PRO9 Culminates 22nd Police Community Relation Month

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (August 1, 2017) - The Police Regional Office-9 formally culminated the observance of 22nd Police Community Relations Month With the theme “Police and Community: Sharing Responsibilities, Taking Action in Unity” during the Monday Morning Flag Raising Ceremony held at Police Regional Office 9 Headquarters, Camp Abendan, Zamboanga City, Mercedes on Monday (July 31), official said.

ZCPO-PRO9 information officer PCINSP HELEN L GALVEZ disclosed that PSSUPT EDWIN S DE OCAMPO, Deputy Regional Director for Administration and PSSUPT NARCISO B VERDADERO, Deputy Regional Director for Operation, led the conduct of the activity which was highlighted with the awarding ceremony to the deserving PRO9 units and PCR personnel for their valuable contribution to the overall efficiency of PRO 9.

PCINSP GALVEZ said that Zamboanga Del Norte Police Provincial Office was named Best PCR PPO while Pagadian City Police Station and Tigbao Municipal Police Station, both of Zamboanga Del Sur Police Provincial Office were adjudged as Best PCR City Police Station and Municipal Police Station, respectively.

PCINSP GALVEZ added that the other awardees are: PCINSP EDWIN D VERZON, Chief, PCRB, Zamboanga Sibugay PPO- Best PCR Senior Police Commissioned Officer (PCO), PINSP EVELYN F PORRAS, Chief PCRB, Dipolog City Police Station, SPO4 Gane Mohammad Jailani, Chief Clerk, PCR, Zamboanga Del Sur PPO-Best PCR Senior PNCO and PO1 Fe Eyas Celestial, PCR personnel of Titay MPS-Best PCR Junior PNCO.

In his message, Mr. Ronnie LLedo, Vice-Chairman, PRO9 Regional Advisory Council and News Anchor of GBPI TV11, as guest of honor and speaker during the activity, emphasized the affectivity of the police on the ground is greatly dependent upon the level of trust and cooperation that the community bestows upon him to do his job. He said that the police officers are not only facing the challenged of fighting criminality, more than that it is behooved upon him to educate himself to the triggers that give rise to criminality in the communities. Identifying the root cause of our problems is fifty percent of the solution. The other fifty percent lies in the fact of his success to act as a catalyst for the people that he serves, so that they too may do something to address the root causes that give rise to criminality in our communities.

He further said that he expected the police to address the root cause of the problem rather than act on the symptoms that plague our society. In doing so, the police and the people must learn to communicate, and cooperate in addressing these challenges. Moreover, He emphasized that the police is the community and the community is the police. The police must know what he is fighting for and the people must be properly informed so that they too can appreciate, and more than that they too can work hand in hand with the police.

Military and Task Force "Bangon" jointly build relocation site for Marawi evacuees

By Jong Cadion

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (August 1, 2017 AFP) -

Model Houses.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines represented by the Army's 54th Engineer Brigade, the Department of Public Works and Highways Region 10 and the Office of the City Engineer of Marawi City are working closely to finish the two (2) model houses that will be used as a template for about 5,000 houses that will be built in the temporary shelters for the Marawi evacuees, military official said.

The ground works of the relocation site and the construction of the houses started a week ago. The models are expected to be done after a week of work.

"There are two models of houses to be constructed. First is the steel house which is has 26 square meters floor area with a dimension of 4 x 7.7 meters and the other one is the wooden house which is made of lumber and plywood, with the dimension of 4 x 6 meters," said Abdulracman Paunte, DPWH Region 10 Resident Engineer.

"The steel house model is pre-fabricated and can accomodate 3 families per building. Construction time will run up to 8 days."

The relocation site is about 11 hectares, located in Brgy Sagongsongan, Marawi City and is divided into five areas. Each area is expected to accomodate about 1,000 houses/units.

According to Paunte, each of the five areas have communal kitchens, comfort rooms and washing areas and its electricity lines and water system already being installed and worked on by the Lanao Del Sur Electric Company and the Local Water Utilities Administration.

Army Engineers doing the Ground Work.

