Key Philippine Military and Insurgency-Related Events

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 19): Palace to study US stand on PH’s arms deal with Russia

Malacañang on Thursday said it will look into report that the Philippines could breach sanctions imposed by the United States against blacklisted Rosoboronexport if the country will purchase grenade launchers from Russia-state owned firm.

“Let me state the official position, we will study the matter,” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said during Palace press briefing when asked for comment on Reuters’ report.

According to report, the Philippines had agreed in October last year to purchase PHP400 million (USD7.48 million) worth of 750 RPG-75 rocket-propelled grenade launchers from Rosoboronexport.

Roque, a professor of international and constitutional law, questioned the US' legal basis to impose sanction on country like the Philippines that has “absolute immunity as a sovereign state”.

“I do not know how they can enforce a US domestic legislation on a sovereign state,” Roque said.

Roque expressed doubts whether the Philippines will violate the US sanctions on the Russian firm since “the sale will be most likely in Russia”.

“Number two: I do not know how US law could be applicable to a transaction that will be done outside of the United States,” Roque said.

“The goods are in Russia and the delivery in the Philippines. So what is the relevance of the US laws. It does not make sense if US laws have the effect of super laws applicable to anyone even outside of their jurisdiction specially if one party is a sovereign state,” he added.

As sovereign state, Roque said the Philippines has “immunity and we are free to enter into contracts as we pleased and we are not bound by any domestic law particularly where the transaction will not occur in US soil”.

Quoting an anonymous Philippine defense official, the report said the US has not officially notified the Philippines about the restrictions on Rosoboronexport which US blacklisted in April.

Roque said he has no idea if the arms deal will proceed but “the official stand is, we will study the matter”.

“But off hand, I am giving the legal position of the Palace that we do not see how we are bound by a US extra-territorial piece of legislation,” he said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1042020

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 19): Duterte likely to sign BBL before SONA: Palace

President Rodrigo R. Duterte will possibly sign into law the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) before his third State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday (July 23), Malacañang said on Thursday.

The bicameral conference committee of the House of Representatives and the Senate approved on Wednesday the reconciled versions of the measure seen to end decades-long conflict in Mindanao.

“It is possible that it (signing) could be on Monday,” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said in a regular Palace press briefing.

Roque thanked the lawmakers, as well as the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC), for approving the bicameral conference committee report of the BBL.

“Because they have already finished the bicameral conference on the BBL, our President can sign it before his SONA. I’m not sure when. Anytime now he can actually sign as soon as we receive the consolidated version of the proposed Republic Act that he will sign,” he explained.

Roque said both the House and the Senate can ratify the bicameral report when they meet separately on Monday morning to open the third regular session of the 17th Congress.

“The ratification will happen there. It can be done because it (BBL) was certified as urgent bill,” said Roque, a former lawmaker.

Under the final version, the BBL will be renamed the Organic Law for the Bangsamoro seeking to abolish the current Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao and replace it with the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

According to media reports, the new Bangsamoro region will be composed of Tawi-Tawi, Sulu, Basilan, Maguindanao and Lanao del Sur plus six municipalities of Lanao del Norte and 39 barangays of North Cotabato.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1041957

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 19): PAF looks for possible sources of combat choppers

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) is now identifying possible sources of combat utility helicopters capable of meeting its specifications, an official said on Wednesday.

"We are going to talk to them to one by one so the Philippines, in this case, the Air Force will get what is best for our conditions," PAF chief Lt. Gen. Galileo Gerard Kintanar said in an interview.

Possible sources of the PAF's combat utility helicopters include South Korea, Italy and even Russia, Kintanar said.

"We sent a team there (Russia) just to look (at) the helicopters that they have offered, we have tried it," the PAF chief added.

Kintanar hoped that the contract for the combat utility helicopters will be finalized within the year.

Once procured, the aircraft will replace the country's cancelled 16 Bell 412 EPI order from Bell Helicopter and Canadian Commercial Corporation (CCC) last February.

The move came after the Canadian government ordered the review of the PHP12-billion deal between the Department of National Defense and CCC following reports that the Philippines is planning to use the helicopters against the insurgents.

