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RDC, OPAPP lead commemoration of Mount Data Peace Accord on Sept. 13

September 16, 2018, 1:25 pm
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From the Philippine Information Agency (Sep 15): RDC, OPAPP lead commemoration of Mount Data Peace Accord on Sept. 13

Cordillera elders and leaders  met with some national officials and  other autonomy advocates to commemorate the historic Mount Data Peace Accord this week at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City.
 
Dubbed as “32 Years of Sipat: A Gathering of Cordillera Peace and Autonomy Advocates,” this year’s commemoration of the peace agreement was brought to the national scene with the staging of the formal program at the PICC on Thursday, September 13.
 
Thirty two years ago, on  Sept. 13, 1986, the Cordillera People’s Liberation Army (CPLA) led by Fr. Conrado Balweg heeded the call for peace by the then President Corazon C. Aquino through the forging of a sipat or the peace agreement at the Mount Data Hotel in Bauko, Mountain Province. A symbolic exchange of peace tokens was done between the government and the rebel force that included a rifle, a rosary, and a bible.

The historic event also paved the way for the government’s recognition of the aspirations for the establishment of an autonomous region of the Cordillera starting off with  the issuance of Executive 220  creating the Cordillera Administrative Region  as a transition towards autonomous region. Said  Cordillera regional autonomy which is  mandated under the  1987 Constitution, however, remains elusive.  

Regional Development Council (RDC) Vice Chair and NEDA-CAR Regional Director Milagros Rimando said the event intends to gather key personalities who played a crucial role in the peace process and the pursuit of regional autonomy initiatives.  It aims to update stakeholders on the state and gains of the peace process in the region as well as the Cordillera autonomy initiatives.

Rimando said the commemoration   at the PICC is part of RDC efforts to drumbeat the pursuit of Cordillera regional autonomy at the national level, raise consciousness and gather insights or collective aspirations of the stakeholders relative to regional autonomy.

Among the guests are champions of Cordillera autonomy including Senators JV Ejercito, Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III, Juan Miguel Zubiri and Bam Aquino; members of the House of Representatives led by Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo  and the Cordillera congressmen and other Cabinet officials such as Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) Sec. Jesus Dureza, Presidential Legislative and Liaison Office (PLLO) Sec. Adelino Sitoy, and Presidential Adviser for North Luzon Raul Lambino.

The activity,  which is also in line with National Peace Consciousness Month, is a collaboration of the Cordillera RDC-CAR with OPAPP, PLLO, the Presidential Communications Operations Office and Philippine Information Agency – Cordillera.

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1012551
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Marine killed in Sultan Kudarat clash

September 16, 2018, 1:29 pm
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From the Mindanao Examiner (Sep 16): Marine killed in Sultan Kudarat clash

Marines clashed with communist rebels that left one soldier dead and another injured in southern Philippines, officials said Sunday.

The weekend fighting erupted in the village called Sangay in Sultan Kudarat’s Kalamansig town where members of the Marine Battalion Landing Team-2 fought with the New People’s Army. The soldiers were sent to the area after villagers reported the presence of the insurgents.

“During the encounter, a marine troop suffered a serious injury and died at a hospital in Cotabato City. He paid the ultimate sacrifice in fighting terrorism in Central Mindanao. Another troop was also wounded and is already in a stable condition. Both soldiers suffered multiple shrapnel wounds on the different parts of their bodies,” a statement released by the 6th Infantry Division said.

There was no report of enemy casualties.

Brig. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, division commander, said the operation against the rebels will be relentless and branded the group as terrorists. He also condoled with the family of the slain soldier. He did not release the identities of the casualties.

The rebels have been fighting for many decades now to overthrow the democratic government and establish a communist state.

https://mindanaoexaminer.com/marine-killed-in-sultan-kudarat-clash/
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7 injured in GenSan blast; 3rd blast in Region 12 in 3 weeks

September 16, 2018, 1:38 pm
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From MindaNews (Sep 16): 7 injured in GenSan blast;  3rd blast in Region 12 in 3 weeks

Seven persons, among them a six-year old girl, were wounded in a noontime explosion in nearby General Santos City on Sunday, authorities said.

Sunday’s bombing was the third in Region 12 since the August 28 and September 2 bombings in Isulan town in Sultan Kudarat province left five persons dead and nearly 50 others injured.

Citing initial reports, Supt. Aldrin Gonzales, spokesperson of the Police Regional Office-12, said the explosion occurred at around 11:40 a.m. outside the TGP Generic Pharmacy at Crossing Makar in Barangay Labangal.

Gonzalez, in a text message, said the still unknown suspect placed the improvised explosive device beside the pharmacy.

The official said that investigations were underway to establish the motive and identify the suspects of the attack.

South Cotabato’s 1st district Rep. Pedro Acharon Jr. urged the public to be vigilant in the wake of the explosion.

Acharon said the bombing appeared to “scare than to hurt people.”

Lawyer Arnel Zapatos, city administrator, said the victims were being treated at a local hospital for injuries.

