Wednesday, February 10, 2016

The Revolutionary Struggle of the Filipino People

Posted to the Website of Jose Maria Sison (Feb 8): The Revolutionary Struggle of the Filipino People (by Luis Jalandoni)



Luis G. Jalandoni, Chief International Representative National Democratic Front of the Philippines

The struggle of the Filipino people, like that of the Palestinian people and other struggling peoples, has a long history of resistance against foreign and domestic oppressors and exploiters. The Filipino people waged more than 200 revolts of varying scale during more than three centuries of Spanish colonial rule. An outstanding revolt lasted for 85 years in the island of Bohol, from 1744 to 1829.
In 1896, the Filipino revolutionaries waged an armed independence struggle. The forces of the declining Spanish colonial power were defeated. The Philippine Republic was proclaimed in 1898, the first of its kind in Asia.

But US imperialism, pretending to protect the Philippine Republic, imposed its colonial rule. The Filipino revolutionaries waged a war of independence against the US invasion. From 1899 to 1913, 1.5 million Filipinos lost their lives, as US imperialism brutally imposed its colonial rule. Most of the atrocities committed by US forces in Vietnam were perpetrated in the Philippine American War: various forms of water cure, food blockades, reconcentrations and massacres.

The Reestablishment of the Communist Party of the Philippines

In 1965, young proletarian revolutionaries led by Comrade Jose Ma. Sison criticized the major errors of the old Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP). They launched the First Great Rectification Movement which led to the reestablishment of the CPP on December 26, 1968, the founding of the New People’s Army (NPA) on March 29, 1969 and the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) on April 24, 1973. The CPP declared its being guided by Marxism, Leninism and Mao-Zedong Thought.

The reestablished Party ignited the revolutionary mass movement. In 1970, the First Quarter Storm broke out. Every week huge demonstrations of 50,000 to 100,000 people took place. The entire nation was politicalized. All over the country, the people learned that imperialism, feudalism, and bureaucrat capitalism are the basic problems of the people. Demonstrators sang songs praising the NPA. Manila and the other cities were aflame.

In the countryside, the peasant armed struggle burst out as the land frontier was exhausted due to massive landgrabbing by greedy landlords and corrupt politicians. The peasants welcomed the NPA. When martial law was declared in 1972, thousands of youth went to the countryside. Many joined the NPA. In the 1960s and early 1970s, revolutionary organizations were formed.

In the revolutionary mass movement in the cities and countryside, the role of the revolutionary party has been and still is essential.

The mass movement grew stronger, especially after the dictatorship killed opposition leader Benigno Aquino in 1983. In February 1986, the mass movement overthrew the dictator. At the same time there was a military rebellion.

The Second Great Rectification Movement

From 1985 to 1991, however, the growth of the revolutionary movement was stalled by major errors of a renegade group in the Party leadership. These errors caused serious losses in mass base. The CPP leadership therefore launched the Second Great Rectification Movement (SGRM) in 1992. It was mainly an educational movement to identify, repudiate and rectify the errors of urban insurrectionism, premature big formations of the NPA and anti-infiltration hysteria.

The rectification movement was embraced by the overwhelming majority of the Party members and revolutionary masses. It has won numerous victories, recovered lost mass base and expanded and consolidated. The winning line is intensifying the guerrilla warfare on the basis of an ever widening and deepening mass base.

Current Situation of the Philippine Revolutionary Struggle

Forty seven years since the reestablishment of the CPP, the people’s war it is waging has grown stronger.

There are now has more than 110 guerrilla fronts in 71 out of a total 81 provinces. Organs of political power are established in thousands of villages as well as in some towns and cities.

Seventy five percent of the population live and work in the countryside. Their main aspiration is genuine land reform. The CPP responds to this aspiration by carrying out the minimum and maximum land reform programs benefiting millions of peasants and farm workers.

The minimum land reform program consists of lowering the land rent paid to landlords, elimination or reduction of usury and raising farmworkers’ wages. It includes setting up of sideline occupations and building simple cooperatives.

In some areas, where the peasant associations are very consolidated and the NPA is sufficiently strong, the maximum program of land confiscation and free distribution of land to the tillers is implemented. These land reform programs are strengthened with revolutionary education, literacy and numeracy programs, health and cultural programs.

Organs of political power are built, based on the organizations of workers, peasants, youth, women, children and cultural activists. These comprise the rising revolutionary government of workers and peasants based in the wide countryside.

In Mindanao, southern Philippines, the NPA has expanded to 46 guerrilla fronts in five regions. In 2015, it has launched more than 500 tactical offensives. In other part of the country, NPA offensives are also carried out, although on a lesser scale.

In the urban areas, a vibrant legal democratic movement continues to grow in strength, arousing, mobilizing and organizing the workers, youth, women, urban poor, professionals, religious and other sectors to militantly take up people’s issues.

As the global and Philippine economic crisis worsens with the neoliberal policies of the reactionary government and the US, the legal democratic movement intensifies its actions against the US-Aquino regime.

Policies of privatization, deregulation, liberalization and denationalization have deepened the exploitation of the people and are driving to wage militant resistance.

Parliamentary Elections

With the elections coming up in May, the progressive parties in the Makabayan (Patriotic) Bloc are increasing their activities to promote patriotic and progressive candidates, expose the puppetry and corruption of the reactionaries, and engage in parliamentary struggle for the benefit of the people.

The CPP, however, does not participate in the bourgeois elections. But it considers how the elections can benefit the people, how it may affect the civil war and the peace negotiations. It recognizes the positive role of patriotic groups and individuals in the parliamentary field.

Armed Struggle is the Main Form of Struggle

The revolutionary movement stresses the revolutionary armed struggle as the main form of struggle.

The legal mass movement is an important complement to the revolutionary armed struggle. It includes the struggle for human rights, the parliamentary struggle, and the peace negotiations. All these forms of struggle are undertaken to advance the overall struggle for national and social liberation.

The perspective is to advance the people’s war so it can effectively move from the current strategic defensive stage to the strategic stalemate, and then further to the strategic offensive and nationwide victory. Then the socialist construction and revolution shall immediately be launched.

Adherence to International Humanitarian Law and Peace Negotiations

The CPP, NPA and NDFP have declared their adherence to the Geneva Conventions and Protocols. They are cooperating with the International Legal Advisory Team (ILAT) composed of more than a dozen international jurists, to help in matters of human rights, international humanitarian law and peace negotiations.

In peace negotiations with the reactionary government, the NDFP has forged more than ten agreements since 1992. The Hague Joint Declaration of 1992, the framework agreement, stipulates the principles of parity, reciprocity and non-capitulation, no surrender. The Joint Agreement on Safety and Immunity Guarantees of 1995 provides for safety and immunity for all participants in the peace negotiations from both parties. The Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law of 1998 makes the Geneva Conventions part of the framework of the peace talks.

The Aquino regime, however, refuses to recognize and implement the past binding agreements and has sabotaged the peace talks. It refuses to hold talks with the NDFP. It only wants prolonged ceasefire and surrender.

International Solidarity

From the very beginning, the revolutionary movement has been committed to international solidarity. It develops cooperative relations with revolutionary, anti-imperialist and progressive parties, movements and organizations. It fosters mutual sharing, learning from each other’s experience,
including positive and negative lessons, to come up with practical programs and activities of mutual benefit. It seeks international solidarity support and at the same time contributes to building a strong anti-imperialist and socialist movement in the world.

http://josemariasison.org/the-revolutionary-struggle-of-the-filipino-people/

MILF: Muslims urged not to take non passage of BBL negatively

Posted to the MILF Website (Feb 10): Muslims urged not to take non passage of BBL negatively



Abdullah Zawawi Tahir, Malaysian Consul General urged Muslims in Mindanao during the 5th Maguindanao Sagayan Festival at Buluan, Maguindanao not to take non passage of draft Bangsamoro Law under the Aquino Administration negatively”, PDI said in its report today.