"While the combat utility helicopters being purchased are primarily for the purpose of transporting personnel and supplies, the Department believes that it does not owe the Canadian government any justification for an outright purchase of equipment from a privately-owned company," DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong earlier said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1041949

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 19): US aid boosts PH’s counterterrorism efforts

The United States will contribute USD26.5 million over the next two years to boost counterterrorism support for Philippine law enforcement agencies.

The assistance will include training, equipment, and other support to build comprehensive law enforcement capacity within a rule of law framework to deny terrorist operations, funding, and movement; investigate and prosecute terrorism cases; and counter radicalization to violence and violent extremism.

This support for non-military rule-of-law approaches to addressing terrorist threats will complement our sustained commitment to building the counterterrorism capabilities of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

“The United States is a proud ally of the Philippines and will continue to provide whole-of-government support and assistance to Philippine counterterrorism efforts as we work together to address shared threats to the peace and security of both of our countries,” the statement read. (US Embassy PR)

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1041959

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 19): PRRD Year 2: Gov't dedicated to protecting PH territory, sovereignty

The Duterte administration remains focused on protecting the country's national territory and sovereignty.

This was emphasized by National Security Adviser (NSA) Hermogenes Esperon during the "Tatak ng Pagbabago" Pre-SONA Forum held at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City Wednesday.

Esperon said this is demonstrated by the continuous maritime and air patrols conducted by the military in various parts of the country.

"To ensure maritime domain awareness, the Department of National Defense-Armed Forces of the Philippines (DND-AFP) conducted naval surface patrols to cover more than 180,000 nautical miles of our maritime domain and more than 2,400 flying hours of maritime air patrol," Esperon stressed.

Augmenting these patrols are the littoral monitoring stations, installed in various parts of the country, which help in the detection and monitoring of more than 66,000 foreign and domestic vessels in Philippine waters.

"To maintain effective occupation over Philippine islands and features, our Armed Forces deployed personnel to these areas. Further, the DND began rehabilitation of structures in these islands. The construction of the beaching ramp and repair of runway in Pag-asa Island are now ongoing," he added.

Esperon also noted that the government continues to engage China regarding the Philippines' concerns in the West Philippine Sea, through high-level visits and meetings, including the bilateral consultation mechanism.

"These efforts seek to improve the ability of both sides to manage developments in the WPS so as not to escalate tensions; to widen access of Filipino artisanal fishermen in Scarborough Shoal; and to protect our environment and marine ecosystem," the NSA stressed.

Boosting these efforts are the Philippine government's active participation in the ASEAN-China processes for the peaceful management and resolution of disputes in the South China Sea.

Esperon said this underscores the importance of the full implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of parties in the South China Sea (DOC) in its entirety and the Conclusion of an Effective Code of Conduct (COC).

And to ensure that the military has the capability to fully secure the country, the NSA said the AFP has completed a total of 27 modernization projects from the start of the Duterte administration in 2016 up to March 2018.

"Meanwhile, a total of 13 projects are ongoing under the Horizon Two list of the Revised AFP Modernization Program," he added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1041857

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 19): FVR to launch new book

Former President Fidel V. Ramos will launch his 14th book titled “Undying Service to the Filipino” at the Manila Hotel Champagne Room at 4 p.m. Thursday (July 19).

His latest book is jointly published by the Ramos Peace and Development Foundation (RPDEV) and Manila Bulletin Publishing Corporation.

“Undying Service to the Filipino” is a compilation of selected “ sermons from his weekly FVR column in the Manila Bulletin Sunday column “On Empowering the Filipino People.”

“Through this book, we aim to continue fulfilling the Filipinos’ intrinsic duty of imparting the values of transcendent events in nation-building to those who now bear the torch of national leadership and most especially to our younger generations. We should never tire in inspiring them to aspire for excellence and find honor in making self-sacrifice towards a common good. They need to know—and, from time-to-time, have to be reminded—what their elders had fought and died for, in the service of God, country, people, and the environment,” the RPDEV Foundation said in a statement.