Rushed to the St. Elizabeth Hospital for treatment of injuries were 19-year old Jessly Yrome Guyos, 34-year old Lally Jean Alipyo and six-year old Joanna Bless Alipyo — all of Polomolok in South Cotabatp; Filipa Regidor, 63, Marlon Arabia, 30, and Marlou Orabia Yadao — all of Apopong in General Santos City; and John Lenon Calong, 22, of Isulan, Sultan Kudarat.

General Santos City police chief Sr. Supt. Raul Supiter said the seven are in stable condition.

Powerful explosions rocked Isulan town in Sultan Kudarat on August 28 and September 2. The police and the military blamed the bombings on the Islamic State-inspired Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters.

The region was placed on full red alert following the lethal Isulan blasts.

Region 12 straddles the provinces of South Cotabato, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and Sarangani, and the cities of General Santos, Koronadal, Tacurong, Kidapawan and Cotabato.

http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2018/09/7-injured-in-gensan-blast-3rd-blast-in-region-12-in-3-weeks/
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7 slain in Patikul, Sulu: encounter? massacre? mistaken identity?

September 16, 2018, 1:58 pm
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From MindaNews (Sep 16): 7 slain in Patikul, Sulu:  encounter? massacre? mistaken identity?

The killing of seven persons in Patikul, Sulu on Friday was a result of an encounter with the Abu Sayyaf, according to the military, but a Moro group says it was massacre of civilians allegedly harvesting mangosteen fruits while a university professor says it was a case of mistaken identity, the victims ending up as ‘collateral damage’ for being at the wrong place at the wrong time.

“Propaganda!,” Lt. Col. Gerry Besana, spokesperson of the Western Mindanao Command said, as he dismissed allegations of massacre. He told MindaNews Saturday night via text message that the seven were“ASG (Abu Sayyaf Group) talaga mga yun” (all ASG members) and that 17 soldiers were even wounded during the encounter. An earlier press statement from Besana’s office said the soldiers were“slightly wounded.”

Besana said photographs of the seven bodies lined up, which went viral on social media, were taken after they were turned over to the local government unit on Saturday. He said the encounter happened on Friday and the slain victims were all brought to the hospital for forensic examination by the Philippine National Police (PNP). The victims’ families were able to claim the bodies on Saturday.

Besana also dismissed allegations of mistaken identity.“Paano magiging mistaken identity kung one hour and 30 minutes sila nakipagbarilan sa tropa inflicting 17 wounded sa tropa? Pasalamat nga dapat sila kasi dinala ng tropa mga napatay at itinurn over properly sa LGU (local government unit) for proper burial” (How could it have been a mistaken identity when they fought the troops for one hour and 30 minutes and 17 troops were wounded. They should be thankful because the troops brought the bodies and turned them over properly to the LGU for proper burial), he told MindaNews Sunday morning.

Massacre

Suara Bangsamoro (Voice of the Bangsamoro) said what happened Friday was a massacre.

In a statement e-mailed to media outlets late Saturday evening, Jerome Succor Aba, national chair of Suara Bangsamoro, said members of civil society organizations in Sulu identified the victims as “husbands of Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries in Patikul who were shot by elements of scout rangers while harvesting mangosteen fruits in the area.”

Aba said the victims — with ages ranging from 18 to 32, including a high school student — were from Barangay Tambang in Patikul who recently moved to an evacuation site in Barangay Igasan also in Patikul and who sought and were granted permission by the military to go to Sitio Tubig Bato in Barangay Kabuntakas to harvest mangosteen.

“There was an encounter between the Abu Sayaff and the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) that day. While they were in Kabuntakas, Scout Rangers mistook the seven as ASG members and captured them,” Aba said, citing reports from the victims’ families in Sulu.

Aba said the victims were still alive “in the hands of the military by noontime, but at around 5:00 in the afternoon, their lifeless bodies were delivered by the AFP to the local police station.”

Encounter

A press statement issued shortly before noon Saturday by Besana’s office, the Western Mindanao Command’s Public Information Office, said soldiers under Task Group Panther led by Lt. Col. Samuel Yunque and Scout Rangers led by Captain Michael Aristores “encountered more or less 100 fully armed Abu Sayyafs under senior leader Radullan Sahiron and sub leaders Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan and Idang Susukan in Barangay Bakong, Patikul, Sulu” at around 1:30 p.m. on Friday.

Besana said three Indonesians kidnapped by the Abu Sayyaf in January this year were rescued Saturday afternoon.

The press statement said the Joint Task Force Sulu headed by Brig. Gen. Divino Rey Pabayo, reported seven Abu Sayyaf members killed and six others wounded including Abu Sayyaf sub-leader Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan who was “seriously hit in his stomach and lower extremities.”

It said 17 soldiers were “slightly wounded” during the encounter due to shrapnel while “more casualties on the enemy side are yet to be determined based on the blood stains spotted in the encounter site.”

The Westmincom said the injured were rushed to the Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista Station Hospital for treatment while the seven cadavers were brought to the hospital for forensic examination and proper disposition.

It said troops recovered from the encounter site — with the seven alleged Abu Sayyaf members — “one M16 rifle, four 5.56 mm magazines, one bandolier, one touchscreen cellular phone, and assorted war materiel and ammunitions.”

