China: Philippines' accusations made with ulterior motive

January 15, 2016, 8:07 am

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From the Philippine Star (Jan 14): China: Philippines' accusations made with ulterior motive



In this Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2016 file photo released by China's Xinhua News Agency, a China Southern Airlines jetliner lands at the airfield on Fiery Cross Reef, known as Yongshu Reef in Chinese, in the Spratly Islands, known as Nansha Islands in Chinese, of the South China Sea. An official says Philippine and U.S. foreign and defense chiefs will discuss new security concerns arising from China's completion of artificial islands in the disputed South China Sea, on Tuesday, January 12 in Washington. Cha Chunming/Xinhua via AP, File

Beijing on Wednesday claimed that the Philippines' accusation against its test flights on Kagitingan Reef or Fiery Cross Reef in the West Philippine Sea is made with ulterior motives.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hong Lei said in a press conference that the flights conducted by China's aircraft fall completely with its sovereignty.

"The Philippines' accusation is made with ulterior motives and is not worth refuting," Hong said.

Hong stressed that China enjoys freedom of navigation over the disputed South China Sea as other countries do.

"China's inspection and test flights are of professional, technical and civil nature and are conducted for public interests," the Chinese official said.

The Philippines recently protested China's test flights on the Manila-claimed reef, arguing that China's actions elevate tensions and anxiety in the region.

Department of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Charles Jose said that China's "provocative" actions restrict freedom of navigation and overflight in the West Philippine Sea.

Meanwhile, Vietnam accused China of threatening the safety of civilian flights over the disputed sea by failing to inform its aviation authorities of recent test flights to a man-made island claimed by both Beijing and Hanoi.

The notification from the Chinese Embassy "cannot substitute China's notification to the appropriate air traffic services units of Vietnam in order to ensure the safety and regularity of flight operations," the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam said in a statement late Tuesday.

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2016/01/14/1542501/china-philippines-accusations-made-ulterior-motive

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Jakarta Attacks Stoke Fears Islamic State Could Target Philippines

January 15, 2016, 8:25 am

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From the Wall Street Journal (Jan 15): Jakarta Attacks Stoke Fears Islamic State Could Target Philippines

Abu Sayyaf leaders have previously sworn allegiance to Islamic State  

The Islamic State-linked attacks on Indonesia’s capital have stoked fears that the Philippines—home to more than five million Muslims—could be next on the extremist group’s list of targets.

While the extent of Islamic State’s influence in the Philippines is unclear, delays to a landmark peace deal with the country’s main Islamic rebel group could embolden splinter organizations that reject the plan and allow Islamic State to make inroads into disaffected Muslim communities, security experts have warned. Officials said they believed the perpetrators of Thursday's attacks were involved in a local Islamist group and funded by an Indonesian militant with ties to Islamic State. Photo: AFP/Getty

“It’s definitely time to start taking the threat [of Islamic State] more seriously,” said Steven Rood, the Asia Foundation’s representative in the Philippines, pointing out that two foreign nationals—an Indonesian and a Malaysian—had been killed in recent clashes between the Philippine military and Islamic rebels. The presence of foreign fighters in the Philippines hints at transnational links between Southeast Asia’s militant groups, he said.

In 2014, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, the country’s dominant Islamic rebel group, signed a peace agreement with the government of the Philippines—a predominantly Roman Catholic country -- that would establish a new autonomous region on the southern island of Mindanao, which is about 20%-25% Muslim. But smaller groups have boycotted the process. The Islamic Front is based in Mindanao and has little influence in the nearby Sulu archipelago, a string of small islands where extremist groups including Abu Sayyaf have their jungle bases. Islamic State's links to the deadly attacks in the Indonesian capital of Jakarta show the expanding reach of the extremist group in Asia, raising fears of a return of Islamist-inspired violence in the region.

Moreover, the deal has become bogged down in the Philippine Congress, with some lawmakers wary of handing too much power to former Muslim rebels.

Abu Sayyaf leaders have previously sworn allegiance to Islamic State in videos published online, but the Philippine authorities have dismissed these as attempts to increase the group’s notoriety to secure higher ransoms for their frequent kidnappings. Most recently in September Abu Sayyaf snatched two Canadians, a Norwegian and a Filipino from a Mindanao resort, and then prominently displayed the black flag of Islamic State in a video demanding ransom money.

A new video showing Filipino militants from Abu Sayyaf and other lesser-known groups training in front of the Islamic State flag emerged earlier this month.
Philippine military officials have denied that Islamic State has any foothold in the country. They didn’t respond to questions on Friday.

Zachary Abuza, a Southeast Asian security expert at the U.S. National War College, said it is time the Philippines acknowledged the threat posed by Islamic State, while also being careful not to overplay it.“There is clearly some [Islamic State] presence in the south,” he said, warning that the relatively unsophisticated attacks staged in Jakarta are “very much within the capabilities of militants in the Southern Philippines.”

The challenge for the Philippine authorities is to “keep them contained” in their southern base areas and prevent attacks on Manila or other Philippine cities, Mr. Abuza said.

Philippine lawmakers should expedite the stalled peace plan to deny extremists an opportunity to win over the country’s disillusioned young Muslims, Mr. Rood argued.

“The [Islamic Front] have clearly said they’re committed to the path to peace no matter what; and if they’re not achieving anything, it’s harder to keep arguing that you can fight for Islam through peaceful means,” he said.

http://www.wsj.com/articles/jakarta-attacks-stoke-fears-islamic-state-could-target-philippines-1452838043

Jakarta attacks: Who are the Jemaah Islamiyah militants linked to Isis and al-Qaeda in Indonesia?

January 15, 2016, 8:35 am

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From the International Business Times (Jan 14): Jakarta attacks: Who are the Jemaah Islamiyah militants linked to Isis and al-Qaeda in Indonesia?

NPA rebel killed in Bukidnon clash; AFP cites Reds’ dwindling influence

January 15, 2016, 8:46 am

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From the Manila Bulletin (Jan 14): NPA rebel killed in Bukidnon clash; AFP cites Reds’ dwindling influence

A New People’s Army (NPA) rebel was killed while another was captured following a skirmish with government forces in Barangay Kagawasa in Kibawe, Bukidnon, a regional Philippine Army spokesman yesterday said.

Capt. Joe Patrick A. Martinez, spokesman of Northeastern and Northern Mindanao 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division (4th ID), also said elements from the Army’s 1st Special Forces Battalion under Lt. Col. Nasser P. Lidasan, also recovered one M14 rifle, one M16 Armalite rifle, 3 Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), 5 back packs with NPA personal belongings, and subversive documents with high intelligence value.