The book is part of RPDEVs continuing education advocacies and publications program in line with its four main program areas namely: Enduring peace in the Asia-Pacific region, sustainable development, socioeconomic diplomacy, and democratic governance.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1041921

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 19): Rescued from Sayyaf, families return to Zamboanga Norte

Col. Hernani Songano, Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM) deputy commander for marine operations (right), on Wednesday turns over the Javier family to Vice Mayor Jaime Felizarta of Sirawai, Zamboanga del Norte. Marine troops rescued the Javier family on Tuesday in Sulu. (Photo courtesy: Western Mindanao Command PIO)

The two families rescued by marine troops from the hands of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) went home to Zamboanga del Norte on Thursday, the military reported.

Rescued in Barangay Gata, Talipao, Sulu on Tuesday evening were couple Feliciano and Elsa Javier, both 28 years and their five-month-old son, Vincent; and couple Junior and Rica Javier, both 22 years and their five-year-old son, Val. Feliciano and Junior are brothers.

Lt. Col. Gerry Besana, Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) information officer, said the Javiers were fetched from this city by Vice Mayor Jaime Felizarta of Sirawai town, Zamboanga del Norte.

After their rescue, the victims were transported to the headquarters of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM) in Zamboanga City on Wednesday.

Besana said they were later turned over to Felizarta by Col. Hernani Songano, NFWM deputy commander for marine operations.

The victims worked as caretakers in a farm in Sitio Maasom, Barangay San Nicolas, owned by Valiente Felizarta, the municipal engineer of Sirawai, and a brother of the vice mayor.

They were abducted by a kidnap-for-ransom-group led by Jamilon Tukalan, alias Jamilon Wahab, from Felizarta’s farm on June 28 and were later handed over to the ASG.

Vice Mayor Felizarta said over local television that the Javiers had seen the other hostages, who are still in the hands of the ASG in Sulu. Among them were Jade Quimbo and Jose Duterte, who were separately kidnapped in Zamboanga del Norte last year.

Quimbo, son of Vice Mayor Eddie Quimbo of Labason, Zamboanga del Norte, was kidnapped in downtown Labason in September last year.

Duterte, 62, and his wife, Jessica, 52, were abducted in Barangay Sta. Maria, Siocon, Zamboanga del Norte in March last year. Jessica was released months later last year.

Felizarta said the Javiers will return to their work despite their abduction.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1042016

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 19): NPA leader killed in Zamboanga del Norte clash

A New People’s Army (NPA) rebel leader was killed while two soldiers were wounded in a clash in the province of Zamboanga del Norte, the military reported on Thursday.

Maj. Ronald Suscano, the Army’s 1st Infantry Division information officer, said the clash broke out while the a team of military and police personnel were on a law enforcement operation around 7 a.m. Wednesday in the town of Sindangan, Zamboanga del Norte.

Suscano identified the slain NPA leader as Edwin Lapinig, alias Ka Baz, Platoon Basil commander of the Mobile Regional Guerrilla Unit (MRGU) under the NPA’s Western Mindanao Regional Party Committee (WMRPC).

Suscano said the clash ensued as Lapinig opened fire that prompted the troops to engage Lapinig's group.

He said Lapinig has standing warrant of arrest for the crime of murder issued by the court in Tangub City, Misamis Occidental.

He added the slain NPA leader was involved in the recent killing of two soldiers; disarming of policemen in Don Victoriano Chiongbian, Misamis Occidental and burning of heavy equipment of a construction firm undertaking government project here in Region 9.

Maj. Gen. Roseller Murillo, Army’s 1st Infantry Division commander, congratulated the joint military and police operatives for the successful law enforcement operation.

“We will continue the security operations in our area of responsibility in order to ensure the safety and well-being of the people,” Murillo said.

He urged the families, relatives and neighbors of remaining NPA rebels to convince them to surrender and live peacefully with their loved ones.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1041990

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 19): 4 ASG members surrender to Sulu governor

Four members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) have surrendered to the provincial government in Sulu, an official said Thursday.

Sulu Gov. Abdusakur Tan II said the four ASG bandits, who surrendered to him on Tuesday, brought along with them three rifles, a pistol and ammunition.

