DTI-ZDS concludes Batch 1 of Project KAPATID’s Mentor ME Program

By Jong Cadion

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (June 1, 2017) - The Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship (PCE) Go Negosyo, in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), envisioned to strengthen the mentorship program for the micro and small enterprises (MSEs), as well as link these MSEs to the value chain of medium and large corporations through inclusive business models, thus, the development of the Project KAPATID. The term “Kapatid” is the Filipino term for “siblings”, which the PCE Go Negosyo used to show Filipino’s passion to help their families.

DTI Provincial Director Maria Socorro M. Atay said, there are three programs composing the Project, namely the Adopt-an-SSF (Shared Service Facilities), Inclusive Business and the Mentor Me Program. The Mentor Me Program, which aims to help Micro and Small Entrepreneurs scale up their business thru the weekly coaching and mentoring, was launched last March 14, 2017 here in the province of Zamboanga del Sur. It has produced 26 mentees coming from the different municipalities of the province, who were selected to undergo a series of trainings through discussion of concepts (lectures) and actual mentoring/coaching sessions.

In partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry, these 26 MSMEs were selected to be coached by distinct mentors from the academe, private sectors and various agencies, as well as successful entrepreneurs who imparted their knowledge in different fields such as marketing, product packaging and labelling, business processes and laws, costing and pricing and other modules to fully equip these micro entrepreneurs in the development of their businesses, she added.

PD Atay further said that after going through the 11 modules, the Mentees are set to undergo the 12^th module, which is the presentation of their Business Improvement Plans yesterday (May 31) at the Hotel Alindahaw, Pagadian City. The session set to determine the specific plans that these MSMEs has drafted for their respective businesses, geared with their technical or personal learnings on the different aspects of business operations, which where discussed throughout the program. With the objective to produce confident entrepreneurs/businessmen with the right mindset and business know-how, the program will identify who among these mentees are prepared to introduce their products to the market, which will be judged and evaluated by representatives from Micro financing institutions, some of the program mentors and DTI officials.

Successful participants were awarded with Certificate of Completion and will graduate from the program.

The DTI-ZDS then proceeded to catering the 2^nd batch of mentees, gathering another set of aspiring entrepreneurs who will develop their products and continue bringing pride to the province.

Six Abus neutralized, nine firearms seized as offensives continue in Western Mindanao

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (June 1, 2017 AFP) - Six (6) more members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) were neutralized (3killed and 3 apprehended) and nine high-powered firearms were seized in the sustained offensives of the Joint Task Forces of the Western Mindanao Command since May 29, 2017, military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) information officer Cpt Jo-Ann D. Petinglay disclosed that elements of the Philippine Marine Ready Fleet Sulu, led by Colonel Antonio Rosario, Jr., encountered fully armed Abu Sayyaf bandits under the late sub-leader Alhabsy Misaya in Barangay Sukuban, Omar, Sulu at 5am yesterday (May 31).

Cpt. Petinglay said that an exchange of gunfire ensued, resulting in the death of a bandit, whose body was retrieved by the engaged troops, and the seizure of eight (8) high-powered firearms left by the evading Abu Sayyaf members. The firearms seized included four (4) M16 rifles, an M77, an M14 rifle, and two (2) Garand rifles.

Meanwhile, no casualty was reported on the government forces.

Cpt Petinglay also said that on Tuesday (May 30), the joint operations of the military and the police yielded to the arrest of three (3) more Abu Sayyaf members and the seizure of an explosive in Zamboanga City.

Cpt. Petinglay further disclosed that the joint elements of police and the soldiers from 11th Infantry Battalion under LTC Rolando Gomez, served a warrant of arrest for kidnapping and serious illegal detention with ransom to Abu Sayyaf member Kimhar Asusi, a.k.a Abu Kimar, a resident of Parang, Sulu, upon his arrival at the Zamboanga City Port at 6am on Tuesday.

A fragmentation grenade was found inside the bag of the bandit upon initial search.

Asusi was subsequently brought to the Zamboanga Police Station 11 for legal procedures.

In his report to the Western Mindanao Command, Colonel Leonel Nicolas said that Asusi is a Sulu-based ASG member who started off as an errand boy of Abu Sayyaf member Roger Sadji, while safekeeping the Sipadan hostages in 2000.

Records show that Asusi was previously under Sibih Pisih, but he transferred to the group of sub-leader Angah Adji. He was involved in the kidnapping of two coastguard personnel in Dipolog last 2015. The victims were later rescued in Indanan, Sulu.

Cpt. Petinglay further said that on the evening of same day (May 30), Al Hamed Manalas Abdurahman, a.k.a. Al Amid, 37 years old, and Murasidol Abdurahman, a.k.a. Teddung, 32 years old, both Sulu-based Abu Sayyaf members under Idang Susukan, were arrested by combined elements of the Joint Task Force Zamboanga and the police by virtue of search warrants issued by Judge Eric Elumba.

Seized from Al Hamed were five M16 magazines, nine rounds of M16 live ammunition, and an M16 bolt assembly at his residence in Barangay Maasin, this city at around 6:40pm.

Elements of the JTF Zamboanga and the police also arrested Murasidol Abdurahman at his residence in Barangay Ayala at around 7pm on that evening, she added.

Seized by the troops were a fragmentation grenade, three blasting caps, and a small bottle of suspected C4 explosive substance.

Al Hamed and Murasidol Abduhraman were brought to the Zamboanga City Police Office for legal procedure past 7 last night.