He also said that genuine peace is bound to reign in Mindanao if it’s the people common goal.
He assured the Mindanao Muslims that Malaysia will not give up in its effort to broker peace in Mindanao even with the death of the BBL in Congress.

Tahir said for genuine peace to be achieved, there should be continuing work and that setbacks should not be viewed negatively.

“We should not look at it negatively because this is not an overnight work. We need everyone to join and help in searching for peace”, he said.

The Malaysian consul however admitted that what’s going to happen next was uncertain but he added that Kuala Lumpur would continue to support the efforts of the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in search for a long-lasting peace in Mindanao.

Malaysia, a member of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation acted as Third Party Facilitator of the GPH-MILF Peace Process which resulted to the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) in August 27, 2014.

Malaysia heads the International Monitoring Team (IMT).

http://www.luwaran.com/home/index.php/news/20-central-mindanao/548-muslims-urged-not-to-take-non-passage-of-bbl-negatively

MILF: BLMI, UNYPAD conduct Seminar-Workshop on Community Organizing and Islamic Leadership in Zamboanga City

Posted to the MILF Website (Feb 11): BLMI, UNYPAD conduct Seminar-Workshop on Community Organizing and Islamic Leadership in Zamboanga City



Through the active involvement of community leaders and peace advocates in Zamboanga City West Coast area, the Bangsamoro Leadership and Management Institute (BLMI) and United Youth for Peace and Development (UNYPAD) conducted a two-day Seminar Workshop on Community Organizing and Leadership in Islamic perspective .The activity was held at Asta Moro Madrasa, Tulungatung, Zamboanga City on February 8-9. 2016.

The program was aimed to enhance Bangsamoro Women skills in community organizing, and their knowledge on the  history of Bangsamoro struggle towards the Rights to Self-Determination (RSD).
The program was part of BLMI and UNYPAD viable approach in sustaining and promoting the gains of GPH-MILF Peace agreements in grassroots communities.

A leading Moro woman and one of the organizers in her welcome address encouraged the participants who were mostly women to do their part in peace building efforts through community organizing and other productive activities in their respective communities. “The best way is to enhance yourselves through education both secular and religious education as well as knowing the Bangsamoro narratives on RSD”, she said.

Resource person from UNYPAD who is the Regional Coordinator for Western Mindanao presented his topics entitled “The Bangsamoro shall continue the Struggle”. He underlined the causes and effects of Moro armed conflict in Mindanao and the plight of the Bangsamoro people as an offshoot of their legitimate assertion for RSD.

“The non-passage of Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) had caused restlessness to all of us but our efforts in pursuing our legitimate cause through peaceful means must continue. The Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) signed by Philippine Government (GPH) and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) on March 27. 2014 after a seventeen-year conscientious negotiations will always serve as a blueprint for peaceful settlement of Bangsamoro Question”, he said.

Topics on Community Organizing was lectured by Tirso S. Tahir, a BLMI Officer, He underscored its fundamental principles and applications as well as its rallying points that inspire people to organize.

“Community organizing- is a process where people who live in proximity to each other come together into an organization that acts in their “shared self-interest and for their common good”, Tahir said.

“By having enough knowledge and skills in community organizing, we can manifest to optimal level our legitimate grievances on issues such as the issue of injustices committed by neo-colonialists to the Bangsamoro people in their homeland”, Tahir added.

The following day, Tahir gave lectures on Leadership in Islamic perspective. He emphasized the different concepts of Women empowerment in secular and in Islamic perspective.

As Muslims, We have all the guidelines and patterns from the Noble Qur’an and the Practices of Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) as well as rulings of Islamic Scholars on issues that confront us nowadays. We are only lacking in seriousness on how to apply them, and we need more appropriate knowledge in order to become competitive and productive in this fast-changing world, Tahir said.

Topics on understanding Conflict was lectured by a UNYPAD Officer and emphasized it in layman’s term. He said that conflict is integral part of human life even for animals when two conflicting ideas arise. But this can be avoided through proper understanding of ones right and having a sense of altruism.

On GPH-MILF Peace process updates, Tahir focused on the CAB and the sad plight of the BBL that lawmakers failed to pass.

In their closing messages, the participants expressed their profound gratitude to the organizers, the BLMI, UNYPAD and the peace advocates for having actively participated in the program.

http://www.luwaran.com/home/index.php/news/73-westhern-mindanao/549-blmi-unypad-conduct-seminar-workshop-on-community-organizing-and-islamic-leadership-in-zamboanga-city

MILF: “Only way forward is to refile or craft CAB-Compliant BBL by BTC with new members”: Iqbal

Posted to the MILF Website (Feb 11): “Only way forward is to refile or craft CAB-Compliant BBL by BTC with new members”: Iqbal



After the non-passage of Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) in the 16th Congress, the Government of the Philippines (GPH) and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) peace panels met today in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia for a two-day meeting, PDI said in its report.

MILF Peace panel Chair Mohagher Iqbal in his opening statement was straightforward in saying that there is “widespread frustration on the ground by our people and members of the MILF” as result of the failure of government, particularly Congress, to pass the BBL.

Chairman Iqbal also said that the aim of the meeting is to jointly find ways and means to address the dangerous situation and avoid actions that may increase the frustrations.

He pointed out that, “The most immediate step is either the BBL will be refilled in Congress or a new basic law, faithful to the letter and spirit of the CAB, will be crafted by the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC), which will most likely have new faces as members. This is the only way forward”.

He emphasized that both the government and the MILF “must provide them hope that there is a chance” that a Bangsamoro law would be passed “whoever the next President would be.”

Iqbal said the BBL must remain compliant with the peace agreement, called the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB), signed between the government and the MILF in 2014.

“This must be in the form of firm and unequivocal commitment from government that it shall continue to comply with its obligations under the CAB, particularly on the passage of the CAB-compliant BBL, which is a unilateral obligation of government,” Iqbal said.

 “On the part of the MILF, we assure everyone including the international community that we will adhere to the CAB and comply with its obligations. And finally, in order to preserve the gains of the peace process, government and MILF should journey together in faithfully implementing the CAB, guided by the principle of ‘as is, where is’, PDI quoted Iqbal saying.

The proposed Bangsamoro Law will entrench a new region called Bangsamoro that will replace the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

http://www.luwaran.com/home/index.php/news/19-national/550-only-way-forward-is-to-refile-or-craft-cab-compliant-bbl-by-btc-with-new-members-iqbal

DWDD: WELCOME II EastMinCom New Deputy Commander

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Station Website (Feb 9): WELCOME II EastMinCom New Deputy Commander

NSFA, Panacan, Davao City – The AFP’s Eastern Mindanao Command under Maj. Gen. Rey Leonardo B. Guerrero welcomes the newly designated Deputy Commander in the person of Brig. Gen. Ronnie S. Evangelista at Headquarters Eastern Mindanao Command, Panacan, Davao City at 9:00 a.m., February 9, 2016. Brig. Gen. Evangelista was accorded with traditional arrival honor followed by information briefing about the peace and security situation in Eastern Mindanao.