The Battalion of Army Engineers are also present in the area to assist the construction of the temporary shelter and to secure civilian workers who are in the site the entire week.

"We are here to provide all necessary needs and support we can give before, during and after the construction of the shelters," said Lieutenant Colonel Jonjie Juguilon of the 547th Engineering Battalion, Engineering Brigade.

"Our backhoes are here as well as our bulldozers, graders and backhoe loaders so that when the model houses be approved, we will go on full throttle with the construction of units."

Juguilon further reported that a consultation of the house designs was conducted among the LGUs and some evacuees before the construction started.

Risk while construction on-going.

The City Engineer of Marawi on the other hand who was in the site even on a Sunday to supervise the construction of one of the model houses said that, "the risk is always high among those involved in the construction, since stray bullets reach the site every now and then."

"Kahit pa delikado, ipagpapatuloy pa din naminang construction kasamaang ating mga kasundalohan dahil minamadali din natin na makaalis ang mga evacuees sa congested evacuation centers," said Engr Mike Gulem, field Engineer of Marawi City government.

He also said that the given target time for to finish the construction is until September or October this year.

Cash for Work.

In order to give the evacuees a chance to work and earn wages, construction workers and laborers will be commissioned from among them.

According to Gulem, four workers will be paid 15,000 to construct a single-detached house.

Salman Caris, an evacuee from Marawi City whose family is now temporarily sheltered in Pantar expressed his gratitude to the government for the temporary employment given to them. He also said that he will be very happy if his family will be among the beneficiaries of the shelter, also further stating that he is looking forward to living with fellow evacuees from Marawi.

Caris, who is 38 years old, married with three kids, formerly lives at the business district of Marawi City before the Daesh-inspired Maute terror group attacked the besieged city.

Deploy more soldiers for rehab.

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) information officer Cpt Jo-Ann D. Petinglay said that The Western Mindanao Command and the Joint Task Force Marawi are now also prioritizing rehabilitation efforts within the area and are yet to deploy more soldiers, composed mostly of women, to specifically work on rehabilitation projects.

"Ang inyong kasundaluhan ay handang tumulong at magkawanggawa lalong lalo na sa mga proyektong rehabilitasyon para sa mga Marawi evacuees," said Lieutenant General Carlito G Galvez, Jr, Commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

"Your soldiers will risk their lives not only to make sure that Marawi City be free from terrorists, but also to speed up rehabilitation, so that shelters be ready the soonest possible time."

"Just as your AFP was employed as an instrument to quell the rebellion of the Maute-ISIS Group that caused the destruction of Marawi, you will also find your soldiers, Airmen, sailors and marines at the forefront of the rehabilitation and reconstruction of Marawi. The AFP shall be the catalyst to the massive efforts to revive the City of Marawi."

Manny Pacquiao to soldiers: 'Do not give up, we are already on our last three rounds'

By Jong Cadion

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (July 30, 2017) - Senator Manny Pacquiao visited troops in Marawi City Saturday (July 29) at the headquarters of the 103rd Brigade, Camp Ranao, Marawi City, military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) information officer Cpt Jo-Ann D. Petinglay disclosed that wearing his Special Forces uniform, the Senator arrived shortly before 9 in the morning via a private helicopter. He was greeted by the Ground Commanders, Western Mindanao Command Lieutenant General Carlito G Galvez, Jr, the Commander of the Joint Task Force Marawi, Brigadier General Joselito Bautista, the Commandant Of the Philippine Marines Brigadier General Emmanuel B Salamat, Commander of the Joint Task Group Ranao BGen Ramiro Rey and the Deputy Commander of the Mechanized Infantry Division BGen FelicisimoBudiongan upon his arrival.

Cpt. Petinglay said that the ground Commanders presented to the senator a short briefing update of the current situation in the besieged City of Marawi as well as the situation and morale of the troops.

In his message to the soldiers, Pacman stressed his sadness everytime he hears soldiers and policemen dying in the fight.

"Gusto kong sumama sa inyo sa labanan, gusto nyo bayun," he said addressing the troops.