Tan said the surrender was facilitated by the officials of Barangay Anuling, Patikul and the Army’s 35th Infantry Battalion headed by Lt. Col. Amadeo Cruz.

Tan declined to name the four ASG surrenderees, saying they were placed under debriefing by military authorities. He called on other ASG members to surrender and to avail of the government’s integration program.

Since January this year, 127 ASG members have already surrendered to the military in the province of Sulu, Basilan, and Tawi-Tawi, and in Zamboanga City.

The military said its offensives against the ASG will continue until all of the group's remaining hostages, including foreigners, are rescued.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1042001

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 19): Preacher assures Muslims' support for peace and order in Cordillera

MUSLIM COMMUNITY SUPPORT. Muslim leader, Imam Bedijim Abdulla, explains the participation of the Muslim community in keeping the peace and order in the Cordillera region. Abdulla, vice chairman of the multisectoral Regional Advisory Council for the Police Regional Office in Cordillera, was guest speaker at the celebration of the Police Community Relations Month held in Camp Bado Dangwa in Benguet province on Tuesday (July 176, 2018). (Photo by Pamela Mariz Geminiano)

BAGUIO CITY -- The Muslim community in Cordillera is one with police authorities in keeping the peace and order situation in this upland region and in ensuring the safety of all locals.

This was the assurance made by Imam Bedijim Abdullah, a Muslim preacher living in Baguio City and the vice chairman of the multi-sectoral Regional Advisory Council (RAC) that helps the Police Regional Office in Cordillera (Procor), particularly in its Crime Laboratory Service.

In an interview with the Philippine News Agency (PNA) on Thursday, Abdulla said it is in the Muslim community's interest to ensure the safety of all sectors, since what threatens the city or the region also threatens them and their livelihood.

“Our businesses, our families, our children, and our people would all be affected if we do not work together,” Abdulla said.

As an official helping police authorities in Cordillera, Abdulla also visits provinces in the region to check on the local situation.

The Muslim leader also gave the same assurance of Muslims' cooperation with police authorities during a press conference for the celebration of the Police Community Relations Month at Camp Bado Dangwa in Benguet province.

Abdulla said the Muslims support the Philippine National Police's campaign against criminality and ensuring Cordillerans' safety, since their brothers also reside in various parts of the region.

He said he, himself, representing the Muslims, is in close coordination with the authorities in the region to curb security threats from unscrupulous persons, including those coming from the Muslim community.

“Every time we, Muslims, are requested to appear in consultations, we always attend to prove how supportive we are, and how committed we are for the betterment of everyone,” he said.

He said Muslims also join activities initiated by the police and the local governments regarding peace and order.

He added that Muslims also report crimes and the possible commission of crimes to the authorities.

He said as a Muslim teacher, he, for his part, is obliged to educate people, who do not understand the teachings of Islam.

Abdulla also serves as an Imam or preacher at the Baguio City Jail to help reform fellow Muslims, who "have lost their path".

He added that the Muslim community raises funds to help provide equipment that would help cops do their work more efficiently. This, he said, is particularly true for the equipment at the crime laboratory service, where he serves.

"I have seen their condition. They are lacking equipment and other facilities that are needed to do their jobs, so what we did was we conducted fund raising events," he related.

The proceeds, he continued, were used to buy office supplies and laboratory equipment and to build additional evidence rooms. “We are doing our best in contributing to nation-building," he said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1041933

From the Stars & Stripes (Jul 19): US to give Philippine police $26.5 million to fight terrorism

Philippine Rangers Capt. Alex Estabaya and Capt. Ramse Dugan, who fought in the battle to liberate Marawi from Islamic State insurgents, stand in Marawi City, Philippines, in November. SETH ROBSON/STARS AND STRIPES

The United States will give the Philippines $26.5 million over the next two years to boost police counterterrorism efforts.

“The assistance will include training, equipment, and other support to build comprehensive law enforcement capacity within a rule of law framework to deny terrorist operations, funding, and movement,” the U.S. Embassy in Manila said Thursday in a statement announcing the funding.

