city composed of 23 individuals.
 
The Zamboanga police however is still obtaining information from the Bureau of Immigration and Deportation on the current number of Korean nationals in the city of Zamboanga in line with their target hardening efforts. At present, there has still been no reply from the Bureau of Immigration, Casimiro said.
 
Meanwhile, the police has also established a direct link with consul officials from Korea to directly engage their officials on the situation.
 
“We are trying to do our best to give information to the Consul directly,” Casimiro said.
 

FBI says one of its 'most wanted terrorists' has been confirmed dead in the Philippines

From the Daily Mail (Apr 2): FBI says one of its 'most wanted terrorists' has been confirmed dead in the Philippines
  • FBI said on Wednesday it has confirmed that Zulkifli bin Hir is dead
  • Was a member of the Al Qaeda-linked Jemaah Islamiah militant group
  • Bin Hir thought to be behind numerous bombing attacks in the Philippines
  • He trained as an engineer in United States and there was a $5M reward 
  • No longer appears on the Most Wanted Terrorist list on the FBI's website 
 
The Federal Bureau of Investigation has confirmed one of its 'most wanted terrorists' was killed in a raid in the Philippines in January.

The FBI said on Wednesday that Zulkifli bin Hir, a Malaysian member of the Al Qaeda-linked Jemaah Islamiah militant group, is dead. 

The reward offered by the US State Department for the arrest of bin Hir, who was believed to be  behind numerous bombing attacks in the Philippines, was $5million.

Bin Hir was born 1966 in Muar, Johor, according to his profile at the National Counterterroism Center

It continues: 'An engineer trained in the United States, he is believed to be the head of the Kumpulun Mujahidin Malaysia terrorist organization and a member of Jemaah Islamiyah's central command. 

'Since August 2003, he has been present in the Philippines, where he is believed to have conducted bomb-making training for the Abu Sayyaf Group.'

Bin Hir no longer appears on the Most Wanted Terrorist list on the FBI's website. 

Investigators said they had a difficult time confirming bin Hir's death because he was killed in a gruesome raid that went awry and left 44 police commandos dead.

Previously, the FBI reported that it had identified body matter at the scene that it believed belonged to Hir because of a DNA link between the matter and one of his siblings.

Three years ago, the Philippine military reported bin Hir died in an air strike, but he surfaced again last year in Mindanao under protection of a Moro Islamic Liberation Front splinter group.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3022145/FBI-confirms-one-wanted-terrorists-dead-Philippines.html

Nabbed BIFF financier is not ours, says spokesman

From the pro-CPP Davao Today (Apr 1): Nabbed BIFF financier is not ours, says spokesman

The breakaway Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighter said there is no truth to the military’s claim that Abdulayman Pagao who was arrested in Cotabato City last Monday evening was their financier.

BIFF spokesman Abu Misry Mama said Agdulgani Esmael Pagao, alias Abdulayman Pagao was “not even our supporter.”

Citing military intelligence sources,  Capt. Joann Petinglay, Army’s 6th ID spokesperson in Maguindanao said Pagao has been identified to funnel funds to  BIFF which led to his arrest in his residence at Campo Muslim in Barangay Mother Bagua in Cotabato City.

“The operation was conducted by the combined elements of 5th Special Forces Battalion, Intelligence Support Group, Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, 6th Military Intelligence Group, 1st Mechanized Infantry Battalion, JSOU1, and Cotabato City Police Office,” said Petinglay.

Pagao’s arrest was by virtue of a search warrant issued last March 30 by Judge Bansawan Z. Ibrahim, according to Petinglay.

For Mama, Pagao’s arrest would not affect their group’s activities because “he has nothing to do with us.”

http://davaotoday.com/main/politics/nabbed-biff-financier-is-not-ours-says-spokesman/

MNLF: Arrested imam not a BIFF member

From the Philippine Star (Apr 1): MNLF: Arrested imam not a BIFF member

The Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) on Wednesday urged Malacañang to further investigate Imam Abdulgani Esmael Pagao, convinced he has no links with the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF).

Former Cotabato City Mayor Muslimin Sema, chair of the most politically active and largest faction in the MNLF, said while Pagao had indeed studied Islamic theology and even worked in Libya, he had never been actively involved in Moro secessionist activities.

“He had not even experienced actual combat in any part of Mindanao,” Sema said.

Pagao was arrested in Barangay Bagua in Cotabato City Sunday night by combined Army and police operatives based on a warrant issued by a local judge, Bansawan Ibrahim.

Armed Forces chief Lt. Gregorio Pio Catapang had said Pagao is a member of the BIFF and had managed to escape from Maguindanao during the military’s extensive operation against the group in weeks past.

A big bulk of the MNLF forces loyal to Sema are scattered in Central Mindanao, particularly in the neighboring North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, South Cotabato, Sarangani and Sultan Kudarat provinces.

The MNLF signed a peace deal with government on Sept. 2, 1996, after more than a decade of talks brokered by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, a block of more than 50 Muslim states, including petroleum-exporting countries in the Middle East and North Africa.

Sema said all they want is for President Benigno Aquino III to order the Philippine National Police and the Armed Forces to validate Pagao’s alleged connections with the BIFF.

“He has just been in Cotabato City all these years,” Sema said.

A senior official of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, who asked not to be identified, said Pagao was virtually a mendicant, who survived on food donations and small amounts of cash, as sadakah (charity), from benefactors.

“I was amazed when I heard he was arrested in Barangay Bagua last Sunday night for being a member of the BIFF,” the ARMM official said.

The source, who is a member of the regional cabinet of ARMM Gov. Mujiv Hataman, said what could have fanned suspicions on the real personality of Pagao was his having worked as domestic helper in one of the presidential offices during the time of Libyan strongman Muammar Gaddafi.

