Thursday, March 17, 2016

Army alert up vs. NPA retaliatory attacks after arrest of rebel leader

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 18): Army alert up vs. NPA retaliatory attacks after arrest of rebel leader

Government forces have been alerted in Davao del Sur and North Cotabato following the arrest Thursday of a ranking official of the communist New Peoples Army (NPA) leader and the killing of his follower in the village of Barangay Buri, Matanao, Davao del Sur.

Lt. Colonel Arnold Argamosa, commander of the 39th Infantry Battalion based in North Cotabato, said an alert status has been declared by Eastern Mindanao Command for possible "retaliatory attacks."

Argamosa identified the arrested NPA leader as Joan Casamorin, also known as "Alvin," allegedly the vice commander of Guerilla Front 72 of NPA Far South Mindanao Regional Committee.

Casamorin is facing charges of robbery, kidnapping and serious illegal detention and murder.

He leads an NPA group operating in remote communities in North Cotabato, Davao del Sur and Sultan Kudarat.

Elements of the 39th IB were sent to Barangay Buri after residents reported the presence of several armed men mulcting on farmers.

As the soldiers were approaching the village, they were fired upon by gunmen, triggering a firefight, according to Argamosa.

Authorities identified the slain NPA member as "JebJeb." A cal. 45 pistol was taken from him.

Argamosa told reporters the civilians helped in identifying the slain guerilla and the arrested leader.

He lauded the residents for helping authorities about the presence of NPAs in their midst.

Military commanders in the area also alerted the residents about land mines and road side bombs expected to be planted by the NPA after the arrest of one of its leaders.

The NPAs have been fighting the Philippine government for more than four decades and considered to be the oldest communist movement in Asia.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=867874

OPAPP sets transitional justice, reconciliation recommendations in motion

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 18): OPAPP sets transitional justice, reconciliation recommendations in motion

Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) Sec. Teresita Deles has assured recommendations made by the Transitional Justice and Reconciliation Commission (TJRC) to forward the Bangsamoro peace process will be operationalized.

The recommendations were included in a report launched to the public on March 15 in Cotabato City.

During the launch, Deles said Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa, Jr. issued a memorandum of instructions to OPAPP to put in motion the recommendations in the report.

The TJRC conducted various consultations across the country on what would be an important component to promote healing and reconciliation among the communities affected by the decades-long armed conflict in Mindanao.

Deles outlined concrete actions on how the TJRC report could be implemented.

“We will seek at the earliest possible time to draw up Memoranda of Agreements to institutionalize the partnership along these different tasks with selected government agencies,” she said.

The government agencies are the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF); the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP); the Department of Education (DepEd); the National Historical Commission (NHC); the Claims Board for Human Rights Victims of Martial Law; the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) regional government; and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

Deles said that those agencies “have already initiated relevant processes and reforms on which the work of truth-telling, memorialization, redress, and reconciliation can build.”

“As well, we will try to expand our efforts by tapping the expertise and knowledge base of the academic community and civil society,” she added.

Despite setbacks, Deles called on everyone "not to give up" on the peace process.

“This Bangsamoro opportunity is one we ignore at our own peril. And we take heart in seeing that the parties in this peace process are not ignoring this opportunity and are in fact doing all they can to make sure we take it and make the most of it. Despite setbacks and difficulties along the way, no one is backing out. No one is giving up—not the MILF, not the government. And we ask you not to give up as well,” Deles said.

The TJRC finished drafting its report in December 2015 and subsequently submitted to the Philippine government (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) negotiating panels during their meeting in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia held on Feb. 10 to 11, 2016.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=867923

3 suspected Abu Sayyaf bandits captured in Sulu

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 18): 3 suspected Abu Sayyaf bandits captured in Sulu

Three suspected members of the extremist Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), believed to be involved in the recent attacks against police and military personnel, were arrested by authorities in Patikul, Sulu province Thursday morning.

The three were arrested at Barangay Bangkal around 11:40 a.m., said Joint Task Group Sulu commander Brig. Gen. Alan Arrojado.

Arrested were Jemar Asgarri, 22; Alden Asmad, 29, both married and residents of Barangay Darayan, Patikul and Dems Abtal, 28, also married and a resident of Barangay Lower Sinumaan, Talipao.

Government security forces pounced on the suspects after seeing one of them carrying a .38 caliber pistol and acting suspiciously aboard their Kawasaki Fury motorcycle (with license plate 7260-JD)

The suspects are believed to be responsible for the attack of PNP personnel at Jolo Airport and the killing of two 10th Infantry battalion intelligence personnel in Patikul last March 15, Arrojado said.

The three are now undergoing investigation at the Jolo Municipal Police Station. Appropriate charges are now being readied against them.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=867918

Hataman rallies Bangsamoro never to forget Jabidah Massacre

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 18): Hataman rallies Bangsamoro never to forget Jabidah Massacre

Regional Gov. Mujiv Hataman of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) on Friday reminded the Bangsamoro people not to forget the lives offered in the name of peace in Mindanao.

"Today we continue this difficult task of remembering, a task that is necessary in the greater struggle for our rights as Bangsamoros, a struggle that we wage for lasting peace and genuine justice," Hataman said in his message in commemoration of the 48th Jabidah Massacre in Corregidor.

He said it has been almost five decades since the Jabidah Massacre left its mark on the Bangsamoro consciousness, a mark "akin to a wound that has never fully healed as its scab is picked over and over again with every other act of injustice committed against our people."

The regional governor said for Bangsamoro people, the story of Jabidah needs no introduction. "In our minds and hearts, there is no question that it happened and that it is true. In our history, there is no question about its rightful place in the long narrative of our struggle for self-determination."

The infamous Jabidah Massacre refers to the mass killing of about 60 Moro recruits trained by Marcos government allegedly to invade Sabah, Malaysia on March 18, 1968.

Hataman said for many other Filipinos, the reality of the Jabidah Massacre remains either unknown or denied.

"In the midst of all the unknowns and denials, this is what we know: During the Marcos regime, Bangsamoro men were taken to Corregidor from the island provinces of Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-tawi, and were recruited to be part of an elite commando group called Jabidah. This group has been tasked to carry out Operation Merdeka, an operation that involved destabilizing Sabah, allowing the Philippines to take over the area."

Hataman recalled the incident by narrating: "One night, their military handlers began to take them by the dozen to a remote airstrip. Here our brothers were executed as they were shot with machine guns, making sure not one of them survived. They were indiscriminately shot at and summarily executed, after being treated unfairly throughout the duration of their supposed training."

"The number of Bangsamoro men killed ranges from eleven to the thousands. No one knows for sure. This is because our history knows not the exact numbers or dates, because our history has always been subjected to denial and erasure," he added.

He said that incident triggered a series of atrocities by the Marcos military to Moro communities in southern Philippines, triggering Moro uprising the years that followed.

"After so many of our communities have been burned down, so many of our families torn apart by war, and so many of our children growing up while fighting injustice, the murder of our brothers who wanted only to fight for our country was the final straw. Jabidah became the spark which started the flames of our struggle," he said.