Cpt. Petinglay further added that on Monday (May 29), elements of the PMRFS, Marine Special Operation Group engaged in a gun battle with Abu Sayyaf members under sub-leader Sibih Pisih in Barangay Mabahay, Talipao, Sulu Province at 9:30 in the evening.

Said armed confrontation lasted for 10 minutes, resulting in the deaths of two Abu Sayyaf members, and the seizure of an M16 rifle.

"One soldier was wounded in action during the firefight," said Brigadier General Cirilito Sobejana, Commander of the Joint Task Force Sulu.

"He was safely evacuated last night and given medical attention at the Kuta Teodulfo Bautista Hospital in Jolo, Sulu, and is already stable by now," added Brigadier General Sobejana.

"I would like to recognize the efforts of our Joint Task Forces and the sacrifices of our soldiers," said Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., Commander of the WestMinCom.

"As we continue on our fight to finish off the Abu Sayyaf, we are able to neutralize them in groups or individually because of our growing network of supporters."

"Mas mabuti pa na sumurrender nalang ang mga Abu Sayyaf na ito kesa makipaglaban sila sa mas malakas na pinagsamang pwersa Gobyerno at ng sambayanan."

"Alam naman nila na napakarami na ang sumurrender at nagbigay ng impormasyon patungkol sa lokasyon at pagkakakilanlan ng mga kasamahan nila, kaya pasasaan ba't makukuha din natin ang iba pang bandido," added the WestMinCom chief.

Cpt. Petinglay concluded that from January 1, 2017 to date, there are a total of 180 Abu Sayyaf members neutralized, 72 of whom were killed, 44 were apprehended, and 64 surrendered to the troops.

After 5 months since the campaign to crush the group started, 98 firearms were already recovered from the bandit group, wherein 88 were high powered and 10 are low powered firearms.

NFWM send off navy ships to Marawi

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (June 1, 2017) - Naval Forces Western Mindanao sent off two Navy vessels to Marawi City on Tuesday (May 30) at 10 a.m in Ensign Majini Pier, Naval Station Romulo Espaldon, Calarian, Zamboanga City, military official said.

Naval Forces Western Mindanao information officer LTJG Maycee Ann B Angga disclosed that the Landing Craft 288 (BRP Waray) and 298 (BRP Ivatan) transported Fleet-Marine Team composed of combat service support elements and K9 units to augment troops that are currently fighting against local terrorist group Maute in Marawi City.

Relief goods are also on board the Navy vessels for the civilians affected by the conflict in Marawi City. These consolidated relief goods are from various stakeholders and agencies, government and non-government, around Zamboanga City for the Marawi evacuees in Iligan City, she added.

The Commander of NFWM, Rear Adm. Rene V. Medina AFP presided the simple send-off ceremony. In his message to the troops, he bid everyone fair winds, clear skies and following seas as they embark on their journey. He likewise expressed his confidence to the brave men and women of the Philippine Navy and Philippine Marine Corps who will go on this mission, and wished that may they be home as soon as the Maute group is neutralized.

LTJG Angga further said that these troops and equipment were being sent to Iligan City to augment the military in the continuous fighting between the government forces and Maute group in Marawi City that sparked last week. The AFP is positive that these additional personnel and logistical support will strengthen the military stronghold in the area and will eventually crush these lawless elements.

  

Military planes/boats to transport relief goods for Marawi displaced persons

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (May 31, 2017) - On the 7th day of crisis in Marawi City, local government units and other sectors of society also took heed to the growing number of displaced persons in the different evacuation centers and shelters by sending relief goods and other forms of aid.

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) Information Officer Cpt Jo-Ann D. Petinglay disclosed that the Zamboanga City Government was among the first of the Local Government Units to contact Western Mindanao Command for the possibility of transporting relief goods donated by Zamboanguenos to Marawi city displaced persons who are in about 24 evacuation centers.

Cpt. Petinglay said that a Navy boat ferry the 300 sacks of rice, 55 cartons of sardines and 50 cartons of noodles yesterday (May 30). The relief goods were turned-over by Mayor Beng Climaco of Zamboanga to WestMinCom through the Chief of the Unified Command Staff, Colonel Reyeg and the Unified Command Staff for Civil Military Operations, U7 Lieutenant Colonel Joel Mamon at Camp Navarro, 8pm Monday night (May 29).

"In behalf of the People of Zamboanga, we are turning over these relief goods to WestMinCom to be transported for the people of Marawi," says Mayor Beng Climaco of Zamboanga City.

"It was our decision to immediately send help on the first day the conflict broke out because we can feel and understand what the people of Marawi are going through."

"We have also been in the same experience some years ago (referring to the Zamboanga siege in 2013), and we know it is never easy," she adds.

The truckload of goods were brought at the Navy headquarters on Monday night (May 29), to be loaded by soldiers on a navy vessel that is set to sail today for Iligan.

"The travel would take about 22 hours from Zamboanga to Iligan," says Lieutenant General Carlito G Galvez, Jr, Commander of the Western Mindanao Command. "We expect these goods to arrive by Wednesday noon time."

"CEOs of big companies from Manila have also contacted me expressing their intention of sending a C130 load of relief goods for Marawi IDPs."

"We are more than willing to be of assistance as long as it is for the good of humanity," the WestMinCom chief adds.

"We will also assess which evacuation centers have not received enough relief goods so that we can also balance the distribution, of course this will be done with the help of the government agencies concerned."

