Key Philippine Military and Insurgency-Related Events

From MindaNews (Feb 5): Task force formed to address attacks on transmission towers

Government has formed the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Security of Energy Facilities to address the series of attacks on transmission towers of the National Grid Corporation of the Philippinesand right-of-way claims in Mindanao.

In a press conference on Thursday, Energy secretary Zenaida Y. Monsada said Mindanao’s power problem is now more of transmission than supply due to attacks on NGCP towers.

She said the attacks and ROW issues are now becoming a national interest because it affects the growth of the country in general.

“Mindanao is a major part of the country. It pulls up the growth of the Philippines, so there should be power to fuel the development,” she said.

The secretary said the task force brings more focus to how government should respond [to the attacks] with the May 9 elections and the continuing El Nino phenomenon.

“There is nothing new in what we do. What this task force does is coordination, more synergy to our efforts,” she said,

Members of the task force included DOE, National Transmission Corp., NGCP, Mindanao Development Authority, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police, Department of Interior and Local Government, National Power Corporation, Department of Justice, and Land Registration Authority.

Monsada said different task groups will focus on the transmission lines of the Agus-Pulangui hydropower complex, security, legal issues, and information campaign.

She said among the major concerns are the issues namely, unpaid claimants and the vegetation, and the bombings.

“But these claimants cannot be paid outrightly because they have to follow a process, which involves the documentation that they own the property where the towers stood,” she added.

The task force met for the first time at the MinDA office in DavaoCity on Thursday to plan on how they can resolve the transmission issues.

“Next week. we will be reporting to the president regarding our outputs,” Monsada said.

In 2015, 16 towers were bombed, nine of which were toppled.

In December 2015 alone, seven towers were bombed: Towers 25, 19, 95, 68, 168, and 153.
Last month, two towers – 50 and 63 – were attacked.

Asked how much the power issue has been affecting the business community in the island, Mindanao Business Council chair Vicente Lao said “it is very difficult to quantify the costs when there are brownouts all over the grid.”

http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2016/02/05/task-force-formed-to-address-attacks-on-transmission-towers/

From Rappler (Feb 5): US to build facilities in old CDO airport in 2016

Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin says once the required documents are processed in the coming months, US troops can 'move in' to begin construction of their facilities

JOINT FORCES. Military troops from the Philippines and the US during the opening of the Philippines-US Exercise Balikatan in Quezon City in April 2015. File photo by EPA

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Philippines – The US military will build facilities in the old Lumbia airport in this city under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA), Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin confirmed.

Gazmin, who was in the city earlier this week to attend the 46th Founding Anniversary of the army’s 4th Infantry Division, said that construction to upgrade the city airport will start within the year.

The defense chief said as soon as the required documents are processed in the coming months, US troops can "move in" to begin the construction of their facilities.

The Lumbia airport, the city’s old commercial airport, is now under the control of the 10th Tactical Operations Group of the Philippine Air Force, though the land belongs to the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines-Department of Transportation and Communication.

Gazmin said that the Lumbia airport is one of the selected sites agreed upon by the Philippine government.

Under the EDCA, US forces are allowed to set up storage facilities and station forward personnel to maintain such facilities. These facilities must be being use by the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

(READ: SC rules: PH-US deal constitutional)

The US military calls these facilities pre-positioning areas wherein supplies, equipments ordnance and vehicles can be pre-positioned in storage in preparation for possible conflict.

Warning

Cesar Renario, spokesperson of the National Democratic Front-Northern Mindanao warned that the presence of US forces in Lumbia town would be disastrous for the city.

“Under the EDCA...US forces are allowed all forms of operations and activities in the agreed areas,” Renario claimed.

He said that EDCA allows the US military to station an unlimited number of troops, US military contractors, warships, fighter planes, arms including nuclear arms, without payment to the host government.

Renario also noted that Philippine authorities cannot even access these US facilities, just like the Joint Special Operation Task Force-Philippines (JSOTF-P) compound inside Camp General Basilio Navarro, headquarters of the Western Mindanao Command in Zamboanga City where 700 American forces are stationed.

He added that US forces have used the Philippines as it staging area for its Asian pivot, which puts the Philippines as the next conflict area. “The US is protecting its Asian interest, not the interest of the Philippines,” Renario said.

The New People’s Army had earlier released a statement that US soldiers and facilities are legitimate targets of communist rebels.

http://www.rappler.com/nation/121459-gazmin-us-facilities-cagayan-de-oro-edca

From the Manila Bulletin (Feb 5): ASG recruiting for bombing missions?

The military has tightened security in Sulu after it received intelligence information that recruits of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) are out to conduct test bombing missions in the province.