"It is our history that speaks of our pain and healing, of conflict and survival, of losing and seeking our rightful place in this country. It is a history that has been seared onto our minds and our hearts by the fire of our long and difficult struggle, because no there is no other way for us to remember," the regional governor said as he declared a non-working holiday in the five provinces of ARMM.

"Never again will we allow our people be hidden by the shadows of the past, and we will never forget our people whose lives depend so much on peace and whose deaths strongly demand justice," he said.

ARMM is composed of the provinces of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=867910

DWDD: NPA SETBACK II High Ranking NPA Leader Nabbed, Another Neutralized in Davao Del Sur

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Mar 17): NPA SETBACK II High Ranking NPA Leader Nabbed, Another Neutralized in Davao Del Sur



MATANAO, Davao del Sur (DWDD) Combined troops of 39th Infantry Battalion and Matanao Municipal Police Station apprehended a high ranking leader and recovered the body of his companion who died during the firefight last Wednesday morning, March 16, 2016 at Barangay Buri, Matanao, Davao del Sur.

The apprehended leader, identified as Joan Casamorin alias Alvin is presently the vice commander of Guerrilla 72 of the Far South Mindanao Regional Committee (FSMR) operating in the hinterlands of South Cotabato, Davao del Sur, North Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat.

Alias Alvin is facing charges for robbery, kidnapping and serious Illegal Detention, four counts of murder and Robbery with Homicide.



The troops responded on information regarding the presence of armed men that resulted to a fire fight. The troops were able to recover one Cal. 45 pistol, ammunitions, three Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and the dead body of alias Jebjeb. Alias Alvin got wounded but was immediately rushed to a hospital for treatment while his companion’s dead body was brought to Angel Funeral Homes, Bansalan, Davao del Sur.

“The successful arrest of this NPA leader manifests the community’s strong desire for peace and security in the area. The people have grown tired of the deception and manipulation of the NPAs”, said Lieutenant Colonel Argamosa, 39IB commander.
Colonel Ronald Villanueva, Commander of 1002nd Infantry Brigade said that the apprehension of high ranking individuals within this month is a great loss to the New People’s Army (NPA).

First, is the arrest of Ruditha Rosete Gaylawan alias Massi, Front Secretary of GF54 last March 8, 2016 in Calinan, Davao City and second, is the arrest of Joan Casamorin, Vice Commander of GF72 of FSMR, March 16, 2016, “We would like to encourage the remaining members of the NPAs to abandon the armed struggle. They can live a normal life away from starvation and hardship by returning to the folds of the law for them to possibly receive assistance from the government agencies such as livelihood and immediate cash aids,” Col Villanueva concluded.  CMO 39IB / MCAG

DWDD: PN RESERVE FORCE II House Speaker Belmonte Dons Rank

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Mar 17): PN RESERVE FORCE II House Speaker Belmonte Dons Rank

CAMP GENERAL EMILIO AGUINALDO, Quezon City (DWDD) – AFP Chief of Staff General Hernando DCA Iriberri AFP and AFP Deputy Chief of Staff for Reservist and Retirees Affairs, J9 Rear Admiral Aurelio A Rabusa Jr. presided over the donning of ranks ceremony of House of Representatives Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr., March 17, 2016, at the Hall of Flags of the General Headquarters Building, Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

Speaker Belmonte is now a Commander in the Philippine Navy Reserve Force.

Belmonte was Mayor of Quezon City from 2001 to 2010 during which time he was selected as the Most Outstanding Mayor of the Philippines by the Local Government Leadership Awards.

1992 marked Belmonte’s first stint as congressman. Before he became mayor, Belmonte was elected representative of the 4th Congressional District of Quezon City, and held the position for three consecutive terms. Belmonte was Speaker of the House of Representatives in 2001, and also served as House Minority Leader. In his first two terms, he was the Vice Chairman of the Committee on Appropriations. PAO AFP / MCAG

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House of Representatives Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr., now a Commander at the Philippine Navy Reserve Force, is happily welcomed by Navy generals at his donning of ranks ceremony, March 17, 2016 in Camp Aguinaldo as AFP Chief of Staff General Hernando Iriberri looks on.

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AFP Chief of Staff General Hernando DCA Iriberri AFP and AFP Deputy Chief of Staff for Reservist and Retirees Affairs, J9 Rear Admiral Aurelio A Rabusa Jr. attach the symbols of he rank of Commander of the Philippine Navy on the shoulder of House of Representatives Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. during his donning of ranks ceremony.

http://dwdd.com.ph/2015/pn-reserve-force-ii-house-speaker-belmonte-dons-rank/

DWDD: GREENSTAR BOOK II The 5ID Experience

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Mar 17): GREENSTAR BOOK II The 5ID Experience

Camp Melchor F Dela Cruz, Isabela (DWDD) – A launching ceremony of the book entitled “Greenstar: The 5ID Experience” written by Colonel Francisco Millare was held at Army’s 77th IB here in Gamu yesterday, 16 March 2016.

5th ID Seal

Rev. Fr. Edgar F. Agcaoili, the Vicar General of Archdiocese of Tuguegarao City graced the occasion as Guest of Honor and Speaker. Major General Lysander Suerte, the commander of 5ID said the book is the product of collective experience of 5ID in mitigating the effects of climate change. “We take pride, we honor and with gratitude we say thank you to Colonel Millare for spearheading this project and to all 77IB troopers”, he said.

The book “Greenstar: the 5ID Experience” accounts all the implementing procedures, development and sustainment of the GREENSTAR project and propagate the system that 5ID had developed as a “best practice” on mitigating the effect of climate change.

Colonel Millare says the completion of the book has taken great effort and determination that has involved the significant contribution of several important persons. “This book reflects my passion as leader to educate many of our soldiers and our stakeholders to participate in the unending problem of climate change”, he added. 5DPAO / MCAG

DWDD: STRONGLY CONDEMNS II 14IB and Balangkayan Denounce NPA Atrocities in Eastern Samar

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Mar 17): STRONGLY CONDEMNS II 14IB and Balangkayan Denounce NPA Atrocities in Eastern Samar

ORAS, Eastern Samar (DWDD) The 14th Infantry (AVENGER) Battalion, Philippine Army and the peace loving populace of Balangkayan strongly condemn the recent attack by the New People’s Army at the Municipal Police Station in Balangkayan, Eastern Samar last March 7, 2016.



Avenger troopers uphold the rights of Balangkayanon during a peace dialogue with local officials and residents wherein they expressed disappointment against the violence and cruelty of the NPA such as the hijack of two Duptours Vans prior to the attack, ransack of the Balangkayan MPS and carting away of nine (9) M16 Rifles, one (1) shotgun, four (4) 9mm pistols and other important documents.

Lt. Col. Ronie T Ebarita, commanding officer, 14th Infantry Battalion said that the acts of the NPA clearly show their utter disregard of human lives and concern of the welfare of the local populace despite the efforts of the government to uplift the well being of the people of Balangkayan thru sustained development.

“These NPAs are in desperate mode of projecting themselves as strong force to extort, intimidate, and harm both civilians and government forces especially that the national and local elections are fast approaching.”