163 more civilians rescued by troops as clearing operations continue in Marawi

By Jong Cadion

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (May 31, 2017 ) - As government forces continue to clear Marawi City of the terror brought by the Maute, 163 civilians were rescued in two barangays of the City on Monday (May 29), military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) Information Officer Cpt Jo-Ann D. Petinglay disclosed that at 10:20 am, a heavy armed engagement ensued as troops tried to get into the Lanao Del Sur Electric Company (LASURECO) Incorporated in Brgy. Gadungan, Marawi City in the nearby province of Lanao del Sur.

Cpt. Petinglay said that according to a text message coming from one of the trapped civilians, they were in one of the buildings of LASURECO and were held hostage by about 30 terrorist for two days already.

When the fighting subsided, 22 civilians were rescued and escorted by troops to safety. In another area of Brgy. Gadungan, soldiers were able to rescue 20 more civilians hiding in one of the buildings.

Cpt. Petinglay further said that at 2:30 pm, troops engaged in a firefight with some terrorists at Brgy. Marinaut, Marawi City, recovering four M4 carbine rifles and one M203 left by the fleeing terrorists.

Meanwhile, troops reaching Brgy Saber, were able to rescue 121 civilians whose safe passage towards the Provincial Capitol was immediately facilitated, she added.

She said that clearing operations continue in some parts of the City. Soldiers are searching for terrorist inch by inch, making sure that they are not hiding in houses.

After seven days of fighting, 65 Maute members were killed with 42 bodies recovered by troops and 23 others confirmed by eye witnesses.

Fifty-five (55) firearms were recovered, 51 high powered and 4 low powered. Nineteen (19) dead bodies of civilians mercilessly killed by the terrorist were recovered in the different areas of the City.

"Our focus as of the moment is to clear Marawi of militants, to rescue trapped civilians and to recover civilian casualties and victims in the fastest means possible," says Brigadier General Rolando Bautista, Commander of the Joint Task Force Marawi.

"Yesterday, we were able to safely extricate 163 civilians from the dangers of the terror," he said on Monday (May 29).

As of this report, 560 civilians were rescued by soldiers and policemen.

“Despite numerous attempts to reach out to the Maute, they refuse to have a stand down in order to evacuate trapped civilians thus, the need to be very careful and to make calculated actions is very important for your armed forces as of the moment in order to avoid collateral damage and loss of life from among the innocent civilians," says Lieutenant General Carlito G Galvez, Jr, Commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

“In doing so, we are sad to report to the Filipino people that 20 of your soldiers made the ultimate sacrifice and more than 50 were wounded.”

"We ask for support and understanding from the people affected. We are giving our best effort to get all terrorists the soonest," says Lieutenant General Galvez.

Philippines: ICRC steps up response to needs linked to fighting in Marawi City

By Jong Cadion

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (May 29, 2017) – Thousands of people continue to flee the fighting in Marawi City in the nearby province of Lanao del Sur, Southern Philippines, seeking safety in neighboring areas such as Iligan City. Many families are staying with relatives, while others went to evacuation centers or sought shelters in schools.

“This morning, our team has finally entered Marawi City and delivered 1,000 water jugs to the displaced families at the provincial capitol, and transported at least 300 residents from Marawi to the evacuation center in Saguiaran. We were able to access Marawi as we are in touch with various stakeholders,” said Pascal Porchet, Head of Delegation of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in the Philippines, on Friday (May 26)

“The situation is very fluid. Residents are moving in and out of Marawi, and we are seriously concerned about those who are trapped or have chosen to stay in the city, who are in need of food and water. This is currently a challenge for our teams on the ground as they assess the situation in order to have a clear picture of the number of displaced people and their needs,” he added.

In Iligan, the ICRC has prepositioned medical supplies to reinforce the capacity of rural health units in addressing the basic health needs of displaced people. They include basic medicines, antibiotics, dressing materials; as well as injectable medication and intravenous fluids that can support 30,000 people in three months. One of these kits were delivered to the RHU in Saguiaran on Friday afternoon, said information officer Allison Lopez, Head of Public Communication, ICRC.

Medical items to treat wounded people have also been dispatched, for hospitals that may need replenishment. In addition, food, essential household items and hygiene kits were dispatched to Iligan from the ICRC warehouse in Davao Friday afternoon for prepositioning, he added.

Lopez further said that the ICRC also provided first-aid bags and dressing kits to support the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) chapters in Marawi and Iligan cities. It has also provided resources for the mobilization of PRC’s volunteer force in case a greater response is needed. The PRC and the ICRC will coordinate the response according to the needs. The PRC is ICRC’s primary partner in the country.

With the ongoing hostilities in Marawi City, and with some residents remaining there, Porchet urged those involved in the fighting to take the necessary precautions to spare civilians and their property.

“International humanitarian law (IHL) remains applicable in this situation, even after the declaration of martial law in Mindanao. As such, it must be respected at all times and by all the parties. People who may be arrested must be treated humanely and the ICRC will continue to monitor their conditions and treatment,” said Porchet.

IHL limits the means and methods of warfare and protects people who do not take part in the fighting (i.e civilians, medics, aid workers) and those who can no longer fight (i.e. wounded, sick, captured or detained fighters). These limits are particularly meaningful in populated areas where the risk of harm to civilians and civilian objects, including essential infrastructure, increases.

The ICRC is a neutral, impartial and independent humanitarian organization that protects and assists victims of armed conflict. It has an international mandate to promote knowledge for and respect of IHL.

