PRO9 joins the PNP in assuring peaceful celebration of Labor Day 2017

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (May 1, 2017) - The Filipinos in the country will celebrate Labor Day on May 1, 2017, during this time, various labor organizations, transport groups, and other militant/ cause -oriented groups are expected to conduct simultaneous mass actions to air their grievances and demands against the present administration. Likewise, other threat groups might take advantage of the occasion and launch terror attacks or other nefarious activities, official said.

PRO9 Information Officer PSUPT ROGELIO C ALABATA disclosed that the PRO9 joins the PNP in undertaking the necessary preparations to ensure the peaceful conduct of Labor Day celebration in Zamboanga Peninsula. The PNP personnel deployed are under a strong directive to uphold the basic rights of freedom of speech and the freedom of peaceful assembly.

PSupt. Alabata said that the PNP personnel are reminded to observe the Revised Police Operational Procedures of the organization, always placed the highest respect for human rights, exercise maximum tolerance in case a mass assemblies or protests arises and act accordingly as a good example of a true police officer.

The PNP will continue its anti-criminality operations against criminal/ lawless elements. Basic police duties and responsibilities in the maintenance of peace and order and public safety will not be compromised, he added. 

PRO9 Regional Director PCSUPT BILLY B BELTRAN said with the long weekend ahead, the public is encouraged to be vigilant against modus operandi of criminal/ lawless elements. He also urges the public to report to the authorities any untoward incidents.

PNP holds Rights-based Policing Forum with Civil Society Organizations in Zamboanga City

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (May 1, 2017) - The PNP Human Rights Affairs Office (HRAO) under the helm of PCSUPT DENNIS A. SIERVO, Chief of Human Rights Affairs Office, conducted Rights-Based Policing Forum with the PRO9 Personnel and Civil Society Organizations held at Lantaka Hotel, Zamboanga City on April 26, 2017.

“Rights-based policing should be a way of life for our police officers,” said PCSUPT DENNIS A SIERVO, who heads the Philippine National Police Human Rights Affairs Office (HRAO) during the “Philippine National Police (PNP) – Civil Society Organizations (CSO) Rights-Based Policing Forum” for police and CSO groups based in the Zamboanga Peninsula.

PRO9 Information Officer PSUPT ROGELIO C ALABATA disclosed that the one-day forum was attended by combined participants from the PNP-HRAO personnel, Commission on Human Rights, Academe, local CSOs, Civic Groups, Other Law Enforcement Agencies, Representative from Local Government Unit, Religious Sectors and Private Sectors, PCSUPT JONATHAN V ABLANG, DRDA, PRO9, together with legal officer of PRO9 and other HRAO PNP officer, led the PNP contingent in the forum.

PSupt. Alabata said that the objectives are to provide opportunities to discuss problems concerning Human Rights on the issues of Children in conflict with the law, congested custodial facilities, arrest, use of and search and seizure, person under police custody and fatal shooting/torture/ill treatment; identify administrative remedies to address the problems; enhance understanding of Human Rights issues and gaps; and develop effective approaches in addressing human rights issues with the communities and Civil Society Organizations (CSO).

PSupt. Alabata further said that the event will give the PNP and CSO representatives the opportunity to network with each other and discuss common issues, and at the same time for the PNP to describe its police operational procedures which is to respect the basic rights of persons particularly in dealing with the suspects or those who were charge in the enforcement of the law. One way to increase police’s operational effectiveness is for them to network with civic groups, CSOs, the local government and the private sector for the former to draw additional resources and obtain information critical to deterring crime.

In this way, the police will better understand their working environment and be responsive to the needs of the community. Similarly, and in order to build trust and cooperation, CSOs and community leaders should be familiar with the legal basis and parameters which determine police response, he added.                                             

ARMM holds investments roadshow in Cotabato City

Cotabato City (April 27, 2016) – In a bid to improve investment opportunities, the Regional Board of Investments of the Autonomous Region in Muslim in Mindanao (RBOI-ARMM) held a consultation forum with stakeholders in Cotabato City.

Investors and representatives from the business community, government agencies, banks, and the academe attended the event, which covers presentations of the economic activities of the ARMM, shares insights and concerns about investments generation in the region, and reviews the 2017 ARMM Investment Priorities Plan (IPP).

Lawyer Ishak Mastura, RBOI-ARMM chairperson, said the plan is focused on the theme “Scaling Up and Dispersing Opportunities”, which will serve as the blueprint in guiding investors in matching their business capacities with opportunities identified in the region’s IPP to steer economic growth.

“The reason for the conduct of regional IPP roadshows is to inform the participants about the salient features and implementing guidelines of the new IPP,” Atty. Mastura said.