Brig. Gen. Alan Arrojado, commander of the military’s Joint Task Group Sulu, said six trainees from the group of ASG sub-leader Majan Sahidjuan alias “Apo Mike” were monitored roaming in Jolo.

He said the trainees were in a mission to conduct widespread bombing, wherein the targets include the commercial establishments, the Jolo Cathedral, the Jolo wet market, naval vessels, video bars frequented by policemen and soldiers, Coast Guard stations and other business establishments.

The test missions are a requirement before the trainees become full members of the Al Qaeda-linked terror group.

“Allegedly, they were instructed by alias Apo Mike to conduct bombing in Jolo as pre-condition to become regular members of the ASG,” Arrojado said in a text message to reporters.

He added that the trainees were also instructed to conduct roadside bombings, particularly along the Jolo-Tagbak routes, targeting military convoys.

“Maghagis daw sa sasakyan ng IED or ilagay habang naka-park ang military vehicle,” according to a military source.

The improvised bombs were reportedly made by ASG bomb experts, two of them identified as certains Muamar and Abu Jihad.

Arrojado steps have been taken to thwart any attack.

The official also said that bombings could be part of diversionary tactics of the ASG noting that the military has been continuously conducting operations against terror group in the whole province.

Meanwhile, an unexploded fragmentation grenade was discovered by elements of the Army’s 32nd Infantry Battalion on Friday near one of the military detachments in Patikul, Sulu.

The grenade was reportedly found at around 5:45 a.m. near the Taglibi Detachment in Patikul.

“It was believed that said grenade was thrown at around 5:45 a.m. when the sentinel heard something drop/falling from the rooftop, but when he searched the area at that time found nothing until its discovery during daybreak,” Arrojado said quoting a report.

http://www.mb.com.ph/asg-recruiting-for-bombing-missions/

From the Sun Star-Manila (Feb 5): AFP reveals Sayyaf plot to bomb Jolo targets

AN ABU Sayyaf group leader has reportedly instructed six trainees to carry out bombings in Jolo town in Sulu, targeting military and civilian targets.

Brigadier General Alan Arrojado, commander of the Armed Forces of the Philippines' (AFP) Joint Task Group Sulu, said he has alerted military units to be vigilant against the planned attacks.

Citing intelligence information, Arrojado said the six trainees -- whose names were not given -- were monitored roaming in Jolo town on Thursday afternoon.

"Allegedly, they were instructed by alias Apoh Mike to conduct bombing in Jolo as precondition to become regular members of the ASG," said Arrojado. Apoh Mike is an alias of ASG sub-leader Majan Sahidjuan.

"Among their targets are naval vessels, commercial establishments, PCG (Philippine Coast Guard) stations, Jolo cathedral, Jolo wet market, videoke bars along Jolo airport road and business establishments frequented by AFP and PNP personnel," said Arrojado.

Arrojado also said the trainees were also instructed to conduct roadside bombings along the main supply routes, targeting military convoys.

He said the Abu Sayyaf has many improvised bombs manufactured by one Muamar and Abu Jihad.

Arrojado acknowledged that the Abu Sayyaf has intensified IED attacks in the province to avenge and divert military focus from its ongoing operations.

On Thursday, the Abu Sayyaf detonated an improvised bomb on a military vehicle in Talipao town, injuring seven Marine soldiers.

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/manila/local-news/2016/02/05/afp-reveals-sayyaf-plot-bomb-jolo-targets-455651

From the Manila Bulletin (Feb 5): Malaysian court drops charges against 11 Filipinos accused of waging discord

The charges against 11 of the 27 Filipinos accused of waging conflict against the Malaysian King and being a member of a terrorist group in connection with the Lahad Datu incident that took place in February 2013 were ordered dropped by the High Court of Kota Kinabalu on Friday, February 5, the Philippine Embassy in Kuala Lumpur reported.

In a report to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), the Philippine embassy said Judge Stephen Chung found no prima facie evidence against the Filipinos. The prosecution was given 14 days to file an appeal for the dismissal of the charges. If no appeal is filed, 10 of the 11 acquitted will be released and eventually sent home.

Map showing the location of Malaysiaa (Photo from pinterest.com)

Map showing the location of Malaysia (Photo from pinterest.com)

One of the 11, Totoh bin Hismullah may remain in Malaysia as he had been found by the Court to be a Malaysian citizen and no longer a Filipino.

The remaining 16 Filipinos, however, have been ordered by the Court to present, through their legal counsel, evidence in their defense after prima facie evidence were found against them. This will give the Defense side an opportunity to rebut the Prosecution’s evidence.