"Hwag kayong sumurrender dahil kumbaga sa boxing, nasa last 3 rounds nalang tayo ngayon at malapit ng matapos," he added.

Soldiers who were pulled out from the rear to hear the be present during the visit felt elated for the opportunity to meet the boxing champ.

"Masayang masaya po kami na nakita namin ng personal ang aming idol," said TSgt Billete of the 103rd Brigade.

When asked if the visit bolstered their morale, he said," Oo naman, high morale na high morale kami dahil sa telebisyon lang namin sya nakikita at talagang nagbigay sya ng panahon sa mga sundalong andito sa frontline."

Cpt Petinglay said that the Senator also distribute goods to the troops and vowed to support all their efforts, him not only a senator but also a reservists of the Philippine Army commissioned to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.

"We are happy to have the Senator here with us today, it is indeed quite a privilege," said Lieutenant General Galvez, the WestMinCom Chief.

"We know our troops on the ground will surely be in high spirits, knowing that Senator Pacquiao took his time out to come and show support to our troops despite his busy schedule."

4P's beneficiaries receive cash grants in Ramain, Lanao del Sur

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (July 30, 2017) - Around 1,695 families of Ramain Municipality received cash incentives from the government today thru the "Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps)", a human development measure of the national government that provides conditional cash grants to the poorest of the poor, to improve the health, nutrition, and the education of children aged 0-18, military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) information officer Cpt Jo-Ann D. Petinglay disclosed that the program's implementation is under the direct supervision of the Department of the Social Welfare and Development, which aims to eradicate extreme poverty in the country by investing in health and education. The pay out which started earlier this year was halted after Daesh-inspired group Maute attacked Marawi City on the 23rd of May leaving most residents of the different municipalities near the besieged city evacuating to safety in different evacuation centers. After more than two months suspension of operations, the DSWD deemed it necessary to continue the pay out, and Ramain is among the first target municipalities for the continuation of the activity.

Judy Taguiwalo, the DSWD secretary, remarked during a meeting in Iligan City earlier this month that "It is our intent for the pay-out to proceed within respective municipalities to encourage residents of towns outside Marawi to go back to their homes."

Cpt. Petinglay said that Thursday (July 27) alone, a total of more than 19million pesos was paid to the beneficiaries of the 4Ps program in the town.

She further said that the DSWD employees were ferried from Marawi to a nearby dock near Ramain by military and police boats in order to cut short travel time. Ramain which used to be the closest municipality from Marawi City became the farthest to reach after the military temporarily closed the shorter route that connects the city and the municipality. Residents need to take the farthest way, by taking the highway along lakeLanao before reaching the town.

"Last Wednesday (July 26), the Lanao del Sur Province DSWD also distributed relief goods to the Marawi evacuees staying in Ramain," said Colonel Fonio, the Commander of the Joint Task Group Haribon.

The relief distribution benefitted around 2,700 families, Cpt Petinglay added.

"We provided the boats and security requirements of the DSWD team so that they can proceed with the pay-out despite the risk and danger involved,"'said Lieutenant General Carlito G Galvez, Jr, Commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

"It is one of our top priorities to support other government agencies in order to make sure that goods intended for the people will be delivered to the people."

Navy ship rescues distressed fishing vessel

MPAC Spotted the distress vessel “TB Zamboanga Sun"

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (July 29, 2017) – A Philippine Navy vessel under the operational control of Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM) rescued a distressed fishing vessel on Wednesday (July 26) afternoon 1.5 nautical miles off Manicahan, Sangali, Zamboanga City, military official said.

Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM) information officer Rear Admiral Rene V. Medina (AFP), Commander, disclosed that BA 484, a Multi-Purpose Attack Craft (MPAC) rescued the vessel identified as TB Zamboanga Sun with two crew members Mr Roberto M Santiago, 50 years old, Boat Captain/Engineer and Mr Paterno A Dela Rosa, 31 years old, navigator.

RADM Medina said that the Naval Forces Western Mindanao immediately directed the MPAC in the area to conduct search and rescue operation to the distressed fishing vessel that was reported to be submerged and was no longer able to respond and transmit radio messages.