WANING N.P.A. INFLUENCE – Maj. Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero (left), commander of the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Eastern Mindanao Command and Philippine National Police–11 Regional Director Chief Supt. Wendy Rosario discuss with reporters the declining presence and influence of the New Peoples Army in Mindanao during a press briefing at the Royal Mandaya Hotel in Davao City. (Alexander D. Lopez)

NPA THREATS IN VILLAGES

 

Meantime, a senior military official bared that the number of villages still under threat from the NPA in the Davao region, Caraga and Northern Mindanao has dropped significantly to 273.

 

Speaking before reporters during the regular Armed Forces of the Philippines–Philippine National Police press conference at the Royal Mandaya Hotel in Davao City, Eastern Mindanao Command commander Major General Rey Leonardo Guerrerosaid intensified campaigns of the command from 2014 up to last year had already reduced the influence of the NPAs in villages in the area – from 400 barangays down to 273.

“There were 496 barangays affected by the presence of NPAs during the first quarter of 2015 in our area of jurisdiction, a number lower compared to 514 barangays during the last part of 2014,” Guerrero said.

He added that the diminishing NPA influence in the 273 villages was attributed to the convergence of government agencies and local government units (LGUs) in reaching remote areas and the delivery of basic services to residents.

The efforts, he added is part of the continuing implementation of the peace and development program of the AFP in Northern and Eastern Mindanao.

CONCERNED CITIZENS’ TIP

The Bukidnon gun battle took place after presence of the said NPA group was tipped-off by the concerned civilians who were victimized by the rebel group’s extortion activities, the 4th ID spokesman claimed.

Capt. Martinez, quoting civilians in the area, said NPA group is planning to conduct hostile activities to hamper development in the area.

Upon the receipt of said information, Col. Lidasan immediately dispatched troops to address the said situation, he said.

“Unmindful of the civilians nearby, the NPAs indiscriminately opened fire but the troops managed to maneuver to a vantage position, keeping the civilians away from danger,” Capt. Martinez said.

He said the gunbattle lasted for about 40 minutes before the rebels retreated to a forested and mountainous area.

http://www.mb.com.ph/npa-rebel-killed-in-bukidnon-clash-afp-cites-reds-dwindling-influence/

AFP chief visits Sulu, Zamboanga amid alert following Jakarta attack

January 15, 2016, 6:42 pm

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From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Jan 15): AFP chief visits Sulu, Zamboanga amid alert following Jakarta attack

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Hernando Iriberri visited Sulu and Zamboanga in Mindanao on Friday amid heightened security alert in the wake of Jakarta attacks.

“He has gone there also to reiterate our message to everyone in the AFP that we have gone on heightened alert because of the recent incidents that have occurred in Jakarta. We are in solidarity with our Indonesian brothers regarding these attacks. We’d like to prevent any others from happening in the region,” AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla told reporters at Camp Aguinaldo on Friday.

Iriberri is scheduled to visit Basilan on Saturday.


Iriberri also extended his gratitude to soldiers in these areas “due to their sacrifices especially they have been making this last holiday season,” Padilla said.

The soldiers did not take a holiday break and many stayed because of the stepped up military and law enforcement operations, he explained.

President Benigno Aquino III ordered to intensify their operations against militants after a Malaysian captive of the Abu Sayyaf was beheaded last November in Sulu.
“The mission has not changed. The President’s instruction has not changed. We are committed to finish this mission to its fruitful end until every kidnap victim has been rescued and until every issue on security in the area has been solved,” Padilla said.

As the ISIS attacks get close to the Philippines, with the latest one supposedly in Indonesia, Padilla reiterated that “there is no credible and verified link to any international group.”

No specific security threat has been monitored in the Philippines after the attacks in Indonesia, other than those from Abu Sayyaf and Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters.

“Nothing has been monitored,” Padilla said.

Security forces are also continuing with their military and law enforcement operations but Padilla said “there is no drastic and significant change in our posture.”

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/755803/afp-chief-visits-sulu-zamboanga-amid-alert-following-jakarta-attack

Of General Intel Interest: Malaysian officials nab four suspected IS-linked militants: police

January 16, 2016, 5:22 am

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From ABS-CBN (Jan 16): Malaysian officials nab four suspected IS-linked militants: police

Malaysian authorities have arrested four suspected militants and confiscated a weapon along with Islamic State group (IS) documents, national police chief Khalid Abu Bakar said Saturday.

Security forces have been on high alert in the predominantly-Muslim country in the wake of deadly coordinated attacks in neighbouring Indonesia earlier this week that were claimed by IS. Seven people, including five assailants, were killed during the incident.

"Congratulations E8 CK (anti-terror unit) for arresting one male suspect on Friday at a train station.... Weapon and IS documents were confiscated (from the suspect)," the police chief said on his Twitter account.

The train station is located near the iconic Petronas Towers in the heart of the capital Kuala Lumpur and houses a huge shopping mall frequented by foreigners.

The country's counter-terrorism assistant director Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay later confirmed to AFP that a knife and IS documents were confiscated at the suspect's house.

In a statement, Khalid said the 28-year old Malaysian admitted that he was planning to be a suicide bomber.

"The suspect admitted that he had planned a suicide attack in Malaysia and was awaiting instructions from a member of IS in Syria," he said.

The police chief added that on January 11, three Malaysian IS suspects were arrested by security forces after being deported from Turkey.

"They were first detained in Turkey while attempting to sneak into Syria to join IS fighters," Khalid said.

Earlier this week, local media reported that a 16-year-old boy clad in militant attire held a woman at knife-point at a supermarket in northwestern Malaysia.

"Investigations revealed that he was influenced by the IS movement through social media and wanted to prove that he was capable of such acts by threatening the woman," Khalid said.

The teenager was later arrested and is being held in police custody.

Muslim-majority Malaysia practices a moderate brand of Islam and has not seen any notable terror attacks in recent years.

But concern has risen in the multi-faith nation over growing hardline Islamic views and the country's potential as a militant breeding ground.

Authorities say dozens of Malaysians have traveled to Syria to fight for the radical IS group and warn they may seek to return home and import its ideology.

Since 2015, police have arrested numerous suspects whom they say were IS sympathizers plotting attacks.

Opposition lawmakers, however, say the terror arrests have been shrouded in secrecy, making it difficult to gauge the actual threat level.

http://news.abs-cbn.com/global-filipino/world/01/16/16/malaysian-officials-nab-four-suspected-is-linked-militants-police

Video: PANOORIN: 'Oath-taking' ng ilang miyembro ng Abu Sayyaf sa ISIS

January 16, 2016, 5:30 am

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From ABS-CBN (Jan 15): PANOORIN: 'Oath-taking' ng ilang miyembro ng Abu Sayyaf sa ISIS

Watch the latest episode of TV Patrol also in iWantv or TFC.tv

Kinikilala na ng ISIS si Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon bilang pinuno ng ISIS sa Pilipinas base sa intel report. Dahil dito, nagbabala ang mga eksperto sa posibleng pag-igting ng banta ng terorismo sa bansa. Exclusive, nagpa-Patrol, Maan Macapagal. TV Patrol, Biyernes, Enero 15, 2016

http://news.abs-cbn.com/video/nation/regions/v3/01/15/16/panoorin-oath-taking-ng-ilang-miyembro-ng-abu-sayyaf-sa-isis

PH policies help hinder terrorism, says expert

January 16, 2016, 5:39 am

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From ABS-CBN (Jan 15): PH policies help hinder terrorism, says expert

An expert on terrorism explained how Philippine law enforcement policies have helped prevent large-scale terror attacks in the country, similar to those that happened in Paris, France and more recently in Jakarta, Indonesia.