“Collateral damage”

A mistaken identity that led to a “collateral damage,” was how Professor Octavio Dinampo, who teaches at the Mindanao State University – Sulu in Patikul town, described what happened Friday.

“There are two things here,” Dinampo told MindaNews in a text message. “First, there was a legitimate encounter between the Army’s Scout Rangers and the groups of Amir Raddulan Sahirun, sub-leader Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan and Idang Susukan (of the Abu Sayyaf), resulting to the wounding of five soldiers. Two, the relatives of the seven victims claimed they were actually farm owners who asked the permission of the (military) commanding officer to harvest some fruits.”

“So most probably they were chanced upon by the operating scout rangers and mistaken for ASGs,” Dinampo said.

Dinampo noted that one of the victims was identified as a student of Jallao National High School.

He said what happened was more of “collateral damages than massacre, for being there at the wrong place and time.”

Who is accountable?

Suara Bangsamoro’s Aba said the AFP “should be held accountable for this crime.”

“This is not the first time that the AFP committed an atrocity against civilians while parading the victims as Abu Sayyaf bandits,” he said.

He recalled that in 2005, a family was massacred in Maimbung, Sulu that prompted then Moro National Liberation Front leader Ustadz Habier Malik to “retaliate against the AFP in defense of their communities.”

Aba was likely referring to what has become known as “Ipil Massacre” of eight persons — seven civilians including two children and two teenagers — and an Army soldier on vacation from his post in Cotabato City, in the coastal village of Ipil in Maimbung, Sulu on February 4, 2008.

In late February 2008, the Westmincom’s Judge Advocate General’s Office absolved the suspects – soldiers belonging to the Army’s Light Reaction Company and Navy Special Warfare Group – claiming it was a “legitimate encounter with the Abu Sayyaf.”

Calling CHR

Suara Bangsamoro called on the Commission on Human Rights to investigate what happened in Patikul “and the scores of human rights violations reported by Moro communities in the course of the AFP’s anti-terror operations and martial law in Mindanao.”

It said President Rodrigo Duterte’s “all-out war policy is killing more and more of our Moro brothers and sisters.”

“We are enraged that to appease his Filipino soldiers, he would sacrifice the lives of Moro people by exonerating the perpetrators of the massacre and branding the victims as terrorists,” Suara Bangsamoro said as it held Duterte “responsible for the various human rights violations committed by the military against the Moro people.”

Duterte declared a “state of national emergency owing to lawless violence in Mindanao” on September 4, 2016, two days after the bombing at the Roxas night market in Davao City that left 14 persons dead and 70 others injured. One of the 70, a pregnant woman, died a few days later.

Duterte placed the entire Mindanao — composed of 27 provinces and 33 cities — under martial law on May 23, 2017, Day 1 of the Marawi Siege.

Martial law, supposedly only for 60 days, has been extended twice — until December 31, 2017 and until December 31, 2018, if not extended further.

http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2018/09/7-slain-in-patikul-sulu-encounter-massacre-mistaken-identity/
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4 NPA leaders surrender; 1 hurt Red fighter rescued

September 16, 2018, 2:05 pm
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From the Mindanao Times (Sep 17): 4 NPA leaders surrender; 1 hurt Red fighter rescued

Four high-ranking leaders of the New People’s Army (NPA) and two members surrendered to the 46th Infantry Battalion in Mabini, Compostela Valley on Friday.

Lt. Col. Ezra Balagtey, the spokesperson of Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom), identified the high-ranking NPA surrenderees were identified as alias Joffrey, political instructor of the Sentro De Grabidad (SDG) Platoon; alias Sander, vice commander of the SDG; alias Anthony, squad leader; alias Arnel, team leader, Abe Squad 1, SDG.
The other surrenderees were identified as alias Renz and alias Tenie, both members of Squad 2, SDG, all of Guerrilla Front 33.

Balagtey said the surrenderees initially turned over four .45 caliber pistols. But they also pointed out where they hid four AK47 rifles, which were later recovered.

The rebels surrendered to the 46th Infantry Battalion of the 8th Infantry Division under Lt. Col Benjamin A Dao-on, the newly designated battalion commander. The 46th IB is under the operational control of the 1001st Infantry Brigade.

Meanwhile, Col Gilbert Saret, commander of 1001st Infantry Brigade, assured the former rebels of assistance as they return to the mainstream society.

“We would like to welcome our brothers who were victims of NPA exploitation,” Saret said. “We want to assure them that we will assist them as they return to the folds of the law, particularly, in their enrollment with the Enhance Comprehensive Localized Integration Program or the E-CLIP,” he added.

Wounded NPA fighter rescued

A member of the New People’s Army (NPA) was rescued by the local government unit of Lupon and troops of the 28th Infantry Battalion at the vicinity of Barangay Maragatas, Lupon, Davao Oriental around 9 a.m. on Friday.

Lt. Col. Miguel Ramon, the battalion commander identified him to TIMES as Jason Languban, a resident of Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur. Ramon said the wounded NPA was brought to the Southern Philippines Medical Treatment (SPMC) after he sustained three gunshot wounds on his chest.