Crew of “TB Zamboanga Sun” accommodated aboard BA-484

He said that the shallow waters posed a difficulty for the Navy to rescue the said vessel, but after several attempts and in coordination with Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) the vessel was towed and its crew was rescued and ferry back to Zamboanga City Pier.

On May 18, 2017, a Navy vessel also gave assistance to distressed tankers of Chelsea Shipping Corporation who suffered from engine failure, RADM Medina added.

 

Crew of “TB Zamboanga Sun” were ferry back at Zamboanga City Pier

Rest assured that NFWM will always be ready to deploy its units to provide necessary assistance to vessels in the area and will continue to provide security to Western Mindanao waters, said RADM Medina.

Two Abus linked to robbery nabbed in Tawi-Tawi

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (July 28, 2017) – Two (2) Abu Sayyaf bandits tagged in the series of robbery were arrested by the military in the nearby province of Tawi-Tawi on Tuesday (July 25), military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) information officer Cpt Jo-Ann D. Petinglay disclosed that Merson Arak and Rustom, both surnamed Garim, were nabbed by the troops of the Marine Battalion Landing Team-9 in a combat operation launched in Barangay Batu-Batu, Panglima Sugala, Tawi-Tawi at around 5:30am.

“Prompted by reports alleging the presence of seven Abu Sayyaf bandits and the commission of robbery by the said group in Barangay Batu-Batu, the Marine troops conducted the offensive, yielding to the arrest of the Garims and the seizure of an M16 loaded with ammunition,” said Brigadier General Custodio Parcon, Jr., Commander of the Joint Task Force Tawi-Tawi.

Cpt. Petinglay said that the civilians reported of the sighting of the said Abu Sayyaf bandits, who were armed with M16 and Caliber .30 rifles, in Panglima Sugala on Tuesday (July 25). The group further committed robbery against fishermen and farmers in far-flung areas, particularly in Barangay Balimbing, Panglima Sugala, per information from the police. Due to the seaborne patrol conducted by the marines, the bandits resorted to robbery to sustain their living.

Based on the blotter report filed by Private First Class Edgar Flores of the MBLT-9, the Abu Sayyaf bandits robbed a tenant, identified as Mansiar, of his copra and threatened to kill Reny Flores, brother of PFC Flores and proprietor of a coconut farm, in Sitio Bud-bud, Barangay Kulape, Panglima Sugala in the afternoon of July 24.

The armed group also established a temporary harboring site in Barangay Batu-Batu, Panglima Sugala.

Records show that the municipal mayor of Panglima Sugala ordered Merson Garim to leave the place; however, his group continued to operate in the area, Cpt Petinglay added.

The Garims and the seized items were brought to the Panglima Sugala Municipal Police Station for proper disposition. The firearms were then turned over to the MBLT9 for safekeeping.

As of July 26, 72 Abu Sayyaf bandits were apprehended by the Joint Task Forces in Western Mindanao. Of this, 11 were nabbed in Basilan, 43 in Sulu, 7 in Tawi-Tawi, and 11 in Zamboanga.

"I congratulate the troops of Joint Task Force Tawi-Tawi headed by Brigadier General Custodio Parcon for this commendable accomplishment," said Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., Commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

"The continuing effort to capture and neutralize the remaining Abu Sayyaf in the BaSulTa area will eventually hinder their remnants to go on launching terroristic and criminal activities along Tawi-Tawi waters and sea areas of common concern with Malaysia and Indonesia."

"We will use these accomplishments as a motivation to continue achieving more milestones, to ensure that civilians will feel peaceful and secured within their communities," added LtGen Galvez.

More evacuees receive relief goods in Ramain Lanao del Sur

 By Jong Cadion

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (July 28, 2017) - Marawi evacuees in Ramain, Lanao del Sur were very jubilant to receive food packs on Wednesday (July 26), military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) information officer Cpt Jo-Ann D. Petinglay disclosed that Ramain which is suppose to be the nearest municipality from Marawi, became the farthest after the route towards the areas was cut when fighting started between the Government forces and the Daesh-inspired group last May. Nine truckloads of goods that were transported by personnel of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development, Lanao del Sur and the soldiers under Task Group Ranao led by Brigadier General Ramiro Rey and the soldiers of 103rd Brigade led by Colonel Gene Ponio, reached the hands of 2, 772 internally displaced families in DitsaanRamain Municipality in Lanao del Sur.