Speaking to ANC, Professor Rommel Banlaoi of the Philippine Institute For Peace, Violence and Terrorism, said terrorism and extremism in the Philippines are being hindered by laws like the Anti-Money Laundering Law and the existence of the Anti-Money Laundering Council.

"We already have an established institution that aims to counter the financing of terrorism in the Philippines. We have the Anti-Money Laundering Council and the Anti-Money Laundering Law that aims to really counter the financing of terrorism in the Philippines, and that is why the transfer of funds from ISIS is very difficult to reach the Philippines right now. But terrorist groups and ISIS have a new innovative way to transfer their resources...For example, one area that they are trying to use is the remittances of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs)," Banlaoi said.

For Banlaoi, it is more difficult for ISIS to send large resources to the Philippines via remittances.

"ISIS followers in the Philippines, particularly those associated with Abu Sayyaf Group and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters and other self-proclaimed ISIS followers, they have relatives and friends working, Filipino workers overseas, they can just use them to remit those money, and they have done that already but in a small scale. But if the delivery of large-scale amount will be involved, then it would be very difficult to do that through OFWs," he said.

He, however, did not deny the existence of self-proclaimed ISIS followers in the Philippines, adding that there are some groups here who are engaged in training fighters on bomb-making.

"Bomb-training is already happening, there are already ISIS followers who are giving training to the Abu Sayyaf Group. For example, the five Malaysian terror suspects wanted by the Malaysian government, they are already operating in Basilan. They conduct not only Islamic propagation activities, but also bomb-making activities," Banlaoi said.

"There are no intelligence reports, but it doesn't mean that there are no activities happening. There is just no intelligence report. The intelligence is not just monitoring them, the intelligence is not just recognizing them or they are not just identifying them, but it doesn't mean the absence of a threat, absence of activity, or absence of any imminent threat," he also said.

'NO IMMINENT THREAT' 

President Benigno Aquino III on Friday said there is no credible and imminent terror threat in the Philippines.

In an interview, Aquino said that while there were Filipinos who have identified themselves on social media as members of the terror group Islamic State, these people never lived in the country.

"One was in Saudi Arabia and another in Lebanon but they have never lived in the Philippines," he said.

The President said government intelligence agencies are monitoring the possible entry of ISIS militants in the Philippines and coordinating with other intelligence agencies.

OUTSMARTING TERRORISTS 

According to Banlaoi, Philippine law enforcement authorities have been able to deny terrorist groups an opportunity to launch large-scale terror activities.

"As far as I am concerned, I've been observing terrorism activities in the Philippines for the past 15 years. The intent is there, the capabilities of the group are there, they are just waiting for the right opportunities, and I'm very happy that law enforcement authorities have denied them the opportunities to carry out large-scale terrorist activities in the country, similar to the Jakarta bombing and the Paris bombing," he said.

He also explained that terrorists in Indonesia are better trained and are more committed to the cause than those in the Philippines. They were also able to find an opening, making it easier for them to launch the attack in Jakarta.

"They found an opportunity in Jakarta. In this particular case in Jakarta, the terrorist group linked with ISIS just outsmarted the law enforcement authorities. I have been saying this, these terrorist groups are really composed of smart individuals, so the challenge for law enforcement authorities worldwide is to really outsmart them," Banlaoi said.

"There are extremists there (in Indonesia), they are well-trained, they are highly committed, and the level of their commitment to advance the extremist cause of Islam is higher compared to the Muslim followers in the Philippines because the vast majority of Muslim followers in the Philippines remain to be predominantly moderate and secular in outlook, and those few individuals claiming to be followers of ISIS, their level of extremism is still not that extreme compared to the followers in Indonesia and Malaysia," he added.

For Banlaoi, having a stronger foothold in the Philippines is also essential for the propagation of extremism.

"They want the Philippines to be the center of jihadist training because they want to take advantage of the local grievances and they want to really push to strong Islamic propagation to really intensify their commitment to this brand of Islam," he said.

LINKS TO ISIS

Banlaoi also cannot confirm whether Abu Sayyaf Group leader Isnilon Hapilon has been recognized by ISIS.

"Well, that is the intention of ISIS, or ISIL, to have a strong foothold in Southeast Asia, particularly in the context of the growing number of self-proclaimed followers in the region. And the only thing that followers are waiting from ISIS is to recognize their overall leaders in Southeast Asia, and apparently from the recent video that was released last week, Isnilon Hapilon, who is a commander of Abu Sayyaf Group in Basilan, has been reportedly recognized by ISIS as the overall leader of four battalions operating in Mindanao. But whether or not Isnilon Hapilon is a recognized leader in Southeast Asia, that is yet to be confirmed and officially recognized by ISIS itself," Banlaoi said.

"If there will be an official recognition from ISIS that the one proclaimed in Basilan is the ISIS branch in Southeast Asia, then that would imply delivery of resources to sustain that ISIS branch. And I hope that kind of scenario will be prevented by our law enforcement authorities from happening," he also said.

Following the attack on the Indonesian capital, experts agree that there is a growing threat from radicalized Muslims inspired by Islamic State, some of whom may have fought with the group in Syria.

However, they said the low death toll in Jakarta on Thursday pointed to the involvement of poorly trained local militants whose weapons were crude.

Seven people were killed in the three-hour siege near a busy shopping despite multiple blasts and a gunfight, and five of them were the attackers themselves.

http://news.abs-cbn.com/nation/regions/01/15/16/ph-policies-help-hinder-terrorism-says-expert

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China nearly completes 2 more runways in S. China Sea: U.S. think tank

January 16, 2016, 5:44 am

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From ABS-CBN (Jan 16): China nearly completes 2 more runways in S. China Sea: U.S. think tank

China has nearly completed two more runways on artificial islands in a disputed area in the South China Sea, a U.S. think tank said Friday, adding that Beijing appears to be speeding up construction work to claim sovereignty in the area.

The Center for Strategic and International Studies, a major think tank in Washington, revealed the finding after China conducted a first series of test flights earlier this month on a runway it already built in the Spratly Islands.

The United States believes China has built or is building airstrips on artificial islands on at least three reefs through massive reclamation in the Spratlys, where China is involved in territorial disputes with other claimants such as the Philippines and Vietnam.