“These are the kind of arrests of Muslim religious leaders that can create cracks in the cordiality of the Moro-Malacañang peace initiatives. Hopefully President Aquino could look into this,” Sema said.

http://www.philstar.com/nation/2015/04/01/1439871/mnlf-arrested-imam-not-biff-member

Gunmen abduct, kill Davao City woman believed to be a military informant

From GMA News (Mar31): Gunmen abduct, kill Davao City woman believed to be a military informant

Suspects, who identified themselves as New People's Army gunmen, on Monday abducted and killed a Davao City woman they believed to be a military informant.

GMA Davao identified the victim as Bitche Navales, who was abducted from her home in Barangay Dominga, Calinan district, Davao City and was shot to death minutes later.



"Mga 8 a.m., dinala si Bitche ng tatlong armado [na suspect]. Dinala siya sa malayong lugar, siguro mga pagkatapos ng 30 minutes, nakarinig ng pagputok ang mga residente. Mga tatlong putok," said Chief Inspector Randy Sambalod, chief of the Calinan police.

The suspects were armed with two M-16 rifles and an M-14 rifle. One of the gunmen introduced himself as Jojo.

Recovered from the crime scene was a letter, supposedly from the NPA's Pulang Bagani First Battalion, that accused the victim of being an informant.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/462390/news/regions/gunmen-abduct-kill-davao-city-woman-believed-to-be-a-military-informant

Armed men fail to kidnap bakery owner, snatch 3 kids as ‘human shields’ in Zamboanga del Sur

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Apr 1): Armed men fail to kidnap bakery owner, snatch 3 kids as ‘human shields’ in Zamboanga del Sur

Unidentified armed men snatched three minors as they tried to evade policemen after they failed in an attempt to kidnap a bakery owner in Pitogo, Zamboanga del Sur, on Tuesday, a police official said Wednesday.

Senior Supt. Cleve Taboso, operations officer of the Western Mindanao police office, said the victims were used as human shields and had not been released since.

The Philippine Daily Inquirer is withholding the victims’ names in compliance with the law that keeps confidential the identities of minor-aged victims of crimes.

Taboso said at least 10-armed men arrived onboard motorized bancas at the port near the public market of Pitogo and tried to snatch bakery owner Chzarenia Kapa Sajulga around 5:30 p.m.

The men, armed with high-powered firearms, failed to snatch the bakery owner after she was able to run inside her establishment and locked herself in, he said.

Taboso said the armed men fired on the door knob of the victim’s building but could still not get in.

“The suspects returned to their pump boats without their target. As they were withdrawing, they encountered cops from the Pitogo Police Station. 

They exchanged gunfire, prompting the suspects to drag three minors, who happened to pass by the area,” Taboso said.

“The three children were not the direct target of abduction, it was the bakeshop owner,” Taboso added.

The kidnappers then shoved the victims into the motorboats and sailed toward a still unknown area.

Authorities, Taboso said, were continuing the search for and possible rescue of the three minors, as of Wednesday.

He said authorities could not say if the kidnappers were Abu Sayyaf bandits.

In this city, the police said they have strengthened security for about two dozen Korean citizens living here over fears they were being targeted for kidnapping.

Senior Supt. Angelito Casimiro, the city police director, said the fears were also aired by Korean attaches Dae Hee Kim and Yong Jeung Park, who separately visited him on March 17 and March 25 respectively.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/682901/armed-men-fail-to-kidnap-bakery-owner-snatch-3-kids-as-human-shields-in-zamboanga-del-sur

MILF: Editorial -- So much bigotry, distortion re: BBL

Editorial posted to the MILF Website (Apr 1): So much bigotry, distortion re: BBL

There is very little chance for this country to become a better place to live-in. Everything is practically defined if not defiled by politics. Nothing good is done by its president.  Everything he or she does is suspect and almost always the negative side is given more emphasis than the positive. The practice of called democracy has given way to anarchism.       

Even the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) is not spared from these vicious attacks. There is so much appalling bigotry and willful distortion attached to it. Many if not most of the negative comments on the BBL are borne out of ignorance of the proposed law and innate hatred for the Moros and the MILF. For instance, many people including few lawmakers are against the establishment of offices on auditing, election, human rights, and civil service in the Bangsamoro, saying that those are unconstitutional because they are constitutional bodies enshrined in the 1987 Philippine Constitution which only exist in the national government. They fail or refuse to understand or they did not read the BBL very well that the BBL does not seek to establish these constitutional bodies in the Bangsamoro but merely offices which are part of these national bodies. They are like the regional offices of these constitutional bodies established in the twelve administrative regions throughout this country. The only difference is that because of the asymmetrical character of the proposed Bangsamoro Government, there are special features in their functions of these offices that suit a ministerial system of governance.

Also the funding, policing, and the justice system for the Bangsamoro Government are questioned bitterly, so much so that if their wish is given way, the result would be “autonomy” lesser in power and scope than the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). Do we think the MILF will agree to settle to a diluted BBL?

There is also another wild claim by one member of Congress who said that the BBL and the Bangsamoro Government are for the MILF. This is a gross misrepresentation, because the BBL and Bangsamoro Government are for the peoples of the proposed political entity. The MILF is only up to the establishment of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA), which it leads and this is only for one year. The one who will take the rein of government will be determined by elections.

The irony of all ironies is that these anti-BBL forces are not ordinary mortals. Many of them are educated in the best universities in the world. But if one looks at how they argued, it is as if they have never attended school at all. They are not only emotional but their discourses are full of biases, hatred, and prejudices.