7 Abus surrender, turn-over 5 High Powered Firearms in Western Mindanao

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (May 29, 2017) - On the 4th day after Martial Law was declared in all of Mindanao, four Abu Sayyaf members surrendered to the troops of the Joint Task Force Basilan at past noon time on Saturday (May 27), military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) Information Officer Cpt Jo-Ann D. Petinglay disclosed that the bandits who were all under ASG sub leader Nurhassan Jamiri, turned themselves to the soldiers of 18th Infantry Battalion at their headquarters in Sitio Camalig, Brgy Bohe Pahu, Ungkaya Pukan, Basilan Province at 2pm.

Cpt. Petinglay said that Usman Mussa a.k.a Akkus, Balie Kasaran a.k.a Balie, Sadar Tutuh Kasaran a.k.a Sadan, and Sarwin Askalin Kasaran a.k.a Win, all residents of Al Barka, Basilan also turned-over two M16 rifles and one cal .30 M1 Garand rifle upon their surrender.

Colonel Juvymax Uy, the Commander of the Joint Task Force Basilan in his report to Western Mindanao Command said that during the initial debriefing, the Abus revealed that they decided to surrender after learning the death of two ASG sub leaders (referring to Abu Rami who was killed in Bohol and Alhabsy Misaya who was killed in Sulu) in just a span of one month.

Further, they said that they were touched by the sincerity of President Duterte and believes that if they surrender, they will soon be given the chance of a new life with their families.

The Martial Law declaration made them more fearful for their safety as soldiers can already knock at their doorstep without the necessary warrants.

Last Tuesday (May 23), three followers of the late sub-leader Aljine Mundok, a.k.a. Ninok Sappari, yielded to the troops in Tawi-Tawi, Cpt. Petinglay added.

Cpt. Petinglay said that Angki Haradja, Nickson Abdulmari Jalil, and Asil Sainuddin surrendered to the elements of the Joint Task Force Tawi-Tawi, in Barangay Sanga-Sanga, Bongao. The bandits also yielded an M1 Garand and an M14 rifle.

"Haradja, Jalil, and Sainuddin were involved in armed engagements with our soldiers in Barangay Tugas, Patikul, Sulu in May 2013, and in Sitio Kanjimao, Barangay Buhanginan, Patikul in May 2014," says Brigadier General Custodio Parcon, Commander of the Joint Task Force Tawi-tawi.

"The subjects surrendered for fear of reprisal after learning that the military successfully neutralized Sappari, their sub leader," he adds.

Sainuddin is responsible for the death of Datu Nixon Tarsum, brother of Vice Mayor Datu Adjuwanda Tarsum of Patikul, Sulu sometime in 2015.

"Our efforts against the Abu Sayyaf will not and never will falter," says Lieutenant General Carlito G Galvez, Jr, Commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

"Despite the ongoing challenges our command is facing in Marawi, troops from Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-tawi are more than eager to finish the Abu Sayyaf threat at the given deadline."

"All of WestMinCom is hoping that more Abus will decide to surrender especially that it is Ramadan season and they need to observe the holy month properly without fearing that they be apprehended by the military or the police."

"We will welcome them if they wish to lay down their arms; we will hunt them and give them a good fight if they decide otherwise," adds Lieutenant General Galvez.

The four (4) Abus are still in the custody of 18IB for further debriefing and will be turned-over to the PNP for the legal procedures.

As of this report, 64 Abu Sayyaf members already surrendered to the troops of WestMinCom starting January this year.

The entire Western Mindanao Command joins our Muslim brethrens in the observance of the Holy Month of Ramadan

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (May 29, 2017)- “All our personnel in Western Mindanao were ordered to carry out security measures to ensure that the vicinity of mosques (masjids) will be secured and that the Islamic faithfuls are free to go there to exercise their religion,” says Cpt. Petinglay.

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) Information Officer Cpt Jo-Ann D. Petinglay said that as fighting continues in Marawi, our units are constrained to launch airstrikes to identified specific targets occupied by the Maute/ISIS terrorist group. The terrorists actions prevent their fellow Muslims to peacefully and solemnly observe Ramadan by continuing to occupy buildings and structures in Marawi City. They serve to delay impede our troops in restoring peace and order in the City."

These terrorists’ atrocities continue sow terror and confusion even to non-combatant Muslims and Christians. Establishments remain nonoperational and government services unavailable causing extreme deprivation and hardships to the people.

“We cannot and should not allow these terrorists Maute/ISIS to ruin the lives of our fellow Filipinos and give Islam a bad name."

"It is in this light that there is a need to deliberately employ forces and air assets to target with precision selected, identified, and already isolated terrorist locations," adds Cpt. Petinglay.

"Ganun paman, nais naming humingi ng paumanhin sa lahat ng mamamayang apektado, sa mga kapatid naming Muslim lalong lalo na sa mga miyembro ng MILF at MNLF, humihingi kami ng pang unawa sa pangyayari ngayon."

"Naway magtulungan tayo sa mga panahong ito, at ating paigtingin ang samahang nabuo sa mga nakaraang mga pagsubok na ating nalampasan."

"Naniniwala akong matatapos ito sa tulong ng inyong suporta, pang-unawa at mga panalangin."

"Even our Muslim soldiers are given time to practice their faith."

Cpt. Petinglay further says, "Normally, a ramadan break is granted to Muslim soldiers however, with the declaration of Martial Law and the mission to immediately address the havoc caused by the Maute /ISIS in Marawi. Our Muslim soldiers for now, need to give their share of sacrifices in order to make sure that Islam believers from Marawi can soon go back to their homes and observe Ramadan."