The determination made by the Court is only preliminary and was based on the evidence presented by the Prosecution. A verdict on the culpability, if any, of the 16 remaining accused will not be rendered only after the Defense has completed the presentation of its evidence, which is expected to begin later this month.

Majority of those accused were supposedly members the Sulu Sultanate’s Royal Security Force (RSF). One of those allegedly charged is the nephew of Sulu Sultan Jamalul Kiram III, Datu Amir Bahar, who was captured not in Lahad Datu but in Sandakan.

The accused Filipinos were charged for violating two articles of Malaysia’s Penal Code: Section 122 (waging war against the King); and Section 130 KA (terrorism). While Section 130 KA (terrorism) calls for a jail term of up to 30 years, Section 121 (waging war against the King) can fetch the death penalty.

The Philippine Embassy in Kuala Lumpur has hired the services of Malaysian lawyer Datuk N. Sivananthan, one of the few Asian legal practitioners accredited by the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, and six Sabah-based counsels to represent the accused.

Their services were paid for by the Philippine government.

The Lahad Datu incident began when a group, all followers of Sultan Kiram, landed in Tanduo village on February 9, 2013 drove out the residents, and occupied it to signify a presence that stood for ownership of the land that belonged to the Sulu Sultanate but passed on by Britain to Malaysia in 1957 after granting independence to its colony once known as Malaya.

It ended with at least three people dead, a still undetermined number of wounded, and several members of the Sultanate of Sulu arrested.

http://www.mb.com.ph/malaysian-court-drops-charges-against-11-filipinos-accused-of-waging-discord/

From the Sun Star-Zamboanga (Feb 5): Troops prevented another roadside bombing in Sulu

THE government troops have prevented another roadside bombing as they discovered an improvised explosive device (IED) near a farm in the province of Sulu, a top military official said.

The IED was discovered around 3:30 p.m. Thursday several hours after a roadside bomb explosion injured seven members of the Philippine Marine Corps in the village of Lagtoh, Talipao, Sulu.

Brigadier General Alan Arrojado, Joint Task Group Sulu commander, said the IED was placed at the farmland of a certain Hussein which is 200 meters west of an abandoned military outpost at Sitio Bulabog in the village of Bonbon, Patikul, Sulu.

Arrojado said the IED was discovered through timely information provided by a tipster. It consisted of two 81-millimeter mortar ammunition as its main charge with 15 meters wire.

“The said IED is believed to have been kept while waiting an opportunity for its use,” Arrojado added.

He said the IED was disrupted by the explosive ordnance demolition personnel.

The troops from the Marine Battalion Landing Team-Northern Mindanao were en route to the village of Kuhaw, Talipao coming from Katian, Indanan to act as advance forces when the convoy hit an IED.

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/zamboanga/local-news/2016/02/05/troops-prevented-another-roadside-bombing-sulu-455678

From the Malay Mail Online (Feb 5): Three Malaysians, 16 others, to enter defence over Lahad Datu intrusion

KOTA KINABALU, Feb 5 ― The High Court here acquitted today 11 Filipinos and called 19 others, including three Malaysians, to enter their defence to terrorism charges among others over the 2013 Lahad Datu intrusion.

Justice Stephen Chung said that the prosecution had proven their case against 16 of the 19 and ordered them to enter their defence to multiple charges of being members of a terrorist group and of waging war against the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.

However, three people ― Filipino Basil Samiul and Malaysians Mohamad Ali Ahmad and Pabblo Alie ― were acquitted of their charges under Section 121 and 130KA of the Penal Code, which respectively prohibit waging war against the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and being members of a terrorist group, but were given fresh charges and told to enter their defence.

Basil and Mohd Ali were charged under Section 130J of the Penal Code for allegedly soliciting or giving support to terrorist groups, while Pabblo was charged under Section 130G(c) of the Penal Code, for allegedly soliciting property for a terrorist group.

“The prosecution had failed to establish a prima facie case against the accused, but there was plenty of evidence [to] support a case of supporting the terrorists,” said Chung in amending the charges. The three pleaded not guilty.

The third Malaysian, Abdul Hadi Mawan, who had been charged with two offences, was acquitted under Section 121 of the Penal Code, but was instructed to enter his defence for a charge under Section 130KA.

Chung had ordered the 11 acquitted to be referred to the Immigration Department for deportation, but granted deputy public prosecutor Mohd Dusuki Mokhtar‘s application for a remand pending his filing for notice of appeal.

Datuk N. Sivananthan, lawyer appointed by the Philippine government for the 11 Filipinos acquitted, said the decision was fair as there was no incriminating evidence against his clients.