The 2017-2019 ARMM Investment Priorities Plan is formulated based on the updated Philippine Development Plan 2017-2019 and ARMM’s Regional Development Plan. Anchored on the Duterte administration’s zero + 10-point Socio-Economic Agenda and Ambisyon Natin 2040, the 2017-2019 ARMM Investment Priorities Plan promotes investments in preferred economic activities and sectors that will have a direct and positive impact on the lives of ARMM’s constituents.

IPP consultations in the region were organized as early as mid-2015 starting in Lamitan City in Basilan followed by multisectoral public consultations in Cotabato City, Parang and Upi in Maguindanao; Bongao in Tawi-Tawi; and Marawi City in Lanao del Sur. A total of six multisectoral consultations were conducted region-wide to craft ARMM’s new list of investment priorities.

ARMM’s list has the following priority investment areas:

·        export industry;

·        agriculture and aquaculture; 

·        basic industries; 

·        infrastructure; 

·        industrial service facilities; 

·        engineering industries; 

·        logistics; 

·        Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines-East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA)-related investment enterprises; 

·        tourism; 

·        health and education services and facilities; 

·        Halal industry; 

·        bank and non-bank financial institutions including Islamic banking and finance; and 

·        energy.

Discussed in the forum held here are investment opportunities in the region and the fiscal and non-fiscal incentives the government is providing to qualified investors as well as the process for registration under the RBOI to avail of the incentives. 

Atty. Mastura reiterated that ARMM seeks to attract more financing, or financial institutions, since the region remains severely under-serviced by banks. Access to basic financial services in ARMM is practically non-existent, he said. Other than conventional banking and finance, the list also includes Islamic Banking and Finance. 

Similar consultation forums will be conducted in the five provinces and two cities in the region to bring investment concerns and services to the public, especially the investors. (Bureau of Public Information)

(By JC-MPF with PR from Bureau of Public Information – ARMM)

Barangay official shot dead by LCM in ZamboSur

By Jong Cadion

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (April 26, 2017) - At about 10:30 PM on April 22, 2017, Hon. Rico A. Dumagal, ABC president of San Miguel Municipality Personally appeared at San Miguel MPS and reported that a shooting incident has transpired at Barangay Dumalian, San Miguel, Zamboanga Del Sur.

PRO9 Information Officer PSupt. Rogelio C. Alabata disclosed that according to the investigation conducted by San Miguel MPS revealed that the incident was transpired at about 9:00 pm of April 22, 2017 at Purok 1, Barangay Dumalian, San Miguel, Zamboanga Del Sur wherein the victim identified as Hon. Rodrigo Mesperos Matchuca, Barangay Chairman of said barangay, 60 years old, married and a resident of same place was shot to death by members of local communist movement (LCM) later identified as Dexter Gualdahara Lihop Aka Dave-Dave, 19 years old, single a resident of Sitio Dagum; Zacarias Dag-Uman Robledo, 21 years old, single, a resident of Sitio Palas, All Of Tiguha, Lapuyan, Zamboanga Del Sur and two (2) unidentified suspects using a caliber .45 pistol based on the recovered fired cartridge at the crime scene.

PSupt. Alabata said that the place of incident has an estimated distance of twelve (12) kilometers from police station and located at the remote area of this municipality. That the road condition was rough and muddy and not accessible by any means of land transportation during the time due to heavy rain. The crime scene post a threat for it is local communist movement (LCM) infested area.

The mps coordinated with 1Lt Justine Michael C. Rabino, co, Bravo Coy, 53rd IB PA to proceed to the place of incident but the later advised to coordinate with Sgt Nasser, Team Leader of AFP/CAFGU detachment of Barangay Dumalian and likewise advised to go by morning on the following day April 23, 2017 for security of the responding government troops.

On April 23, 2017 at about 5:30 am, a team from the 2nd MP 2MC RPSB9 led by PInsp. Arnold Tabunan Tolentino, platoon leader under direct supervision of PCInsp. Jerome Tajor Pamalaran, Company Commander joint with San Miguel Police Station led by PInsp Bernard Talitayan proceeded to the place of incident purposely to conduct ocular inspection and investigation.

Investigation further disclosed that the victim Hon. Rodrigo Matchuca together his companion identified as Danny Boy Balolong had a drinking spree at the store owned by Rommel Matchuca Vergas when suddenly the suspects appeared and without any apparent reason shot the victim hitting on the different parts of his body that resulted to his untimely death. The victim Hon. Rodrigo Matchuca and his companion Danny Boy Balolong was able to retaliate and shot and able to hit one of the suspects named Dexter Gualdahara Lihop hitting on his neck that resulted to his instantaneous death while the other suspects fled away to unknown direction after the incident. Accordingly, the caliber .45 pistols that was used by Dexter Gualdahara Lihop in the commission of the crime was picked-up by one of the suspects prior to their withdrawal.