“We assure you that your professional soldiers together with the PNP, will impose the full force of the law to achieve justice. However, we urge you to denounce these acts of the NPA and support the efforts of the government by providing us information that would lead to the arrest of the perpetrators and bring them to justice, Ebarita added. 8DPAO / MCAG

DWDD: SLOWLY CRUMBLING II NPA Leaders Fall

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Mar 17): SLOWLY CRUMBLING II NPA Leaders Fall

DAVAO (DWDD) Leaders of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Mindanao are falling one by one.

 





Allan Montecalvo

http://dwdd.com.ph/2015/slowly-crumbling-ii-npa-leaders-fall/

MILF: Japan provides P20M projects for peace and dev’t in Mindanao

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Mar 17): Japan provides P20M projects for peace and dev’t in Mindanao 



(As a) manifestation of its continuous support for peace and development in the Bangsamoro, the Japanese Government held a Grant Contract Signing at Al Nor Hotel in Cotabato City on March 14, 2016 for the P20M aid that will finance five social development projects in conflict affected areas of Mindanao.

Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines, H.E. Kazuhide Ishikawa, signed the grant contract with the representatives of five local organizations that will facilitate the implementation of



The financial aid was coursed through the Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Resource Security Projects (GGP) Implemented by the Japanese Embassy in the Philippines as part of the Japan-Bangsamoro Initiatives for Reconstruction and Development (J-BIRD).

In his message, Ishikawa said, “As you recall, when President Aquino made a state visit to Japan last June, Japanese Prime Minister, Mr. Shinzo Abe, expressed at their summit meeting his support for efforts by the parties concerned to secure enduring peace in Mindanao.”

“I can assure you that Japan will continue to work hand-in-hand with all the stakeholders to support social and economic development in Mindanao through development assistance such as J-BIRD,” he said.

The Japanese envoy hoped the five projects will be steadily implemented and make substantial contributions for goal for peace and prosperity of Mindanao.

Expressing gratitude to the Japanese people, Commissioner Abdulla Camlian, representing the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC), said, “Though the implementation of the peace agreement is halted due to the non-passage of the BBL (Bangsamoro Basic Law) in the Philippine Congress, your coming here in our home, exemplifies more the value of our appreciation.”

“Moreover, what you personally came here for, your Excellency, is with the intention to further improve the condition of our people and society with a grant contract signing,” he said.

“We have a vision of a Bangsamoro that is peaceful and progressive, a society that can thrive, play a beneficial role in a global setting,” Camlian said and added, “And in the vision that we have, with an enduring partnership, we see you right next to us in making all these happen.”



Camlian cited the assistance of the Japanese government to other development projects in Mindanao and to the capacity building of the Bangsamoro people.

“The improvement in the lives, the relatively peaceful society, we are experiencing them. All these, made possible with the support and contribution of the Japanese Government has given us,” he pointed out.

The development intervention includes procurement of equipment and construction of post-harvest facilities for farmers in Ampatuan Maguindanao, provision of farm tractor for marginalized Bangsamoro farmers of Lanao del Norte and construction of classrooms for Al Azhaire Academy, Bayugan National High School and Kalbugan Elementary School.

The five grant recipient organizations were the Lower Riverside Farmers Multi-Purpose Cooperative, Lanao Intercultural Convergence for Development and Peace, Inc., Al-Amanah Humanitarian and Development Services, Inc., Philam Foundation and Mindanao Children’s Library Foundation, Inc.

Launched in December 2006, J-BIRD was designed to contribute to the peace process and development of the conflict affected areas of Mindanao. The project aims to the target communities to enjoy the “dividends of peace.”

As of March 2016, the total amount of assistance provided under the J-BIRD has reached approximately $20 million.

Dr. Saffrullah Dipatuan, Chair of the Bangsamoro Development Agency thanked the Japanese government for its solid commitment to peace and development of the Bangsamoro communities.

Government peace panel member Senen Bacani also graced the affair. He lauded Japan being one of the strongest supporters of the Bangsamoro peace process in the international stage.

http://www.luwaran.com/home/index.php/news/20-central-mindanao/630-japan-provides-p20m-projects-for-peace-and-dev-t-in-mindanao

Report of the Transitional Justice and Reconciliaion Commission

From the Transitional Justice and Reconciliation Commission (Mar 15): Report of the Transitional Justice and Reconciliaion Commission

Go to the following URL for a full copy of the report: http://tjrc.ph/skin/vii_tjrc/pdfs/report.pdf

http://tjrc.ph/

TJRC Press Statement On The Public Launch Of Its Report

From the Transitional Justice and Reconciliation Commission (Mar 15): TJRC Press Statement On The Public Launch Of Its Report

The Transitional Justice and Reconciliation Commission (TJRC), the GPH-MILF peace process mechanism established under the Normalization Annex of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro, presented its report on 15 March 2016 in Cotabato City. A second launch will be held on March 16 2016 in Manila.
 
More than 200 individuals, organizations and representatives from local, regional, national and international entities attended the ceremony that began with an ecumenical invocation for peace.
 
Secretary Teresita Quintos-Deles, Presidential Adviser on Peace Process of the Government of the Philippines (GPH), thanked the TJRC for the excellent work done, underlined the importance of the TJRC report and recommendation to pave the way for healing and reconciliation. She read the memorandum signed by the Executive Secretary issued on 11 March 2016, instructing her Office to endorse the TJRC report to the relevant agencies for their review, assessment and implementation and encourage to mainstream the framework proposed by the TJRC report.
 
MILF Peace Panel Chair Mohagher Iqbal of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) commended the TJRC for its excellent work and recalled how necessary it is to understand the historical roots of the conflict, in order to build a better sustainable future. Furthermore, he insisted that transitional justice is part of the Framework agreement and the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro, and that much work is still needed to be realized, notably passing a BBL and making sure that the recommendation of TJRC are implemented fully and gradually. He concluded saying that “Today a national concerted effort towards understanding and acceptance is beginning”.
 
Ms. Mô Bleeker, TJRC Chair, explained how the TJRC realized its report. She shared the conceptual approach of the TJRC that combines a conflict transformation approach and the rights of victims and duties of states to truth, justice, reparation and guarantee of nonrecurrence. “There is no model”, she said, “this approach offers a combination of efforts that are mutually reinforcing and can contribute to long stranding process of change towards peace, Rule of Law and towards a society that manages diversity constructively and is in condition to prevent the commission of atrocities”. She detailed the content of the findings and reiterated the importance of an independent body, as prerequisite to achieve results that answer the needs of victims and contribute to prevent the recurrence of the conflict. She ended stating that the TJRC was told there was a Bangsamoro problem and that the TJRC has come to the conclusion that there is a Bangsamoro opportunity for the Philippines.
 
Representatives of the Business community, the Security Sector, Indigenous Peoples, Muslim and Christian Communities shared their view about the TJRC report, its importance for them and their communities and underlined the crucial importance of dealing with the past to ensure a peaceful future.
 