The charge of waging war against the Yang di-Pertuan Agong under Section 121 of the Penal Code is punishable with death, life imprisonment, or a fine.

The trial of the 19 will begin on February 22.

The armed Sulu incursion into Kampung Tanduo, Lahad Datu, at the Sabah east coast in February 2013 had killed 10 members of Malaysia’s security forces.

http://www.themalaymailonline.com/malaysia/article/three-malaysians-16-others-to-enter-defence-over-lahad-datu-intrusion

From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Feb 6): Moro rebs staying the course despite restlessness—Iqbal

There is a “growing restlessness and frustration” in Mindanao with the non-passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) but the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) assured a ranking official of the United Nations that it is staying the course on the peace process.

MILF peace panel chair Mohagher Iqbal on Thursday met with UN Undersecretary General Adama Dieng, who is also UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon’s special adviser on the prevention of genocide.

At their two-hour meeting, Iqbal and Dieng discussed the imminent security challenges in Mindanao following the failure of lawmakers to pass the BBL, a key component in the peace agreement, and exchanged views on how these security issues could be overcome.

‘Fully committed’

Iqbal assured Dieng that the MILF is “fully committed to pursue the path of peace and would continue its engagements” with stakeholders, including the international community.

“We expect problems to arise in the coming days and we discussed, in general terms, what we could do to prevent these problems from taking place,” Iqbal told the Inquirer by phone.

The UN website said the special adviser on the prevention of genocide “acts as a catalyst to raise awareness of the causes and dynamics of genocide, to alert relevant actors where there is a risk of genocide, and to advocate and mobilize for appropriate action.”

At the meeting, Dieng also said both the government and MILF peace panels should “continue seeking the avenues for the implementation of commitments made over the 17 years of negotiations,” as he expressed interest on how the two parties would pursue the peace process despite the setback.

President Aquino will end his term on June 30, sealing a peace deal with the MILF but unable to secure its ultimate conclusion which is to create a new Bangsamoro autonomous region that promises to bring security and development to Central Mindanao that has been mired in conflict and poverty.

The Mamasapano debacle on Jan. 25 last year dealt a serious blow on the peace process, after the deaths of 44 elite police commandos were blamed on the MILF.

Then Special Action Force (SAF) Director Getulio Napeñas admitted he disregarded the ceasefire mechanisms in the operation to take down Malaysian terrorist Zulkifli bin Hir alias Marwan because of his distrust in the military and the MILF.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/762019/moro-rebs-staying-the-course-despite-restlessness-iqbal

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 6): Army, BIFF clash as rebels try to blow up bridge in Maguindanao

Outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) on Friday tried but failed to blow up a vital bridge in Maguindanao, the military on Saturday said.

Colonel Felicisimo Badiongan, commander of 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade based in Datu Saudi Ampatuan town, said alert civilians informed the military about the presence of suspected improvised bomb planted over a bridge still undergoing construction in Barangay Butalo, Datu Salibo town in Maguindanao.

"While our troops were conducting clearing operations and bomb disruption, the BIFF were firing at us," Badiongon said in a phone interview.

An Army official who Capt. Joan Petinglay, 6th Infantry Division spokesperson did not identify was slightly injured in his head.

"He is safe now, he only sustained minor injuries," Petinglay said in a phone interview.

Using Barret Cal. 50 sniper rifles, the bandits were sniping at government forces at about 4 p.m. forcing a sporadic firefight.

According to Badiongan, the BIFF has been opposed to the construction of a bridge because they fear the infrastructure will make it easier for military hardware to reach their hideouts in Datu Salibo.

Army bomb experts safely defused the IED amid sniper fires from lawless groups.

The bridge project is funded under the priority development fund of Maguindanao 2nd District Rep. Zajid Mangudadatu.

Speaking for the BIFF, Abu Misri Mama, admitted they planted the improvised bomb and fired at government forces "because they are coming close to our area."

Sporadic exchanges of gunfire from both sides continue. Petinglay could not say if the BIFF suffered casualties in the clashes.

Fighting was still on-going as of Saturday morning.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=854411

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 5): Military serves 20,000 people in conflict areas

The military has extended services to more than 20,000 people in conflict areas in GingoogCity in Misamis Oriental, a senior military official said Friday.

Col Jess Alvarez, Commander of the 403rd Infantry Brigade based in Misamis Oriental, said that about 60 urban and rural villages in GingoogCity became recipients of the recent Peace Caravan in Misamis Oriental.

“Where the communist New People’s Army (NPA) destroys and spread terror in the rural and sub-urban villages, the military comes to build and provide hope for lasting peace among residents of embattled areas,” Alvarez said.