PSupt. Alabata further said that the victim Hon. Rodrigo Matchuca is a rebel returnee prior he became an elected barangay official of Dumalian, San Miguel, Zamboanga Del Sur and accordingly, motive of the incident revealed that the victim is allegedly withdrawing support and sympathy to the lcm and that he strongly support the establishment of military and CAFGU detachment in the said barangay during his incumbency as barangay chairman.

Moreover, the victim was long time being threatened by the LCM to be liquidated as revealed by the later to his friends, relatives and to the military/police authorities, PSupt. Alabata added.

Recovered from the dead body of Dexter Gualdahara Lihop were two (2) pieces magazine of caliber .45 pistol loaded with ten (10) rounds of ammunitions which was placed inside his pocket, an improvised pistol belt and from the crime scene were seven (7) pieces fired cartridges of caliber .45 pistol.

The post mortem examination was conducted by the crime laboratory of Zamboanga Del Sur Police Provincial Office. San Miguel MPS is now in the process of preparing a case against the suspects.

NPA member surrenders to 53IB

Jonelo Balabagaka Joel, member NPA unit SYP KARA formally surrenders to Ltc Virgilio C Hamos Jr, Commanding Officer of 53IB, 1ID, PA at Camp Sabido, Guipos, ZDS on April25, 2017 bringing with him his M16 Rifle with seven magazines loaded with ammunitions.

By Jong Cadion

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (April 26, 2017) - Citing fatigue and frustration over unfulfilled promises, a member of the New Peoples’ Army deserts his unit and surrenders to the 53^rd Infantry (MATAPAT) Battalion in Camp Sabido, Guipos, ZDS yesterday, military official said.

LTC VIRGILIO C HAMOS JR, Commanding Officer of 53IB disclosed that the rebel was identified as Jonelo Daluyon Balabag @ Joel, 25 years old and resident of Purok 1, Brgy. Matalang, Lakewood, ZDS who brought with him his M16 rifle with seven (7) magazines loaded with ammunitions.

LT MICHAEL RABINO, Commanding Officer of Bravo Company, 53IB who facilitated the surrender said that the rebel is a member of the SYP “KARA”, WMRPC, the NPA unit operating in Zamboanga del Sur. He further said that the rebel escaped from the group while they were harboring in the jungles of Brgy. Gasa, Lakewood, ZDS.

Based on the initial debriefing, aka Joel said that he grew weary of the endless day and night movement and hunger that they have to endure to evade the military. He was also worried about his wife and three young children because the NPA leadership only gave him Php 800.00 once for family support during his more than two months with the group which is way below the salary which they promised during recruitment.

He also revealed that he and some of his comrades had been contemplating about surrendering for quite some time; however they were too scared to ask permission from their leaders because they are aware that some who tried were threatened to be shot. This led him to wait for an opportunity to escape.

LTC HAMOS, who personally welcomed the rebel said the surrender is a proof that the collective pressure exerted by 53IB and the different stakeholders on the rebel group is taking its toll on the morale of the members.

Hamos promised aka Joel that 53IB will assist in facilitating his enrollment to the Comprehensive Local Integration Program and the Firearms Remuneration Program of the government to help him reintegrate to the mainstream society.

He also encouraged the surrenderee to help the Battalion in searching the remaining rebels operating in the Battalion’s Area of Operation.

Meanwhile, COL JACINTO R. BARENG, the 102^nd Brigade Commander congratulated Hamos and the 53IB troopers for the accomplishment.

Negosyo Center Café: A key to a more bountiful Dumingag

By Jong Cadion

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (April 24, 2017) - Bringing the DTI and other government services closer to the people, the DTI-Zamboanga del Sur Provincial Office led by Provincial Director Maria Socorro M. Atay, together with partner agencies representatives Ms. Fronnie Dalid of TESDA, Provincial Director Ebenezer Tulog of DOST, Regional Governor of the Phil. Chamber of Commerce and Industry for Western Mindanao Ms. Mercedes Lourdes Quisumbing and the local government unit of Dumingag headed by Mayor Mark V. Pacalioga launched the 6^th LGU-based Negosyo Center (NC) on April 21 which brings the total to seven (7), one being lodged at the DTI-ZDS compound for Pagadian City.