IMG_3564

IMG_3613

After the briefing, Brig. Gen. Evangelista emphasized that he will support the plans and programs of Commander, EastMinCom. “I am here to help. Let us all work together to achieve a common goal, that is to win the peace in this part of the country’, BGen. Evangelista said

Brig. Gen. Evangelista is a member of PMA Class of 1986. Among the positions he held were: Commanding Officer of Light Reaction Battalion (LRB), Special Operations Command (SOCOM), Philippine Army; Commandant of Special Forces School, Special Forces Regiment Airborne (SFRA), SOCOM; Assistant Chief of Staff for Comptrollership, NCRCOM, AFP; Assistant Chief of Staff for Operations, G3 SOCOM; and Commander SFRA, SOCOM.   PAO EASTMINCOM / MCAG

http://dwdd.com.ph/2015/48449-2/

DWDD: WELCOME II 30IB has New Commanding Officer

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Station Website (Feb 9): WELCOME II 30IB has New Commanding Officer

CAMP EDILBERTO T EVANGELISTA, Patag, Cagayan de Oro City (DWDD) –  The 30th Infantry (Python) Battalion under 4th Infantry Division, Phil Army has new battalion commander who will take over the support to peace and security efforts in areas of Surigao del Norte and Province of Dinagat Islands.

In a simple turn-over ceremony, Ltc Arsenio Sadural, the outgoing Battalion Commander of 30IB, turned over the baton to his successor, Ltc Rico Amaro early yesterday, February 8, 2016. The ceremony was presided by MGen Oscar T Lactao, the Commander of 4ID and was attended by Local Chief Executives, partner agencies, and other stakeholders in Surigao del Norte and Province of Dinagat Islands.

Ltc Sadural said, “First of all I would like to offer this success to our God Almighty especially in giving me enough wisdom and strength to fulfil my tasks and partly our unit’s mission. I thank our division commander for the trust and confidence he gave me along the way.”

“For our active partners in this side of the Country, Thank You for believing in our Bayanihan efforts and making this area a peaceful place for our people.”

“To my troops, we made it! With your utmost cooperation, steadfastness, and professionalism, the tasks became easier for us to accomplish. Thank You! My last order for you is to give your full support to your new battalion commander.”

Ltc Sadural commanded 30IB since November 3, 2013. He was able to propel the unit with many accomplishments in combat, civil-military operations, and administration. Noteworthy is the declaration of the two provinces as Peaceful and Ready for Further Development in 2014 and 2015 after he was able to downgrade the level of insurgency situation in his area.

Meanwhile, Ltc Amaro, a member of Philippine Military Academy “Bantay-Laya” Class of 1994, assumed his post as the 34th commanding officer of the said battalion. He said, “I would like to thank MGen Oscar T Lactao for his trust and confidence in installing me as the new commanding officer of 30IB. I promise to give my best and continue what my predecessor have started and achieved especially that he have set a notably high standard to this battalion. To God be the Glory.”

MGen Lactao said, “To Ltc Sadural, I congratulates you for a job well done. Thank you for giving your best for our people in this area. You have proven that you can handle one of the toughest positions in our profession. Good luck to your new task.”

“To Ltc Amaro, welcome to the longest two years of your military career. I expect more from you especially in protecting the people we serve in this side of the Country.” 4DPAO / MCAG



Lieutenant Colonel Arsenio Sadural receives various awards from Major General Oscar T Lactao, Commander 4ID for his meritorious achievements of his two years stint as 30th Infantry “Python” Battalion Commander during the Change of Command Ceremony at Sta Cruz, Placer, Surigao del Norte on February 9, 2016.



Major General Oscar T Lactao, Commander 4ID handovers the unit colors to Lieutenant Colonel Rico CAmaro, the newly installed Battalion Commander of 30thInfantry “Python” Battalion during the Command Turn-over Ceremony at Sta Cruz, Placer, Surigao del Norte on February 8, 2016.

http://dwdd.com.ph/2015/48424-2/

DWDD: OFFICIAL VISIT II CG,PAF Farewell Call with 710th SPOW

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Station Website (Feb 9): OFFICIAL VISIT II CG,PAF Farewell Call with 710th SPOW

CAPAS, Tarlac (DWDD) – Commanding General of the Philippine Air Force, LTGEN JEFFREY F DELGADO AFP (GSC) made his visit to 710th SPOW at Crow Valley Military Reservation (CVMR), Capas Tarlac as part of his farewell visit to the major bases of the Philippine Air Force last February 5, 2015.

The Wing Commander, 710th SPOW, BGEN LAURCRIS P TUMANDA AFP showed his appreciation to the CG,PAF for the support to the unit by making him lead the blessing ceremony of a new armory and witness the SAR and tactical preparedness of his troops through a capability demonstration. PAF SPOW / MCAG

















http://dwdd.com.ph/2015/48466-2/

DWDD: ARRESTED II Two NPA Extortionists Falls in Quezon (Photos)

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Station Website (Feb 10): ARRESTED II Two NPA Extortionists Falls in Quezon

CAMP GUILLERMO NAKAR, Lucena City (DWDD) – Two NPAs believed to be involved in extortion activities to contractors and other businesses were arrested by joint elements of the 85th Infantry Battalion and PNP Quezon Public Safety Company in Barangay Cagsiay 2, Mauban of Quezon Province on February 9, 2016.






201st Infantry Brigade Commander Brigadier General Rhoderick M. Parayno identified the two suspects as Alex Perdiguera and Mark Ryan Relao Asores. He said that a caliber .45 pistol in their possession was recovered during the arrest.

Alex Perdiguera y Mendoza a.k.a. Daniel / Abil is a resident of Ibabang Pulo, Pagbilao, Quezon while Mark Ryan Relao Asores a.k.a David is from Brgy San Jose, San Pablo, Laguna. Both were positive identified by construction workers as the ones who burned the backhoe. The two NPA extortionists are now in the custody of the PNP for filing of appropriate charges.

Last November 2015, the NPAs burned a backhoe when contractors did not give in to their demands.

“The NPA sent extortion letters again to contractors and businessmen but this time they were asking a higher fees,” said BGen Parayno. This abuse triggered them to report it to the 201st Infantry Brigade. With the cooperation and information coming from various contractors, businessmen and the locals in the area, the 201st Infantry Brigade with the PNP- Quezon Public Safety Company launched an operation targeting the NPA extortion group which led to the arrest of the two NPAs. “These (extortion and arson) are oppressive acts of the NPA against the people. Apart from disturbing the peace and affecting development efforts in the countryside, ” said BGen Rhoderick M Parayno. PAO SOLCOM / MCAG

http://dwdd.com.ph/2015/arrested-ii-two-npa-extortionists-falls-in-quezon/

DWDD: PAG-UNGOT II NPA – South Mindanao Suffer Major Losses in 2015

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Station Website (Feb 10): PAG-UNGOT II NPA – South Mindanao Suffer Major Losses in 2015

MALAPATAN, Sarangani Province (DWDD) – The Guerilla Front 71 of Far South Mindanao Regional Committee (GF71, FSMR) of the CPP-NPA has suffered significant losses during the Calendar Year 2015.



GF 71 Secretary, Rodel Niepes GOYHA alias DONG of Poblacion, Alabel, Sarangani Province, said in his closing remarks during the 47th CPP Anniversary last December 26, 2015 at Sitio Lino, Brgy Upper Suyan, Malapatan, Sarangani Province that GF71 experienced “PAG-UNGOT” (a Cebuano term that means stoppage of something that you are doing or planning to do, because it is too difficult to continue or get stucked).