Atty. Cecilia Jimenez-Damary, GPH Designate to the TJRC, in her concluding remarks thanked all the actors involved in what shall become a nationwide effort.
 

MILF: TJRC Launches Report to Public

Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front Website (Mar 17): TJRC Launches Report to Public



A 125-page report of the Transitional Justice and Reconciliation Commission (TJRC) was publicly launched Tuesday (March 15) in this city attended by representatives of the GPH and MILF Peace Panels and different local, national and international stakeholders.

Ms. Mo Beeker, TJRC Chairman and Special Envoy of the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, was joined by GPH delegate Atty. Cecilia Jimenez, MILF delegate Atty. Ishak Matura, GPH alternate delegate Atty. Mohammed Al-amin Julkipli and MILF alternative delegate Atty. Rusty Kalim in presenting the Commission’s output to the public.

Present also were Sec. Teresita Quintos Deles, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process, Miriam Colonel Ferrer, Chairman of GPH Peace Panel, MILF Peace Panel Chairman Mohagher Iqbal and Ghadzali Jaffar, First Vice-Chairman of MILF.

It can be remembered that around the end of the previous year, December 9, 2015, the said Commission handed over their report to the respective Government of the Philippines (GPH) and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Peace Panels. However, it took around 3 months before the report was made to public.

Established as part of the Normalization Annex of the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB), the TJRC was mandated to undertake a study and to make recommendations with a view of promoting healing and reconciliation among the different communities affected by the conflict in Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago.

“Transitional justice is truth-seeking and the healing the wounds of the past. And just like any pain, it can only disappear when it is properly remedied. That the Report of the Transitional Justice and Reconciliation Commission or TJRC is made public today is an occasion to start accepting sincerely the responsibility, accountability and the moral obligation for rectification. Fully knowing the past and instituting the right formula in order to right wrong would put closure the centuries -old so called Moro Problem in Mindanao,” said Iqbal on the importance of the report to the Bangsamoro and the peace process.

Embodied in the 125 pages report was the Commission’s recommendations on how to address the “legitimate grievances of the Bangsamoro people, historical injustices, human rights violations, and marginalization through land dispossession” as consequences of the deep neglect of the State and violence supported by a deeply embedded impunity.

TJRC designed and implemented an in-depth Consultation Processes to develop their recommendations through the community-based ‘listening process’, study groups, key policy informants interview and dealing with the past assessment.

Major recommendation was the creation and establishment of a National Transitional Justice and Reconciliation Commission on the Bangsamoro (NTJRC) that shall oversee and support the operations of its proposed four sub-commissions, ensure the implementation of the “dealing with the past’ framework and promote healing and reconciliation.

Listed also are specific recommendation to different governmental agencies and “future Bangsamoro authorities” as foreseen in the proposed BBL.

Coming from such report, Deles shared that Executive Secretary Pacquito Ochoa to this end signed a Memorandum of Instructions directing the PAPP  to  (1) endorse the TJRC Report to the relevant agencies for the agencies’ review and assessment; (2) convene and coordinate with the agencies to work owards the adoption and implementation of the recommendations; and (3) identify and mobilize resources to support the programs that may be implemented. In addition the PAPP is likewise mandated to encourage and initiate activities towards the mainstreaming and popularization of the framework for transitional justice and reconciliation.  Finally, The PAPP is required to present a report to the Executive Secretary on her compliance with these instruction.

“In compliance, I will be issuing within this week an Office Order to compose a working committee composed of representatives from the different relevant units of OPAPP to undertake the tasks set forth by the Executive Secretary.  The working committee shall work under my direct supervision,” Deles said.

TJRC also scheduled public launching in different areas of Metro Manila and Zamboanga in the upcoming days.



http://www.luwaran.com/home/index.php/news/20-central-mindanao/631-tjrc-launches-report-to-public

Militarization and US-China Confrontation in the South China Sea

Center for Research Globalization (Mar 17): Militarization and US-China Confrontation in the South China Sea
 
Southchina_sea_88
 
The start of 2016 has witnessed a sharp escalation in the militarization of the South China Sea. The cause of the escalation is multifaceted and comes from both regional and international quarters. The militarization has been initiated and exacerbated by both China and the United States, both bearing responsibility for the current level of tension in the region.
 
The USS John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group sailed to the region from its home port in Bremerton, Washington on January 15th and passed through the Luzon strait separating Taiwan and the Philippines on March 1st. The Stennis is accompanied by the guided missile cruisers the USS Antietam and the USS Mobile Bay as well as the guided missile destroyers USS Stockdale and USS Chung-Hoon. The Antietam is based at Yokosuka Japan, and was ordered off its normal patrol to join the Carrier Strike Group. The 7th Fleet flag ship, the USS Blue Ridge is also in the area, having docked in Manilla on March 4th.
 
 
USS John C, Stevens
 
Trilateral talks were held onboard the Blue Ridge on March 5th between the U.S. Navy, Japanese Maritime Self Defense Forces and the Philippine Navy. The key subject of discussion was how the three nations can work together to confront China in the South China Sea, promote security and stability in the region, and develop future multilateral training and exercises.
 
The current deployment of the Stennis CSG to the region follows the previous deployment of the USS Lassen guided missile destroyer to the Spratley Islands last October, and the USS Curtis Wilbur to the Paracel Islands in late January of this year. The U.S. has also increased surveillance flights over the areas by P-8 Poseidon patrol aircraft, as well as in one case, B-52 strategic bombers.
 
The Navies of China and Vietnam fought a naval engagement for control of the Paracel Islands in 1974, which resulted in China’s defacto control of the islands.  China has established a military presence on Woody Island since that time, and has engaged in an extensive expansion of the base in recent years. Woody Island now has an extensive military airbase, with a number of newly built hangars and munitions storage buildings. In February, satellite surveillance revealed the deployment of two batteries of HQ-9 surface-to-air missile launchers, as well as supporting vehicles such as an engagement radar and the Type 305B AESA acquisition radar on the northern end of the island. Last November, China announced the deployment of J-11 fighters to Woody Island.
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As land reclamation and building efforts on the part of the Chinese continue at Fiery Cross Reef and Mischief Reef in the Spratly Islands with no signs of slowing down in the immediate future, it will be interesting to see if the U.S. Navy increases the size and tempo of future patrols in the area. With the Royal Australian Navy taking delivery of its second Canberra class LHD HMAS Adelaide on December 4th of last year and the first of two Makassar Class LPD vessels built by Indonesia for the Philippine Navy the BRP Tarlac launched on January 17th of this year, the U.S. Navy may soon be bolstered by more powerful regional navies in future patrols. The prime minister of Japan, Shinzo Abe announced in November of last year his willingness to have the Japanese Maritime Self Defense Forces join the U.S. Navy in patrols of the South China Sea. Australian P-3 Orion maritime patrol aircraft are currently flying freedom of navigation missions in the region.
 
It was reported just days ago on March 9th, that the United States and Australia were negotiating the basing of more U.S. strategic bombers, including the supersonic B-1, and aerial tankers at Australian bases on a rotational basis. The aircraft would be based at Tindal and Darwin in northern Australia. They would complement U.S. B-52 strategic bombers already based at Darwin on a similar rotation. As the brinkmanship continues, with no signs of either China or the United States backing down, the chances of a military confrontation in the South China Sea, whether calculated or accidental, continue to grow with each passing day.
 