DTI Provincial Director Maria Socorro M. Atay disclosed that by virtue of Republic Act No. 10644 otherwise known as the Go Negosyo Act of 2015, the DTI was mandated to establish Negosyo Centers in all cities and municipalities throughout the country to promote job generation and inclusive growth through empowerment of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). NCs are meant to make it easier for entrepreneurs to register and start up their businesses, as well as gain access to sources of financing through linkages from financial institutions. In addition, the Negosyo Centers will provide courses and development programs, such as training on business conceptualization and feasibility, financing, management, capability building, human resources, marketing and others.

In her speech at the launching, PD Atay reiterated the significance of having the Negosyo Center in the  municipalities as the NC not only serves as a hub for entrepreneurs to register their businesses but it also serves as a display area for their respective products. In addition, the NC will also be used to conduct seminars and trainings to MSMEs which will not be limited to entrepreneurship but also consumer education and other advocacies. She also stressed that the NC will not be limited for DTI and LGU use but for all government agencies concerned with the promotion and development of MSMEs.

With a warm smile, Dumingag Mayor Pacalioga in his acceptance speech said that the Negosyo Center will be a huge boost in the business and industry sector of Dumingag adding to their existing Organic Trading Center which mostly caters the locally produced products of their constituents.

Further, the mayor said that the Dumingag Negosyo Center will not be a typical NC, as it will continue their existing organic café thus making it a “Negosyo Center Café”.

He also envisioned the development that the NC would bring not only to the entrepreneurs but also to ordinary residents of Dumingag in the following days which according to him, for sure will not be a little thing.

Lastly, the young mayor hoped that the government agencies such as the DTI and partners would continue to support them in the endeavor to which the agency heads readily affirmed.

Abus abducts a Soldier in Sulu

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (April 21, 2017) - In the height of military operations, an MNLF integree who was working for peace and progress in Sulu was abducted by the Abu Sayyaf yesterday, military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) Information Officer Cpt Jo-Ann D. Petinglay disclosed that Staff Sergeant Anni Siraji of the 32nd Infantry Battalion (32IB) under the Joint Task Force Sulu was forcibly taken by about seven (7) persons at 9:30 AM yesterday while he was on the road heading to Igasan, Patikul, in the nearby province of Sulu.

Cpt. Petinglay said that the perpetrators were believed to be members of the Abu Sayyaf group of still unknown Commander.

Cpt. Petinglay said that upon receipt of the information, Commanding Officer of the 32IB directed one (1) Platoon from the unit to conduct pursuit at the general area where the abductors fled. Further, all operating troops were alerted and tasked to conduct pursuit and blocking operations within the immediate vicinity.

"The recent abduction incident involving our soldier should not be a reason for us to back out but should further motivate us to continue our relentless and sustained focus military operations against the ASG and the rescue of all kidnap victims," said Brigadier General Cirilito Sobejana, Commander of the Joint Task Force Sulu.

Patikul Municipality is one of the main target areas of the military offensives for three (3) months now, as it was reported to be a known stronghold of the bandits, Cpt. Petinglay added.

"It is frustrating that a Tausug soldier who wants a peaceful community and is working for it really hard so that an influx of progress will come in his home Province, will have to be a victim of the bandits. Obviously, the Abu Sayyaf can victimize anyone, even someone from their own tribe," the Western Mindanao Command Chief Lieutenant General Carlito G Galvez, Jr said.

"Therefore, we are calling on all the people of Sulu to join us in this fight. I firmly believe that as long as we are together on this, we will be able to disallow these bandits to continue creating havoc and fear to everyone," added LtGen. Galvez.

"For now, we will continue to hunt the perpetrators and the rest of the Abu Sayyaf. We will not stop until we get our soldier back to his family," the WestMinCom Chief said.

Abu surrenders to troops in Basilan

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (April 21, 2017) - A listed member of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) under top leader Furuji Indama surrendered to the troops in the nearby province of Basilan on Wednesday (April 19), military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) Information Officer Cpt Jo-Ann D. Petinglay disclosed that Abu Sayyaf member Nasser Sagap, a.k.a. Sinbad, 20 years old and a resident of Barangay Limbu Upas, Tipo-Tipo, Basilan, yielded to the troops of the 18th Infantry Battalion under the Joint Task Force Basilan and surrendered his Caliber .30 Garand rifle with one clip and four rounds of ammunition in Barangay Bohe Pahu, Ungkaya Pukan at around 2pm.

Cpt. Petinglay said that Sagap is undergoing a custodial debriefing by the troops of the 18IB.

A surrender ceremony was also held at the Tipo-Tipo Municipality at 8am yesterday, she added.