"Ang ating mga kasundaluhang Muslim na nasa Marawi ay kinakailangan munang magsakripisyo at ipagpaliban ang kanilang religious practice hangang sa matapos ang gulo sa Marawi."

"Sa muli, maraming salamat sa inyong panalangin at suporta," Cpt. Petinglay closes.

31 Terrorists killed, 6 High Powered Firearms recovered by troops on clearing operations in Marawi City

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (May 26, 2016) - Elements of the Joint Task Force ZamPeLan under Brigadier General Rolly Bautista engaged in an armed confrontation with members of the Local Terrorist Group in Marawi City yesterday (May 25), military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) Cpt Jo-Ann D. Petinglay disclosed that at 9 am yesterday, operating troops while clearing two bridges heading towards Bangulo area encountered an estimated 30 heavily armed terrorist. Eighteen (18) more terrorist were killed after two hours armed confrontation with the same troops. Five high powered firearms were also recovered from the encounter site.

"As of this report, 31 terrorist were already neutralized and 6 HPFAs were recovered by the troops," says Brigadier General Bautista.

"Our troops are doing deliberate operations in areas we believe are still occupied or infested with the terrorist's presence.

"I specifically ordered our soldiers to locate and destroy these terrorists as soon as possible," he adds.

Cpt. Petinglay further said that in another area of the city, soldiers also on clearing operations were able to rescue 16 civilians upon reaching Brgy Kilala, Marawi City,

Operating units, through the clearing operations they were conducting, afforded safe passage to the said civilians trapped in the areas where they hid during the height of Maute Group's occupation of the area.

"The skirmishes and clearing operations today resulted to the unfortunate death of 6 soldiers and wounding of 7 others," says Lieutenant General Carlito G Galvez, Jr, Commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

"They made the ultimate sacrifice to ensure that the City will be cleared from terror threat and immediately restore normalcy in this part of Mindanao."

"We once more call on the people in the community to join us fight terrorism. Provide your security forces with information that will contribute to the neutralization of these agents of deaths and destruction."

"We will exhaust all efforts to crush the remaining Maute members so that the people of Marawi City can go back to their homes the soonest," adds LtGen. Galvez.

Two Abus slain amid offensives in Western Mindanao

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (May 26, 2017) - Following the offensives launched by the government forces, two more members of the Abu Sayyaf Group were killed in nearby province of Basilan yesterday (May 25), military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) Information Officer Cpt Jo-Ann D. Petinglay disclosed that elements of the Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team 4 of Barangay Guinanta, Albarka, Basilan engaged in a two-hour gun battle with Abu Sayyaf members led by Sarwin Kasaram in Barangay Guinanta at 12:50pm yesterday.

Cpt. Petinglay said that the enemy’s fatalities were identified as Abu Sayyaf members Nasirin Awwalin and Hasmin Lajid.

Meanwhile, three members of the BPAT incurred wounds and were subsequently extricated for medical attention.

Kasaram is a follower of sub-leader Nurhassan Jamiri.

As of this press time, troops of the Joint Task Force Basilan continue to conduct checkpoints to thwart the extrication of the Abu Sayyaf members.

Meanwhile, the offensives launched by the Alpha Company of the 10th Infantry Battalion resulted in a fierce gun battle between the operating troops and the Abu Sayyaf bandits in Barangay Tandu Bagua, Patikul, Sulu at 5:30am yesterday (May 25), Cpt. Petinglay added.

"The troops were acting on reported sightings of the Abu Sayyaf bandits and their kidnap victims in the area of engagement. In an attempt to rescue the hostages, our troops on the ground engaged the Abu Sayyaf members,” said Brigadier General Cirilito Sobejana, Commander of the Joint Task Force Sulu.

Said armed confrontation lasted for 20 minutes, after which the Abu Sayyaf bandits fled, bringing with them their casualties. Elements of the 501st Brigade immediately reinforced the engaged troops. Blockade and mortar support were further delivered.

A soldier died and 10 other personnel sustained wounds and were promptly extricated for medical treatment at the Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Hospital in Barangay Busbus, Jolo, Sulu.

We have yet to disclose the names of our casualties pending notification to their next of kin, said Cpt. Petinglay.

"We are sad to report that one of our soldiers died during the encounter this morning in the attempt to rescue kidnap victims who are in the hands of Abu Sayyaf," says Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., Commander, Western Mindanao Command.

"We will continue to conduct pursuit and rescue operations in order to track and get these bandits the soonest,” he adds.

120 civilians rescued by government troops in Marawi City

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (May 25, 2016) - As the troops of Joint Task Force Zampelan headed by Brigadier General Rolly Bautista continue to zero-in on Maute members in Marawi City since Tuesday afternoon (May 23), Government forces were able to take hold of the different areas that were reportedly held by some Maute members since that night, military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) Information Officer Cpt Jo-Ann D. Petinglay disclosed that at 3pm yesterday (Wed, May 24), the Amai Pakpak Hospital where Maute members accordingly occupied and held captive some seventy-eight civilians (8 patients, 49 construction workers, and 21 hospital staff) was already declared cleared of Maute presence.

On Tuesday afternoon (May 23), members of Maute allegedly came to the hospital and shot dead one policeman and a security guard before they entered the hospital premises.

According to sources, the militants were bringing along with them two wounded members and sought medical care from the hospital staff upon their arrival. On the process, they also held captive all 78 civilians in the hospital, Cpt. Petinglay said.

In other areas, the Dansalan College in which one of the school buildings was burned on Tuesday night, was also declared cleared of the Maute threat as of yesterday afternoon after soldiers were able to rescue forty-two (42) teachers of said school who were trapped.