According to the CSIS, in addition to an airstrip on Fiery Cross Reef, where China did the test flights, China has almost finished the construction of an airstrip with a 2,644-meter runway on Mischief Reef and another with a 3,250-meter runway on Subi Reef.

The airstrip on Fiery Cross Reef took at least seven months to construct, but "at Mischief, where grading began in September or October, construction is already approaching completion just three to four months later," the think tank said.

The Philippines says Mischief Reef lies within its exclusive economic zone.

China has also constructed various facilities on Subi Reef, including a seawall, docks and a tower reaching some 30 meters high, the CSIS said.

The United States has said that under a U.N. convention, no territorial claim can be recognized to artificial islands built on submerged reefs, and has urged China to refrain from any acts that could raise tension in the area.

All three reefs were submerged before China began reclamation.

http://news.abs-cbn.com/nation/01/16/16/china-nearly-completes-2-more-runways-in-s-china-sea-us-think-tank

Noy bribed by Washington on EDCA—LFS

January 16, 2016, 5:53 am

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From the Daily Tribune (Jan 16): Noy bribed by Washington on EDCA—LFS

President Aquino could have been allegedly “bribed” by Washington over his lobbying of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) which was recently ruled as constitutional by the Supreme Court despite criticisms and the lack of ratification from the Senate as required by no less than the Constitution, which alleged bribe was worth $300 million, militant groups charged yesterday.

Youth group League of Filipino Students (LFS) said that its suspicion stems from a New York Times (NYT) report published on Sep. 20, 2015 that noted Aquino’s solicitation of $300 million from the USgovernment to finance defense efforts against potential threats from China. 

It was during that period last year when tensions over contested territories against Beijing and Manilawere high.

“In private talks, the government of President Aquino had pressed the United States for up to $300 million in aid this year, arguing that it needs a substantial buildup of planes and ships to deter Chinese expansionism, according to a senior Philippine official who spoke on condition of anonymity because United States officials have asked to keep the talks confidential,” the NYT news story said.

The same report also said that US President Barack Obama refused the said offer because of fears of corruption in the Republic, and that the Philippines too, is the biggest aid recipient of the US in Southeast Asia.

Indonesia and other South East Asian countries get more by way of US aid and military aid.

In a phone interview, Charisse Bañez, LFS chairman, told The Tribune it is very likely that Aquino’s lobbying paid off, which is a “form of pawning national sovereignty to the hands of Uncle Sam”.

Bañez dared Aquino to talk about the allegation and “not just let it pass as if it’s another joke that he can’t stand” since “it wasn’t seemingly considered a serious story”.

“Have you been bribed, Mr. President? We don’t think that this is a mere joke since you now appear as the American government’s most diligent ally and puppet of the US here in the (Southeast Asian) region,” Bañez said as a response to The Tribune’s query on what her group has to say to such accusation.

She also debunked EDCA apologists’ claim that the said treaty will be helpful to the Philippines if ever the tension against China heightens further by saying that the US government will ultimately benefit the most in the EDCA despite Philippine state security heads’ belief that it will help in the modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

“Contextually, the EDCA is very disadvantageous to the Philippinesbecause it opens wide the gates to US bases which was collectively rejected by the people in 1991.

 

Why? Are we preparing for war against China? Our legal battle before the UN tribunal and the efficient support of the international community will help us win a winnable fight. The subliminal option lobbied by the Aquino government and perhaps by Obama is one that will surely put the Philippinesinto a definite defeat. Either way, it will be the USand Chinathat are going to win. WE are merely pawns and the EDCA allows it,” Bañez said.

“Modernization from the help of Americans? What a joke! The help they are providing are second hand recycled pieces that could be sold to junk shops. If that’s the standard of Noynoy and the AFP, well, they’re obviously swallowing blatant insults on our nation’s dignity,” she added.

The LFS leader also quipped that if USassistance is helpful, why has the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) not been effective in stopping Chinese incursions and construction of man-made islands - which turns out to be naval bases - in the disputed portions of the South China Sea (West Philippine Sea).

The EDCA allows US troops into the Philippines for extended stays and allows them to build and operate facilities on Philippine bases, for both American and Philippine fores. It is also a supplemental agreement to the previous VFA.

The agreement also allows US forces and contractors to operate out of “agreed locations,” which are defined as: “facilities and areas that are provided by the Government of the Philippines through the AFP and that United States forces, United States contractors, and others as mutually agreed”.

These identified locations which include Clark, Subic, FortMagsaysay and facilities in Palawan, will be the site of new USbases. These facilities are not ordinary civilian structures. Control over these bases will remain with the US, it was pointed out.

Meanwhile, Anakpawis Party list Rep. Fernando Hicap warned that with the EDCA’s identified locations, it is paving the way for a return of the US military bases.

“Clearly the Aquino and the USgovernment wasted no time to exploit the SC decision in favor of EDCA on their plan for creating de facto American military bases in PH soil. The so called agreed locations not only serve as a rotational venue for US servicemen but it will also be used as warehouse of their destructive weapon stockpile,” Hicap said.

Hicap also said that just like the US Embassy, the said selected military locations will be exclusively under US military control even it will be built inside major AFP camp adding that AFP officials even high ranking government officials cannot easily access to inspect these facilities without the US government’s permission.

“We are deeply wary that vessels such as carriers and subs may contain nuclear weapons which under the constitution clearly prohibited,” he added.

The EDCA is effective for an initial period of ten years, and thereafter, it shall continue in force automatically unless terminated by either Party by giving one year’s written notice through diplomatic channels of its intention to terminate the agreement (Article XII, Sec. 4 of EDCA).

Noy: EDCA a “practical” tool to improve AFP

President Aquino yesterday shielded the EDCA and played up the pact as a “very practical” way of improving the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) rather than engage in a mind game to threaten anyone in keeping ties with the United States.

Aquino, in a press conference at the Manila Hotel, echoed the Palace statement on the measure, describing it as an “enhancement” of the Philippines and United States’ defense capabilities.

“The basic logic behind EDCA is interoperability, and anybody who is reasonable will see that this agreement is an enhancement of both our countries’ abilities, rather than a threat to anyone else,” he said.

“All the modern hardware carries a significant price tag; yet with EDCA, we have a chance to try the cutting-edge equipment and see just how suitable they are to our needs, without having to buy them first,” Aquino added.

He added that while the AFP can learn from an advanced military force, the US “gets to learn how to make do with fewer resources, which in a conflict situation is always a high probability if not an intense possibility.”

The President’s statements came after militants rained tirades on the administration’s perpetration of ties with the United States which was more described as Aquino being a puppet of the Federal government.

Groups have scored Aquino over his soft stance with Americans and have lamented the Supreme Court’s (SC) recent decision attesting to the validity of EDCA as an executive agreement than a treaty which its critics suggest.