Alvarez said that the military provided hope to attain the wishes of the people, while the NPA rebels provided false promises under the barrel of the guns and terror.

He said that the “Peace Caravan” was a joint program of various government line agencies spearheaded by the Philippine Army in Northern Mindanao and the Caraga Region.

Also known as “Whole of Nation Initiatives,” the participating agencies include practically all the regional offices of the national government as stakeholders in education, agriculture, public works, the environment, security, health, agrarian reform, and social services, Alvarez said.

He said that various government agencies would separately deliver basic services to the villages of the necessary services needed by the residents as the caravan moves from one village to another.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=854388

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 5): Airport in Cagayan De Oro for conversion into US military depot

The Lumbia airport would be converted into a military depot of the United States of America (USA), a government official said here.

Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin made the disclosure during his visit on the occasion of the Philippine Army’s 46th founding anniversary here this week.

The two-week anniversary celebration that started last January 23 ended today, February 5.

Gazmin said that the USand the Philippine government under the Enhance Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) have already agreed to utilize the Lumbia airport as a military depot for the USservicemen.

“As a depot, the airport would be utilized for military equipment necessary for rescue operations during emergencies,” he said.

Gazmin said that it would be handy if the important military facilities are already in place here so that the deployment of US servicemen in times of emergency would be easier.

Under the EDCA, the USand the Philippine governments are now reviewing the reactivation of eight former USmilitary bases in the country.

The Lumbia airport, about five kilometers southwest of the city, were closed to traffic after the opening of the new airport in Laguindingan, Misamis Oriental in 2013.

At present, the 500-hectare airport complex is home to the 10th Tactical Operations Group of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) in Northern Mindanao.

The Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) owns the Lumbia airport complex.

A House bill is pending in Congress urging the national government to return the lot to the city government of Cagayan De Oro.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=854352

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 5): Army’s 10th ID names new battalion commanders in Cotabato, Davao del Norte provinces

Three battalions of the Philippine Army under the 10th Infantry (Agila) Division welcomed their new battalion commanders in a series of turnover ceremonies that were facilitated on February 3 and 4.

Major General Rafael Valencia, 10th ID commander, presided over the change of command ceremonies that were held on said dates in the provinces of South Cotabato, Cotabato and Davao del Norte.

The 27th Infantry (Action) Battalion based in Barangay Kablon, Tupi, South Cotabato received its new commander in the person of Lt. Col. Benjamin Leander, replacing outgoing commander Lt. Col. Roland Jess Alcudia.

The 39th Infantry (Smash ‘Em) Battalion in Poblacion, Makilala, Cotabato also welcomed Lt. Col. Harold Argamosa as their new commander replacing Lt. Col. Apollo Lamaton.

Last February 4, the 60th Infantry (Mediator) Battalion in CampMorgia, Barangay Doña Andrea, Asuncion, Davao del Norte also welcomed their new commander Lt. Col. Emmanuel Canillareplacing Lt. Col. Roberto Bunagan.

10th ID chief information officer Captain Rhyan Batchar said Lt. Col. Leander is a member of PMA Class 1995 and a native of Cainta, Rizal; Lt. Col. Argamosa is a member of PMA Class 1994 and from Pasay City; while Lt. Col. Canilla is also a member of PMA Class 1994 and hails from Puerto Princesa, Palawan.

The 27th IB covers South Cotabato and Sarangani provinces, including the cities of General Santos and Koronadal; the 39th IB operates in the provinces of Davao del Sur, parts of Cotabato and Columbio, Sultan Kudarat; while the 60th IB covers the provinceof DavaodelNorte and parts of Laak, CompostelaValley and San Fernando, Bukidnon.

During the turnover ceremonies, Major General Valenciarecognized the accomplishments of the three outgoing battalion commanders, and expressed gratefulness for their great contributions as stewards of their respective battalion towards the accomplishments of their unit's mission in support of the overall campaign of 10th ID.

Valenciaalso challenged the newly installed battalion commanders to continue the momentum and to take the initiative in all undertakings of their units.

“The newly installed commanders bear not only the trust and confidence of the 10th Infantry Division but the hopes of all peace, security and development stakeholders, whom we have sworn to protect,"Valenciaemphasized.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=854357

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 5): 24IB has new commanding officer

LAGANGILANG,Abra – - The 24th Infantry (Wildcat) Battalion (IB) welcomed LtC. Thomas Dominic B. Baluga as their new commanding officer last February 1 at their headquarters at Sitio Barbarit, Brgy. Tagodtod, here.