The GF71 is decisively beaten in their Kilusang Rebolusyonaryo sa Munisipalidad (KRM) and is fast losing its influence with their mass base and eventually on the verge of collapse. The return to the folds of the law of ten former NPA members who included critical cadres this year alone and the recent encounter of its forces with elements of 73IB last January, proved that their sympathizers have already realized the futility of the armed struggle and have seen the sincere efforts of the government.

Previously, the FSMR has four guerilla fronts: GF71, GF72, GF73 and GF75. The GF75 was dissolved during the 2nd Quarter of 2015, when Tolentino BARIQUIT alias BRIGOL, the Deputy Secretary died in an encounter that prompted its members to surrender. This is contrary to the pronouncement of the spokesperson of the FSMR, alias EFREN last December 26, 2015 that the FSMR formed new platoons and increased their armed strength by 20%.

According to Ltc Ronnie Babac, the Commander of 73rd Infantry (NEUTRALIZER) Battalion, “The armed elements of GF71, FSMR are already demoralized after the series of encounters. According to the statements of the former rebels (FRs), hardship and starvation are the main reason they opted to return to the folds of the law.

Moreover, the promise of a better life and financial support by the NPA was never realized. They were just deceived and exploited by their recruiters.” There were significant revelations from FRs, stating that GF71 suffered “pag-ungot” in 2015 because of several debacles and significant losses. The leadership of the guerilla front admitted that the government forces have the initiative and tactical advantage for the entire year that resulted to the neutralization of several high value cadres and the surrender of 59 active members. This forced GF71 to celebrate the 47th CPP Anniversary by platoons in separate locations because of their fear of attacks from government troops.

Additionally, GF71 is greatly affected by the surrender of its members who availed of livelihood assistance offered by the Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP). “I would like to inform the active members of the NPA still fighting for their failed armed struggle and their families that the Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP) will not last forever. There is no assurance that the CLIP will continue after a new administration will be elected this year. They may choose to feel and experience what a new life awaits them, –a life away from the evils of Communism and its futile efforts,” Col Ronald Villanueva, the Brigade Commander of 1002nd Infantry ‘BAGWIS’ Brigade said. CMO 1002BDE / MCAG

http://dwdd.com.ph/2015/pag-ungot-ii-npa-south-mindanao-suffer-major-losses-in-2015/

DWDD: RESCUE II NAVFORSOL Saves 102 Tourists Stranded in Sombrero Island

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Station Website (Feb 10): RESCUE II NAVFORSOL Saves 102 Tourists Stranded in Sombrero Island

CAMP GUILLERMO NAKAR, Lucena City (DWDD) – The Philippine Navy in Bicol rescued 100 local tourists and 2 island caretakers who were stranded in Sombrero Island in Masbate on February 9, 2016.

The rescue operation was carried out by the Naval Forces Southern Luzon’s Patrol Gun Boat 370 (PG 370) under LT Edwin M. Nuestro, Jr.

The tourists were on the last day of their three-day island hopping tour in Sombrero Island in Masbate when they were prohibited from leaving due to strong winds and very rough sea conditions. They were forced to stay in the island for an additional day as the weather condition worsened.

As soon as a distress call from the stranded tourists reached the attention of Naval Forces Southern Luzon, a rescue mission was planned and launched utilizing the PG 370 at a Naval Station in Pasacao town in Camarines Sur.

NavForSoL successfully transported to safety the tourists, most of whom are from Manila, and the island caretakers to nearby Burias island. The rescue mission was terminated at around 9:15 p.m. on the same day.

“We really have a very dependable and reliable Navy securing the seas in SoLCom AOR,” said Southern Luzon Command Chief Lieutenant General Ricardo R. Visaya as he lauded the NavForSoL’s swift response on the situation. NAVFORSOL / SOLCOM / MCAG







http://dwdd.com.ph/2015/rescue-ii-navforsol-saves-102-tourists-stranded-in-sombrero-island/

Iriberri reminds soldiers to remain non-partisan

From the Philippine Star (Feb 10): Iriberri reminds soldiers to remain non-partisan



Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Hernando Iriberri reminded soldiers to be neutral months before the 2016 polls. Philstar.com/File photo

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Hernando Iriberri on Wednesday reminded military forces to remain apolitical as campaign season for candidates for national posts has officially started.

Iriberri made the rounds in Zamboanga to remind soldiers to be neutral and ensure a peaceful and credible elections in May.
“We will punish them, it’s very clear and simple. We will throw the book on them and they will face the consequences of the matter,” Iriberri warned AFP personnel who will violate the guidance.

The AFP has also started the recall of all military personnel assigned as security escorts of political leaders in the country.
Iriberri said the recall is part of the resolution of the Commission on Election (Comelec) which prohibits the deployment or detailing of any military personnel to politicians without request of exemptions.
The AFP chief said under the Comelec resolution, it is clear that all military security personnel shall be recalled even if it will compromise security of the concerned political leader.
“If they (political leaders) have the exemption, we will provide them the security personnel. It’s up to the Comelec to provide them exemption. Our hands are tied with the resolution,” Iriberri said.
He warned that personnel will be automatically discharged from service if caught rendering security without the Comelec exemption.
Movement of the troops will be dependent on the clearance issued by the Comelec.
“In fact in the deployment of our forces we need to get clearance from the Comelec. We seek guidance and approval from the Comelec,” according to Iriberri.
He said the Comelec deputized the AFP to implement the election laws to ensure a peaceful and credible election

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2016/02/10/1551662/iriberri-reminds-soldiers-remain-non-partisan

AFP chief submits retirement papers to Noy

From the Philippine Star (Feb 11): AFP chief submits retirement papers to Noy

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Hernando Iriberri has submitted his retirement papers to President Aquino as he bows out of the service a few days before the elections in May.

Iriberri confirmed his retirement when asked about a possible extension of his term during the ban on appointments in the election period.

“It will be presumptuous to say that. I have already submitted all my retirement papers to the President,” Iriberri said, laughing off his possible extension in the service by the President.

Observers say the extension of Irriberi’s service until after the election period will give the next administration a free hand in selecting its new military chief.

Some senior military officers who were with Iriberri said the President, as commander-in-chief, could request the Commission on Elections to allow him to appoint the successor of Iriberri.

Iriberri, of Philippine Military Academy Class 1983, assumed as AFP chief last July 10, 2015. He is set to retire on April 22 when he turns 56 years old, the mandatory age of retirement from the military.

Iriberri declined to speculate on who his possible successor could be.

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2016/02/11/1551908/afp-chief-submits-retirement-papers-noy

Philippines, US may conduct joint patrols in South China Sea

From the Philippine Star (Feb 11): Philippines, US may conduct joint patrols in South China Sea

The Philippines and the United States may conduct joint patrols in the South China Sea this year, Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario said yesterday.

“Possibly. Depending on discussions that are being undertaken now at lower levels,”  Del Rosario told journalists when asked about the joint patrols  during his annual get-together with the media at the Diamond Hotel.

He said the patrols in the disputed maritime region might involve other countries as well.
“It could be multilateral depending on how the discussions go,” he said.

When asked if the possible joint patrols with the US would be raised during the US-ASEAN Summit next week, Del Rosario said it might not be tackled since it was discussed during the recent 2+2 ministerial meeting with top US officials.

“We’re looking to see how that might work,” he said.

The USS Lassen began its patrol in the South China Sea last October.

The guided-missile destroyer reportedly received orders to travel within 12 nautical miles of Panganiban (Mischief) and Zamora (Subi) reefs in the South China Sea, both at the heart of a controversial Chinese island-building campaign that has soured ties between Washington and Beijing.

The US said its military will continue air and sea patrols in international waters even after the Chinese navy repeatedly warned a US surveillance plane to leave the airspace over artificial islands China is creating in the South China Sea.