While Aquino was focused on justifying the EDCA, the Philippines irked China anew after the High Tribunal’s decision on the agreement, which the Chinese state claimed would only “escalate tensions and undermine peace and stability in the (Asia-Pacific) region.”

“It seems very peculiar that the Philippines, which stopped hosting two of the largest overseas US military bases in the early 1990s, invited the US troops home again, despite strong domestic criticism, at a time when the situation in the South China Sea has stabilized,” a commentary on the official Xinhua News Agency site said Wednesday afternoon.

“It is easy to deduce that Manila, which has long been involved in a dispute with Beijing over claims on some South China Sea islands, appears to be now turning to Uncle Sam to back its ambition to counter China,” it added.

The EDCA seeks to increase military presence in the Philippines through allowing entry of American forces at a rotational basis. It also sought to allow the Federal forces to make use of Philippine military bases, which some claimed would spell the return of US bases in the country.

In 1992, the Senate voted to eject foreign military bases in the country, as it poses danger of being targets of the enemies made by the United States.

http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/noy-bribed-by-washington-on-edca-lsf

AFP vows to disrupt emerging ISIS stronghold

January 16, 2016, 6:19 am

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From the Philippine Star (Jan 16): AFP vows to disrupt emerging ISIS stronghold



Armed Forces Chief of Staff General Hernando Iriberri maintained they have not found direct evidence that some militant groups are members of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria. Philstar.com/File photo 

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines --Armed Forces Chief of Staff General Hernando Iriberri said the government forces will disrupt any emerging militant groups establishing a local base for the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS).

Iriberri, who was here since Friday to assess the military operations against the Abu Sayyaf group, reacted to the report that several terrorist groups are allegedly training to build the ISIS caliphate in southern Philippines.

He said that even before the video footage showing fighters in training while hoisting the black flag came out, the AFP has already initiated operations that led to the neutralization of terror leaders and members.

“We have been always tried our best to neutralize the group,” he said.

The AFP, upon the discovery of Ansar Al-Khalifa (AKP), a notorious armed band linked to the Abu Sayyaf and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, carefully planned the attack against the group, said Iriberri. Marines in Sultan Kudarat neutralized eight of its members last year.

Iriberri also mentioned about the operations conducted against the faction of Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon and Malaysian bomb expert Mohammad Najib Hussein alias “Abu Anas” in Al-Barka town, Basilan.

Anas, together with 25 Abu Sayyaf bandits were killed, after a week-long offensive which began on Dec. 12, 2015. Troops were successful in disrupting the training and seizing the rebel training camp at Sitio Bohe Buug.

But troopers suffered three soldiers dead and 26 others wounded as a result of the offensive operations.

“Our armed forces are trying their best. Every time we have the information, we validate it and we take action just to make sure we will prevent whatever terror acts they are planning to do,” Iriberi said.

The AFP chief also appealed to the public to take extra vigilance and help the security forces to prevent terror acts.

Despite the operations, Iriberri maintained that the AFP has not yet gathered direct evidence that would prove the two militant groups are members of the ISIS.

“We have not established a direct link between them and the ISIS. Why? Because we have not receive any report yet whether they are already taking orders from the ISIS,” he said.

AKP in Central Mindanao and Basilan’s Dalw’tul Islamiyah W’liyahtul Masik have only declared support to the ISIS. Neither financial nor logistical support coming from ISIS had been confirmed.

Iribeeri also said that the organizational support of the ISIS is purely Sunni.

“Ito bang conglomeration of groups are they really acceptable of ISIS na pure Sunni? Has that been established? Remember ISIS was formed of the interest to establish caliphate based on Sunni faith. That is one we have not established,” Iriberri said, dismissing the report about the emergence of the ISIS in the country.

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2016/01/16/1543223/afp-vows-disrupt-emerging-isis-stronghold

Noy: No terror threat in Phl amid Jakarta attack

January 16, 2016, 6:24 am

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From the Philippine Star (Jan 16): Noy: No terror threat in Phl amid Jakarta attack

There is no credible or imminent terror threat to the Philippines, but security forces are on alert following attacks in Jakarta, President Aquino said yesterday, warning of a “general threat.”

“Is there a credible threat? Is there a specific threat? There is none. Is there general threat? Yes. We are not immune to the problem of extremism that is happening,” Aquino told reporters after the signing of contracts for a bulk water project here.

Aquino also said the government is concerned about the possibility of Islamic State jihadists recruiting Filipinos in the Middle East.

He said Philippine intelligence authorities would ask their Middle East counterparts to monitor possible radicalization within the Filipino community in the region, which numbers up to two million.

There are reports that half-Filipinos and extremist groups had pledged allegiance to the IS that recently attacked France and other countries.

“We need to be prudent. We will coordinate with (Middle Eastern) intelligence agencies to monitor these communities to see if they have been influenced by ISIS,” Aquino said, using another acronym for the extremist group.

“We can’t be like an ostrich, which burrows its head in the ground to avoid seeing the problem,” he said.

In particular, Aquino said a Filipino-Lebanese and a Filipino-Saudi Arabian, both of whom were living abroad and never resided in the Philippines, had reportedly been recruited by the IS.

“Now, having said that, we have a big population in the Middle East – one to two million. Supposedly there are many who have been radicalized through the Internet. Of course, we will be prudent and we will endeavor to coordinate with the intelligence agencies and our intelligence agents themselves are guarding our communities to see if the ISIS is having influence,” Aquino said.

This month, the Abu Sayyaf released a video pledging allegiance to IS.

Aquino, however, belittled the bandit group’s claim and said they were riding on IS’s notoriety. The group had previously been associated with IS rival al-Qaeda, he noted.

Aquino said the Abu Sayyaf was known to link with known and popular terrorist groups like al-Qaeda and the Jemaah Islamiyah.

“Tomorrow, when there is another group, they will change their (allegiance) again,” Aquino said.

A series of explosions hit Jakarta on Thursday, killing and injuring people. The IS reportedly owned up to the suicide attack.

Following the bombing attack in Indonesia, the Philippines went on heightened alert.
“There is nothing to lose if we continue to be on guard,” the President said, noting attacks could be indiscriminate, given the nature of terrorists today.

Aquino said local security forces, aside from being on heightened alert following attacks in other places, had long conducted hardening of sites to thwart terrorist attacks.

Aquino said he met with Armed Forces chief Gen. Hernando Iriberri, Philippine National Police chief Director General Ricardo Marquez, National Security Adviser Cesar Garcia and other officials on Thursday to assess the security situation.

The Philippine Coast Guard went on high alert while the Bureau of Immigration is coordinating with other agencies to implement appropriate security measures.

Aquino called on the people to remain vigilant and help authorities ensure security.
“Are there suspicious (individuals) going around (in your areas)? Are there packages left unattended?” the President asked.