Unfortunately, while in the course of these rescue operations, five soldiers were killed and 31 were wounded while making sure that civilians be brought to safety.

Also, one policeman who was driving a police vehicle was killed on Tuesday afternoon by the militants, she added.

She said that as of 6pm yesterday night, there were thirteen (13) Maute members who were killed (two cadavers recovered) and an M16 rifle was recovered by the government forces.

Soldiers were also able to recover a number of Improvised Explosive Devices' components from a safe house that was previously occupied by the terrorist group.

Cpt. Petinglay further said that early yesterday morning, hundreds of residents from Marawi were seen fleeing from the City towards Iligan City, with combined AFP and PNP personnel facilitating their safe and speedy passage.

Likewise, safety procedures like check points/inspections were conducted along routes to ensure that no terrorist elements can mix up with Internally Displaced Persons. As of this report, soldiers and policemen are still in the area acting on information provided by concerned residents.

"Terrorism problem is something we all have to battle together as one humanity who are strongly against it," says Lieutenant General Carlito G Galvez, Jr, Commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

"Many people in Marawi and in other areas are denying the presence of a looming terrorism threat in their communities. Sadly, we even received reports that there were even politicians supporting the group in some way."

"These threat is something that needs to be eliminated and completely destroyed because if left to thrive, it will soon poison our communities and take our freedom and our precious lives away from us."

"We are therefore calling on all citizens not only those in Marawi but also in other areas of Mindanao to join us in the fight. We have to make noise and disallow these terrorist to destroy our communities. Let us all make a strong stance against this menace before it gets us," adds Lieutenant General Galvez.

"We would like to pay tribute to our soldiers who perished and made the ultimate sacrifice while delivering their duty to the nation. I am saddened by this loss, but their story will forever be etched in the pages of history. They will be known as heroes who defended Marawi from the claws of terrorism."

AFP-WMC’s Statement on the Declaration of Martial Law and the Marawi incident

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (May 24, 2017) - Our President, through Presidential Spokesperson Abella, declared last night "Martial Law" in the entire Mindanao for a period of 60 days.

During the Press Conference attended by DFA Secretary Cayetano, DND Sec Lorenza, and the Presidential Spokesperson Abella, the President called for such due to the developing situation in Marawi City yesterday (Tue, May 23) and the impending volatile situation in other areas of Mindanao.

We are yet to get a written guidance as to how the declaration will translate to our operations on the ground, especially here at Western Mindanao, where all threat groups are present. We are, however, assuring the public that we will use the current mandate to boost our campaign against terrorism. And we will enforce our mandate in accordance with the law and with respect to human rights and the International Humanitarian Law, said WestMinCom Information Officer Cpt. Jo-Ann D. Petinglay.

I would like to specifically quote a part of Section 18, Article VII of the 1987 Constitution, which provides that:

"A state of martial law does not suspend the operation of the Constitution, nor supplant the functioning of the civil courts or legislative assemblies, nor authorize the conferment of jurisdiction on military courts and agencies over civilians where civil courts are able to function, nor automatically suspend the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus. The suspension of the privilege of the writ shall apply only to persons judicially charged for rebellion or offenses inherent in or directly connected with invasion."

To our MNLF and MILF brothers, please be reminded that the declaration is done to suppress the rebellion brought about by the Maute Group in Marawi and the other threat groups related to them, such as the ASG and the BIFF.

There is no need to worry about the current situation as our soldiers will be reminded to uphold and respect the ongoing peace process between the GPH and the peace-loving MILF and MNLF.

As to the Marawi incident, the Government is in control of the situation and is fully aware that the Maute and similar groups have the capability, though limited, to disturb the peace; these have shown no hesitation in causing havoc, taking innocent lives, and destroying property as manifested yesterday in Marawi City.

At 2pm Tuesday (May 23), our soldiers launched an operation against the members of the local Terrorist Group-Maute, also believing that the ASG leader Isnilon Hapilon was with them, Cpt. Petinglay added.

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) Information Officer Cpt. Jo-Ann D. Petinglay further said that they tried to contain the fighting in specific areas, but the Militants attempted to conduct diversionary tactics in other areas of the City in order to ease off the pressure in the target area where IH is believed to be hiding.

Containing these terrorists could have been easier if the area is not a built-up community, however, as our troops have to inch closer to the enemy, they also need to make sure that the civilians are safe.

Our Soldiers and policemen are complementing each other’s efforts in order to contain and address the attacks conducted by the militants in some areas of Marawi.

And yes, we have already incurred casualties from among our forces due to the skirmishes yesterday.

We have also received reports of the death of some Maute members, and the death of some civilian casualties which we are still validating right now.

Along this line, we are calling on all citizens of Marawi to refrain from going out from their homes and to be vigilant at all times. We also ask them to inform authorities of any suspicious looking individuals in their area or inform authorities of any incidents that they believe should need action from the government forces.

Additionally, we would also like to appeal to those who are in Marawi City and in other areas to refrain from posting the locations of the government troops in social media as it will only endanger the lives of our soldiers and policemen. More so, it will only hamper our ongoing operations on the ground.

While it is true that we have enough forces, we still need the full support of the people in Marawi in this fight against terrorism.

Once again, your WestMinCom will continue to do our mandate and is doing our best to finish the problem the soonest, adds Cpt. Petinglay.