Baluga stressed the importance of teamwork and perseverance as key components of good service. He particularly asked the Wildcat’s support and contribution to accomplish the overall mission of 7ID. He also sought the support of stakeholders in order to face and overcome challenges.

Baluga was previously assigned at 702nd Infantry (Defender) Brigade, 7ID in Camp Lt Tito Abat, Manaoag, Pangasinan.

Outgoing commander, LtC. Monib T. Mamao, will be assigned to the Division Headquarters at Fort Ramon Magsaysay, Palayan City, Nueva Ecija.

MGEN Angelito M. De Leon, Commander of the 7th Infantry Division, presided the change of command ceremony.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/3191454573965/24ib-has-new-commanding-officer

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 5): Army installs three new battalion commanders

DAVAOCITY, the 10th Infantry Division which covers Davao Region, parts of Surigao Del Sur, South Cotabato, Sarangani and North Cotabato installed three new battalion commandersto spruce up the government’s peace and order efforts.

Major General Rafael Valencia led the separate turn-over-ceremonies for the installation of Lt. Colonel Benjamin Leander for the 27th Infantry Battalion, Lt. Colonel Harold Argamosa for the 39th IB, and Lt. Colonel Emannuel Canilla for the 60th IB.

They replaced Lt. Colonel Roland Jess Alcudia, Lt. Colonel Apollo Lamaton and Lt. Colonel Roberto Bunagan, respectively.

Captain Rhyan Batchar, spokesperson of the 10th ID described Lt. Colonel Leander as a member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1995, and a native of Cainta, Rizal. His assignment covers South Cotabato and parts of Sarangani Province.

He said Lt. Colonel Argamosa, a member of the PMA ’94 from Pasay City handles Davao del Sur and parts of Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat.

Batchar said Lt. Colonel Canilla, a member of PMA ‘94 and hails from Puerto Princesa, Palawan will handle the peace and security in the provinces of Davao del Norte, parts of Compostela Valley and San Fernando, Bukidnon.

Valencia lauded the contributions of these united to the overall performance of the 10th ID in accomplishing its mission.

“The newly installed commanders bear not only the trust and confidence of the 10th Infantry Division but the hopes of all peace, security and development stakeholders, whom we have sworn to protect," he said.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2381454637531/army-installs-three-new-battalion-commanders

From GMA News (Feb 6): Army unit, BIFF clash in Maguindanao

Soldiers from the Philippine Army's 1st Mechanized Brigade were engaged by Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters gunmen in Datu Salibu, Maguindanao late Friday afternoon, GMA 7 late-night news program “Saksi” reported. At around 4 p.m., the BIFF gunmen opened fire as the soldiers were diffusing three improvised explosive devices that had been planted near a bridge.

[Video report: SAKSI: Mga sundalo at miyembro ng BIFF, mahigit 7 oras nang nagbabakbakan sa Datu Salibu
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=717gyA4wc3M]

The Army opened fire with their artillery after other armed groups from Shariff Aguak, unidentified in the report, joined in the gunbattle. Meanwhile, the BIFF claimed that they forced to open fire because the soldiers were encroaching on their “territory.”

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/554220/news/regions/army-unit-biff-clash-in-maguindanao

From the Philippine News Agency/Xinhua (Feb 5): UN chief says 34 militant groups pledged allegiance to IS

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Friday said that 34 militant groups worldwide had reportedly pledged allegiance to the Islamic State (IS) extremist group as of mid-December.

Militant groups from countries like the Philippines, Uzbekistan, Pakistan, Libya and Nigeria had pledged their allegiance, so IS poses "an unprecedented threat," Ban said in a report on the challenges IS poses to international peace and security.

The emergence of IS has been facilitated by the protracted conflicts in Iraq and Syria and the resulting political and security instability, he said.

"In less than two years, ISIL (another acronym for IS) has captured large swathes of territory in both Iraq and the Syrian Arab Republic, which it administers through a sophisticated, quasi-bureaucratic revenue-generating structure that is sufficiently flexible and diversified to compensate for declines in income from single revenue streams," he said.

The recent expansion of IS influence across west and north Africa, the Middle East and south and southeast Asia demonstrates the speed and scale at which the gravity of the threat has evolved in just 18 months, he added.

In 2016 and beyond, UN member states should prepare for a further increase in the number of foreign terrorist fighters travelling to other countries on the instructions of IS, said Ban.

Despite efforts by the international community to counter IS through military, financial and border-security measures, the group continues to maintain its presence in Iraqand Syria. It is also expanding its operations to other regions.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=854596

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 6): Malacañang welcomes the Moro Islamic Liberation Front's commitment to peace

The Palace welcomed the statement of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) chief negotiator Mohagher Iqbal assuring the United Nations that the separatist group remains committed to peace despite the non-passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law.