The Philippines is battling Islamic State-inspired terrorists, including those ejected from the southern city of Marawi following a bloody siege last year. Leftist groups such as the Communist Party of the Philippines and the New People’s Army also pose a terror threat in the islands.

The U.S. Agency for International Development said it has committed $26.4 million to helping communities impacted by the Marawi conflict.

The U.S. gave Philippine law enforcement $32 million in 2016 but canceled the provision of 26,000 M4 assault rifles to police over concerns about extrajudicial killings in maverick President Rodrigo Duterte’s drug war.

Under President Donald Trump, ties have warmed with an end to public criticism by U.S. officials of the counter-narcotics effort and more robust military engagement.

The new law enforcement funding will help pay for the investigation and prosecution of terrorism cases and programs to counter radicalization to violence and violent extremism, the embassy said.

The support parallels U.S. efforts to build counterterrorism capabilities in the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

In March, for example, the U.S. delivered six ScanEagle surveillance drones worth $13 million to boost counterterrorism capabilities among other things.

“The United States is a proud ally of the Philippines and will continue to provide whole-of-government support and assistance to Philippine counterterrorism efforts as we work together to address shared threats to the peace and security of both of our countries,” the embassy said.

https://www.stripes.com/news/us-to-give-philippine-police-26-5-million-to-fight-terrorism-1.538379

From the Manila Bulletin (Jul 19): Top cop in Cordillera warns public against NPA’s deceptive recruitment

The Police Regional Office-Cordillera (PRO-Cor) has warned the public against the deceptive method of recruitment being employed by the New People’s Army (NPA) in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) and the nearby provinces of Pangasinan, Ilocos, Isabela, and Cagayan.

Chief Superintendent Rolando Z. Nana, PRO-Cor director, made the revelation as he appealed to the public to be responsive by providing information to the police on the location and movements of NPA rebels recruiting new members.

Nana said that five victims of recruitment by the NPA have narrated their experience as they surrendered recently to government authorities.

“Beware the armed men who seek your help to carry their things. If you do, you may never be able to return home to your family,” Nana quoted one of the five surrenderers as having testified.

Speaking in their native Isneg dialect, three of five the five young men from Pudtol, Apayao appealed to their town mates to avoid being fooled by the NPA, said Nana.

They said they were working in the fields or cutting wood in the forests or fishing in the river when approached by armed men seeking their help to carry sacks of rice to Paco Valley.

They helped in carrying the food items to the NPA camp. However, they found themselves not allowed to leave and forced to undergo rudimentary training while being threatened not to disclose to anybody about the NPA activities.

The regional director (RD) recalled that the three NPA members had sought the help of Barangay Captain Fontanilla Melad, of Malibang in Pudtol in surrendering to authorities last July 4.

“With our collective efforts, we can make a difference in securing our people from any terror acts. That is the Filipino spirit of bayanihan,” said Nana as he vowed that government forces would act swiftly once information on NPA activities is relayed to them.

https://news.mb.com.ph/2018/07/19/top-cop-in-cordillera-warns-public-against-npas-deceptive-recruitment/

From the Manila Bulletin (Jul 19): 5 ASG gunmen, soldier killed in Sulu encounters

Army troopers conducting focused military operations encountered around 20 Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) gunmen on the boundary of Barangay Tanun and Liang, Patikul Sulu after midnight Thursday, resulting in the death of four ASG members and a soldier.

The Joint Task Force (JTF) Sulu reported that combatant from the army’s 45th Infantry Battalion (45IB), led by a Lieutenant Colonel Salvador, encountered the group of ASG sub-leader Almujer Yaddah.

The firefight resulted in the killing of four Abu Sayyaf gunmen and the wounding of four more on the enemy side.

Brigadier General Divino Rey Pabayo, JTF Sulu commander, confirmed that one soldier was killed and two more troopers were wounded in the same encounter.

“The wounded soldiers were airlifted to Camp Navarro General Hospital early this morning for further medication,” Pabayo said.

Meanwhile, while conducting pursuit operations, elements of the 1st Scout Ranger Battalion led by Major Grezula engaged in an armed confrontation with more or less 20 ASG members under Almadjan Sahidjuan, alias “Apoh Mike,” in Barangay Tabu-Bato, Maimbung, Sulu at 9:30 a.m. today.