PA lines up activities for 119th anniversary

From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 17): PA lines up activities for 119th anniversary

ROXAS CITY, Capiz  – Series of activities have been lined up by the Philippine Army to mark its 119th Philippine Army anniversary celebration in the Visayas.

Included in said activities was the photo static display held March 13, at the Robinson’s place in Roxas City, which depict the Army’s core purpose of serving the people and securing the land.

Lt. Col. Ray Tiongson, spokesperson of the 3rd Infantry Division explained that the various audio-visual presentations were shown to the public to highlight the Army’s transformation into a credible, reliable, responsive, more capable and more professional troop in line with its Transformation Roadmap.

Also showcased were its capabilities, weapons, mobility assets and equipment through tarpaulin exhibits, he said.

“We will also have a similar event at SM City in Iloilo City on March 21 to22, this time showcasing the modern equipment of the Philippine Army in war fighting and Disaster Response Operations,” Tiongson said.

The 3ID personnel and bike enthusiast in Capiz will also have an Army Anniversary Bike Tour which will start from Camp Macario Peralta in Jamindan town to end at Baybay, Roxas City, on March 21.

The Bike Tour aims to bring the spirit of unity for peace and progress between the military and civilian and to promote cycling as a physical fitness and tourism activity, he said.

A Back-to-Camp fellowship with the Army retirees and veterans will likewise be held at 3ID headquarters, March 22, to foster close ties among the Army personnel and their dependents to include the veterans and retirees as members of one big “Army Family.”

On the other hand, 3ID Commander Brig. Gen. Harold Cabreros urged the public to be part of the celebration and witness the Army’s commitment to peace and development  as they are on their journey to a genuine reform and transformation.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/991458192953/pa-lines-up-activities-for-119th-anniversary

402nd Brigade chief refutes allegations of activist group in SurSur .

From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 17): 402nd Brigade chief refutes allegations of activist group in SurSur .

SURIGAO DEL SUR - Commander of the 402nd Infantry (STINGERS) Brigade, Philippine Army Col. Isidro Purisima refutes the allegations of an activist group tagging a legitimate encounter as a strafing incident and wounding a farmer allegedly perpetrated by the 2nd Special Forces (SF) Battalion.

It can be recalled that on March 11, the 2nd SF Battalion encountered a group of lawless bandits belonging to the Guerilla Front 21 which resulted to the capture of one wounded outlaw.

The said outlaw was assisted and immediately rushed to a hospital in Tandag City by the elements of the 2nd SF Battalion.

In the hospital, the said wounded outlaw confessed to the authorities and media practitioners of his participation with the Sandatahang Platun Pampropaganda 21B (SPP 21B), the lawless bandit group, which was encountered by the said army unit.

Furthermore, he was also identified by his former comrades in arms who have already surrendered to be a member of the group.

The 2nd SF Battalion immediately reported the incident to the Philippine National Police and filed appropriate charges to the wounded outlaw.

Accordingly, Col. Purisima immediately directed the 2nd SF Battalion to conduct an investigation with regard to the incident.

The official also assured the people of Surigao del Sur that their soldiers adhere to the respect of human rights and will not tolerate any abuse of the troops.

“We are committed to respecting human rights as stipulated in the Internal Peace and Security Plan Bayanihan and we will not tolerate any abuse of the troops,” Col. Purisima said.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1741458200817/402nd-brigade-chief-refutes-allegations-of-activist-group-in-sursur

Series of activities to mark PA anniversary

From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 18): Series of activities to mark PA anniversary

NEGROS OCCIDENTAL - - The Philippine Army will celebrate its 119thFounding Anniversary on March 22 with various activities set, a release from the 303rdInfantry Brigade here based in Barangay Minoyan, Murcia said.

The celebration in the Brigade started March 19 and will culminate with a Bayanihan Bloodletting project on March 22 together with Philippine Red Cross, Negros First Blood Bank, Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Regional Hospital, and ABS – CBN.

The bloodletting activity aims to promote the bayanihan spirit through bloodletting aside from providing sufficient blood supply for the province.

The Brigade will inaugurate on March 21, its halfway house dubbed as Balay Pagbag-o located inside the Camp Nelson Gerona, to be used as halfway house or shelter for former rebels who decide to embrace the arms of the government again.

Aside from the infrastructure, these former rebels also receive psycho-social rehabilitation, livelihood assistance, and organic farming experience and skills which they can use once they are re-integrated in the mainstream society.

A Youth Leadership Summit held on March 19-21, will gather the youth in a summit and transform them into responsible citizens and empower them to become future leaders of the society.

The Army will also organize a Static Display of its equipment and resources in a three-day exhibit in front of the Provincial Capitol Lagoon in Bacolod City.

The exhibit which runs March 20-22, will provide the opportunity for the public to know what the Army is doing while people get to see, touch and feel how it is like to be in the Army.  Also, a Recruitment Booth will be in the area to cater queries for those who want to join the military service.

Bikers are also invited to join the Bike for Peace set on March 20, 5:00AM with its starting point at the Provincial Capitol Lagoon in Bacolod City going to Victorias Coliseum in Victorias City and vice-versa.

“Your Army is honored to serve you. We are with you for peace and progress,” a statement from the 303rd Infantry Brigade added.

This year’s anniversary theme is “Serving the people. Securing the land”.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/1031458201518/series-of-activities-to-mark-pa-anniversary

Rebel leader captured, slain rebel recovered (Photos)

From Update.Ph (Mar 17): Rebel leader captured, slain rebel recovered 

Joint military and police operatives have arrested a ranking New People’s Army (NPA) leader and recovered the body of his companion who was killed during a firefight in Davao Del Sur Wednesday morning.

2016-03-17_21.06.02-1

Capt. Rhyan Batchar, 10th Infantry Division public affairs officer, identified the arrested rebel as Joan Casamorin, reportedly the vice-commander of Guerilla Front 72 of the Far South Mindanao Regional Committee which is known to be operating in South Cotabato, Davao Del Sur, North Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat.

Casamorin was bagged in Barangay Buri, Matanao town of the above-mentioned province.

He is facing charges for robbery, kidnapping and serious illegal detention, four counts of murder and robbery with homicide.

Batchar said the operation stemmed from civilian complaints regarding the presence of heavily armed men in Barangay Buri.

Casamorin was wounded when he tried to resist.

Recovered from his possession was .45 caliber pistol, assorted ammunition, three improvised explosive devices and the body of a certain “Jeb-jeb,” a NPA fighter reportedly killed during an earlier encounter with authorities.

Batchar said the wounded rebel leader was immediately taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.

http://www.update.ph/2016/03/rebel-leader-captured-slain-rebel-recovered/3348

8 civilians in encounter site questioned

From the Manila Times (Mar 17): 8 civilians in encounter site questioned

POLICE in Butuan City have invited for questioning eight civilians, three of them male and five female after they were sighted in the encounter site between police forces and suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in Sitio Tud-Ol, Barangay Manila de Bugabos in Butuan City last Tuesday.