On Sept. 13, there was an encounter between troops of 28th IB and NPAs in Barangay Maragatas, which killed one soldier. Troops found the fighter after the clash and rescued him.

In his statement, Maj. Gen. Noel Clement, the commander of 10th Infantry Division, said, “We will always be steadfast in adherence to the provisions on the respect of Human rights, IHL and rule of law.”

“The wounded NPA deserved a chance to live but it doesn’t mean that he will be spared of the crimes he has committed,” Clement added.

http://mindanaotimes.net/4-npa-leaders-surrender-1-hurt-red-fighter-rescued/
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Video: IED blast in GenSan injures 7

September 16, 2018, 2:19 pm
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Posted to the Daily Tribune (Sep 16): IED blast in GenSan injures 7
 
An improvised explosive device (IED) exploded in front of a pharmacy and lyin-in hospital in General Santos City, South Cotabato injuring seven people on Sunday, according to the General Santos City Police Office (GSCPO).

The IED exploded past noon at the Makar junction in Barangay Apopong, the GSCPO said in a Facebook post.

The injured were taken to the Saint Elizabeth Hospital, the Philippine National Police reported.

http://tribune.net.ph/index.php/2018/09/16/ied-blast-in-gensan-injures-7/
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Soldiers save Indonesians, wounded NPA

September 16, 2018, 2:40 pm
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From the Daily Tribune (Sep 17): Soldiers save Indonesians, wounded NPA

Philippine military rescued three Indonesians who were long held hostage by the Abu Sayyaf Group in Sulu.

The three Indonesians have been Abu Sayyaf captives since January 2017 in Tawi-Tawi and were subjects of rescue missions by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) since the day of their abduction by the ISIS-inspired group.

The Indonesian hostages were identified as Hamdam Salim, 34; Subandi Sattuh, 27 and Sudarlan Samansung, 41. They were rescued in Barangay Buanza, Idanan.

All three are fishermen. They will be repatriated after they have been turned over to the Indonesian embassy.

The freed Abu Sayyaf victims were turned over to JTF Sulu Commander, Brig. Gen. Divino Rey Pabayo Jr., former governor Abdusakur Tan and Provincial Director of the Sulu Provincial Police Office Supt. Pablo Labra II.

The rebel was abandoned by his comrades after he was heavily wounded as a result of the exchange of gunfire between the government and rebel forces.

According to reports, the three hostages were forcibly taken last 18 January 2017 while they were onboard a speedboat off the waters of Taganak Island, Tawi-Tawi.

The rescue was made possible through the collective efforts of the Joint Task Force Sulu, Miss Tarhata Misuari, Abdul Kiram Misuari and former governor Abdusakur Tan.

They were immediately brought to the Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista Station Hospital for medical check-up and custodial debriefing.

Last Friday, government troops also rescued a wounded member of the New People’s Army following an encounter in Davao Oriental.

The rebel was abandoned by his comrades after he was heavily wounded as a result of the exchange of gunfire between the government and rebel forces.

The wounded rebel was identified as Jason Languban.

He was rescued in Barangay Maragatas, Lupon at 9 a.m. on tips provided by the residents to the troops belonging to the 28th Infantry Battalion.

Upon interrogation, Languban said he was from Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur.

The military rushed Languban to the Camp Panacan Station Hospital before he was transferred to the Southern Philippines Medical Center, also in Davao City.

http://tribune.net.ph/index.php/2018/09/17/soldiers-save-indonesians-wounded-npa/
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Clan war ends in Maguindanao

September 16, 2018, 2:46 pm
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From The Daily Tribune (Sep 17): Clan war ends in Maguindanao


PHOTO CREDIT: FACEBOOK.COM/PHILIPPINEARMYAFP

They can talk peace, after all.

The bloody clan war between two families in Maguindanao finally ended on Saturday after a settlement aided by Army soldiers between their members.

The Iranun Inter-Agency Task Force, led by the local government of Barira, successfully aided the settlement between the Daraba-Sasao and Kumiling-Nati families.

The violent dispute started with a personal grudge that led to the killing of two persons last July.

The settlement also led to the handover of a pistol, two rifles and a rocket-propelled grenade as a sign of their sincere desire to end their conflict.

Brigadier Gen. Jesus Sarsagat of the 603rd Brigade and Mayor Abdul Radjak Tomawis helped to settle the dispute.

They said they wanted to end the culture of violence and uphold peace and security within the community.

Both parties expressed their gratitude to the military and civilian authorities.

http://tribune.net.ph/index.php/2018/09/17/clan-war-ends-in-maguindanao/
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3 Indonesians freed by Abu Sayyaf in Sulu

September 16, 2018, 3:09 pm
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From Malaya Business Insight (Sep 17): 3 Indonesians freed by Abu Sayyaf in Sulu

THREE Indonesians were freed by the Abu Sayyaf group in Sulu on Saturday, almost 20 months since they were kidnapped in Tawi-Tawi.

Hamdam Salim, 34, Subandi Sattuh, 27, and Sudarlan Samansung, 41 were released around 4 p.m. and subsequently recovered by the military in Barangay Buanza in Indanan town, Lt. Col. Gerry Besana, spokesman of the AFP’s Western Mindanao Command, said yesterday.