“This only manifests that our troops are already graining grounds with the combat operations launched by the units and the growing support of the local government and the people in Basilan. The Abu Sayyaf bandits are now compelled to leave their bailiwicks as we work closely with the local government and our partners to turn the strongholds of the Abu Sayyaf into a peaceful community,” said Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., Commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

“We want to work for peace without the use of arms and prevent bloodshed, and, in this light, we are encouraging other Abu Sayyaf bandits, as Filipinos, to lay down their arms and join the government in working for a peaceful and progressive Mindanao,” added LtGen. Galvez.

Cpt. Petinglay further said that Sagap is the 17th Abu Sayyaf member who surrendered since the start of the no let-up operation against the group in January this year. He is the 5th to surrender in Basilan.

Abu slain, 34 more linked to drugs nabbed by government troops in Sulu

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (April 20, 2017) - A member of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) linked to a drug syndicate, was killed in the joint operation of the military and police in the nearby province of Sulu at dawn yesterday, military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) Information Officer Cpt Jo-Ann D. Petinglay disclosed that at 4:00am a fierce gun battle ensued between the Abu Sayyaf bandits and the government forces, composed of the 45th Infantry Battalion under Lieutenant Colonel Salvador and police personnel, after the bandits, who are reportedly involved in drug operations, resisted arrest in Barangay Danag, Patikul, Sulu.

Cpt. Petinglay said that the said law enforcement operation yielded to the death of Abu Sayyaf member Jah, who is a follower of Hairulla Asbang. His cadaver was retrieved by the troops in the area of engagement after the clearing operations.

Further seized by the government forces were an M16 rifle, three (3) Caliber .45 Pistols, five (5) hand grenades, and drug paraphernalia.

Cpt. Petinglay said that thirty four (34) persons, including a female, who were present in the engagement area will be investigated for possible involvement in the drug operations and in any lawlessness.

The apprehended persons and seized items were subsequently brought to the Sulu Provincial Police Office for investigation and documentation.

"This development can somehow prove that the Abu Sayyaf bandits involved themselves in drug trade to sustain their operations against the government and the conduct of their terror attacks, and they may have been funded by drug syndicates who support their schemes,” said Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., Commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

"Rest assured that your armed forces will continue to conduct combat operations against the terrorist group and work with the local government and other law enforcement agencies in the fight against the proliferation of illegal drugs in this side of the country.”

Meanwhile, a soldier incurred minor wounds and was immediately extricated by the responding troops to the Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Hospital in Busbus, Jolo, Sulu for medical attention. He is already in a stable condition as of this report, Cpt. Petinglay added.  

Cpt. Petinglay said that last April 14 at 2:45am, Abu Sayyaf member Samla Halil, a follower of sub-leader Alden Bagade, was nabbed by elements of the Marine Special Operation Group (MARSOG) and the 52nd Special Action Force in Barangay Tulay, Jolo, Sulu.

Recovered from his possession were an M203 .40mm HEDP ammunition, two (2) M16 magazines, and three (3) Caliber .45 magazines.

Cpt. Petinglay further added that last April 15 at 10:30am elements of the 3rd Scout Ranger Battalion and the Civilian Active Auxiliary (CAA) of the 1st Special Forces Company recovered a 7.62mm single shot rifle, a shotgun, BDA uniform, assorted ammunition, and an ICOM radio belonging to the Abu Sayyaf in Barangay Abong Abong, Maluso, Basilan.

Cpt. Petinglay said that on that same day at 3:45pm, troops of the 68th Infantry Battalion, under the Joint Task Force Basilan also seized an Abu Sayyaf camp with 38 bunkers and three (3) guard posts in Barangay Cabcaban, Sumisip, Basilan.

On Tuesday (April 18) at 9:45 am, troops of the 15th Special Forces Company were also able to find an arms cache along the mangrove area of Langas Island, Maloso, Basilan Province. Wrapped in a sack were one (1) M16 Rifle with one (1) magazine and one (1) M1 Garand with one (1) clip and a bandolier.

As per verification with civilians, they were able to see earlier two persons bringing along with them the "sack". One of the two person's arm was accordingly wrapped with a bandage. It is believed that the persons were among the wounded followers of ASG sub-leader Furuji Indama, who was wounded after the armed engagement between the government forces and the group in BrgyCabcaban, Sumisip, Basilan last April 11.

"We will continue to gain grounds in the previous lairs and bailiwicks of the Abu Sayyaf. We will be more aggressively implementing both our lethal and non-lethal operations against them especially that we now have evidence that the bandits are also engage in the illegal drug trade," added LtGen. Galvez.

Government troops foil sea jacking attempt in Zamboanga del Norte high seas

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (April 19, 2017) - Philippine Navy boats and Air force helicopters that were immediately deployed in the seas of Siocon, Zamboanga del Norte were able to foil a seajacking attempt to a cargo vessel at around 8:00 am yesterday, military official said.