“But all law enforcement agencies, the (intelligence community), they are all focused on this problem and we are working hard to thwart any potential problem. From the areas where they could radicalize to fixing the livelihood of our brothers who might be radicalized… so they would not be attracted to those ideologies and philosophy,” Aquino said.

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2016/01/16/1543066/noy-no-terror-threat-phl-amid-jakarta-attack

EDCA to enhance Phl defense, security capabilities – Noy

January 16, 2016, 6:30 am

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From the Philippine Star (Jan 16): EDCA to enhance Phl defense, security capabilities – Noy

The Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement  (EDCA) between the Philippines and the United States could enhance the interoperability between the two countries in terms of defense and other activities, President Aquino said yesterday.

“Anybody who is reasonable will see that this agreement is an enhancement of both our countries’ abilities, rather than a threat to anyone else,” he said.

The Supreme Court upheld the accord early this week, saying it was constitutional and need not be ratified by the Senate, being an executive agreement.

Speaking at the East-West Center Association International Conference at the Manila Hotel, Aquino cited EDCA as an example of complementary relationship to address needs and improve capacities.

“As we are all aware, the Philippines has a long standing Mutual Defense Treaty with the US. We have the Visiting Forces Agreement as an adjunct of that. Under the Mutual Defense Treaty, we are obliged to come to the defense of one another and assist each other in times of need,” the President said.

“My question is – how do we do that if we are not familiar with each other’s resources, equipment, doctrines and limitations?

“To my mind, EDCA has a very practical purpose for developing our own armed forces: all the modern hardware carries a significant price tag, yet with EDCA, we have a chance to try the cutting-edge equipment and see just how suitable they are to our needs, without having to buy them first,” Aquino said.

“If the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) would get to train with the US, a far more advanced force, they could learn from them the strengths and shortcomings in using such equipment and they could even redefine and understand such under their own parameters.”

He said the US, on the other hand, gets to learn how to make do with fewer resources, which in a conflict situation is a high probability.

‘Freeport not military base’

On the other hand, the head of the Bases Conversion Development Authority (BCDA) clarified that the freeport cannot be classified as a military base despite its hosting units of the Philippine Air Force, which occupies 300 hectares of land in the area.

The AFP has offered the US military use of eight Philippine bases, including Clark and Subic, a former US Navy base, under the EDCA.

In a forum at Clark, BCDA president and chief executive officer Arnel Paciano Casanova said under the law, Clark can no longer be classified as a military reservation but a freeport.

“The PAF area in Clark is part of the freeport. The stay of the PAF at Clark is temporary and is renewable every five years,” he said.

Casanova said he favors the use of Clark by the US military under EDCA, citing the “need for a balance of power for national security.”

He admitted, however, that the BCDA has yet to be consulted by the Department of National Defense or the AFP on the possible US military use of Clark or whether US military activities would be limited to the 300-hectare area occupied by the PAF.

Casanova said he sees nothing wrong with the US military putting up structures, such as warehouses at Clark.

He also assured Central Luzon folk that the operation of the US military would not disrupt civilian passenger activities at the Clark International Airport, stressing that civilian aircraft would be given priority in the use of either of the two 3.2-kilometer runways, except during times of emergency.

After the SC ruling on EDCA, Armed Forces spokesman Col. Restituto Padilla said the government offered eight bases in the Philippines for US military use.Padilla said, however, the offer still has to be finalized.

Meanwhile, Kalayaan town, a fifth-class municipality on Pag-asa Island in the Spratlys archipelago, stands to benefit from the SC ruling enforcing the EDCA.

Kalayaan town Mayor Eugenio Bito-ono Jr. said while he is not privy to the details of EDCA, he believes it would boost security on the island.

“I believe it will help, specially in surveillance capabilities and training,” Bito-onon said, referring to China’s  aggression in the South China Sea.

Bito-onon said EDCA would bolster interoperability capabilities between Filipino and US troops and in the process make China think twice before making a military move against the country.

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2016/01/16/1543090/edca-enhance-phl-defense-security-capabilities-noy

Navy’s Indonesian-made ship launched tomorrow

January 16, 2016, 6:33 am

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From the Philippine Star (Jan 16): Navy’s Indonesian-made ship launched tomorrow

One of two Indonesian-made strategic sealift vessels acquired by the Philippines to boost the Navy’s capabilities will be launched tomorrow.

Launching is a Navy term that refers to the removal of a ship from dry dock to allow it to float at sea for the next stage of tests. A ship is launched to ensure that it is working properly before delivery to its buyer.

“We got word from the Navy that one of the two strategic sealift vessels we ordered from Indonesia, from the PT PAL shipyard, will be launched this Jan. 17. Our key officials will be in attendance,” Armed Forces spokesman Col. Restituto Padilla said in a press briefing yesterday.

“The acquisition of the strategic sealift vessels is a very important milestone for our Navy. It will increase our capacity for humanitarian assistance and disaster response during critical moments when we are hit by storms,” he added.

In 2014, The STAR reported that shipbuilder PT PAL Indonesia won the bidding for the purchase of two brand new strategic sealift vessels for the Philippine Navy. The notice of award for the P4-billion project was issued to the company in December 2014.

PT PAL offered to build the vessels for $86,980,000 or about P3.864 billion, well within the budget ceiling of P4 billion.

The first strategic sealift vessel will be delivered in May while the second ship is scheduled to arrive next year.

The strategic sealift vessels could be used to perform civil-military operations and can transport a large number of soldiers, logistics equipment and supplies.

They can also accommodate three helicopters and can support disaster relief operations.

Padilla said the ship could also be deployed as a command and control center that can coordinate rescue, recovery and retrieval efforts.

“This ship can also be used as floating hospital in case our health center and hospitals in provinces that were affected by disasters become unavailable,” he said.

Padilla said the vessel could also be used as a supply ship in the West Philippine Sea and other Philippine territories.

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2016/01/16/1543108/navys-indonesian-made-ship-launched-tomorrow

Noy orders no let-up in hunt for Abu Sayyaf

January 16, 2016, 6:38 am

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From the Philippine Star (Jan 16): Noy orders no let-up in hunt for Abu Sayyaf

President Aquino ordered troops to hunt down the Abu Sayyaf without let-up and secure all remaining hostages, a ranking military official said here yesterday.

Lt. Gen. Mayoralgo de la Cruz, commander of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), said the President issued the marching orders to the troops in Basilan and Sulu.

“The order of the President, our commander-in-chief, we will pursue the operations here without let-up,” De la Cruz said.

“It is important that once and for all we complete this (operation) so that our fellowmen will feel that they are safe and secured here,” De la Cruz added.

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Hernando Irriberi flew to Mindanao yesterday to oversee the presidential order against the Abu Sayyaf in Basilan and Sulu.

“He went there to reiterate the message of the President against the Abu Sayyaf and all lawless groups,” AFP spokesman Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said.