Reports said that 34 troopers of the Regional Public Safety Company, 13th Regional Public Safety Battalion (RPSB) led by Senior Insp. Johncel Barrameda were in a combat operation when they encountered around 10 NPA rebels believed to be under the Guerilla Front (GF-4A).

The troops also recovered from the encounter site subversive documents and invited eight civilians seen in the encounter site for further investigation by the police, the reports said.

http://www.manilatimes.net/8-civilians-in-encounter-site-questioned/251038/

Army tags farmer as NPA in Surigao skirmish

From the often pro-Communist Party of the Philippines Davao Today (Mar 17): Army tags farmer as NPA in Surigao skirmish

Government troops tagged the farmer who was caught by the Army’s 2nd Special Forces Battalion (Airborne) as a member of Front Committee 21 of the Communist Party of the Philippines’ North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee.

In a statement Wednesday, 1Lt Karl Jan S Devaras, commander of the 41st Civil Military Operations (Magkahiusa) Company based in Lianga, Surigao del Sur, said government forces have rescued a man who was profusely bleeding at the vicinity of Sitio Baroboan, Barangay Carromata, San Miguel town after a 15-minute clash with the communist rebels.

“Our troops found a wounded male left by his comrades to die in a vegetated area just a kilometer away from the encounter site,” Devaras said.

He did not disclose the identity of the man who he said found in a “vegetated area just a kilometer away from the encounter site.”

“After the said firefight, government troops immediately cleared the encounter area and discovered several blood stains thereat,” he added.

He said the military “immediately applied first aid” to the wounded man who he also disclosed was “positively identified” by his former comrades who had surrendered earlier to the authorities.”

According to Devaras, the wounded farmer was rushed to the nearest hospital in Tandag City for immediate medical attention.

But Kasalo, a lumad organization based in Surigao del Sur, disputes the claim of the military, saying the farmer was a civilian and has no ties with the communist rebels.

The farmer was identified as Benjie dela Peña, 25 who was, according to the group, strafed by elements of the 2nd Special Forces of the Philippine Army.”

Kasalo spokesperson Josephine Pagalan maintained that dela Peña was not a member of the New People’s Army. She scored the military of using “coercion” and “intimidation”  to force the farmer to admit that he is one of the rebels.

“Gilangan-langan pa sila bisag naa nay ambulansya. Sige pa sila’g gi-interrogate, gi-imbestiga ug si Benjie paangkonon nga NPA (even if there was an ambulance waiting for the victim, they were still held for interrogation and investigation and Benjie was forced to admit that he was an NPA),” Pagalan told DavaoToday in an earlier interview.

http://davaotoday.com/main/politics/army-tags-farmer-as-npa-in-surigao-skirmish-2/

Missionary raises doubts on killing of his kidnapper

From The Irish Catholic (Mar 17): Missionary raises doubts on killing of his kidnapper

 
A Columban missionary who was held for ransom by militants in the Philippines has raised doubts on reports that the leader of the kidnapper gang was killed by security forces at the weekend.
 
Fr Michael Sinnott, originally from Co. Wexford, was snatched outside his house in Pagadian City in October 2009 and held hostage for a month by suspected Islamic militants until a larger rebel group, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, helped to facilitate negotiations for his release. No ransom was paid.
 
Waning Abdusalam, a man who Filipino security forces believe led the notorious Abu Sayyaf kidnap-for-ransom group that was responsible for the abduction of some 12 victims, including Fr Sinnott, was killed in a joint military and police operation after he resisted arrest on Sunday, according to a Filipino military spokesman.
 
However, Fr Sinnott told The Irish Catholic he didn’t believe this was the man who kidnapped him.
 
“They say he belongs to Abu Sayyaf and if Abu Sayyaf had me then I don’t think I would be alive now. The name is not one of the names that the kidnappers gave me. He may be someone who kidnapped a lot of people, but I don’t think he kidnapped me,” he said.
 
Mistreated
 
The missionary, who retired back to Ireland in July 2012 after 50 years in the Philippines, said he wouldn’t like to see his kidnappers being killed.
 
“The two men who stayed with me for the last portion were every good to me. I never had much against them. We were living in very primitive conditions, but they did everything they could to make it as easy as possible and they never mistreated me,” he said.
 
The Abu Sayyaf has been blamed for the worst terror attacks in Philippine history, including the bombing of a ferry in 2004, which killed 116 people.
 

Philippine jihadists execute ‘spy’ in troubled South

From the Manila Times (Mar 17): Philippine jihadists execute ‘spy’ in troubled South

Jihadists allied with the Islamic State (IS) militant group have beheaded a man they accused of being a police spy in the southern Philippine province of Sarangani, reports by an international research organization and foreign media said Thursday.

The SITE Intelligence Group said members of the Ansaru’l Khilafah (Supporters of the Caliphate) Philippines captured Tuesday the 43-year-old man and was immediately beheaded.

A video of the gruesome killing was also uploaded on IS channel with accompanying statement, saying, “This jāsūs (spy) was roaming and sniffing around the area of the Ansaru’l Khilafah Philippines in Sarangani Province.”

The man was said to be a resident of General Santos City, according to the news website NT News (ntnews.com.au). The clip could not be independently confirmed, and police and military authorities have not issued any statement about the brutal execution.

There was also no other information about the man released by the jihadist group, which, along with the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) and Khilafah Islamiyah Movement (KIM), had pledged allegiance to the Islamic State (IS), which burst on to the international scene in 2014 when it seized large swathes of land in Syria and Iraq.

The radical militants in Indonesia and Malaysia, as well as the Southeast Asian terror group Jema’ah Islamiyah also pledged allegiance to the IS last year.

Last year, the jihadists also released a video of the IS’s Alhayat Media Center, which shows the Philippines as among countries in Southeast Asia where they were planning to expand the “Khilafah” (caliphate).

Most of the Ansaru’l Khilafah members are based in Sultan Kudarat province and operate in nearby areas of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur and Lanao del Norte, where the BIFF and KIM are active.

They now use the black IS (Daesh) flag, just like what the Abu Sayyaf does, in the provinces of Basilan, Tawi-Tawi and Sulu – all in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) – to which Maguindanao and Lanao del Sur belong.

Basilan also has become the bastion of power of the Abu Sayyaf after its leaders pledged allegiance to the IS. And in a propaganda video released this year by the Abu Sayyaf and picked up by international media, more than two dozen gunmen – including child warriors – led by rebel leader Isnilon Hapilon, were seen hiking in the hinterlands of Basilan while chanting “Dawlah Islamiyah (Islamic State)” after which they recited an Arabic script of  bayah, or pledge of allegiance.

Hapilon, alias “Abu Abdullah,” was named as the new leader of the “Harakatul Islamiyah” (Islamic Movement), the name given to the Abu Sayyaf by its founder Abdurajak Abubakar Janjalani – who was slain in a police shootout in Basilan in Dec. 1998.