But despite all of this bad publicity, we are optimistic the BBL will pass Congress. We believe that Congress as a body is made up of honorable gentlemen and ladies who have wisdom, foresight, and experience that it is the national interest of this country to solve the Bangsamoro Problem now --- not later. We also believe that the leaderships in both Houses are committed to peace and the resolution of the conflict in Mindanao.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/editorial/item/826-so-much-bigotry-distortion-re-bbl

MILF: AHDSi, TAF conduct writeshop on BBL advocacy

Posted to the MILF Website (Apr 1): AHDSi, TAF conduct writeshop on BBL advocacy

With the objectives to come-up with a uniform community-based advocacy materials for the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL), the Al-Amanah Humanitarian Development Services Incorporated (AHDSi) in partnership with The Asia Foundation (TAF) recently conducted a writeshop on BBL advocacy at the Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA) – Training Center.

Increasing level of awareness on the importance of passing the BBL in grassroots areas particularly conflict-affected areas is the target of the group in their advocacy programs.

A great number of participants coming from different non-government organizations (NGOs) joined the said activity.

Aimed to provide a unified message to the ground, part of the write shop is also to provide Information, Education and Communication (IEC) materials that can be easily understood by the community.

The output of the write shop shall be presented to the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) for their consideration.

AHDSi, the agency that conducted the activity is an organization committed to assist and provide capacitation to the Bangsamoro men, women and children to address the impacts of violent conflicts due to the unjust and immoral annexation of Mindanao and widespread poverty, in spite of the abundant resources it has.

Given the current situation that the BBL faces now, the organization believes that peace is still possible and that BBL is the key to lasting peace in the Bangsamoro.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/825-ahdsi-taf-conduct-writeshop-on-bbl-advocacy

MILF; Sarangani Tribal Chief: BBL can bring development to the Bangsamoro people

Posted to the MILF Website (Mar 31): Sarangani Tribal Chief: BBL can bring development to the Bangsamoro people

Sarangani Tribal Chief: BBL can bring development to the Bangsamoro people

The Provincial Tribal Chieftain of Sarangani looks forward that Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) could bring development to the Bangsamoro people.

“If the BBL will be enacted and implemented, it can bring goodness to the Bangsamoro people.” Edmund Pangilan, Provincial Tribal Chieftain of Sarangani Province, said in an interview.

Pangilan, together with other municipal tribal leaders of the towns of Sarangani were present during the Provincial Peace Forum organized by Sulong Sarangani, a flagship program of the Office of the Provincial Governor, on March 31, 2015 at the provincial gymnasium.

The tribal chief however commented on the less information drive about the BBL in the grassroots level.

“There are many people in our communities which are not reached by information about this basic law,” he disclosed.

Pangilan suggests that both parties should dwell on educating more communities “so that more people will understand the BBL.”

He added, “There may be provisions of the BBL which the lawmakers see as unconstitutional.” “Those needs to be ironed out first,” he said.

The BBL is now in the House of Representatives and Senate for deliberation and is expected to be passed into law by June this year.

Hearings for the BBL were stalled after the Mamasapano clash on January 25, 2015 where 44 members of Special Action Force were killed in an armed confrontation with the Moro rebels and other armed groups.

During the open forum, Pangilan raised the question on what will happen to the Indigenous Peoples (IPs) in the areas covered by the Bangsamoro territory.

Government Peace Panel Chair Miriam Coronel-Ferrer said the rights of the IPs will be respected under the Bangsamoro. She said that the IPs can participate politically having reserve seats in the Bangsamoro parliament.

More than a hundred IP, Muslim and Christian constituents of Sarangani from different sectors joined the peace forum. Members of the Local and International Monitoring Team were presents. 

Representatives from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and some leaders of the Moro National Liberation Front also participated in the gathering.

Ferrer and GPH Peace Panel Member Senen Bacani were the resource speakers of the forum. The two explained the roadmap towards the establishment of the Bangsamoro government.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/824-sarangani-tribal-chief-bbl-can-bring-development-to-the-bangsamoro-people

MILF: TIYAKAP KAWAGIB -BCJP holds Community-based Human Rights Defenders Training Workshop

Posted to the MILF Website (Mar 31): TIYAKAP KAWAGIB -BCJP holds Community-based Human Rights Defenders Training Workshop

TIYAKAP KAWAGIB -BCJP holds Community-based Human Rights Defenders Training Workshop

Residents of Nuro, Upi, Magundanao composed of Bangsamoro, Christian settlers and Indigineous Peoples (IPs) have participated in a Training Workshop on Safety and Security organized by TIYAKAP KAWAGIB of the Bangsamoro Center for Just Peace (TK-BCJP) in partnership with the Alliance of Peace Advocates Inc. (APAI) at the Upi Municipal Hall last March 28.

The training seeks to discuss existing issues and concerns that the community has been experiencing so that they will be enlightened and empowered in combatting issues on human rights  that would possibly affect their security and rigths as human beings.

Engineer Tungko Tadtagan, BCJP Executive Director said, “that the training is very informative, educational and the participants are very participative and cooperative.

“Once the community knows their rights as human beings they will defend those rights in accordance with law”, Tagtagan also said.

“The training taught the participants in documenting issues particularly issue that involves human rights and undertake appropriate actions after documenting  those issues.” Tadtagan added.

Honorable Wilfredo Ibanez, Municipal Councilor and a focal person of TIYAKAP KAWAGIB (TK) voluteers of Upi thanked the people who are in attendance and those who helped in the realization of the said event.

“The training is a stepping stone towards more organized and well-trained human rights defenders of Upi town.” said Ibanez.

“We as human rights defenders will make history in defending human rights issues and violations here in Upi.” he added.

Abdulbasit Benito of Mindanao Peoples Caucus (MPC) expressed his appreciation to the dedication and determination of the people of the community who have been advocating and working on human rights issues, upholding and defending the rights of people as humans especially the marginalized one.