Iqbal said the MILF will continue to engage in peace initiatives despite the security challenges on the ground.

"We welcome this statement and this reassurance from Chairman Iqbal,"Undersecretary Manuel Quezon III of the Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office said in a radio interview on Saturday.

"As you know, the agreement still stands that was signed in Malacañang between the MILF and the administration, and that this remains the cornerstone for working forward."

Quezon said that while Congress was unable to pass the Bangsamoro Basic Law as the administration had hoped, the public must remember that the commitment on the part of the government persists.

He told dzRB Radyo ng Bayan that he believes all sides are committed to ensuring that the progress made by both sides this far remains and becomes a durable foundation for the future.

On the issue of possible restlessness on the ground after Congress failed to pass the BBL, Quezon said it is speculative at this time that violence will spark.

"At this point, I believe it is speculative and premature and a cause for undue alarm to speculate on this," he stressed. "What we have is a framework agreement that exists and to which the government is committed."

"I believe that we have seen that in terms of the partners such as the MILF that they are doing their part to maintain their adherence to this and their commitment to this framework agreement."

There will be a brief wait until a new Congress would be elected and could then return to the work on deliberating on the Bangsamoro Basic Law, he said.

Congress adjourned this week without passing key legislation such as the increase in pay of government workers, the Freedom of Information Bill and the BBL.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=0&sid=&nid=0&rid=854587

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 6): (News Feature) MID plans to convert additional APCs into RCWS platforms

Plans are afoot to convert some of the refurbished 114 M-113A2 armored personnel carriers (APCs), acquired through the US Excess Defense Articles Program, into remote-controlled weapon systems (RCWS) platform.

"We already have APCs converted into remote-controlled weapon systems (platforms). We can upgrade some of these APCs into such and further boost our capabilities,"Mechanized Infantry Division (MID) commander Major Gen. Edgar Gonzales said in a press briefing Saturday.

Gonzales was referring to the 28 Israeli-supplied APCs, of which 14 will be configured as fire support vehicles, four as infantry fighting vehicles, six as armored personnel carriers, another four as armored recovery units.

Upgrades include installation of 25 mm unmanned turrets, 12.7 mm (.50 caliber machineguns) RCWS and fire control systems (FCS) for 90 mm turrets.

The first six RCWS units, armed with .50 caliber machineguns, were delivered last year.

The EDA Program grants excess US military equipment, without cost, to qualified allied countries.

The transfer is a result of a formal request made by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to assist in their defense modernization efforts.

The M-113A2 was developed to provide a survivable and reliable light tracked vehicle that allows for troops to be brought forward under armor for dismounted operations.

Commissioning of these vehicles will greatly boost the numbers of the 343 armored vehicle-strong MID.

The AFP virtually got these additional armored assets for free saved for the shipping costs which amounted to Php 67.5 million and refitting of .50 caliber machine guns to the APCs.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=854577

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 6): BIFF killed, 3 soldiers wounded in Maguindanao clash

Two civilians and three soldiers, including an Army captain, were injured in an on-going fire fight between Army and outlawed Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters in Maguindanao Saturday.

Lt. Colonel Warlito Limet, 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion commander, said the Army captain he refused to name was leading a team of soldiers responding to burning of construction equipment in Datu Salibo town in Maguindanao on Friday. The team leader and two of his men sustained minor head and body injuries, he said.

Limet said the BIFF torched a back hoe working on dredging operations in Barangay Butilen, Datu Salibo at 4 p.m. Friday. As the soldiers were heading toward the river side, they discovered improvised bombs and land mines along the route, forcing them to stop.

While Army bomb experts were working on the IEDs, they were fired by BIFF snipers using Barret cal. 50. This forced the Army to fired howitzers and mortars with the BIFF, under Commander Bungos, firing rifle grenades.

Sporadic fire fight ensued overnight until dawn Saturday that left two civilians wounded, identified by local leaders as Mammex Indiong, 30 and Tammy Musarup, 19, hit by stray bullets in their feet.

Citing intelligence information, Limet said a son of a BIFF leader was died in the overnight fire fight. He said it is still being verified.

Colonel Felicisimo Budiongan, 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade commander, said the number of BIFF was rising until Saturday dawn.

He told reporters Army forward observers, using night vision goggles, noticed BIFF forces coming in trickles to Barangay Butilen from the towns of Talayan, Guindulungan, Datu Piang and Shariff Aguak, all in Maguindanao.