The presidential order came amid reports that one of two captive Canadians taken hostage by the Abu Sayyaf had fallen ill.

The military said it was verifying reports that John Ridsdel got sick and was seen being dragged by Abu Sayyaf bandits while evading pursuing government troops.

Ridsdel, 68, and fellow Canadian Robert Hall, Norwegian Kjartan Sekkingstad and Filipina Marites Flor were abducted last Sept. 21 in Samal Island off Davao province and are believed to be held captive in Sulu.

However, De la Cruz said they have no report to confirm the condition of the hostages. He said they have no concrete evidence on whether the victims were indeed brought in their area of operation.

Westmincom covers Central and Western Mindanao, including Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi.

“If they are here we have been operating and our soldiers are not taking breaks. And they would rather conduct the operation just in case we can rescue not just the Canadians but all the victims still held by the Abu Sayyaf,” De la Cruz added.

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2016/01/16/1543107/noy-orders-no-let-hunt-abu-sayyaf

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Vice Governor Tan confirms Misuari is in Sulu

January 16, 2016, 6:52 am

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From the Manila Bulletin (Jan 15): Vice Governor Tan confirms Misuari is in Sulu

Nur Misuari (MB File Photo/ Linus Guardian Escandor II)

 

Sulu Vice Governor Abdusakur Tan confirmed on January 15, 2016, that the  former chair of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) Nurulaji “Nur” Misuari is in Sulu and is just hiding in one of the  towns in the province to avoid being arrested by the police.

Tan said “Misuari is in Sulu” and his presence in the province is of public knowledge.

Misuari is just hiding Sulu from pursuing authorities to avoid being arrested for his string of criminal cases, among them was the siege in Zamboanga City in September 2013, Tan said.

Tan also said that the recent gatherings of former MNLF forces in Indanan, Sulu have not disturbed the peace of the town.

 

When asked why the police failed to arrest Misuari during the gathering, Tan simply replied “the people of Sulu loves him and is protecting him from harm.” He did not elaborate further.

 

http://www.mb.com.ph/vice-governor-tan-confirms-misuari-is-in-sulu/

Insurgency primary concern in 2016 polls in Surigao del Sur

January 16, 2016, 7:07 am

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From the Manila Bulletin (Jan 15): Insurgency primary concern in 2016 polls in Surigao del Sur

Tandag City – Communist insurgency in Surigao del Sur remains a primary concern for the government in its efforts to ensure honest, peaceful, and orderly national and local elections on May 9, 2016.

Declassified intelligence reports stated that highland communities of the five municipalities bordering the Andap Valley Complex are currently the focus by field units of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Philippine National Police (PNP) due to the presence of New People’s Army (NPA), armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).

These highland communities belong to the municipalities of Lianga, Marihatag, Cagwait, Tago, and San Miguel.

The CPP has five NPA front committees, out of six front committees operating in highland communities in Surigao del Sur and the border of Agusan del Sur, the intelligence reports noted.

 

However, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) assured that the AFP and PNP have been continuously coordinating with the election agency, and conducting command conferences so that all the 367,488 registered voters all over the province will be able to vote without any untoward incident in the upcoming elections.

Ernie F. Palanan, Surigao del Sur Comelec director, said he was optimistic that the insurgency situation could still be properly addressed with the deployment of four Army maneuvering battalions of the AFP and special forces of the PNP.

http://www.mb.com.ph/insurgency-primary-concern-in-2016-polls-in-surigao-del-sur/

EDITORIAL: IS reaches Southeast Asia

January 16, 2016, 7:11 am

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From the Philippine Star (Jan 16): EDITORIAL - IS reaches Southeast Asia



The Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the bombings in the Indonesian capital Jakarta the other day that left seven people dead. This brings to 15 the number of countries where IS has launched deadly attacks.

As with other horrific terrorist attacks, the bombers hit a soft target: a Starbucks outlet in Jakarta’s busy commercial district. It is the first major attack in Southeast Asia claimed by IS and should raise alerts across the region, particularly in the Philippines where foreign terrorists have long enjoyed safe haven.

Philippine security officials have said there is so far no IS-related threat detected, but a high state of vigilance must be maintained. Indonesian militants belonging to Jemaah Islamiyah or JI, the regional terror cell with loose links to al-Qaeda, have struck in Mindanao and Metro Manila.

Indonesian JI bomber Fathur Rahman al-Ghozi, harbored by the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, was arrested and convicted for the deadly attacks on a Light Rail Transit coach and several other sites in Manila and Makati on Dec. 30, 2000 that left 22 people dead. JI and the Abu Sayyaf were tagged in the 2004 bombing of the SuperFerry 14 near the mouth of Manila Bay that killed at least 116 people.

Indonesia is no stranger to Islamist terrorism. The country has battled JI militants, who were tagged in the bombings in Bali in 2002 and 2005 that killed a total of 222 people, and the 2009 attack on the JW Marriott Hotel in Jakarta in which two suicide bombers killed seven people.

Nearly a year ago today, Philippine police Special Action Force commandos killed Malaysian JI terrorist Zulkifli bin Hir, alias Marwan, in Mamasapano, Maguindano.
Combined forces of the MILF and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters killed 44 of the SAF and prevented the commandos from taking the body of Marwan, who was wanted for the 2002 Bali bombing.

The killers of the SAF are still scot-free, and there’s the possibility that more terrorists are being harbored in this country. There is also a strong possibility that with IS gaining a foothold in Indonesia, it won’t be long before the group makes its presence felt in the Philippines. No country in the region can let down its guard.

http://www.philstar.com/opinion/2016/01/16/1542975/editorial-reaches-southeast-asia

Militants in Mindanao 'pose threat to region'

January 16, 2016, 7:16 am

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From the Straits Times (Jan 16): Militants in Mindanao 'pose threat to region'



Philippine marines conducting an operation near the site where weapons and ISIS flags were recovered in Palimbang town, Mindanao, on Nov 28, 2015. PHOTO: AFP

The latest terrorist attack in Indonesia's capital Jakarta signals an evolving threat to the region coming from deep in the jungles of the southern Philippine island of Mindanao.

While the Philippine military remains adamant that Islamist militants in Mindanao are nothing more than bandits, most analysts warn that the threat is real. Some have predicted an attack in the region similar in scale to recent lone wolf attacks in Paris and San Bernardino, as the militants appear to move closer to declaring a South-east Asia "wilayat", or province, of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS).

Reiterating the military's assessment following the ISIS attack in Jakarta, President Benigno Aquino said yesterday: "Is there a credible threat? Is there a specific threat? There is none."
But he acknowledged there is a "general threat", as he disclosed that the Philippines has been coordinating with intelligence agencies in the Middle East to monitor Filipinos there who ISIS is reportedly trying to recruit.