 “Occurence of human rights violations (HRVs) does not only happen when there is conflict or during war. Violations of the rights of humans are rampant everywhere even in the absence of war and conflict.” said Benito.

“He further stressed that there are several undocumented HRVs everywhere and it is a challenge to each and every human rights defender-volunteer and groups to organize more people and devoted volunteers working for human rights issues.”

Human rights are very sensitive issues that need more focus and concentrations. The community  should participate by reporting issues of violations of the rights of each and every people because the sustainability of HRV cases lies in a firmed and strong determination of complainants and support from the HR organizations.

Participants have undergone series of trainors trainings on Basic Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Human Rights Documentation, Para legal work, International Humanitarian Law,  Disaster Risk Reduction and Preparednes and the last training is the safety and security of human rights defenders.

Task Force Tiyakap Kawagib was formed to monitor not only HRVs but natural clamities as well. Task Force Tiyakap Kawagib Officers are as follows; Pres. Mr. Emilio F Deňo; Vice Pres. Mr. Manganduga Asab; Secretary, Caroline Love T. Magbanua; Treasurer, Mercy Librada; Auditor, Fatima Lidadasan; P.I.O, Janetah Mamek; Bus. Manager,  Mr. Franklin Paloma, Sr. and Bai Zuhiera S. Kanakan.

http://www.luwaran.com/index.php/welcome/item/823-tiyakap-kawagib-bcjp-holds-community-based-human-rights-defenders-training-workshop

First China air force drills in ‘far offshore’ Pacific

From the Business World (Mar 31): First China air force drills in ‘far offshore’ Pacific

CHINA’S AIR force has carried out its first ever military drill over the western Pacific Ocean, state media said, highlighting Beijing’s growing military reach.



Several aircraft from China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) on Monday flew over the ocean via the Bashi Channel, which runs between Taiwan and the Philippines, the official Xinhua news agency said.

“This is the first time that the PLA Air Force conducted such drills in an airspace far offshore from Chinese coastlines,” Xinhua cited army spokesman Shen Jinke as saying.

The drill aimed to “level up the PLA Air Force’s mobility and combativeness” over the “high seas”, Xinhua reported.

Territorial tensions have increased in recent years between Beijing and its neighbours around the South China Sea -- which it claims almost in its entirety.

Beijing has also been building up its military reach in recent years, with its first aircraft carrier going into service in 2012.

China announced an ‘Air Defence Identification Zone’ (ADIZ) over the East China Sea in 2013, sparking condemnation from Japan and the United States.

Japanese media have reported that China is considering a similar zone over the South China Sea, which would be likely to further fan tensions in the region.

China has increased its military budget by double digit amounts for several decades, but says the spending is purely defensive and not aimed at other countries.

Several southeast Asian nations as well as Japan have boosted their defence budgets and ties with the US, in moves widely seen as reflecting fears about China.

The Bashi channel is a waterway between the Philippines’ northernmost province of Batanes and Taiwan’s Orchid island. Its ownership is disputed.

“The drill is not targeted at any certain country or targets and carries no threat against other countries and regions,” Xinhua cited Shen as saying.

http://www.bworldonline.com/content.php?section=Beyond&title=first-china-air-force-drills-in-far-offshore-pacific&id=105355

Army officer wants to name new camp in Castilla, Sorsogon after Senator Chiz’s father; pending at town council

From the pro-CPP Bicol Today (Mar 31): Army officer wants to name new camp in Castilla, Sorsogon after Senator Chiz’s father; pending at town council

The on-going construction of 903rd Infantry Brigade Headquarters at the 2-hectare lot in Barangay San Rafael, Castilla, Sorsogon amounting to P25 million implemented by DPWH. BICOLTODAY.COM PHOTO

The on-going construction of 903rd Infantry Brigade Headquarters at the 2-hectare lot in Barangay San Rafael, Castilla, Sorsogon amounting to P25 million implemented by DPWH. BICOLTODAY.COM PHOTO
 
CASTILLA, Sorsogon — Less than a year in his post as Brigade Commander of the 903rd Infantry Brigade, the indebtedness of Colonel Cesar Idio to the family of Senator Francis Escudero was clearer as perceived, after he wrote Mayor Olive Bermillo of this town that the programmed construction of the infantry brigade headquarters in San Rafael be named as Camp Salvador H Escudero III.
 
The February 23, 2015 letter was forwarded to the Sanggunian Bayan for consideration on March 18.

Colonel Idio letter contends that “the aforesaid project is made possible through the goodwill and support of Senator Francis Joseph “Chiz” Escudero by sourcing the fund requirement and by providing assistance in facilitating the titling of the two hectare-lot in the name of the Philippine Army.”

He recognizes the invaluable support of Senator Chiz Escudero that “particularly in providing a decent headquarters with decent and sufficient billeting facilities for the 903rd Infantry Brigade, made him to recommend that the brigade camp be named after the late father of the Senator, to read: Camp Salvador H Escudero III.”

Arguing that “to name the camp after the late Salvador H Escudero III is a fitting tribute to his invaluable contribution to the peace, development and unity in Sorsogon province, which re-inforced by the benevolence and support to the 903rd Inf Bde/ PA of his son Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero.

The on-going construction of 903rd Infantry Brigade Headquarters at the 2-hectare lot in Barangay San Rafael, Castilla, Sorsogon amounting to P25 million implemented by DPWH. BICOLTODAY.COM PHOTO
The on-going construction of 903rd Infantry Brigade Headquarters at the 2-hectare lot in Barangay San Rafael, Castilla, Sorsogon amounting to P25 million implemented by DPWH. BICOLTODAY.COM PHOTO

The municipal council in session Monday deferred the committee report of Councilor Pepito Gapido after he failed to satisfy the inquiries of the body as to his research, resource person invited in the committee level.