Heavy skirmishes ensued, resulting in the killing of one ASG member, based on the body. One M16 rifle was also collected at the scene of the clash.

“My salute to our fallen soldier and my prayers for the other two who are currently recuperating at CNGH,” said Lieutenant General Arnel B. dela Vega, commander Western Mindanao Command. “With the support from the local government and the populace, the sickening problem of terrorism will soon be put to an end.”

https://news.mb.com.ph/2018/07/19/5-asg-gunmen-soldier-killed-in-sulu-encounters/

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 20): Gov’t forces seize IED inside passenger van in Maguindanao

DATU ODIN SINSUAT, Maguindanao -- Police and military authorities seized Thursday afternoon a powerful improvised explosive device after a civilian tipped off the transport of the bomb inside a passenger van.

Acting on a tip, Datu Odin Sinsuat municipal police personnel and soldiers of the Army’s 6th Infantry Battalion put up a chokepoint in Barangay Awang along the national highway leading to Cotabato City at about 4 p.m., according to Senior Police Officer 2 Ping Guiaman of the Datu Odin Police.

“We received a tip that a bomb will be transported to Barangay Rosary Heights 10 in Cotabato City,” Guiaman told reporters here, adding that the explosive would be brought in by a member of Islamic State-linked Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF).

At about 4:30 p.m., police flagged down along the Awang checkpoint a white passenger van vehicle (ABT6892) and found at the rear baggage compartment a box of corn grains with the bomb inside. Traffic along the Awang-Cotabato city section of the highway was immediately shut down for the safety of motorists.

Military explosive ordnance disposal experts deactivated the bomb rigged from an 81-mm. mortar projectile with a mobile phone as trigger mechanism.

The passenger van driver and his helper were later invited for questioning, but both could not say who owned the box containing the bomb.

Police and military authorities believed that the BIFF was behind the attempt to slip through the IED in the city to divert sustained military operations in Maguindanao.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1042072

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 20): Army foils NPA attempt to detonate landmine in Bukidnon

MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon – Troops belonging to the Army's 8th Infantry Battalion foiled an attempt of the New People’s Army (NPA) to detonate a landmine here at around 9 a.m. on Thursday, a military official said.

Captain Norman Tagros, civil military operations officer of the Army's 403rd Brigade, said the 8th IB troopers engaged an undertermined number of NPA rebels in a five-minute encounter in Sitio Nabawang, Brgy. Busdi, this city.

After the encounter, Tagros said, soldiers recovered explosives and other paraphernalia, including a 70-meter electrical wire and empty shells of M16 and AK-47 rifles.

Tagros said soldiers were tipped-off by concerned civilians in the area about the presence of armed men, who they saw laying Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) along the road in their community.

There were no reported casualties on the government side but the military believed some NPA members were wounded as evidenced by the bloodstains scattered along the rebels' withdrawal routes.

Lieutenant Colonel Ronald M. Illana, 8th IB commanding officer, condemned the NPA for "continuously violating" the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (CARHRIHL).

Illana pointed out that CARHRIHL that prohibits the use of landmines, adding such explosive device poses great harm to civilians--especially when placed in nearby communities.

For his part, Brigadier General Eric C. Vinoya, 403rd Infantry Brigade commander, commended the cooperation of local residents in the area.

Busdi is an adjacent village of Sitio Kaleb in Brgy. Kibalabag, Malaybalay City where three members of the 8IB were ambushed on February 1, 2017. The NPA in North Central Mindanao owned the responsibility for the incident.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1042163

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 20): N. Cotabato execs turn over 250 loose firearms to Army

SURRENDER. Some 250 loose firearms collected from their respective constituent by local executives of the towns of Aleosan, Pigcawayan, Libungan, and Kabacan, all in North Cotabato, were presented Thursday (July 19, 2018) at the provincial capitol gymnasium in Kidapawan City for a formal turnover to the military under the government’s “Balik Baril” program. (Photo courtesy of DXND - Kidapawan)

KIDAPAWAN CITY--Local officials from four North Cotabato towns on Thursday turned over some 250 loose firearms to the Army’s 602nd Infantry Brigade in a ceremony held at the provincial capitol gymnasium here.