The Abu Sayyaf evolved to a notorious group known for having carried out kidnappings, bombings and other criminal activities in southern Philippines.

The US government has offered a $5 million bounty for Hapilon’s head – dead or alive.

In the video, Hapilon was shown with Abu Harith Al-Filibbieni, who is reported to be deputy commander of the al-Ansar Infantry Division of the IS, and Mohd Najib Husen (Hussein), alias “Abu Annas Al Muhajir,” a division head of the Ansar al-Sharia of the IS.

The rebels explained in the video that they had previously done the bayah, but did it again in front of their new leaders. It was unknown when the video was recorded, but it was released just after Philippine authorities claimed that Husen was killed during offensive operations against the Abu Sayyaf in the troubled province of Basilan in December.

Husen was with other Malaysian jihadists – Mahmud Ahmad, Muhammad Joraimee Awang Raimee, Amin Baco and Jeknal Adil – who fled to southern Philippines reportedly to recruit militants and send them to “Dar al-Harb” (Place of War), referring to Syria and Iraq, where the IS established its own caliphate state.

http://www.manilatimes.net/philippine-jihadists-execute-spy-in-troubled-south/250974/

Army, PNP score big vs NPAs in Davao region

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 17): Army, PNP score big vs NPAs in Davao region

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) scored big in the past two days in their continued military operations against the communist New People’s Army (NPA) in Davao region.

On Wednesday, March 16, a high-ranking leader of the NPAs operating in the hinterlands of Davao del Sur including North Cotabato, South Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat was captured after an armed encounter in Barangay Buri, Matanao, Davao del Sur.

10th Infantry (Agila) Division chief information officer Captain Rhyan Batchar said combined troops of 39th Infantry Battalion and Matanao Municipal Police Station apprehended Joan Casamorin alias Alvin, the vice commander of guerrilla 72 of the Far South Mindanao Regional Committee (FSMRC) after the reported encounter.

Killed during the incident was Casamorin’s companion identified as a certain Alias Jebjeb. Recovered from their possession was one .45 caliber pistol, ammunition, subversive documents and three improvised explosive devices or IEDs, Batchar added.

“The troops responded on information regarding the presence of armed men that resulted in a firefight. Casamorin was also wounded during the encounter and was rushed to a hospital for treatment while his slain companion's body was brought to Angel Funeral Homes, Bansalan, Davao del Sur for proper disposition,” Batchar said.

He added that Casamorin is also facing criminal charges for robbery, kidnapping and serious Illegal Detention, four counts of murder and Robbery with Homicide.

Col. Ronald Villanueva, commander of 1002nd Infantry Brigade lauded the continued support of the people that led to the capture of one of the high ranking rebels in the area.

“This is a great loss to the NPAs not only in Davao del Sur but also in the whole of Davao region,” Villanueva said.

Meanwhile, on Tuesday, March 15, combined elements of 1001st Brigade; 71st Infantry Battalion; 701st Brigade; the 28thInfantry Battalion; the 10th MIB; the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group in Davao Oriental and members of Lupon Municipal Police Office arrested in an operation Allan Montecalvo alias Em-Em, the political instructor of the Sub-Regional Committee 2 and guerrilla front 27 in Davao region.

Batchar said Montecalvo was apprehended in Purok Sta. Cruz, Poblacion, Lupon, Davao Oriental.

The arrest was carried out by virtue of an arrest warrant for violation of Section 3 of PD 1866 as amended by Section 1 of Republic Act 9516 issued by Judge Virginia Tejano-Ang, the acting presiding judge of Regional Trial Court Branch 3 in Lupon town.

In a statement to the media here, Col. Macairog Alberto, commander of 1001st Brigade said the people in Davao Oriental and Compostela Valley province are already resisting the presence of the NPAs in their localities.

The success of the operation was also attributed by Alberto to the information that was provided by the residents to authorities.

“We thank the people for their willingness and initiative to end the armed struggle and finally allow peace to reign in the region,” Alberto said.

Montecalvo is now detained at the Lupon MPS for proper disposition.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=867646

OPAPP lauds inclusivity of TJRC report on addressing Bangsamoro grievances, reconciliation

From the Philippine News Agency (Mar 17): OPAPP lauds inclusivity of TJRC report on addressing Bangsamoro grievances, reconciliation

Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Secretary Teresita Quintos Deles has lauded the Transitional Justice and Reconciliation Commission (TJRC) for coming up with a report that ensures inclusivity, which is at the heart and core of the Bangsamoro peace process.

The TJRC publicly launched its report on how to heal the wounds of war and address the legitimate grievances of the Bangsamoro in two consecutive events held in Cotabato City on March 15 and another in Makati City on March 16.

We know you consulted more than 3,000 individuals spanning 210 Muslim, Lumad, and Christian communities in Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago, and we are truly grateful for every step you took in coming up with this report,” said Deles in her message during the Cotabato City public launch she attended.

"We know that the process could not always have been easy and, particularly for the community facilitators who worked with you, there are new pains and trauma that also need healing. The process you chose to undertake is truly a hallmark of the inclusiveness the Bangsamoro peace process has always striven to embody, and we have no doubt it will make large strides towards bridging the divides between our peoples and healing the wounds left by war," she added.

Deles also underlined the importance of the TJRC report and recommendation to pave the way for healing and reconciliation.

Aside from the legislative track involving the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL), the 2014 Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) between the Philippine government (GPH) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) also outlines socio-economic interventions and normalization programs to which the search for transitional justice and reconciliation is included.

As stipulated in the CAB, the TJRC is mandated to undertake a study and to make recommendations with a view to promote healing and reconciliation among the communities affected by the decades-old conflict in Mindanao especially in the Bangsamoro region.

Its mandates include the following efforts: to address legitimate grievances of the Bangsamoro People; to correct historical injustices; to address human rights violations; to address marginalization through land dispossession.

TJRC Chairperson Mô Bleeker noted the conceptual approach of the TJRC that combines a conflict transformation approach and the rights of victims and duties of states to truth, justice, reparation, and guarantee of non-recurrence.

“This approach offers a combination of efforts that are mutually reinforcing and can contribute to long stranding process of change towards peace, Rule of Law, and towards a society that manages diversity constructively and is in condition to prevent the commission of atrocities,” said Bleeker.

Bleeker reiterated the importance of an independent body, as prerequisite to achieve results that answer the needs of victims and contribute to prevent the recurrence of the conflict.

The OPAPP chief concurred with Bleeker's statements and added that transitional justice was necessary to achieve genuine peace.

“Without justice and reconciliation, there can be no true peace. Without justice and reconciliation, the most we can hope for is nothing but a prolonged ceasefire, where the wounds of war never heal the deep divides it worsens will never be bridged,” said Deles.

The event was witnessed by more than 200 individuals, organizations, and representatives from local, regional, national, and international entities.