The Philippines voiced support for the US freedom of navigation operations in the disputed area.
US Ambassador Philip Goldberg said the conduct of freedom of navigation operation has been done by the US for 70 years as Washington made a commitment to do the operations on a routine and regular basis.

Meanwhile, the Philippine military is coordinating with their Vietnamese counterparts in the rescue of a Filipino fisherman whose boat sank and drifted off Sinh Ton Island (Sin Cowe) in the Spratlys.
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesman Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said they have yet to receive an official report on what happened to the Filipino fisherman.

Vietnam’s Thanhnien News identified the rescued Filipino fisherman as 34-year-old “Anthongradule of Nasungpo, Batangas,” probably referring to Nasugbu.

The report added the rescued Filipino fisherman is safe.

Vietnamese troops rescued him as he was hanging on to his capsized small boat last Monday.

The report quoted the rescued fisherman as saying that his group left Batangas port last Feb. 3 to fish in the Spratlys and arrived in the area three days later.

While in the area, five of them boarded one of 10 small boats, with each boat manned by five to 10 people deployed by their mother ship to conduct fishing.

However, the rescued Filipino told his Vietnamese rescuers that their boat was battered by big waves and capsized. He said he was lucky enough he was able to stay afloat by clinging to the capsized banca.

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2016/02/11/1551906/philippines-us-may-conduct-joint-patrols-south-china-sea

Philippines expecting Hague ruling vs China by May

From the Philippine Star (Feb 11): Philippines expecting Hague ruling vs China by May

 

In this Nov. 26, 2015 photo, Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario confers with University of Wollongong ocean research and security professor Clive Schofield, one of the expert witnesses presented by the Philippines, on the third day of oral arguments before the United Nations arbitration tribunal based at The Hague, Netherlands. Abigail Valte/Released, file

Outgoing Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario on Wednesday said that the Philippines is expecting the final ruling of the Permanent Court of Arbitration on its case against China by May.

In January 2014, the Philippines filed an arbitration case against China before the international tribunal in The Hague, Netherlands to invalidate the latter's excessive claims in the South China Sea.

"We hope that the decision will come out before May. We don’t know what the chances of that might be but it looks doable from where we sit," Del Rosario told members of the press.

Del Rosario also expressed his concerns over China's aggressive activities in the disputed sea that undermine the territorial claims of its smaller neighbors.

READ: 2 Chinese commercial planes land at Kagitingan Reef

Last month, Manila protested China's test flights on Kagitingan Reef in the West Philippine Sea. Foreign Affairs spokesperson Charles Jose said that China's action was provocative and restricts freedom of navigation and overflight in the disputed sea.

China, however, insisted that the flights conducted by its aircraft fall completely with its sovereignty. Beijing accused the Manila of having ulterior motives with its claims.

Del Rosario said that the South China Sea dispute will be discussed in the upcoming Association of Southeast Asian Nations-US Summit in California from February 15 to 16.

US President Barack Obama will host the meeting which will also be attended by President Benigno Aquino III and his counterparts from Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

"We want to bring to the fore the rule of law, we want to discuss freedom of navigation, we want to look at the island-building, as well as the question of de-facto ADIZ (Air Defense Identification Zone) and arbitration. Those are the topics that we will be looking at," Del Rosario said.

Del Rosario will step down as Foreign Affairs Secretary on March 7 due to health concerns.

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2016/02/11/1551972/philippines-expecting-hague-ruling-vs-china-may

Peace panels in KL to revive pact

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Feb 11): Peace panels in KL to revive pact

Peace negotiators from the government and the secessionist Moro Islamic Liberation Front on Wednesday began a two-day special meeting in Kuala Lumpur, following the failure of Congress to pass the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law, the key measure needed to implement the peace agreement that the Aquino government signed with the rebels in 2014.

Government chief negotiator Miriam Coronel-Ferrer said last week that the two panels would meet as soon as the “emotions” over the nonpassage of the BBL had settled.

In his opening statement at the meeting, MILF chief negotiator Mohagher Iqbal asked the Aquino government to remain committed to the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) and implement it without changes.

“The most immediate step is either the BBL will be refiled in Congress or a new basic law, faithful to the letter and spirit of the CAB, will be crafted by the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC), which will most likely have new faces as members,” Iqbal said in his statement, a copy of which was sent to the Inquirer.

Iqbal stressed the need for government and the MILF to continue working together, assuring yet again that the MILF “will adhere to the CAB and comply with its obligations.”

But he said there was “widespread frustration on the ground by our people and members of the MILF” as result of the failure of Congress to pass the BBL.

He said both the government and the MILF “must provide them hope that there is a chance” that a Bangsamoro law would be passed “whoever the next President would be.”

“This must be in the form of firm and unequivocal commitment from government that it shall continue to comply with its obligations under the CAB, particularly on the passage of the CAB-compliant BBL, which is a unilateral obligation of the government,” Iqbal said.

The proposed BBL sought to create a new, wider autonomous Muslim region that would replace the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) that was created following the signing of a peace agreement in 1996 between the government and the main Muslim insurgency, the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF).

http://globalnation.inquirer.net/136395/peace-panels-in-kl-to-revive-pact

3 rebels surrender; clashesbetween NPA, army erupt

From the Mindanao Times (Feb 10): 3 rebels surrender; clashesbetween NPA, army erupt

THREE members of New People’s Army surrendered to the 73rd Infantry Battalion in Jose Abad Santos, Davao Occidental on Monday.

Col. Ronnie Villanueva, commander of 1002nd Infantry Brigade, identified one of the surrenderee as alias Bob, 43, of Sitio Kitugbil in Barangay Maguilibas, a member of Team Baking in Guerilla Front 71 of Far South Mindanao Region.

The others are alias Anne, 21, resident of Sitio Lucban in Barangay Carahayan and alias Johnny, 18, resident of Sitio Kitugbil in Barangay Meybio, both members of Platoon Uno of GF 71 of FSMR.

Their real names are withheld for the protection of their families.

They surrendered to the soldiers while conducting combat operations at the boundary of the municipalities of Glan and Malapatan in Sarangani and Jose Abad Santos.

According to Villanueva,the hardships  and starvation they suffered in the movement urged them to surrender.

“This was also because of the failed promises of the recruiters upon they enter inside,” he said.

They are now under the custody in the 73rd Infantry Battalion headquarters for the briefing process.

They will be enrolled in the Comprehensive Local Integration Program (CLIP) as part of the government’s effort to reintegrate former rebels to society.

In other news, a series of armed encounters between soldiers of 10th Infantry Division  and NPAs erupted over the weekend in Compostela Valley and Davao Occidental.

The first incident transpired on Saturday at 5 p.m.  between Bravo Company of 73IB and NPAs belonging to Guerilla Front 71 of the Far South Mindanao Region (FSMR) at the boundaries of Jose Abad Santos, Davao Occidental and Glan, Sarangani Province.

On the same day at around 2:30 p.m., the Bravo Company of 46IB clashed with NPAs under Guerilla Front 2 of the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC) led by alias Raden at Sitio Binotaan, Barangay Kingking, Pantukan, Compostela Valley.

An encounter also occurred when NPAs fired upon soldiers while conducting checkpoint at Sitio Logpaton, Barangay Kingking in Pantukan at 3 p.m. on Sunday.

Maj. Gen. Rafael Valencia, commander of 10th Infantry Division, reiterated his earlier vow that they will be relentless in their fight against the NPA.