Gapido admitted that it was only the executive officer of the infantry brigade who attended the hearing.

He was also unaware that there are sons of their town who served the Armed Forces of the Philippines gallantly as in the case of Eustaquio Granadillos Jr. and the gallant names of Sorsogon guerilla’s of World War II never given credit of their services to the Castilla and the province of Sorsogon.

Councilor Salome Marantal said that the parameters stated in Idio’s letter should not be taken as it is.

She said that AFP guidelines for the requirements in naming military camps should be researched, adding that the National Historical Institute imposed a ten-year period after the death of person before the usage of the name to a landmark.

When requested for an interview, Councilor Gapido instead holed out at the administrator’s office.

http://bicoltoday.com/2015/03/31/army-officer-wants-to-name-new-camp-in-castilla-sorsogon-after-senator-chizs-father-pending-at-town-council/

Army Artillery Regiment stages 'Via Crucis'

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 1): Army Artillery Regiment stages 'Via Crucis'

As part of its Holy Week commemoration, the Nueva Ecija-based Army Artillery Regiment (AAR) staged its own version of the "Via Crucis" or Station of the Cross, AAR spokesperson Maj. Rosa Ma. Christina Rosete-Manuel said in a statement on Wednesday.

She said that artillery officers and enlisted personnel along with their dependents and some civilians joined in the "Via Crucis" which was staged at the AAR compound at Fort Magsaysay at 2 p.m. on Palm Sunday, March 29.

“This is a narration of the final hours in the life of Jesus Christ on earth that continues to provide spiritual conviction for every Christian and application to the lives of our soldiers,” AAR military chaplain Capt. Ferdinand H. Abuyan said.

“Likewise, the 'Via Crucis' serves as a stark reminder to our soldiers of the humble manner in which Jesus was willing to set aside any privilege of deity in order to provide a path to salvation through His sacrifices," he added.

Meanwhile, AAR head Brig. Gen. Leandro A. Loyao III said the activity was part of the yearly program of his unit.

“We consider the spiritual needs of our soldiers and this season of Lent is the time where we can also renew our commitment in serving the people and internalize discipline through various ways of fasting –- from all excesses and desires as a human being,” he added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=749638

AFP places all units in Luzon on 'red alert' for 'Chedeng'

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 1): AFP places all units in Luzon on 'red alert' for 'Chedeng'

Effective 1 p.m. Wednesday, all units of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in Luzon were placed on "red alert" in anticipation of the entry of typhoon "Chedeng" over Northern Luzon.

The units now on "red alert" are the AFP’s Northern Luzon Command, Southern Luzon Command, Central Luzon Command and Joint Task Force National Capital Region, AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang said.

All other Unified Commands of AFP are on "blue alert" as “Chedeng” is expected to enter Philippine Area of Responsibility by evening of Wednesday or early morning Thursday according to Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

Catapang said the "red alert" status is in connection with the declaration made by National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council Wednesday morning.

The disaster response operations teams under the aforementioned major units were placed on standby to support the local government and the office of the Civil Defense for possible humanitarian and disaster relief missions in calamity-affected areas.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=749693

1970-2001 Mindanao war cost PhP2.013 trillion in economic losses (Special Report)

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 1): 1970-2001 Mindanao war cost PhP2.013 trillion in economic losses (Special Report)

The Mindanao war cost the Philippine government a staggering PhP2.013 trillion during the 31-year period from 1970 to 2001, an amount nearly equivalent to the PhP2.606 trillion 2015 national budget!

This was disclosed by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) based on the data it gathered from various sources, including the World Bank (WB).

The government spent some PhP73 billion to finance government forces in combat operations against the secessionist Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) from 1970 to 1996.

The years of fighting had killed nearly 120,000 people, excluding the tens of thousands of wounded from both sides and civilians caught in the crossfire. It was a bloody conventional warfare as the MNLF forces directly attacked military camps and installations.

Fifty percent of the casualties were MNLF while the military sustained 30 percent and civilians 20 percent killed during the period.

In terms of social welfare disruption, 982,000 were displaced during the 2000 all-out war.

Some of these battles were witnessed by defense reporters at that time, including this writer and Alex Allan of the now defunct Philippine Daily Express in the late 1970s.

One of the fiercest fighting happened in Jolo, Sulu in the first half of February 1974 when MNLF rebels attacked and burned the provincial capital and occupied it for days before they were driven out by government forces, particularly the 14th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army commanded by then Col. Salvador M. Mison.

The war ended when the Philippine government and MNLF signed the historic peace agreement on Sept. 2, 1996 during the administration of President Fidel V. Ramos.

But the 1996 peace accord was disrupted when the breakaway group Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) protested the signing and continued its war with the government.

A ceasefire was signed in 1997 but this did not last long when a new administration under President Joseph Estrada declared an all-out war against the MILF in the summer of 2000 after the rebels launched several attacks on military and civilian population.

After three months of fighting, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) captured practically all the 49 MILF camps in various parts of Mindanao and forced the rebels to withdraw.

The cost of the all-out war in 2000 that lasted for three months, more or less, was an enormous PhP1.3 billion in military operations.

In addition, the county incurred economic losses amounting to a staggering PhP640 billion or PhP20 billion per year from 1970 to 2001 in terms of damages to businesses and properties, potential investments and businesses in the region had there been better security (no war).”

While the war was won by the AFP, the fighting had not stopped as the MILF forces continued its armed struggle.

It was only during the time of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo that peace talks between the government and the MILF resumed sometime in 2004.

However, fighting erupted anew in 2008 when the controversial Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain (MOA-AD) about to be signed was declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court.

The renewed fighting had displaced some 600,000 people.