The release brings to 11 the number of individuals still in the hands of the Abu Sayyaf in Sulu.

The three were seized by the Abu Sayyaf off Taganak Island in Tawi-Tawi on January 18 last year, and later brought to Sulu, a known bailiwick of the group.

Besana said there is no information on whether ransom was paid. “What we know is they are pressured (by the military operations),”  he said.

He said the release was made possible through the joint efforts of the military’s Joint Task Force Sulu under Brig. Gen. Divino Rey Pabayo, former Sulu Gov. Abdusakur Tan, and other stakeholders.

A report from the police in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao said the three were released to the Moro National Liberation Front which brokered for their release.

They were then turned over to former Sulu Gov. Abdusakur Tan before they were brought to the Joint Task Force Sulu and Senior Supt. Pablo Larra II, chief of the Sulu police.

Besana said operations continue to secure the freedom of the remaining kidnap victims -- nine Filipinos, a Dutch, and a Vietnamese.

http://malaya.bayaninetwork.com/business-news/news/3-indonesians-freed-abu-sayyaf-sulu
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NPA leader killed in Compostela Valley

September 16, 2018, 3:37 pm
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From the Manila Bulletin (Sep 16): NPA leader killed in Compostela Valley

A New People’s Army (NPA) leader was killed following an encounter between the rebels and government troops in Compostela Valley on Saturday.

(MANILA BULLETIN)
The NPA leader was identified as Jacob Rondinas alias Jecko or Velum, secretary of the Guerrilla Front 51, Southern Mindanao Regional Committee

It was learned that troops from the Army’s 39th Infantry Battalion were scouring the area when they encountered still undetermined number of NPAs at Sitio Flortam, Brgy. Batasan, Makilala, Compostela Valley, at about 5 p.m. Saturday.

A report from the local community said Rondinas roamed Sitio Flortam and desperately tried to recover their lost mass base by force recruitment.

Their mode of recruitment is simply inviting their target for a meeting and eventually forcing them to take arms.

The troops responded with caution and reached the target which led to an encounter.

On Sunday at about 7:30 a.m., troops of the 39th IB on clearing operation discovered a cadaver near the encounter site which was later identified as that of Rondinas.

The 1002nd Brigade under Brig. Gen. Roberto Ancan informed the Makilala Philippine National Police (PNP) and Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO) were informed about the incident for further investigation.

“The 1002nd Brigade extends the hand of peace to the members of the NPA terrorist [group] in the area. We will continue to use all lawful and peaceful means to encourage the NPAs to go back to the folds of law but we also use force when necessary. The brigade and 10ID are here to protect the people in the communities as we journey towards peace,” Ancan said.

Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Noel S. Clement, commander of the Army’s 10th Infantry Division, lauded the troops’ accomplishment and said “the people in the community that reported to us of the NPA presence love peace and that manifests their commitment to help our campaign for peace.”

“There are many ways that the government is doing to end violence. and attain peace. As 10ID and the people commit to a peaceful resolution of conflict here, we continue on performing our mandated task with deep adherence to respect human rights, international humanitarian law and rule of law,” Clement added.

NPA leader killed in Compostela Valley

A New People’s Army (NPA) leader was killed following an encounter between the rebels and government troops in Compostela Valley on Saturday (September 15, 2018).

The NPA leader was identified as Jacob Rondinas alias Jecko/Velum, Secretary of the Guerrilla Front 51, Southern Mindanao Regional Committee

It was learned that troops from the Army’s 39th Infantry Battalion, were scouring the area when they encountered still undetermined number of NPAs at Sitio Flortam, Brgy. Batasan, Makilala, Compostela Valley, at about 5 p.m. Saturday.

A report from the local community said that Rondinas roamed Sitio Flortam and desperately tried to recover their loss mass base by force recruitment.

Their mode of recruitment is simply inviting their target for a meeting and eventually force them to take arms.

The troops responded with caution and reached the target which led to an encounter.

On Sunday at about 7:30 a.m., troops of the 39th IB on clearing operation discovered a cadaver near the encounter site which was later identified as that of Rondinas.

The 1002nd Brigade under Brigadier General Roberto Ancan informed the Makilala Philippine National Police (PNP)

and Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO) were informed about the incident for further investigation.

“The 1002nd Brigade extends the hand of peace to the members of the NPA terrorist in the area. We will continue to use all lawful and peaceful means to encourage the NPAs to go back to the folds of law but we also use force when necessary. The brigade and 10ID are here to protect the people in the communities as we journey towards peace ,” Ancan said.

Meanwhile, Major General Noel S. Clement, the Commander of the Army’s 10th Infantry Division, lauded the troops’ accomplishment and said “the people in the community that reported to us of the NPA presence love peace and that manifest their commitment to help our campaign for peace.”