       

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) Information Officer Cpt. Jo-Ann D. Petinglay disclosed that the cargo vessel identified as MV Anabelle with 21 crew members that was plying the sea waters off Siocon from Liloy, Zamboanga del Norte enroute to Zamboanga City gave a distress call and reported that three motorized boats with undetermined number of armed men onboard were seemingly attacking them and attempting to board their vessel.

Cpt. Petinglay said, the Western Mindanao Command, thru the Naval Forces Western Mindanao, immediately directed all naval ships patrolling the area to proceed to the last reported location of MV Anabelle, while two (2) Philippine Air Force helicopters were also deployed to fly over the reported area.

The Captain of the cargo vessel said that the pursuing motorized boats immediately left the area upon sensing the arrival of the navy ships and the helicopters.

Cpt. Petinglay said that MV Anabelle was then escorted by Navy Patrol Craft 395 to Zamboanga City while continuously being monitored by the Littoral Monitoring Station Pilas until it was able to dock safely.

"Our naval assets are all ready to render necessary assistance to deter seajacking and abduction at seas," says Rear Adm. Rene V. Medina, Commander of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao.

On Feb. 22, 2017, navy ships were also able to foil an attempt to seajack MV Dong Hae Star by suspected Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in Tawi-Tawi. The bandits immediately aborted their plan upon sensing the arrival of the naval ships and air assets, Cpt. Petinglay added.

"The moment we receive calls for help, WestMinCom will be fast on our tracks to foil any attempts of terrorism or piracy," said Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., Commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

"Our sailors plying these waters should be vigilant all the time since these threats will be trying to seajack vessels and conduct atrocities. It is only when all of us will do our share of fighting this common enemy that we will surely defeat and disallow the bandits to continue sowing fear and terror in our seas and our communities," the WestMinCom Chief added.

2 Notorious Criminal Gang Members Neutralized

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (April 17, 2017) - Combined operatives of Regional Special Operation Group 9, Regional Intelligence Division 9, Provincial Intelligence Branch-Zamboanga Sibugay PPO, Zamboanga Sibugay Public Safety Company, Ipil MPS and 44^th Infantry Battalion-Special Forces, Phil Army conducted a law enforcement operation at Barangay Tiayon, Ipil in the nearby province of Zamboanga Sibugay at about 12:00 noon yesterday, official said.  

PRO9 Information Officer PSupt. Rogelio C. Alabata disclosed that the operation resulted to the arrest of Abdurahman Sakilan aka Bobong Sakilan, 28 years old, and Pujik Ismael aka Pujik Sarahento, 21 years old, both residents of Sitio Gangit, Barangay Mamagon, Naga, Zamboanga Sibugay.

Bobong Sakilan was arrested by virtue of warrant of arrest for the crime of murder Sibugay while Pujik Sarahento was arrested for possession of explosives.

PSupt Alabata said that confiscated from the suspect’s possession were one (1) unit cal.45 pistol, one (1) hand grenade, and ten (10) pcs plastic heat sealed sachets containing white crystalline substances believed to be shabu with estimated value more or less five thousand (P5, 000.00) pesos.

PSupt. Alabata further said that both suspects were involved in the series of kidnaping incidents, highway robberies victimizing rural transit bus and passenger vans, car napping, extortion and sea piracy. They were also involved in the shooting incident that transpired along the National Highway In Barangay Cainglet, Kabasalan, and shooting incident victimizing SSgt Ablao, Intel officer of 44th IB, Phil Army. Further, subjects were also involved in the encounter incident against PPSC who conducted seaborne patrol and ISO in Barangay Mamagon, Naga on April 15, 2017.

Bobong Sakilan also listed as high value target on illegal drugs (Provincial Level) as a member under Ging-Ging Calon Drug Group that distributes illegal drugs in Kabasalan and Naga municipality. Arrested persons are now on the custody of Zamboanga Sibugay PPO for proper disposition, he added.

The arrest of this criminal gang members resulted from the intensified operation against most wanted person operating in Zamboanga Peninsula.

PRO9 Regional Director PCSupt. Billy B. Beltran lauded and commended the operating police units of PRO9 and military authorities for a job well done and for their utmost efforts that resulted to the arrest of two notorious criminal gang member.

PCSupt. Beltran urges the public to support the police in neutralizing most wanted person and notorious criminal gang member by providing relevant and timely information on the identity of wanted personalities in their respective places to report it to the nearest police station or to the PNP hotline and KKK Mobile Apps.