 “We will continue our peace and development initiatives for the people of Davao Region,” Valencia said. “We encourage NPA members to abandon the armed struggle and return to the folds of the law But for those who continue to choose the path of violence, we will vigorously pursue and defeat them using legitimate force.”

http://mindanaotimes.net/3-rebels-surrender-clashesbetween-npa-army-erupt/

Presidential bets present Bangsamoro peace agenda in dialogue with peace groups

From MindaNews (Feb 10): Presidential bets present Bangsamoro peace agenda in dialogue with peace groups

Presidential candidates will discuss before peace groups and Mindanao’s lone Cardinal, Orlando Quevedo, how they will move forward the Bangsamoro peace process when they become President.

Mayor Rodrigo Duterte, the lone Mindanawon Presidential candidate, will be the first to present his peace agenda during the “Conversations with Presidential Candidates on the Bangsamoro Peace Process” this Friday, February 12, at 3 pm.. at the Waterfront Insular Hotel here.

“Conversations” is a series of dialogues with Presidential candidates on the Bangsamoro peace process, convened by the Friends of Peace, a group led by Cardinal Quevedo, the Archbishop of Cotabato.

Arrangements are still being finalized for the schedules of the other Presidential bets – Vice President Jejomar Binay, Senator Grace Poe, former Senator and Local Governments Secretary Mar Roxas and Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago but each candidate is given two to three hours for the dialogue.

Representatives of civil society groups and “bakwits” (evacuees) from the Bangsamoro and neighboring areas, will attend the dialogue.

In his letter to the Presidential candidates, Quevedo said an important milestone in the Bangsamoro peace journey was the signing in March 2014, after 17 years of peace negotiations, the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB).

The CAB provides, among others, for the passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) to pave the way for the creation of a new Bangsamoro political entity that would replace the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

The BBL, however, was not passed by the 16th Congress which adjourned on February 3.

“Expectedly, the Bangsamoro peace process will be carried over into the next administration,” the Cardinal said.

Quevedo said the “Conversations” will give the Presidential candidates a “platform to present your Peace Agenda, particularly on the Bangsamoro Peace Process and dialogue with members of civil society.”

The event will be livestreamed to allow those who could not make it to Davao City to take part in the “Conversations” by asking questions through social media.

http://www.mindanews.com/peace-process/2016/02/10/presidential-bets-present-bangsamoro-peace-agenda-in-dialogue-with-peace-groups/

Army announces arrest of BIFF ranking officer in Cotabato raid

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 10): Army announces arrest of BIFF ranking officer in Cotabato raid

The military here announced Wednesday the arrest of a high ranking official of the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) during a raid in Cotabato City that left the official’s son dead.

Capt. Joann Petinglay, speaking for the 6th Infantry Division, identified the arrested BIFF leader as Hassan Indal alias Abu Hassan, BIFF vice chair for internal affairs and 4th BIFF division commander.

His son, Ali Indal, who engaged law enforcers in a brief fire fight, was killed.

Colonel Ranie Sevilla, commander of the 5th Army Special Forces, said Hassan was arrested based on an arrest warrant for various heinous crimes during a raid in his hideout in Barangay Kalangan Mother, Cotabato City shortly before midnight.

“His son resisted arrest and traded shots with lawmen,” Sevilla said.

Citing intelligence reports, Petinglay said Indal and his son were hiding at a safe house in outskirts of Cotabato due to intense military operations against the BIFF in Datu Salibo, Maguindanao since Friday last week.

The raiding team seized an M-16 Armalite rifle, cal. 45 pistol and fragmentation grenade.

Maj. Gen. Edmundo Pangilinan, 6th ID chief, told reporters that a vital information provided the law enforcement agencies led to Indal’s arrest.

“This is an accomplishment not only of the security forces but of the entire community because Indal was one of the BIFF leaders who continually sow terror to civilians by laying improvised bombs in public places,” Pangilinan said.

Abu Misri Mama, BIFF spokesperson, said Indal was the BIFF's fourth highest ranking officer.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=855466

Army reports NPA raising permit-to-campaign fees from local pols

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 10): Army reports NPA raising permit-to-campaign fees from local pols

The New People’s Army (NPA) in Eastern Visayas have started raising funds through the collection of permit to campaign and permit to win fees ahead of campaign period for local candidates, the Philippine Army confirmed.

Maj. Gen. Jet Velarmino, commanding general of the Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Division, said they have been receiving reports that rebels kicked off their traditional fund raising activities during election period.

“We are calling local government officials not to give in to this extortion activity. On our part, we intensify our campaign in identified areas where NPAs are moving around,” Velarmino told reporters.

The government troops have been stepping up their watch on the movements of the estimated 400 armed rebels in the region. Majority of them are in Samar provinces.

“We have been very active in addressing this problem because we have received many reports from villages of NPA extortion,” the army official said.

“The NPAs usually approach candidates with financial capability. We are assessing threats of politicians to find out if they can avail security assistance,” he added.

The rebels collect money from politicians who want to access NPA-influenced communities. The amount generated through extortion will be used to launch more attacks against the government.

Some rebels have been making some noise to politicians who have already filed their certificates of candidacy since late last year.

The 8th Infantry Division has 5,000 soldiers and most of them are assigned in NPA-infested towns in Samar provinces.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=855399

Police, Marines arrest 3 for gun possession and illegal drugs in Maguindanao

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 10): Police, Marines arrest 3 for gun possession and illegal drugs in Maguindanao

Police and military authorities arrested on Tuesday afternoon in Maguindanao three persons for possession of firearms and illegal drugs, police said today.

Chief Inspector Allan Uy, chief of Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Maguindanao office, identified the suspects as Digo Dampas alias Digo, Norhana Samadalan and Norman Guiamad.

Uy said joint police and members of the Philippine Marine Battalion Landing Team 5 arrested the suspects by virtue of an arrest warrant issued by Judge Bansawan Ibrahim of Regional Trial Court Branch 13 in Cotabato City.

He said the suspects were arrested during the implementation of "Oplan Paglalansag Omega" in Barangay Romongaob, Timanan proper, South Upi, Maguidnanao.

"They did not resist arrest but denied they are into illegal drug trade," Uy told reporters.

The raiding team recovered three hand guns from the suspects, ammunition, 10 sachets of methamphetamine hydrochloride, known as shabu, and shabu parahernalia from the suspects.

Charges for violation of Republic Act 10591 or the Comprehensive Law on Firearms and Ammunition and RA 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drug Act of 2002 have been prepared against the suspects who are now detained at CIDG office in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (CIDG-ARMM) based in Cotabato City.

The suspects are also facing election gun ban violation.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=855494

Army soldier dies, CAFGU man wounded in CamSur ambush

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 10): Army soldier dies, CAFGU man wounded in CamSur ambush

A Philippine Army sargeant died on the spot while his companion-member of the Citizens Armed Forces Geographical Unit was seriously wounded in an ambush staged by New People's Army (NPA) rebels while the two were on board a motorcycle at Barangay San Isidro, Libmanan, Camarines Sur at 10:20 a.m. Wednesday.

A police report identified the fatality as Sgt. Rodel Rala, married, and the wounded CAFGU member as Jovito Arias, married, who was rushed to a hospital in Libmanan.

Both belong to the 22nd Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army.

The government troopers were bound for Barangay Pag-Oring, Libmanan when ambushed by an undetermined number of rebels positioned at both sides of the road.

Responding government soldiers failed to catch up with the communist dissidents who withdrew towards an unknown direction.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=855669

AFP: Arrest of BIFF leader a setback to lawless group

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 10): AFP: Arrest of BIFF leader a setback to lawless group

The arrest late Tuesday of a ranking leader of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) was a huge setback for lawless group, both the military and the BIFF separately said.