Brigadier Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Army’s 6th Infantry Division commander, said the guns were collected by local executives of Aleosan, Pigcawayan, Libungan and Kabacan towns in support of the government’s “Balik Baril” program.

The assorted firearms included M-14 rifles, M-16 rifles, M79 grenade launchers, Garand rifles, 12-gauge shotgun rifles and homemade pistols.

North Cotabato Governor Emmylou Mendoza, who led the local officials during the turn over rites, urged other unauthorized gun holders to surrender their firearms before the deadline on July 31.

“After July 31, the Army and police would conduct punitive actions against those who refused to surrender their unlicensed guns,” Mendoza said.

Local officials have shown their support to the government’s disarmament program by responding to the military’s call to collect firearms from civilians in their respective localities.

Before Thursday’s surrender rites, five other towns in the province have turned over illegal firearms to the military. Since January, more than 1,000 assorted firearms were surrendered to the military in North Cotabato, the Army said.

Sobejana admitted that some of the guns surrendered to authorities were dilapidated, unserviceable “but can still be used to kill anyone.”

He said after the deadline on July 31, the military and the police will conduct a massive campaign against unauthorized possession of firearms, noting that Mindanao remains under martial law.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1042074

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 20): 22 more ex-NPA rebels in Sarangani to get livelihood aid

Twenty-two more former New People’s Army (NPA) rebels from Sarangani Province are set to receive financial assistance under the government’s expanded reintegration program.

Lizette Lopez, provincial focal person of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), said Friday they are currently processing the release of the assistance and other support interventions for the rebels.

Lopez said each of them stands to receive up to P65,000 in cash assistance, which includes incentives for surrendered firearms.

Under the E-CLIP, qualified beneficiaries are entitled to receive livelihood grants, trainings and other aid packages from various government agencies. In addition, the provincial government of Sarangani also provides additional cash assistance to the former rebels.

Lopez said the 22 returnees underwent healing and reconciliation sessions, and attended basic business management training earlier this week through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office and the Army’s 73rd Infantry Battalion.

She said the initiative was part of the interventions set under the E-CLIP and the local government’s flagship Sulong Kapayapaan program.

“They were given psychological and psychosocial interventions to help them cope with the difficulties that they faced while still with the rebel movement as well as guide them as they return to the mainstream society,” she said.

The former rebels also underwent sessions on the proper management of financial grants that they will receive from the government, she added.

She said the former rebels appealed for sustained development initiatives in tribal or indigenous communities in the province.

The returnees noted that the interventions implemented by the provincial and national governments, especially the provision of basic services, compelled them to surrender and return to the folds of the law, she said. These include the provision of water systems, irrigation facilities, access to farm inputs and the rehabilitation of road networks.

Last week, 12 former NPA rebels from the province received financial assistance under the E-CLIP in a ceremony graced by Task Force Balik-Loob chair and Defense Undersecretary Reynaldo Mapagu.

The beneficiaries received P65,000 each or P15,000 as immediate assistance and P50,000 as livelihood grant.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1042075

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 20): PNP fetes cop wounded in raid vs. Maute ‘bomb-maker’

GENERAL SANTOS CITY--The Police Regional Office 12 (Soccsksargen) conferred the Philippine National Police’s (PNP) wounded personnel medal to a police officer, who was hurt in an operation against a suspected “bomb-maker” of the Maute Group here last Monday.

Chief Supt. Marcelo Morales, PRO-12 director, said Friday he presented the medal to Police Officer 3 Jerry Feo during a visit to the General Santos Medical Center on Wednesday afternoon.

The award, also known as the Medalya ng Sugatang Magiting, is given to police officers and personnel who are “wounded in action” during operations or while performing their duties.

Morales said Feo, who sustained four gunshot wounds on his back, is in stable condition but is still undergoing medication at the hospital.

“PRO-12 and the entire PNP organization are very proud of his priceless contribution,” the police official said.