It was only in 2009 that the peace process reopened during the remaining six months of the Arroyo government and was pursued by a new administration under President Benigno S. Aquino III in 2010 that resulted in the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on Bangsamoro (CAB) between the government and MILF on March 27, 2014.

Under the agreement, the MILF would turn over their firearms to a third party, which would be selected by the rebels and the Philippine government. The MILF has agreed to decommission its armed wing, the Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF). In return, the government will establish an autonomous Bangsamoro.

The Aquino government is now asking Congress for the passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL), the legal instrument that will operationalize the agreements as contained in the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro signed on Oct. 15, 2012 and its annexes.

Once enacted by Congress, the BBL shall undergo a process of popular ratification by the qualified voters in the proposed core territory.

However, the BBL has suffered a setback following the bloody Mamapasano incident that killed 44 police commandos of the Special Action Force (SAF) of the Philippine National Police (PNP) tasked to serve a warrant of arrest for wanted international terrorists Zulkifli bin Hir, alias Marwan, in Mamasapano, Maguindanao last Jan. 25.

OPAPP is still hoping the controversial measure will be passed by Congress to end the long-drawn armed conflict in southern Philippines.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=749771

2 NPA rebels bagged during extortion attempt in Camarines Norte

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 1): 2 NPA rebels bagged during extortion attempt in Camarines Norte

The Southern Luzon Command reported on Wednesday that joint military and police operatives arrested two New People's Army (NPA) rebels during an extortion attempt in Barangay V, Labo, Camarines Norte Tuesday morning.

Southern Luzon Command spokesperson Major Angelo Guzman saidthe two were identified as Hipolito Castro Despacio, 50, a resident of P-1, Barangay Malaya, Labo, Camarines Norte, and Carmelo Ebora Sicad, 35, of Barangay Mansilay, Tagkawayan, Quezon.

Two .38 caliber pistols, two hand grenades and PhP2,000 in cash were seized from their possession.

Accordingly, they identified themselves as NPA members while conducting their extortion activities.

"The cooperation of the CamNorteños in informing the authorities of this extortion activity is a manifestation of their commitment to live in a peaceful community," Southern Luzon Command head Major Gen. Ricardo R. Visaya said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=749839

'Chedeng' cancels Southern Luzon Command Lenten break

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 1): 'Chedeng' cancels Southern Luzon Command Lenten break

With the expected arrival of Typhoon "Chedeng" at the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) Thursday, the Southern Luzon Command has cancelled its Lenten break and placed all its units in "red alert" for possible disaster relief measures.

SOLCOM was supposed to go on a Holy Week break effective 7 a.m. April 2 to 6 a.m. April 6.

"The red alert status was declared because of the potential effects Typhoon 'Maysak' (Chedeng) might bring to the region," said Southern Luzon Command Chief Major General Ricardo R. Visaya.

Though weather forecasts indicate that the eye of the typhoon will not directly hit Southern Luzon, all disaster response operations units were activated and ordered to take all necessary preparations to address the worst possible effects.

All units were also directed to establish coordination with disaster risk reduction and management councils at all levels, local government units and other partner agencies to enhance the Armed Forces of the Philippines' response capability.

"Our focus right now is on our mandate in humanitarian assistance and disaster response," Visaya stressed.

"Our soldiers can avail of leaves after the typhoon, when everything is back to normal. Every soldier in SOLCOM is professional to understand this," he added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=749844

C-295 to serve PAF a minimum of 20 years

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 31): C-295 to serve PAF a minimum of 20 years

Barring any mishaps, the brand-new Airbus Military C-295 medium transport aircraft, of which one was commissioned on March 30, can serve the Philippine Air Force (PAF) for a minimum of 20 years.

"That's the main advantage of acquiring a brand-new aircraft," PAF spokesperson Lt. Col. Enrico Canaya said in an interview with the PNA.

Aside from this, parts and maintenance services of new planes are much easier as it is still undergoing production.

Another advantage is that they can be upgraded or modified much easier than older planes.

Canaya also said that another 15 years can be added to the life cycle of C-295 once the PAF decides to place the aircraft in SLEP (service life extension program).

The PAF has an existing order for three C-295s at Airbus Military.

The contract is worth Php5.29 billion. It was signed last year.

Training for the first batch composed of four PAF pilots and 24 maintenance crew was done in Seville, Spain and was completed last March 10.

"Succeeding training for pilots will continue this year in anticipation of the delivery of two more C-295s," Canaya stressed.

The first C-295 arrived at Clark Air Base, Pampanga in the afternoon of March 22.

Its arrival is five months earlier than the scheduled August delivery date.

The two remaining planes are expected to be delivered in the last quarter of 2015.

The C-295 is categorized as medium lift aircraft equivalent to the Fokker F-27 aircraft being maintained by the 220th Airlift Wing, the C-295s have rear ramp door similar to that of the C-130s for easier access and loading/unloading of passengers and cargoes.

It can carry as much as 71 passengers, 50 paratroops, 24 stretchers with five to seven attendants or up to about 20,000 lbs of cargoes.

It is capable of short field landing and takeoff and has a top speed of 358 miles per hour.

The aircraft departed from Seville, Spain last March 16 where it was assembled.

It was flown into the country by civilian pilots and crew of Airbus Military.

Airbus won the Department of National Defense medium lift aircraft program by tendering a bid for Php5.29-billion for three aircraft last year.

This is considerable lower than the Php5.3-billion stipulated in the contract.
 

Maiden mission of PAF's first C-295 successful

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 1): Maiden mission of PAF's first C-295 successful

The Tuesday maiden mission of the Philippine Air Force's (PAF) first ever Airbus Military C-295 medium transport aircraft, which involves ferrying supplies to Mactan and Palawan, ended very successfully and without any hitch.

This was stressed by PAF spokesman Lt. Col. Enrico Canaya in a message to the PNA.