It’s a big blow to the BIFF, they lost a middle level leader believed to be behind the series of improvised bomb attacks in Maguindanao,” Capt. Joan Petinglay said.

Petinglay, speaking for the Army’s 6th Infantry Division, said in a radio interview that community participation in the campaign against the lawless group paid off with the arrest of Hassan Indal, 51, BIFF vice chair for internal affairs and leader of the group’s 4th division.

Indal was also the BIFF's tactician and in-charge of indoctrination of the group's new recruits.

Indal, also known as Abu Hazam/Hassan, was arrested in a safe house in Barangay Kalanganan Mother, Cotabato City during a joint Army and police raid at 11:50 p.m. Tuesday.

Awakened in the presence of soldiers and police officers, Indal did not resist arrest. But his son, Ali Indal, grabbed the M-16 Armalite rifle beside him in an attempt to prevent the arresting officers, according to Colonel Ranulfo Sevilla, 5th Army Special Forces Battalion, said.

"When our troops knocked on Indal's home, it was his son who opened the door with an M-16 Armalite rifle," Sevilla said. "Our troops over-powered him and we seized the rifle but he grabbed another rifle," he added.

With their rifles ready, the lawmen fired at Ali, killing him on the spot, Santos said.

Petinglay said Indal had been hiding in Barangay Kalanganan to avoid the skirmishes between government forces and BIFF in Datu Salibo, Maguindanao which started Friday last week.

But Abu Misri Mama, speaking for the BIFF, told reporters that Indal was in Cotabato City for medical treatment. Indal was said to be suffering from diabetes and has been lying low the past two months.

“He was not hiding, yes it was a big blow for the BIFF but that is normal in revolutionary movement,” Mama said in Filipino, referring to Indal’s arrest.

Maj. Gen. Edmundo Pangilinan, 6th Infantry Division commander, lauded the civilian informant who provided Army and police intelligence information on the location of Indal.

"This is an accomplishment not only of the security forces but of the entire community because Indal was one of the BIFF leaders who continually sow terror to civilians by laying IEDs and attacking communities,” Pangilinan said.

"We are thankful for the growing awareness of the community in fighting terrorism by providing essential information for his capture," he added.

Petinglay said Indal was informed of the cause of his arrest and was informed of his rights, including his rights to seek legal counsel.

Recovered from Indal’s house were an M-653 Armalite rifle, a cal. 45 pistol, a fragmentation grenade and ammunition.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=855687

Bomb experts defused bomb near police station

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 11): Bomb experts defused bomb near police station

COTABATO CITY -- Police and Army bomb experts successfully deactivated on Wednesday night an improvised bomb planted beside the Police Station 1 here, police said.

According to Senior Superintendent Raul Supeter, city police director, the improvised explosive device (IED) was discovered by a passersby at a roadside along Don Roman Vilo Street past 8 p.m. Wednesday.

"It has blinkers from a 9-volt battery and was spotted by passersby who quickly alerted the police," Supeter said.

“Experts disrupted the bomb and nobody was hurt,” Supeter said of the explosive.

He said the IED composition include black powder, battery, triggering device with blinker and cut concrete nails serving as shrapnel and placed in a plastic “sando-bag.”

The bombing attempt came a day after joint Army and police arrested Hassan Indal, a ranking official of the outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in Barangay Kalanganan Mother.

Supeter could not say as of yet if the bombing attempt was related to Indal’s arrest.

Earlier in the day, another improvised bomb was found at a roadside in Datu Saudi Ampatuan leading to Datu Salibo town in Maguindanao where the military has been conducting clearing operations against the BIFF.

The IED, which the Army believed was meant for military hardware frequenting the area, was safely defused by Army bomb experts.

It blamed the BIFF for the attempt.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=855804

3 more rebels surrender in Davao Oriental

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 10): 3 more rebels surrender in Davao Oriental

Three New People's Army (NPA) fighters have decided to surrender in Davao Oriental last Feb. 5 and 8, the 10th Infantry Division reported Wednesday.

Capt. Rhyan Batchar, 10th Infantry Division spokesperson, identified the returnees through their aliases for security reasons as Pablo, 21; Borjack, 18; and Boboy.

All are members of Guerrilla Front 71 of the Far South Mindanao Region.

Batchar said the three ex-rebels voluntarily surrendered to members of the Jose Abad Santos Municipal Police in Davao Oriental and 73rd Infantry Battalion last Feb. 5 and 8.

It can be recalled that the 10th Infantry Division intensified its security operations against the NPAs in Davao Region resulting to series of clashes in the provinces of Davao Occidental and Compostela Valley last week.

10th Infantry Division commander Major Gen. Rafael Valencia earlier said they will continue its peace and development initiatives for the people of Davao Region.

He, however, reiterated that “those who continue to choose the path of violence will be vigorously pursued and defeated using legitimate force.”

Based on 10th Infantry Division records, a total of 23 former rebels coming from different NPA Guerrilla Fronts in Regions 11 and 12 have returned to the folds of the law since last Jan. 1.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=855424

2 NPA extortionists bagged in Quezon operation

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 10): 2 NPA extortionists bagged in Quezon operation

Two suspected New People's Army (NPA) extortionists were nabbed during joint military-police operations in the town of Mauban in Quezon on Tuesday.

Lt. Col. Angelo Guzman, Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM) spokesperson, said the arrest took place at Barangay Cagsiay 2, Mauban.

The operation was conducted by troopers of the 85th Infantry Battalion and the PNP Quezon Public Safety Company.

201st Infantry Brigade commander Brig. Gen. Rhoderick M. Parayno identified the two suspects as Alex Perdiguera and Mark Ryan Relao Asores.

A .45 caliber pistol was also seized in their possession was recovered during the arrest.

Perdiguera is a resident is a resident of Ibabang Pulo, Pagbilao, Quezon while Asores is from Barangay San Jose, San Pablo, Laguna.

The suspects were positively identified by construction workers as the ones who burned a backhoe in November 2015 when the construction company did not give in to their extortion demand.

"The NPAs sent extortion letters again to contractors and businessmen but this time they were asking a higher fees," Parayno said.

This prompted them to report the matter to the 201st Infantry Brigade.

With the cooperation and information coming from various contractors, businessmen and the locals in the area, the 201st Infantry Brigade with the PNP-Quezon Public Safety Company launched an operation targeting the NPA extortion group which led to the arrest of the two NPAs.

"These (extortion and arson) are oppressive acts of the NPA against the people. Apart from disturbing the peace and affecting development efforts in the countryside," Parayno said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=855582

AFP to raise tempo of operations against known threat groups

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 10): AFP to raise tempo of operations against known threat groups

To ensure the peaceful and orderly conduct of the national and local elections in May, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) announced it is increasing the tempo of its operations against known threat groups in the country.

This was disclosed by AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla in a press briefing Wednesday.

He added that this is the rationale behind ongoing security operations against the New People's Army, Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, Abu Sayyaf Group and private armed groups.

Padilla said these operations are designed to keep these threat groups on the run and prevent them from carrying out any election-related atrocities.

"Some of the operational considerations at this moment I cannot (impart) or relay to you so we can protect our troops appropriately," he added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=855616

Rebel killed, 2 others hurt in Compostela Valley clash

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 10): Rebel killed, 2 others hurt in Compostela Valley clash

A New People's Army (NPA) bandit was killed while another one was wounded during a clash with 46th Infantry Battalion troopers in Pantukan town, Compostela Valley on Tuesday afternoon.