Beheading of kidnap victim Besconde enraged the AFP

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (April 17, 2017) - The AFP expresses its extreme indignation for the beheading of a Kidnap-for-Ransom Victim Mr. Noel Besconde by Terrorist Abu Sayyaf Group Sub Leader Sadjawaan last Thursday (April 13) in the vicinity of Bgy. Tugas, Patikul in the nearby province of Sulu.

Mr. Besconde, Filipino, was one of three members of the crew of FB Ramona who were abducted somewhere in Celebes Sea last Dec 2016.

Western Mindanao Command (WesMinCom) Information Officer Cpt. Jo-Ann D. Petinglay disclosed that the Commander of Joint Task Force Sulu, BGen. Cirilito Sobejana believes that Mr. Besconde was murdered by his ASG captors because he was reportedly ill and impedes their movement to evade the operating units that are hunting them.

"While the AFP condemns this gruesome murder of this hapless kidnap victim, it all the more drives our Soldiers, Airmen, Sailors, and Marines to deliver the lethal blow against this band of terrorists and rescue the remaining kidnap victims," declares AFP chief General Eduardo Año.

"This terrorist group are all the more, by their recent barbarism, fueling the desire of the AFP to crush their beastly practice, stop their kidnap-for-ransom activities, and restore peace in Western Mindanao.

"We will never falter. We will not rest even a bit in our conduct of combat, intelligence, and civil-military operations to protect our people. We will exhaust all means-legal and moral-- to bring this war against terrorists to conclusion. "Meanwhile, I have directed JTF Sulu Commander BGen Sobejana to locate the remains of the Mr. Besconde forthwith. I desire that his body be brought to his mournful family and be accorded a decent burial.

"We continue to call on every God-fearing resident of Sulu, Basilan, and other parts of Western Mindanao to help your AFP and other security forces to put a stop to this criminal and evil act of the ASG. They have no place in our civilized society," concludes General Año.

Eleven more Abus surrender as military offensives heat-up in Western Mindanao

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (April 13, 2017) - Two (2) notorious sub-leaders of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) and nine (9) more Abu Sayyaf bandits tagged in cross-border kidnappings and other nefarious activities surrendered to the troops of the Joint Task Forces Tawi-Tawi and Basilan under the Western Mindanao Command as all-out military offensives ensue in Mindanao, military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WesMinCom) Information Officer Cpt. Jo-Ann D. Petinglay disclosed that Eleven (11) notorious Abu Sayyaf members, including two of their sub-leaders, surrendered to the troops of the Joint Task Force Tawi-Tawi at the Marine Barracks Domingo Deluana in Barangay Sanga-Sanga, Bongao, in the nearby province of Tawi-Tawi at 6pm on Tuesday.

Cpt. Petinglay said that as a result of the joint efforts of the units under the Joint Task Force Tawi-Tawi, led by Brigadier General Custodio Parcon, Jr., and the collaboration of the local government, law enforcement agencies, and the people of Tawi-Tawi, Abu Sayyaf sub-leaders Berong Sariol, a.k.a. Boy Master, and Ben Saudi Dambong Sariol, a.k.a. Boy Pangit, along with nine other Abu Sayyaf members, laid down their arms and surrendered to the government forces for good, ending their years of involvement in cross border kidnappings and seajacking activities.

Cpt. Petinglay said that the Abu Sayyaf members Jasim Dambong, a.k.a. Dams; Mujil Dambong; Magelan Langal; Kael Sariol; Nurhamin Sariol; Alhan Sariol; Amnisain Sariol; Akmad Sariol; and Benasil Sariol, all residents of Sitio Gigipan, Barangay Baldatal, Sapa-Sapa, Tawi-Tawi, were among those who surrendered to the troops and who turned over their firearms, including one (1) M16 rifle with M203, one (1) M14 rifle, one (1) M79 rifle, and four (4) M1 Garand rifle.

Troops of the Joint Task Force Tawi-Tawi immediately subjected the Abu Sayyaf sub-leaders and nine members to a medical check-up and interview upon their surrender that night.

Ben Saudi Dambong Sariol, a.k.a Boy Pangit, 39 years old and a resident of PanglimaSugala, Tawi-Tawi, is a known ASG/KFRG leader operating in Tawi-Tawi province, while Berung Sariol, a.k.a Boy Master, is an ASG sub-leader in Sulu, who later transferred and operated in Tawi-Tawi with the former, Cpt. Petinglay added.

Last May 2009, both sub-leaders were arrested at the Omar Lumber Yard in Elmo St., Bongao, TawiTawi; however, they were released in Zamboanga City due to the absence of a warrant of arrest.