The first of three C-295 aircraft of the Air Force was commissioned during simple ceremonies at Villamor Air Base, Pasay City last March 30.

The contract signed in 2014 is worth Php5.29 billion.

Canaya said C-295 with tail number 129 departed from Villamor Air Base for Brig.Gen. Benito Ebuen Air Base (formerly Mactan Air Base) 8:29 a.m. Tuesday.

It arrived there at 10:17 a.m. and was greeted by officers and enlisted personnel of the 220th Airlift Wing, the PAF unit based there.

Incidentally, the 220th Airlift Wing is the outfit which will operate and maintain all C-295s acquired for the Air Force.

"(All) 220th Airlift Wing personnel lined-up to welcome their new air asset," Canaya said.

After unloading its cargo, the aircraft departed for Antonio Bautista Air Base in Palawan Tuesday afternoon and arrived there at 4:22 p.m.

Its mission was to transport military personnel there to Manila.

"They were the lucky few to ride in this new aircraft in its first operational flight," the PAF spokesman stressed.

The C-295 returned Villamor Air Base and landed at exactly 9:50 p.m. to complete its maiden mission.

Major Thorsten Bautista was the pilot-in-command and Capt. Vic Anthony Robles as his co-pilot.

The first female pilot trained in the C-295, Capt. Geraldine Abigail Matienzo, flew the same day but in different aircraft, the Fokker F-27 to Mindanao.

She is "dual current," or qualified to fly the C-295 and F-27.

Training for the first batch composed of four PAF pilots and 24 maintenance crew was done in Seville, Spain and was completed last March 10.

"Succeeding training for pilots will continue this year in anticipation of the delivery of two more C-295s," Canaya said.

The first C-295 arrived at Clark Air Base, Pampanga in the afternoon of March 22.

Its arrival is five months earlier than the scheduled August delivery date.

The two remaining planes are expected to be delivered in the last quarter of 2015.

The C-295 is categorized as medium lift aircraft equivalent to the Fokker F-27 aircraft being maintained by the 220th Airlift Wing, the C-295s have rear ramp door similar to that of the C-130s for easier access and loading/unloading of passengers and cargoes.

It can carry as much as 71 passengers, 50 paratroops, 24 stretchers with five to seven attendants or up to about 20,000 lbs of cargoes.

It is capable of short field landing and takeoff and has a top speed of 358 miles per hour.

The aircraft departed from Seville, Spain last March 16 where it was assembled.

It was flown into the country by civilian pilots and crew of Airbus Military.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=10&sid=&nid=10&rid=749555

Sarangani leaders renew support to Mindanao peace process, BBL passage

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 1): Sarangani leaders renew support to Mindanao peace process, BBL passage

Calling it a key factor in achieving lasting peace in Mindanao, local leaders of Sarangani Province have joined calls for the immediate passage of the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL).

Local government officials, community leaders and representatives of various sectoral groups issued such call during a peace forum in Alabel town on Tuesday organized by the provincial government.

The forum, which was graced by government chief negotiator Miriam Coronel-Ferrer, mainly focused on raising the awareness of Sarangani stakeholders regarding the continuing peace process with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the important provisions of the BBL.

Sarangani Governor Steve Chiongbian Solon said they are fully supporting the passage of BBL, which he dubbed as the answer to the decades-old conflict in Mindanao.

Although the province is not part of the proposed Bangsamoro region’s core areas, he said it would still benefit greatly from the BBL’s implementation.

Mindanao is the richest island in the whole country resources-wise, so just imagine the tremendous benefits that we will all get once we have genuine and lasting peace here,” the governor said.

Maasim Vice Mayor Uttoh Salem Cutan, a former leader of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and executive director of the defunct Southern Philippines Council for Peace and Development, called on Congress to continue with the deliberations on the BBL.

He said the BBL should be separated from the “Mamasapano issue” or the deadly clash in Mamasapano town in Maguindanao last January 25 that led to the killing of 44 members of the Philippine National Police Special Action Force.

But Cutan said the final version of the BBL should include provisions from the Sept. 2, 1996 peace agreement between the government and the MNLF and the 1976 Tripoli deal, which he described as “the mother of all these agreements.”

“It is best that these two agreements will be incorporated in the BBL,” he stressed.

Ferrer expressed gratefulness to the support and commitment of Sarangani officials to the peace process as well as the BBL.

“What we’re after is genuine peace and development here in Mindanao, meaning a permanent ceasefire. With that situation, we can look forward to better opportunities for everyone, especially the future generations,” she said.

“At the end of the day, the peace process is about us living together, respecting each other and each one having the opportunity to participate in socio-economic processes, politics and other aspects of our lives,” Ferrer added.

The peace forum, which was joined by around 600 local leaders, was supported by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Local Monitoring Team.

The gathering was also highlighted by the signing of a peace covenant among local leaders for the joint pursuit of lasting peace in the province.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=749647

DOLE-12 releases assistance to 875 conflict-affected families in Pikit

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 1): DOLE-12 releases assistance to 875 conflict-affected families in Pikit

Around 875 families who were affected by the recent conflict in Pikit town in North Cotabato received relief packs and various assistance on Tuesday from attached agencies of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in Region 12.

Ofelia Domingo, DOLE Region 12 director, said Wednesday they released the assistance during the convergence outreach activity of DOLE 12’s Regional Coordinating Committee (RCC).

She said the outreach program, which was dubbed “One Stop, Big Time Peace and Solidarity Assistance Hub,” was launched in coordination with the municipal government of Pikit.

The activity was mainly aimed to assist some 875 families from Barangay Kabasalan in Pikit who were affected by the previous armed conflict between the government forces and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters.