“There are many ways that the government is doing to end violence. and attain peace. As 10ID and the people commit to a peaceful resolution of conflict here, we continue on performing our mandated task with deep adherence to respect human rights, international humanitarian law and rule of law,” Clement added.

https://news.mb.com.ph/2018/09/16/npa-leader-killed-in-compostela-valley/
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AFP reiterates firefight in Patikul, Sulu was a legitimate encounter

September 16, 2018, 3:48 pm
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From the Manila Bulletin (Sep 16): AFP reiterates firefight in Patikul, Sulu was a legitimate encounter

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Sunday reiterated that the firefight that took place in Patikul, Sulu, on Friday afternoon that left seven Abu Sayyaf terrorists killed was a result of a legitimate encounter.



Marine Colonel Edgard Arevalo (MANILA BULLETIN FILE PHOTO)

“We stand firm in our report that this was a legitimate encounter contrary to enemy propaganda that it was a “massacre,” said AFP spokesman Col. Edgard Arevalo in a statement.

“The site of the encounter is a notorious ASG territory. That is a fact established by military and human intelligence. The folks of Patikul know it very well such that no civilians dared to go or pass by the place,” he added.

Arevalo insisted that aside from seven Abu Sayyaf terrorists killed, the encounter also resulted in the wounding of six other terrorists including ASG sub-leader Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan who was seriously hit in his stomach and lower extremities.

He added that the focus military operations (FMO) also resulted in the wounding of 17 of their troops due to shrapnel wounds as a result of the one hour and thirty minutes of fierce firefight.

Arevalo said the AFP leadership commends the operating units from Joint Task Force Sulu under Brig..Gen. Divino Rey Pabayo for successful FMO in a known Abu Sayyaf terrorist lair in Brgy. Bakong, Patikul, Sulu on Friday, September 14, at about 1:30 p.m.

Troops recovered from the encounter site an M16 rifle, four magazines for 5.56 mm, a bandolier, a civilian pack, three keypad cellphone, a touch screen cellphone, eight pieces of syringe, IED components (9 Volts battery, 1 blasting cap with wire, 161 piece live 5.56 rounds, four pieces 7.62mm rounds, one empty 50 caliber rounds, two box empty m249 ammunition, 23 empty shell 40mm, and enemy assorted personal effects.

“We praise the combat skills of our soldiers in seizing the element of surprise and firepower. They were unfazed by volleys of retaliatory fire from more or less 100 Abu Sayyaf terrorists under senior leader Radullan Sahiron and sub-leaders Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan and Idang Susukan,” Arevalo said.

https://news.mb.com.ph/2018/09/16/afp-reiterates-firefight-in-patikul-sulu-was-a-legitimate-encounter/
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NPA leaders surrender in Compostela Valley

September 16, 2018, 4:02 pm
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From the Manila Bulletin (Sep 16): NPA leaders surrender in Compostela Valley

Six New People’s Army (NPA) rebels, four of whom are high ranking leaders, voluntarily surrendered to the Army’s 46th Infantry Battalion in Compostela Valley, a military report said.

The report disclosed that the NPAs surrendered to the 46th ID under Lt. Col. Benjamin A Dao-on at Mabini, Compostela Valley on Friday (September 14, 2018).
The high ranking NPA surrenderees were one alias Joffrey, identified as a political instructor of the Sentro De Grabidad (SDG) platoon; an alias Sander, identified as the vice commander, an alias Anthony, squad leader of Squad 2, SDG Pltn; and alias Arnel, team leader, ABE Squad 1. The other surrenderees were identified as alias Renz, a member of squad 2 and alias Tenie, also a member of squad 2.

The surrenderees initially yielded four caliber 45 pistols. However, during the course of the custodial debriefing, the former rebels disclosed the location of their other firearms, which resulted in the recovery of four AK47 rifles.

Meanwhile, Col.Gilbert Saret, commander of the 1001st Infantry Brigade, welcomed the surrenderees and assured them of assistance as they return to mainstream society.

“We would like to welcome our brothers who were victims of NPA exploitation. We want to assure them that we will assist them as they return to the fold of the law, particularly, in their enrollment with the Enhance Comprehensive Localized Integration Program or the E-CLIP,” Saret said.

“Further, we are calling the CNT (communist NPA terrorists) members to come down and be part of the change that the government is pursuing, and help make our community peaceful and progressive,” he added.

https://news.mb.com.ph/2018/09/16/npa-leaders-surrender-in-compostela-valley/
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NPA rebels kill soldier in Samar firefight

September 16, 2018, 4:22 pm
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From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Sep 15): NPA rebels kill soldier in Samar firefight

A soldier was killed in an encounter with suspected communist rebels in Matuguinao town, Samar province on Friday.

The lone fatality was identified as Sgt. Daniel Silagan, who was among the soldiers involved in clearing operations in Barangay Mahayag, a mountain village that could only be reached by motorcycle.

Government troopers belonging to the 63rd Infantry Battalion encountered about 10 armed men believed to be members of the New People’s Army.

The firefight lasted for about 20 minutes.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1032793/npa-rebels-kill-soldier-in-samar-firefight
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NPA rebel surrenders in Bukidnon

September 16, 2018, 4:35 pm
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From the Sun Star-Cagayan de Oro (Sep 16): NPA rebel surrenders in Bukidnon

A SUSPECTED hitman of the New People’s Army (NPA) has surrendered and returned to the folds of the law over the weekend.