“We expect a bigger fire fight here as they have reinforcements,” Budiongan said.

Artillery fire from 2nd Mechanized Battalion headquarters continued Saturday morning although sporadic, he added.

Mayor Norodin Salazar of Datu Salibo also told reporters about 1,500 families have evacuated from four adjoining villages of Butilen, Sambolawan, Tee and Andabit, all in Datu Salibo.

Budiongan said the BIFF was opposed to the dredging of Butilen river and the bridge construction because the fear easy access for military hard wares to their hideouts. Silts from dredging are used in farm to market roads.

But Misri Mama, BIFF spokesperson, denied his group opposed the project. He said the BIFF is protecting its members whose lands were used by the road construction firm without proper compensation.

He vowed his group will continue fighting the Army in Datu Salibo, Maguindanao.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=854592

From the Philippine Information Agency (Feb 7): DepEd to establish new schools for indigenous peoples in Mindanao

Pursuing its commitment to provide culture-based education and help ensure lasting peace in Mindanao, the Department of Education (DepEd) will establish 5 new schools for Higaonon communities in Gingoog, Misamis Oriental.

The new schools will be established in Barangays Kalipay, Hindangon, Bantaawan, and Bal-ason, and will be ready to accept its first batch of learners this coming school year (SY) 2016-2017.

Meanwhile in other parts of Mindanao, DepEd will establish 246 more schools for the indigenous communities in Regions IX, X, XI, XII, and XIII. The Agency will establish a total of 251 schools in time for SY 2016-2017.

Among the said schools, there will be a total of 605 classrooms that will be constructed in partnership with the Kalahi-CIDSS National Community-Driven Development Program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development. In addition, DepEd will hire 583 teachers who will be deployed to the new schools, which are expected to initially serve some 19, 622 learners coming from 22 indigenous cultural communities.

Last year, DepEd adopted the Indigenous Peoples Education (IPEd) Curriculum Framework (DepEd Order No. 32, s. 2015), which was formulated in consultation with community elders, leaders, and implementers of community-based IPEd initiatives. The framework provides guidance in contextualizing the K to 12 Curriculum based on the indigenous community’s respective educational and social background.

As a major milestone in the implementation of DepEd’s IPEd Program, the IPEd Curriculum Framework will benefit more than 1.19-million IP learners enrolled in public schools, as well as learners enrolled in community and civil society organization-run schools.

To celebrate such gains of IPEd, DepEd and representatives of indigenous communities nationwide have come together last year in a symbolic affirmation of commitment to DepEd’s IPEd Program.

Through the inauguration of a pakedlan—an indigenous space for coming together of the Kankanaey peoples of Benguet—and a ritual performed at the Baguio Teachers Camp with the participation of representatives of indigenous communities from different parts of the country, the gathering likewise strengthened the partnership towards the full recognition of indigenous knowledge and learning systems within the national education system.

“Mahalaga na naka-angkla ang ating kurikulum sa ating kulturang Pilipino … Kapag wala ang katutubong kaalaman na nakapasok sa ating kurikulum, mawawalan tayo ng kaluluwa,” Education Secretary Br. Armin A. Luistro said during the gathering which was held on 12 November 2015.

Among other initiatives, DepEd has also forged a partnership with Lubos na Alyansa ng mga Katutubong Ayta ng Sambales (LAKAS) for the implementation of an IPEd Program at Lakas High School, which is the first formal culture-based public secondary school specifically serving the Ayta community in Bihawo, Botolan, Zambales.

Esel Cabalic, a grade 8 student of the Lakas HS said, “Kami ay nagpapasalamat sa Kagawaran ng Edukasyon sa pagkilala ng aming karapatan na magkaroon ng Katutubong Edukasyon o IPEd. Isang Katutubong Edukasyon kung saan ito ay aangkop at gagabay sa pagkatuto naming mga katutubo.”

The establishment of new schools in Gingoog is part of the government’s commitment to the sustainable development and aspirations of indigenous communities by working with them in the delivery of culture-based basic education services for the learners in the area.

“Serbisyo Caravan”

Bringing the government closer to the people, the Serbisyo Caravan is a multi-agency effort that carries out government services and dialogues in communities where indigenous peoples and conflict-affected residents live.

The 5th Serbisyo Caravan has been conducted in Gingoog, Misamis Oriental from February 3 to 4, 2016.

Among others, the Caravan has provided medical services, distributed food packs, educational supplies, micronutrient compact food, hygiene kits, and information materials.

http://news.pia.gov.ph/article/view/2131454690007/deped-to-establish-new-schools-for-indigenous-peoples-in-mindanao