Notorious BIFF bomber neutralized, IED components and firearms seized in Maguindanao

By Jong Cadion

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (May 23, 2017) - A notorious leader and bomber of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters was killed, while several firearms and war materiel were seized in the series of the joint operations launched by the military and police in Sultan Kudarat early Monday (May 22), military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) Information Officer Cpt Jo-Ann D. Petinglay disclosed that at 1am yesterday, joint elements of the 603rd Brigade, composed of troops from the 5th Special Forces Battalion and the 19th Infantry Battalion, and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group-Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao conducted joint operations at the ARMM housing project, yielding to the death of a BIFF bomb instructor, identified as Murad Ali, in Barangay Capiton, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao.

Said operation was conducted by virtue of the search warrants issued for violation of Republic Act No. 9516 and Republic Act No. 10591.

Further recovered were a 60MM HE mortars round; a fragmentation grenade; an INGRAM; and suspected components of an Improvised Explosive Device, composed of seven pieces of nine-volt battery, 16 blasting caps, nine battery connectors, four sets of cutting tools, four cellular phones, a radio, a detonating cord, a GPS, and a laptop.

Cpt. Petinglay said that the recovered items were brought to the headquarters of the CIDG-ARMM for documentation and proper disposition, while the remains of Ali were turned over to his relatives after proper procedures were made by the SOCO team.

“This recent operational accomplishment will seriously degrade the BIFF, which propagates terrorism by conducting bombing activities in Central Mindanao,” said Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., Commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

"Ali was a notorious bomb instructor and a protégée of the late Basit Usman. Just like Usman, he was an expert bomb trainer of newly recruited BIFF members," he added.

Meanwhile, at 5am Monday (May 22), operating troops of the 603rd Brigade, composed of the 37th Infantry Battalion, 5th Special Forces Battalion, and combined elements of the PNP RPSB and PDEA-ARMM conducted a law enforcement operation by virtue of the search warrants issued for violation of Republic Act No. 10591 and Republic Act No. 9165 in Barangay Katuli, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao, Cpt. Petinglay added.

Cpt. Petinglay further disclosed that the said operation resulted in the arrest of several target personalities, who were initially brought to the headquarters of the PDEA-ARMM for documentation and legal procedures.

Further seized were quantities of illegal drugs, an M16 rifle, a Bushmaster rifle, a Thompson submachine gun, and a Beretta 9mm pistol.

 "Joint Task Force Central led by Major General ArnelDelavega is actively partnering with the other agencies in support to the conduct of law enforcement operations," says LtGen. Galvez.

"It is expected that more of these successes will be reaped due to the growing awareness of the community and the renewed vigor to combat terrorism and lawlessness," he added.

11 NPA rebels surrender in Sultan Kudarat Province, 8 highpowered firearms handed over

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (May 22, 2017) - After a number of skirmishes between the government forces and the members of the New People's Army in Sultan Kudarat Province earlier this month, eleven (11) Communist Terrorists surrendered in Midtungok Village, Senator Ninoy Aquino, Sultan Kudarat Province at 10:00am Sunday (May 21) to the troops of the Joint Task Force Central, military official said.

JTF Central Commander, Brigadier General Arnel Delavega in his report to the WestMinCom Commander said, that the surrenderors handed over 8 high-powered rifles, including five M16 Rifles, two M1 Garand Rifles, and one AK 47 Rifle.

He said that all of the surrenderors are Manobo tribe residents of the hinterland village of Midtungok. Among them are: Ayob Mopac, Benjamin Kalay, Samuel Badak, Mel Pandi, Kang Mopac, Tiin Mooac, Usad Mopac, Long Oding, Sebio Masandag, Gabriel Mopac, and Nonoy Lapi.

Col. Bismarck Soliba, the Commander of the 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade, also noted that the NPA in Sultan Kudarat is losing members due to demoralization in the ranks.

"The lumads are disgruntled over the unfulfilled promises of the NPA leaders. The members are dying in the encounters but the 'Supamil' (family support) for their followers was not provided," he said.

MGen. Arnel Dela Vega, also recognized the units involved saying, "This is a combined effort of the 33rd Infantry Battalion and the 57th Infantry Battalion. The surrender reflects the waning influence of the communist movement in the countryside," said Dela Vega.

"I am glad that these CTs have realized the futility of the armed struggle. Mayor Randy Ecija Jr of Sen. Ninoy Aquino town has shown to them that the LGU is ready to address the social issues in their town," he added.

After their surrender, the CTs were presented to the town Mayor, Randy Ecija, Jr, earlier on that day.

A debriefing will follow after the simple ceremony and the processing of documents.

Meanwhile in Basilan, two (2) more Abu Sayyaf members contacted the troops of the Joint Task Force Basilan to surrender at 10:45am on Saturday (May 20), official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) Information Officer Cpt Jo-Ann D. Petinglay disclosed that a certain a.k.a Wowee Hassan and Samer Batin a.k.a Iroh, both under the ASG sub leader Nurhasan Jamiri surrendered to the troops of the 18th Infantry Battalion just two days after the surrender of two of their fellow Abus.

Joint Task Force Commander, Colonel Juvymax Uy specifically ordered his troops to fetch the duo and to bring them to the headquarters of 18IB at Sitio Camalig, Bohe Pahu, Ungkaya Pukan, Basilan for the debriefing and documentation.

Hassan and Batin, who are both residents of Al Barka of same Province also turned-in a caliber .30 M1 garand rifle to the soldiers, Cpt. Petinglay added.