Their group was involved in the following: the beheading of Father Reynaldo Roda OMI in Tabawan, South Ubian, Tawi-Tawi; the abduction of Mayor HjiKuyohPajiji of Sibuto Municipality; the abduction of Marcy M. Dayawan (Filipino) and Gao Hua Yun (Chinese) at the Singamata Resort, Sampurnah, Sabah; and the abduction of Chulhong Park and Glen C. Alendajao in Barangay Baldatal, Sapa-Sapa, Tawi-Tawi on October 23, 2016.

Further, the Sariol group is wanted in Sabah for various piracy and kidnapping offenses. Their group could be likened to the Muktadil brothers during the early days, and it jointly executed previous kidnapping activities with the notorious Muktadil.

The surrendered Abu Sayyaf members will be turned over to the Tawi-Tawi PNP for the proper legal procedures.

From January 1 to April 12, 2017, sixteen (16) Abu Sayyaf bandits have already surrendered to the Joint Task Forces of the Western Mindanao Command. Of this, four Abu Sayyaf bandits have surrendered to the troops in Basilan, one in Sulu, and 11 in Tawi-Tawi.

On April 8, Abu Sayyaf member Ferdauz Asgari, a.k.a Mammong, a known follower of sub-leader Nurhassan Jamiri, also surrendered to the troops of the 74th Infantry Battalion in Poblacion, Tipo-Tipo, Basilan. He also turned over his Caliber .30 M1 Garand rifle (Springfield) and a clip loaded with eight live ammunition.

"Your armed forces remain committed in sustaining the internal security in Mindanao with the all-out offensives being launched by the Joint Task Forces of the Western Mindanao Command. Our troops on the ground will continue to work with the local governments and the Mindanaoans in suppressing the Abu Sayyaf and in thwarting the conduct of atrocities within our joint area of operations, and this has become fruitful with the surrender of sixteen (16) Abu Sayyaf members in a short span of time,” said Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., Commander of the WestMinCom.

"We sincerely welcome these Abu Sayyaf members, who have returned to the fold of the law, and encourage the other bandits to join the government and the peace-loving Filipinos in sustaining the peace in Mindanao without the use of arms.”

The military continues to put pressure on the Abu Sayyaf as the AFP Chief of Staff, General Eduardo Año, left a marching order to suppress the ASG within the time frame provided by the Commander-in-Chief.

“Then again, we cannot do this without the sincerity and commitment of our partners and the people of Mindanao. We have always pushed for multi-sectoral collaboration as we have achieved more with the involvement of the local government, our stakeholders, and the people,” added Lieutenant General Galvez.

General Año lauded the recent accomplishment and cited the recent incident in Bohol as a manifestation of the solidarity among the AFP, as intelligence reports were being shared by our intelligence units to the military troops in the said province, Cpt. Petinglay added.

The Joint Task Forces under the WestMinCom continue to intensify the conduct of military operations to contain the Abu Sayyaf bandits, putting more pressure to the said bandit group and their supporters.

Patrolling troops clash with Abus in Basilan

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (April 11, 2017) -  A heavy armed confrontation ensued between patrolling troops of the Joint Task Force Basilan and members of the Abu Sayyaf Group in Sumisip, Basilan early morning yesterday, military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WesMinCom) Information Officer Cpt. Jo-Ann D. Petinglay disclosed that the personnel of the 4th Special Forces Battalion, who established a detachment in Barangay Cabcaban, Sumisip, Basilan, encountered the said Abu Sayyaf bandits while they were conducting security patrol in the said area at 7:15am and then at around 7:45am, the engaging troops were reinforced by the 1st Special Forces Company, who was being fired at by the withdrawing bandits as the troops were traversing the said temporary patrol base in Barangay Cabcaban.

Pursuit on the evading enemy forces is currently being conducted by the Special Forces following bloodstains left by the fleeing bandits, she added.

Cpt. Petinglay said that as a result of the earlier engagements, five (5) members of the Civilian Active Auxiliary (CAA) sustained wounds, while three (3) CAA members were killed in action. Six (6) other soldiers were also wounded during the second encounter.

Cpt. Petinglay said that eight (8) of the wounded were brought to Zamboanga City for further medical attention at the Camp Navarro General Hospital (CNGH) of the Western Mindanao Command, while three (3) were admitted in a hospital in Basilan.

 “Our engaged troops have recently established a detachment in Barangay Cabcaban in response to the call of the local government of Basilan to secure the area from the threats posed by the Abu Sayyaf bandits. Our soldiers are on security patrols when the encounter occured,” said Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., Commander, WestMinCom.

 “The military will continue to secure the area and work with the local chief executives to contain the Abu Sayyaf bandits in the barangay,” said LtGen. Galvez.

"This incident will not stop us from doing our mandate, in order to free the community from the terror these bandits are causing the people," LtGen. Galvez added.