Chief negotiators for the GPH and the MILF -– Professor Miriam Coronel-Ferrer and Mohagher Iqbal -– were also present during the launch.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=867790

Freedom run for Bataan Death March set

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Mar 17): Freedom run for Bataan Death March set

After decades of neglect, PH makes up to raise awareness of important historical event
SEVENTY-FOUR years ago, thousands of Filipino and American prisoners of war died after being forced by Japanese troops to trek 65 miles (104.607 kilometers) back to prison camps after the fall of Bataan and Corregidor.

This was the Bataan Death March.

To honor the survivors and those who died, the Philippine Veterans Bank will hold the Bataan Freedom Run on April 9, the anniversary of the Bataan Death March.

“We are remembering the hundred plus thousands Filipinos and Americans who defended our country,” said Mike Villa-Real, head of the Veterans Bank’s Corporate and Consumer Relations Division in a press briefing on Thursday.

He said that in New Mexico, USA a memorial run is being held for more than a decade now in honor of the Bataan and Corregidor heroes of the Death March.

“When I found [out about it] I felt ashamed for the Philippines. If the Americans are commemorating the Bataan March, which has become a big event in the US each year, people even fly from Europe, especially descendants, and I told myself  ‘Why does the America remember what happened and we don’t,” he said, explaining why the fun run was organized.

A fun run covering a distance of 68.9 kilometers will have the same route of the Bataan Death March. It will start at Kilometer Zero in Mariveles, Bataan at 11 p.m. on April 9,” said Ian Alacar of Without Limits, Inc. It will pass through Limay, Orion, Mt. Samat and will end in Balanga.

“It’s the majority of the original route where death marchers passed except Mt. Samat. We placed that to commemorate their heroism. As an athlete it’s also a challenge because of 7 kilometer uphill,” he said.

A color fun run will also be held for running enthusiasts. A 10k, 5k and 1k run for kids and 500 meters for pets will be held on April 10 starting at 5:30 a.m.

Hydration and medical stations are also set up every 10 kilometers for the ultra-marathoners, Alacar said.

“It’s one of those few race events that caters to a wide spectrum of runners, from the serious ultra-marathoners, to the enthusiasts and even to the kids and the families’ pets. Our aim is to bring the whole family together in a meaningful event that remembers and honors our Filipino and American Heroes who fought for freedom during the Battle for Bataan,” Villa-Real said.

Proceeds from the run will be used for the restoration of World War II Historical Markers in the province.

Jacque Ruby, country head for History Channel, said that they are also airing a commercial to attract international participants.

“It’s for Asians to realize that the Filipinos are heroes and we left a mark in this world,” he said.

Up to 2,500 participants are expected to join the Bataan Freedom Run.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/774709/freedom-run-for-bataan-death-march-set

8 guns seized, 2 rebels yield in Negros, Panay

From the Visayan Daily Star (Mar 17): 8 guns seized, 2 rebels yield in Negros, Panay

The Army’s 3rd Infantry Division yesterday reported the recovery of eight firearms in Negros and Panay islands, while two self-confessed members of the New People’s Army abandoned the armed struggle, in one week’s time.

Lt. Col. Rey Tiongson, 3ID Public Affairs Office chief, said that troopers of the 11th Infantry Battalion recovered two M-16 assault rifles hidden by the NPA in Sitio Cabadiangan, Barangay Pantiao in Manjuyod town, Negros Oriental.
 
Tiongson said the recovery of the high-powered firearms by 11IB troopers, who were conducting security operations, was made, after they were informed by residents of the barangay of their location.

On the same day, troopers of the 61st Infantry Battalion also recovered an M1 Garand rifle and a sniper scope in Sitio Tigbauaun, Brgy. Trangka in Maasin, Iloilo, and four homemade shotguns and a hand grenade in Sitio Inaman, also of the barangay, on Tuesday.
 
Tiongson said the recovery of firearms in Maasin, Iloilo was the result of follow-up operations in pursuit of the lawless group NPA that were encountered by government forces March 9 in the area.

He also reported the surrender of alias Jessa and alias Karding, whose identities were being withheld for security reasons, on March 14 and 15.
 
Tiongson said Karding surrendered an M1 Garand rifle with 23 ammunition.

He added that the two former rebels may avail of the government’s Comprehensive Local Integration Program.

Under CLIP, Tiongson said the beneficiaries will receive P15,000 financial assistance and P50,000 worth of livelihood assistance each, to start a livelihood project which will be monitored regularly by the Department of Social Welfare and Development, and other concerned agencies.

 He added that Karding will also receive remuneration for the firearm he had surrendered.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2016/March/17/negor1.htm

Philippines: Five killed after upsurge of attacks by insurgents

From the Gulf News (Mar 17): Philippines: Five killed after upsurge of attacks by insurgents

Successive IED explosions reported in various areas of southern Luzon

A spike in communist rebel attacks in various areas of Southern Luzon on Tuesday left five government troopers dead and six others wounded, including a junior police official.

The attacks occurred just weeks before the May 9 general elections. According to military reports, an Army corporal and four government militiamen were killed following an encounter with the New Peoples Army (NPA) in the village of Haan in Oriental Mindoro at around 10.30am on Tuesday. Lieutenant Colonel Rodolfo Gesim, 4th Infantry Battalion Commander, said troops were conducting combat operations after the death of a village council member a few days ago when NPA rebels pounced on them. Among the fatalities were Cpl Roland Bernal, and four militia members: Fulgencio Rolando, Christer Gadon, Garry Galindez and Ernesto Malubay.

According to Gesim, most of the fatalities and injured were due to landmines laid strategically by NPA along the path of the pursuing government forces. The armed forces’ Southern Luzon Command said the attackers were part the NPA group that attacked the Paluan Municipal Police Station in Occidental Mindoro in November 2014. At about the same time that the attack was carried out by NPA in Mindoro, several explosions occurred further south in Masbate province. Two policemen including the Batuan village police chief, Senior Inspector Aldrin Rosales, and senior police officer Amado Abiola were wounded in the attacks. Colonel Fernando Trinidad, 903rd Infantry Brigade Commander, said the first explosion was reported at 4am in the village of Miaga in Uson town; the second explosion was at 5am in Tunga village in Esperanza; and the third blast was at 7.10am in Loving Forest Memorial Garden alongside of National Highway in Malinta village. Similar blasts, caused by Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), took place alongside the National Highway in Tabuc village in Burgos on Ticao Island, Masbate, and in Crossing and Burna Suerte villages. According to Southern Luzon Command chief, Lieutenant General Ricardo Visaya, the insurgents are trying to show that they are still a force to reckon with. “The NPA is a diminishing group in Southern Luzon. As such, they resort to terror acts like these IED explosions to project that they are still a strong force,” he said. The attacks likewise occurred ahead of the May 9 general elections. During election period, NPA takes advantage of the situation by raising funds for the insurgency by demanding “revolutionary taxes” from politicians as well as businesses. Visaya said that at present there are only 36 NPA members are being hunted by Southern Luzon Command units in Masbate Province. Forty-six years into the insurgency, the NPA and the Communist Party of the Philippines are nowhere near their goal of achieving a strategic stalemate with the government.

http://gulfnews.com/news/asia/philippines/philippines-five-killed-after-upsurge-of-attacks-by-insurgents-1.1691418