The DOLE-RCC member-agencies are the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, Technical Education Skills and Development Authority, National Labor Relations Commission, National Conciliation and Mediation Board, Philippine Overseas Employment Administration, Employees Compensation Commission, Public Employment Services Office, Occupational Safety and Health Council, Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board and the National Reintegration Center for Overseas Filipino Workers.

“We extended some assistance to the affected families to help them cope with their situation,” she said in a statement issued by the DOLE regional office here.

Aside from the relief packs, Domingo said they released certificates of entitlement worth P500,000 to the beneficiaries.

Through the certificates, she said the affected families may avail of livelihood projects of their own choice.

Pikit Councilor Benhur Mudale expressed gratitude to the DOLE-12 for providing assistance to the conflict-affected families.

He said the livelihood packages would be a big help to the beneficiaries who are rebuilding their lives anew after being displaced earlier by the conflict.

“Nagpapasalamat kami sa tulong ng iba’t ibang ahensya na pinangungunahan ng DOLE, dahil po sa inyong presensya mararamdaman ng mga apektadong pamilya na sila ay mahalaga sa gobyerno,” Mudale said.

Inta Mugawan, 35, an evacuee and father of three children said the assistance packages mean a lot to them.

“Halos lahat kami nawalan ng mahahalagang kagamitan sa aming mga bahay, kaya malaking tulong na rin sa amin ang inyong dinala. Umaasa din kami na patuloy na tutulong ang gobyerno sa amin,” he said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=749700

Military arrests yet another BIFF leader

From the Manila Standard Today (Apr 1): Military arrests yet another BIFF leader

MILITARY and police agents arrested a high-ranking leader of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) Monday night, dealing a blow to the group that broke away from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), an Armed Forces spokesman said Tuesday.

Brig. Gen. Joselito Kakilala
Military spokesman Brig. Gen. Joselito Kakilala said Abdulgani Esmael Pagao alias Abdulayman Pagao was arrested at around 8:30 p.m. Monday.

He said Pagao did not resist arrest as government agents served a warrant of arrest on him for a string of criminal charges.

Kakilala said Pagao is the finance officer of the BIFF and its political arm, the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Movement.

“Pagao is also the deputy commander of the BIFF’s 4th Division and among the spiritual advisers of the group,” Kakilala said.

Government agents found a grenade and a loaded caliber .45 pistol on the BIFF leader, he added.

With the arrest of Pagao and other leaders, the BIFF was crumbling, Kakilala said.

An intelligence officer said Pagao was among the BIFF commanders who escaped a military dragnet before the launch of an all-out offensive.

“Our intelligence agents were able to pinpoint his hideout in the city and they did not lose sight of him until he was arrested last night. More BIFF personalities will be arrested in the few days. We’re intensifying our intelligence operations against them,” the officer said.

Recently, BIFF commander Mohammad Ali Tambako along with five security aides were captured in Barangay Calumpang, General Santos City.

This was followed by the death of Commander Yusuf Abesali in a firefight over the weekend in Barangay Pamalian, Shariff Saydona, Maguindanao.

The military said two other commanders were killed in the encounter while scores were wounded, including the son of Kagi Karialan, chief of staff of BIFF founder Ameril Umbra Kato.

Tamabako’s group had protected Filipino bomb-maker Abdul Basit Usman after he escaped a police raid on Jan. 25 in Mamasapano, Maguindanao.

Malaysian terrorist Zulkifli Abdhir alias Marwan was killed in the operation, but 44 police commandos also lost their lives. Another Malaysian terrorist, Amin Baco alias Jihad, was believed to be with the fleeing Usman and four other “foreign-looking” terrorists.

On Monday, Armed Forces chief of staff Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. said they have scaled down the all-out offensive, saying the armed capability of the BIFF was already crippled by half.

He said focused operations would continue against the BIFF, which had broken into small groups.

A Palace spokesman said Tuesday government forces will continue to hunt down Usman and the other terrorists who fled with him.

http://manilastandardtoday.com/2015/04/01/military-arrests-yet-another-biff-leader/

Cop wounded in brief gunfight with NPA rebels in Tubungan, Iloilo

From the Philippine News Agency (Apr 1): Cop wounded in brief gunfight with NPA rebels in Tubungan, Iloilo

A member of the Iloilo Provincial Public Safety Company’s First Maneuver Platoon was wounded in a sort of an armed skirmish perpetrated by a group of New People’s Army (NPA) rebels late Tuesday night in Brgy. Ambasrihon, Tubungan, Iloilo.

The wounded PO2 Efren Buscar was reported in stable condition in a hospital after receiving immediate medical treatment from a bullet of undetermined caliber that scraped his head.

Lt. Enriqueto Deocadiz, commander of the Philippine Army’s 82nd Infantry Battalion based in Camp Monteclaro, Miag-o, Iloilo, said elements of the First Maneuver Platoon were having a brief rest in the vicinity of the barangay hall of Brgy. Ambairihon about 8:15 p.m. on Tuesday when fired upon by armed rebel insurgents from a distance of some 50 meters away.

Deocadiz said it was unfortunate that one of the bullets scraped Buscar’s head though the injury was quite manageable.

He said government troopers engaged the enemy in a brief gunbattle, forcing the armed group to withdraw. The police, along with army troopers from the 82IB jointly conducted hot pursuit operation against the fleeing rebels who made good their escaped under the cover of darkness.

Deocadiz said the First Maneuver Platoon has been conducting security operations in the area based on information on the reported presence of armed groups in the said barangay, when fired upon by rebels that wounded a police operative.

He said the armed rebels were the same group which figured in an armed skirmish with patrolling army soldiers late Monday evening at a sitio in Brgy. Bulok, also in Tubungan town.

Brgy. Ambarihon is located along the highway between the hinterland towns of Tubungan and Igbaras in Southern Iloilo.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=749773