A certain Bryan Fabre alias Alex, 32, resident of Barangay Mabuhay, Valencia City, turned himself in to the Eight Infantry Battalion (8IB) in Impasug-ong, Bukidnon.

The military said Fabre was a member of Squad 1, SDG Platoon "Thunder", North Central Mindanao Regional Committee of the NPA.


Fabre surrendered to the government troops his homemade 9mm sub-machine gun.

The military reported that the former communist guerilla yielded because he got tired from hiding and running from the government forces.

In a statement, the military said Fabre got fed up with the false promises of the organization "that left him with nothing but a life filled with fear and starvation".

"The CPP-NPA terrorists is weakening each passing day with all our efforts to maintain peace and order in the province of Bukidnon. The members of this armed group is slowly realizing it," 8IB commander Lieutenant Colonel Ronald Illana said.

"It is never too late to go back and start again. The government will be there to support and help you get back on your feet only if you give peace a chance," he added.
https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1764587
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NPA leader killed in North Cotabato

September 16, 2018, 4:43 pm
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From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Sep 16): NPA leader killed in North Cotabato

A high-ranking leader of the New People’s Army (NPA) was killed in a firefight with government troops on Saturday in Sitio Flortam, Barangay Batasan, Makilala, North Cotabato.

Lt. Colonel Rhojun Rosales, commander of the Army’s 39th Infantry Battalion, said the body of Jacob Rodinas (who was also known as Jecko or Velum) , secretary of Guerrilla Front 51, was recovered around 7 a.m. on Sunday, a day after the encounter.

Rosales said the slain NPA leader had standing arrest warrants for various crimes, including arson, extortion, homicide and murder.

Rodinas and Juanito Pueblas, also known as “Taghoy” were top NPA leaders of GF-51, he said.

Pueblas was killed on July 21 in Barangay Astorga, Sta. Cruz town in Davao del Sur, along with his comrades.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1033083/npa-leader-killed-in-north-cotabato
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Verdict vs. Palparan proves justice system is alive: DOJ

September 17, 2018, 2:18 pm
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From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 17): Verdict vs. Palparan proves justice system is alive: DOJ

The Department of Justice (DOJ) on Monday said the guilty verdict against retired Maj. Gen. Jovito Palparan Jr. and two others for kidnapping and serious illegal detention charges means that justice is alive and attainable for victims of crimes.

“Justice may come a bit late, but it does come. Let’s believe in that,” Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra said in a text message.

Meanwhile, the National Union of People's Lawyers (NUPL) lauded the court's ruling.

"[Palparan's] conviction sends the message that cocky perpetrators of hideous human rights violations will meet their match in the fortitude of the mothers, the strength of the mass movement, the courage of human rights defenders, and the value of good lawyering for the people," the NUPL said in a statement.

On Monday, the Malolos City Regional Trial Court (RTC) found Palparan, Lt. Col.Felipe Anotado Jr., and S/Sgt. Edgardo Osorio guilty of kidnapping and serious illegal detention in connection with the disappearance of University of the Philippines (UP) students Karen Empeño and Sherlyn Cadapan in 2006.

Malolos RTC Branch 15 Judge Alexander Tamayo sentenced the three to reclusion perpetua or imprisonment of up to 40 years.

“All things considered, the evidence of the prosecution indubitably proved beyond reasonable doubt that the aforementioned elements of kidnapping and serious illegal detention obtain in the two cases at bar and the three accused should be penalized accordingly,” read the decision.

The convicts were also ordered by the court to pay the amount of PHP300,000 each in civil indemnity and moral damages to the families of the two UP students.

On Aug. 12, 2014, Palparan was arrested in a house in Sta. Mesa, Manila, after three years of hiding.

He was arrested by virtue of an arrest warrant issued by the Malolos RTC in 2011 in connection with the charges filed by the relatives of the two missing UP students.

He has since been held in detention at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.

In indicting Palparan for kidnapping and serious illegal detention charges, the DOJ held that he had a direct hand in the detention of Cadapan and Empeño based on the testimony of Raymond Manalo, a farmer.

Manalo and his brother Reynaldo, were also abducted by alleged military officers from their respective houses in San Ildefonso, Bulacan in 2006.

He said they were detained for more than one year in various military camps in Southern Luzon before managing to escape on August 13, 2007.

During their detention, Manalo said he met and managed to talk to the two missing UP students, who were also being detained by Palparan’s men.

Raymond further narrated that she saw Cadapan and Empeño being subjected to torture by their captors.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1048209
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No special treatment for Palparan at Bilibid

September 17, 2018, 2:21 pm
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From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 17): No special treatment for Palparan at Bilibid

There will be no special treatment for retired Maj. Gen. Jovito Palparan who will be detained at the maximum security compound of the New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa City, Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) Director General Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa said Monday.

The BuCor chief said the retired Army official will undergo normal procedures.

“The (first) five days quarantine period, he will undergo medical examination to determine (his) physical state and mental health. Then he will (undergo) briefing on prison rule and regulations," dela Rosa told reporters.