General Lloyd Austin, head of the US military's Central Command overseeing Middle East operations, has warned that ISIS has lately been keen on planting roots in the Philippines and elsewhere, as it comes under increased pressure in Iraq and Syria.

Security expert Richard Javad Heydarian said ISIS is providing a "new impetus" for "relatively marginal" extremists in the Philippines to "rebrand and reorganise themselves", so the government should "ramp up cooperation with moderate elements in major Islamist and Moro groups".

 

A stalled peace process to end a Muslim insurgency in Mindanao is fuelling support for extremists among Muslims in Mindanao, he said. In March 2014, the Philippines and the 12,000-strong Moro Islamic Liberation Front signed a peace pact to end 40 years of war in Mindanao. But the proposed Bill implementing the agreement is unlikely to become law before President Aquino steps down in June.

For defence analyst Jose Antonio Custodio, local militants are keen on securing recognition from ISIS only because of the money and the logistical support it brings. "Ask (the Abu Sayyaf bandits) about the Sunni-Shi'ite split and they will probably just stare at you, and may even shoot you," he said.

http://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/militants-in-mindanao-pose-threat-to-region

Opinion: A tale of negotiations gone wrong

January 16, 2016, 7:31 am

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From the One Man's Meat column by Philip Golingai in The Star Online (Jan 16): A tale of negotiations gone wrong



Local experts claim that Bernard Then (pic) was cruelly beheaded not only because the ultimatum was not met, there was also friction between the groups involved in the kidnapping.

COINCIDENTALLY, when the body of beheaded Malaysian hostage Bernard Then was flown from Zamboanga City to Manila on Thursday night, I was flying from the city, where his cadaver was kept, to the Philippine capital.

The body was on its way to be reunited with the Then family who flew to Manila to collect, cremate and bring the ashes back to Malaysia today.

My colleague P. K. Katharason, who was with me in southern Philippines, remarked that sometimes life was a coincidence.

From day one on May 15 last year, we had covered the kidnapping of the 39-year-old Sarawakian and restaurant manager Thien Nyuk Fun, a 50-year-old Sabahan, at Ocean King Seafood Restaurant in Sandakan, Sabah. And this week, we were with him on his way to be with his family.

Hopefully, receiving and cremating his remains will bring closure to the Then family whose son/sibling was horrifyingly beheaded by his Abu Sayyaf captors in Jolo island on Nov 17 last year.

But it will not bring closure for me.

I was in Zamboanga City, about a three-hour ferry ride from Jolo island, as I wanted to find out why the Abu Sayyaf gunmen senselessly murdered a Malaysian who was worth at least RM3mil in ransom.

It is still a big mystery why Bernard was beheaded nine days after Thien was released for about 30mil pesos (about RM2.7mil at the exchange rate at that time).

I’ve spoken to several Philippine military and police intelligence officers, Jolo kidnappings experts and informants on why Bernard was beheaded. I have also partially watched the video of the gruesome decapitation of Bernard. (This is not the South American or Mexican drug cartel beheading video, allegedly that of Bernard, which had gone viral soon after his death.)

Last year in this column, I wrote about why Bernard was killed.

“Most likely – and this is corroborated by intelligence and security expert sources who told me slightly different but similar information – Then was murdered because of failure to meet the ultimatum given by the Abu Sayyaf to the negotiators on the day Thien was released,” I wrote.

“The captors gave the negotiators nine days to give them ransom money which they believed was brought to Jolo but pocketed by Filipino politicians acting as middlemen in the negotiations.”

(Update: negotiators too pocketed some of the ransom money.)

Another reason Bernard was beheaded has emerged. The stories that I’ve been told are roughly the same. It is just that who took the money that caused the friction and which faction cut Bernard’s head were different.

I can’t name my sources as some of them live or operate in Jolo and could be killed by the Abu Sayyaf if their identities are revealed.

Here’s the first version.

“The original ransom demand was 30 million pesos for both. This was agreed by Idang Susukan (who partially financed the Sanda­kan kidnapping as he lent the kidnappers his Volvo-engine-powered fast craft),” said the source who keeps tab on cross-border kidnap groups in Jolo.

“However, it was the Al Habsi group which were holding the two hostages. And Al Habsi wanted 80mil pesos for the two.”

(Idang, according to the source, had entrusted Al Habsi to guard the hostages in Indanan about 10km or five hours’ trek from where he was based in Talipao, as he was fighting with the military forces and did not want the Malaysians to be harmed in the gunfight. “They played hide and seek with the military hunting for the hostages,” he said.)

On Nov 8 last year, when the Malaysian and Philippine negotiators exchanged about 30mil pesos for Bernard and Thien, only the Sabahan was released. Al Habsi had decided to keep Bernard as he wanted 50mil pesos for his release.

This caused friction between Idang and Al Habsi. “They almost shot each other. However, a core Abu Sayyaf gunman stopped them,” said the source.

Nine days later, Al Habsi executed Bernard because his demand for 50mil pesos was not met.

“My group had managed to talk to Al Habsi to reduce his ransom demand to 15mil pesos. He had agreed to that amount. However, the Malaysian officials I spoke to could not commit to that amount,” said the source.

“The Malaysian and Philippine negotiators were still trying to talk to Idang, who was not holding Bernard. And it was Al Habsi who had issued the beheading ultimatum.”
Here’s the second version.

“Idang and Al Habsi had a fight as Al Habsi betrayed him. Al Habsi took the 30mil pesos in ransom money and did not give any to Idang,” said a source who has Abu Sayyaf informants in Jolo island.

“Al Habsi is a drug addict. He was not in the right state of mind when he took the money.

“Al Habsi is now on the run as Idang wants him dead. He has been hiding with his 20 gunmen somewhere in Jolo, Tawi Tawi and Palawan.”

In early January, according to the source who keeps in constant contact with Abu Sayyaf gunmen, Idang started a rumour that he was killed in a military operation in Jolo island.

“He did it as he wanted Al Habsi to come out of hiding so that he can kill him,” said the source. “I spoke to Idang’s wife and she said, ‘We want Al Habsi to come out from hiding so that we can talk to him’.”

On Nov 8 last year, said the source, Idang issued an ultimatum that if the 30mil pesos was not given to him, he would behead Bernard.

“When no money was paid, Idang cut off Bernard’s head as he already had given the ultimatum,” he said.

“Who beheaded Bernard?” I asked.

“If you watch the video, look at the hand that cut the head. There’s a distinctive tattoo on the wrist. I know that the tattoo belongs to Idang, whom I know personally,” he said.

Today Bernard’s ashes return to Malaysia. From the video, he died a gruesome death. May he rest in peace.

http://www.thestar.com.my/opinion/columnists/one-mans-meat/2016/01/16/a-tale-of-negotiations-gone-wrong-local-experts-claim-that-bernard-then-was-cruelly-beheaded-not-onl/