"The two Abu Sayyaf revealed that they fear for their lives as more of their fellow ASG members surrendered and gave information of the others. They said that they opted to surrender now believing that the government forces will eventually get them," Lieutenant General Carlito G Galvez, Jr, Commander of the Western Mindanao Command, who has operational command over the Joint Task Force Central and Basilan said.

"Again, my congratulations to our soldiers in JTF Central and Basilan for working hard and making sacrifices in order to make sure that the enemies of the people will continue to feel our brunt and our might, leading to their subsequent surrender," says LtGen Galvez who is in Davao attending the 2nd round of a Sultanate Summit.

"It is our intent that we continue to put pressure to these threat groups as we do both lethal and non-lethal approaches."

"Malaki ang naitulong sa atin ng mga local government officials sa laban na ito. Kasama na natin ang Sultanates, ang mga Ulama at traditional leaders, maging ang MILF, MNLF at ibang stakeholders," he said.

"Ito lang ay nagsasalamin na kapag tayo ay samasama sa iisang hangarin, nakakasiguro tayo na matatalo natin ang ano mang grupong na nagnanais maghasik ng kasamaan sa ating mga lugar," he added.

Three more Abus neutralized by WestMinCom troops as operations heat up

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (May 20, 2017) - As combat operations heats up all over Western Mindanao, troops of the Joint Task forces pound harder on the remaining Abu Sayyaf Group resulting to the neutralization of three more bandits, military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) Information Officer Cpt Jo-Ann D. Petinglay disclosed that at 2am Friday (May 19), elements of the 61st/65th Marine Company, Marine Special Operation Group and the 2nd Special Forces Battalion, engaged in an armed confrontation with Abu Sayyaf remnants under the late sub-leader Alhabsy Misaya on Bangalaw Island, Banguingui in the nearby province of  Sulu.

Said exchange of gunfire resulted in the neutralization of an Abu Sayyaf member, identified as a certain Imbo. Recovered by the engaged troops were an M16 rifle, magazines for M16 and ammunition.

Cpt. Petinglay said, upon checking Imbo's pockets, a sachet of shabu was found with five other empty sachets. Further a cellphone containing pertinent information of his fellow bandits was also recovered.

"Imbo is an ASG/KFRG member and trusted contact on Bangalaw island of the late Misaya," says Brigadier General Cirilito Sobejana, the Commander of the Joint Task Force Sulu.

"He is a KFR contact and facilitator in the island and a keeper of Misaya's firearms and pump boats used in kidnapping ventures," BGen Sobejana added.

No casualty was reported on the government side while it is believed that the bandits suffered heavy casualty from the encounter due to the bloodstains seen in the area, added Cpt. Petinglay.

Cpt. Petinglay further added that two (2) Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) members under sub-leader Nurhassan Jamiri surrendered to the troops of Joint Task Force Basilan under Col Juvymax Uy at 9:30pm on Thursday (May 18).

Cpt. Petinglay further disclosed that Janatin Mudjaral Madjakin, a.k.a. Atin, 44, and Aldasid Madjakin, a.k.a. Alda, 19, surrendered to the troops of the 3rd Scout Ranger Battalion in Camp Cordero, Campo Uno in Lamitan City, Basilan.

The duo yielded two high-powered firearms, an M16A1 rifle and an M79, following their surrender.

In his report to the WestMinCom Commander, Col Juvymax Uy said that the duo (father and son) decided to go back to the folds of law, citing difficulties because of the relentless military operations.

Further, the two revealed that more ASG members are already contemplating to surrender but are just finding the perfect timing to do such.

“More than anything else, we also 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,” says Lieutenant General Carlito G Galvez, Jr, Commander, Western Mindanao Command.

"But if they prefer to fight, then we will make sure that our troops will get them hard the soonest," he adds.

"Marami pang top leaders ng ASG ang gusting sumuko, kaya nararapat lamang nasumuko na din ang mga nagtatago pa bago pa man sila matonton ng ating tropa."

"Kailangan nilang gawin ito ng mabilisan bago pa mahuli ang lahat," added LtGen. Galvez.

Janatin Madjakin, and Aldasid Madjakin are both residents of Barangay Cabangalan, Ungkaya Pukan. The tally of bandits who surrendered in Basilan alone reached 27 as of this report, added Cpt. Petinglay.

53rd IB Troopers capture NPA books and documents

By Jong Cadion

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (May 19, 2017) – Troops of 53^rd Infantry Battalion have captured a sack full of teaching materials, books and subversive documents believed to be owned by the members of the New Peoples’ Army on Wednesday (May 17), military official said.

Ltc Virgilio C Hamos Jr, Commanding Officer of 53^rd IB said that early in the morning, troops of Alfa Company, 53^rd IB under 1Lt Sotero P. Abrito III were participating in the Brigada Eskwela at the Elementary School in Brgy. Bagumbayan, Sergio Osmeña, Zamboanga del Norte when they noticed the sack at the back of a house near the vicinity of the school.

Mistaking it for trash left behind by the Brigada Eskwela participants, the troops decided to dump it to the dumping area when they noticed that it contained books, Hamos said.

Among the books that were found include several copies of “Primer Para sa Gawaing Paralegal Sa Kanayunan”, “Special Nga Kursong Pangmasa”, “Demokratikong Rebulosyon Sa Katawhan” and “Araling Aktibista”. These reading materials are known to be used by the NPAs in indoctrinating and training their recruits and mass bases.

Hamos expressed his concern on the possibility that the NPAs who left the materials were conducting recruitment and indoctrinations near the school, possibly targeting the school children.

“It appears that the NPAs are taking advantage of the innocence of the youths indiscriminate of their age”, he stated.