Dela Rosa said once Palparan arrives at the NBP, he will go to Reception Diagnostic Center (RDC) and will stay there for 60 days.

"Then after five days, the remaining 55 days will be used for assessment purposes to assess him on what program will be reformatory or rehabilitation program to undergo while serving his sentence. After 60 days, we will be ready to transfer (him) to his regular dormitory,” dela Rosa told reporters on Monday when sought for comment.

Dela Rosa noted that Palparan will be placed at the maximum security compound because he was sentenced to reclusion perpetua or imprisonment of up to 40 years, which is the highest penalty.

On Monday, the Malolos City Regional Trial Court (RTC) found Palparan and Lt. Col. Felipe Anotado Jr. and S/Sgt. Edgardo Osorio guilty of kidnapping and serious illegal detention in connection with the disappearance of University of the Philippines (UP) students Karen Empeño and Sherlyn Cadapan in 2006.

Malolos RTC Branch 15 Judge Alexander Tamayo sentenced the three to reclusion perpetua or imprisonment of up to 40 years.

They was also ordered by the court to pay the amount of pay PHP300,000 each in civil indemnity and moral damages to the families of the two UP students.

On Aug. 12, 2014, Palparan was arrested in a house in Sta. Mesa, Manila after three years in hiding.

He was arrested by virtue of an arrest warrant issued by the Malolos RTC in 2011 in connection with the kidnapping and serious illegal detention charges filed by the relatives of the two missing UP students.

Prior to the promulgation of the case, Palparan was detained in Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1048262
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AFP respects guilty verdict vs. Palparan, et al

September 17, 2018, 2:23 pm
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From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 17): AFP respects guilty verdict vs. Palparan, et al

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Monday said it respects the court's decision convicting three military personnel of kidnapping and serious illegal detention charges.

"As it has been and always will be, the position of the AFP is submission to the majesty of the courts and respect for the rule of law," AFP spokesperson Col. Edgard Arevalo said.

The AFP issued the statement after the Malolos City Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 15 sentenced retired Major Gen. Jovito Palparan and his co-accused Lt. Col.Felipe Anotado, Jr., and Staff Sgt. Edgardo Osorio guilty of kidnapping and serious illegal detention for the 2006 disapperance of University of the Philippines students Karen Empeno and Sherlyn Cadapan.

All three were also sentenced to reclusion perpetua or imprisonment of up to 40 years.

While the AFP has yet to see or receive a copy of the decision, Arevalo added that the military respects whatever legal action the three will avail of.

"We also respect whatever legal recourse are available to and will be availed by Major Gen. Palparan, Jr. et al. under the law and the Rules of Court," Arevalo said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1048216
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Navy now involved in aid missions for 'Ompong' victims

September 17, 2018, 2:25 pm
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From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 17): Navy now involved in aid missions for 'Ompong' victims

In line with the ongoing government relief efforts for Typhoon Ompong, the Philippine Navy (PN) on Monday announced that its Naval Forces Northern Luzon is now heavily involved in the ongoing humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR) operations.

"Our Naval Forces Northern Luzon is heavily involved in the humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations under the Northern Command," PN spokesperson Commander Jonathan Zata said in a message to the Philippine News Agency.

Also, he said that all the PN's logistics and ships are currently on stand-by for possible relief efforts.

"The Navy's logistics and landing docks ships are currently on standby for additional relief efforts while aircraft and helicopters are already performing tasks under NOLCOM (Northern Luzon Command)," he added.

In a press briefing Monday, National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) spokesperson Edgar Posadas said the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has identified two C-130 cargo planes and C-295 medium transport for HADR missions.

Also, the AFP conducted aerial rapid damage assessment and needs analysis over the affected areas.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1048203
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BRP Tarlac leaves for Russia Friday

September 17, 2018, 2:28 pm
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From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 17): BRP Tarlac leaves for Russia Friday

Strategic sealift vessel BRP Tarlac (LD-601) will leave the country for the Navy's first-ever port visit to Vladivostok, Russia on Friday (September 21).

This was confirmed by Philippine Navy (PN) spokesperson Commander Jonathan Zata in a message to the Philippine News Agency (PNA) Monday.

"The Navy has (scheduled) on Sept. 21 the departure of LD-601 (BRP Tarlac) for Vladivostok, Russia," he added.

Earlier, Zata said the PN is now preparing the ship for its Russian voyage. This refers to the stocking of provisions like fuel, oil, lubricants and other sundries needed for the voyage.

BRP Tarlac will sail alone and the voyage from the Philippines to Vladivostok, Russia will take "eight to 10 days."

He added that BRP Tarlac's port visit will last five days.

The scheduled PN port call is in reciprocation of the visit of Russian warships in Manila last June and those of last year, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana earlier said.

The Tarlac-class SSVs are the largest PN ships in service as of this posting.

These vessels have an overall length of 120 meters, breadth of 21 meters, draft of five meters and can carry a payload of 2,800 tons.

Both have a cruising speed of 13 knots and maximum speed of 16 knots and a minimum operating range of 7,500 nautical miles.

Both SSVs can carry 500 troops, two rigid-hull inflatable boats, two landing craft units and three helicopters.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1048208
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