Feo, a warrant officer of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion (RMFB) 12, was wounded after suspect Najib Calimba Pundug alias Najib Hussein, opened fire at joint operatives in a raid at his safehouse in Barangay Fatima early Monday.

Pundug, who was tagged as the number two man of the Islamic State-inspired Maute under its new leader Owaidah Abdulmajib Marohombsar alias Abu Dar, reportedly tried to throw a grenade but was neutralized in time by the team.

Aside from the medal, Morales turned over PHP76,000 in cash assistance to Feo’s immediate family.

Morales said the amount was collected from RFMB-12 members, who all contributed voluntarily for the wounded police officer’s medication and physical recovery.

“The unit, as a reactionary force of PRO-12, showed that it is always prepared for tactical movements regarding any eventuality relative to terrorism, criminality and illegal drug activities,” he added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1042076

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 20): 5 Sayyaf men, soldier killed in 2 Sulu clashes

Six people, five of whom were Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) members, were killed while two others were wounded in two separate clashes in the hinterlands of Sulu, military officials said Friday.

Joint Task Force Sulu commander, Brig. Gen. Divino Rey Pabayo, said the first clash occurred at the boundary of barangays Tanum and Liang, Patikul town midnight Wednesday.

Pabayo said troops of the Army’s 45th Infantry Battalion were conducting a military operation when they clashed with about 20 ASG members led by sub-leader Almujer Yaddah.

The firefight resulted in the death of four ASG members and the wounding of five others, according to intelligence information.

Pabayo said a soldier also died while two others were wounded, and were immediately taken to the Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista Station Hospital in Barangay Bus-Bus, Jolo.

The injured soldiers were airlifted to the Camp Navarro General Hospital (CNGH) on Thursday morning for further medication. The hospital is the medical facility of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) located in Camp Navarro that also houses the Westmincom headquarters in this city.

Pabayo said the second clash happened in Barangay Tabu-Bato, Maimbung municipality at about 9:30 a.m. Thursday between the troops of the Army’s 1st Scout Ranger Battalion and some 20 ASG members led by sub-leader Almadjan Sahidjuan, alias Apoh Mike.

He said the remains of the ASG member killed during the clash were recovered by the troops, along with an M-16 Armalite rifle.

“My salute to our fallen soldier and my prayers for the other two who are currently recuperating at CNGH,” Lt. Gen. Arnel dela Vega, Westmincom chief said.

“With support from the local government and the populace, the sickening problem of terrorism will soon be put to an end. The intensification of the military operations is buoyed by the renewed vigor of those who are against violent extremism,” he added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1042117

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 20): MNLF man, pal nabbed in P1.3-M Maguindanao drug bust

Operatives of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) nabbed Thursday afternoon a Manila-based "drug peddler" and his pal, allegedly a member of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), and seized from them some PHP1.3-million worth of “shabu” drugs in Datu Odin Sinsuat town, Maguindanao.

PDEA-Autonomous Region in Muslim (PDEA-ARMM) Director Juvenal Azurin identified those collared in the buy-bust operation as Ramid Depatuan, 36, of Baseco compound, Manila, and Ken Kalaing, 41, also a Baseco resident and an MNLF member based on his identification card.

“After confirming their illegal activities, a drug buy-bust was planned and they agreed to release about 50 grams of shabu in exchange for PHP130,000 to our poseur-buyer,” Azurin said of the entrapment in Sitio Tenorio, Barangay Awang, Maguindanao at 4:30 p.m. Thursday.

“The deal area was only about 700 meters away from the first entrance gate of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division headquarters,” he added.

After the suspects handed over a huge sachet of suspected “shabu” to the poseur-buyer, PDEA agents immediately apprehended Depatuan and Kalaing, who both did not resist arrest.

Seized from them were 500 grams of “shabu” with an estimated street value of PHP1.3 million, a motorbike used in the illegal drug trade, two black wallets and mobile phones.

Azurin said the suspects are being detained at the PDEA lockup while charges are being readied against them.

Depatuan and Kalaing's arrest came a day after PDEA-ARMM agents nabbed in this city a "big-time drug peddler", from whom they seized PHP1.7-M worth of “shabu”.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1042052