In the same encounter, a soldier, identified as Cpl. Boskie Carcellar, was wounded in the chest.

Capt. Rhyan Batchar, 10th Infantry Division spokesperson, said a rebel M-16 automatic rifle was also captured.

He added government troops were pursuing NPA remnants in the area when they chanced upon 20 NPAs at Sitio Post 4, Barangay Tagdangua, Pantukan at 4:00 p.m.

This triggered a 20-minute gun-battle which resulted in the wounding of Carcellar and wounding of two rebels.

Pursuit operations resulted in the death of Ronel Paas, 35, a resident of Lower Lahi, Purok 6, Magnaga, Pantukan.

Another rebel, who is a minor, was injured in the clash.

Paas, who has a gunshot wound on his chest, was pronounced dead-on-arrival at the hospital while the minor rebel, who has a gunshot wound on his lower left leg was brought to Camp Panacan Station Hospital in Davao City along with Carcellar.

Batchar said they are now coordinating with the Department of Social Welfare and Development and Commission Human Rights to look into the case of the minor rebel, who can be considered as a "child soldier" recruited by the rebels.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=855624

SOLCOM naval units 'rescue' stranded tourists off Masbate

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 11): SOLCOM naval units 'rescue' stranded tourists off Masbate

Naval units attached to the Lucena-based Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM) have rescued 102 people, mostly tourists, stranded in Sombrero Island off Masbate last Feb. 9.

Reports forwarded Thursday by SOLCOM spokesperson Lt. Col. Angelo Guzman said Navy gunboat BRP Jose Andrada (PG-370), commanded by Lt. Edwin M. Nuestro, Jr. rescued 100 tourists and two caretakers.

The ship is one of the units of SOLCOM's Naval Forces Southern Luzon.

Guzman said the tourists were on the last day of their three-day island hopping tour in Sombrero Island in Masbate when they were prohibited from leaving due to strong winds and very rough sea conditions.

They were forced to stay in the island for another day as the weather condition worsened.

The SOLCOM spokesperson said as distress calls from the tourists reached their attention, BRP Jose Andrada, which was docked at Pasacao town, Camarines Sur, was immediately deployed for a rescue mission made urgent as provisions of the stranded people were running out.

The naval vessel successfully transported to safety the tourists, most of whom are from Manila, and the island caretakers to nearby Burias island. The rescue mission was terminated at around 9:15 p.m. on the same day.

"We really have a very dependable and reliable Navy securing the seas in SOLCOM AOR," SOLCOM head Lt. Gen. Ricardo R. Visaya as he lauded the Navy for its swift response.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=855836

Photo: Legitimate Encounter?

Posted to the often pro-CPP Davao Today (Feb 10): Photo: Legitimate Encounter?

Captain Rhyan Batchar, spokesperson of the 10th Infantry Division belied the allegations of Karapatan Southern Mindanao region that it was indiscriminate firing that killed Ronel Paas, 35 years old alias Dondon and wounded 14 years old alias Dong, in Sitio Post-4, Barangay Napnapan, Pantukan, Compostela Valley province on February 9. He said the firing were meant to attack members of the New People's Army. (Ace R. Morandante/davaotoday.com)

Captain Rhyan Batchar, spokesperson of the 10th Infantry Division belied the allegations of Karapatan Southern Mindanao region that it was indiscriminate firing that killed Ronel Paas, 35 years old alias Dondon and wounded 14 years old alias Dong, in Sitio Post-4, Barangay Napnapan, Pantukan, Compostela Valley province on February 9. He said the firing were meant to attack members of the New People’s Army. (Ace R. Morandante/davaotoday.com)
 

Karapatan blames military for deadly, ‘indiscriminate’ Comval attacks

From the often pro-CPP Davao Today (Feb 10): Karapatan blames military for deadly, ‘indiscriminate’ Comval attacks

Human rights group Karapatan in Southern Mindanao blamed the Philippine Army’s 46th Infantry Battalion (IB) for the death of a civilian who was shot by an unknown assailant on Tuesday noon, February 9 in Poblacion, Compostela, Compostela Valley Province.

Hanimay Suazo, spokesperson of Karapatan-Southern Mindanao, has identified the latest victim of extra-judicial killing as Jennifer E. Albacite, a banana cue vendor.

Albacite’s sister is Jeannirose, an anti-mining activist who works as a staff of a local peasant group Compostela Farmers’ Association (CFA).

The CFA had been opposing the entry of mining company Agusan Petroleum & Mineral Corp. (Agpet) in Compostela Valley province.

Shooting spree, bombings

On Tuesday afternoon, hours after Albacite was gunned down, Karapatan said that government troops from 46th and 71st IBs went on a shooting spree and bombed a heavily civilian populace using military’s heavy weapons artillery.

The incident, according to the group, has killed and injured civilians and caused destruction of properties in the communities of Sitio Kidaran, Barangay Mascareg and Anitapan, Panamin, Candinuyan in Mabini town, Palo and Lugpaton in Barangay Kingking in Pantukan.

Karapatan identified a small-scale mining worker (abantero) who was killed during the incident as Ronel Paas, 35. Suazo said Paas has three children and works at R.V. Tunnel located in Sitio Diat, Post-4.

Minor detained by military?

She said that a wounded 14-year old boy was illegally detained by the military at Barangay Tibagon, Pantukan Tuesday night and was transported to the military’s facility at Camp Panacan, Davao City.

Suazo has also scored the military for conducting an area target zonings or saturation drives in areas pinpointed by the military as places where communist rebels are believed to be hiding.

“The military conducted a zoning. They ordered all male small-scale miners to come out from the tunnel and to assemble in a certain area for an inspection until such time they will be ordered to be released,” Suazo told DavaoToday in an interview on Wednesday, February 10.

Attacks a legitimate encounter —  army

The military, however, said that there was a legitimate encounter between the government troops and the New People’s Army (NPA). The 10th Infantry Division (ID) claims that military troops from 46th IB figured in an encounter with the communist rebels in Pantukan, Compostela Valley province.

“Yesterday there (was) an encounter between the troops of the 46th IB and the New People’s Army which happened in Sitio Post-4, Barangay Napnapan, Pantukan ,Compostela Valley Province. It happened at around 4 o’clock in the afternoon to which it resulted to a 20-minute gun battle.

Unfortunately, one soldier was wounded on that effect,” Captain Rhyan Batchar, 10th ID spokesperson, told reporters on Wednesday.

The wounded soldier was identified as Corporal Boskie Carcellar, who sustained a gunshot at the left side of his chest, said Batchar.

He added that “the soldiers of 46IB were running after the group of alias Raden, who is responsible for the series of violence in Pantukan, when they chanced upon a group of around 20 NPAs triggering a 20-minute firefight in Sitio Post-4, Barangay Tagdangua of the said municipality.”

Military to probe violations

When pressed to comment on the death of Albacite, Batchar said that the military “will cooperate any investigation” should there be soldiers implicated in rights violation. “We do not condone any misbehavior (of) our soldiers and we will give sanctions on our soldiers.”

But Karapatan belied the military’s claim and maintained that there was no encounter that transpired between the military and the New People’s Army rebels.

“There’s no truth to the claim of the military. There is no legitimate encounter,” Suazo said after the group has dispatched a Quick Reaction Team earlier today to probe the incident.

Suazo further said that some local miners were tortured by the “notorious” government troops under the 46th IB.” The military has forcefully ordered the small-scale miners to stop all the mining operations, Suazo said citing an account from a victim who requested anonymity.

http://davaotoday.com/main/human-rights/karapatan-blames-military-for-deadly-indiscriminate-comval-attacks/