Cpt Petinglay said that each family received a half-sack of rice, some canned goods and other commodities through the courtesy of the World Food Program, a humanitarian organization of the United Nations.

Abedin Bala Maunte, 37, married with four kids, whose children are temporarily attending school near Ramain, said: “Gusto naming magpasalamat sa gobyerno at sa mga taong tumulong sa amin sa gitna ng sagupaan ng militar at mga terorista.” (“We want to thank the government and those who extended their assistance amid the gun battle between the military and the terrorists.”)

Before the terrorist attacked Marawi, Maunte and his family live in Lilod, Saduc, Marawi City, where the patriarch works as a welder. They are among the thousand families temporarily sheltered in Barangay Buada Babay, Disaan, Ramain in Lanao del Sur.

“Nagagalak po kami sa mga tulong na aming natatanggap mula sa gobyerno at iba pang tao, ngunit nanawagan rin po kami sa mahal na Presidente na sana ay madagdagan pa ang tulong na pinansyal, pagkain, at kadamitan para sa aming araw-araw na pamumuhay (We are elated with the help that we are receiving from the government and the people; however, we are calling on the President to help us as we need more assistance in terms of money, food, and clothes to sustain our living),” said CaironisaSaro, 26, married to a former farmer with 6 children, whose family is among the refugees in Ramain.

Engineer Mustapha Salic, the municipal planning and development coordinator of Ramain, said this is the fourth set of relief goods that were distributed by the government to the evacuees.

Personnel of the Provincial Social Welfare Office of Lanao del Sur, and the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, assisted in the delivery of goods while the LGU Ramain supervised the distribution. The evacuees received kitchen utensils, food packs, and hygiene kits from various benefactors.

Ramain Municipal Mayor Saidamen “Axel H. Amer Adiong also expressed his gratitude to the government, through the different offices and agencies, including the provincial government, for “the delivery of goods today.”

“We want to thank you for heeding to the cry of Maranaos and for delivering more assistance to the refugees,” said Adiong. “I also commend the armed forces for allowing our fishermen from 14 barangays in Ramain to continue fishing in Lanao Lake for their sustenance," added Adiong.

Representatives of the DTI- Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao were also present to monitor the prices of basic commodities in the municipalities hosting evacuees, including Saguiaran, Pantar, and Ramain.

Nasser Repors, chief admin of the Lanao del Sur Provincial Office of the ARMM, said, “The slight increase in the prices is tolerable, taking into consideration the transportation expenses incurred by small-scale entrepreneurs, who are passing a longer route after commuters were denied access on the previous route from Marawi to Ramain and vice versa.”

The agency further recommended to the local government of Ramain the immediate activation of the Local Price Coordinating Council to monitor and regulate the prices of commodities.

“Rolling stores will be coming in with goods the same as with the prices in Iligan City anytime this week,” added Arumpac.

The relief distribution ended around 4 in the afternoon.

Meanwhile, Task Group Tabang led by Col Sedano spearheaded the conduct of a poster-making contest as part of its peace-building initiatives in different evacuation centers last Monday (July 24, 2017), Cpt Petinglay added.

Cpt petinglay further said that Maranao children scribbled messages of peace and denounced violent extremism in the City of Marawi. Posters, appealing for the cessation of armed conflicts and the rehabilitation of the besieged city, showed the sentiments of at least 31 Maranao children, who are displaced by the prolonged battle between the Joint Task Force Marawi and the Daesh-inspired group.

"Hangad namin ay kapayapaan, hindi gyera,” cried a Maranao child, while grasping his self-made poster.

More recreational and sports activities are already scheduled for the different evacuation centers this month.

Cpt. Petinglay further added that on that same day, Task Group Tabang also distributed 4,250 food packs in the municipalities of Balo-i and Saguiran. The food packs were donated by the Regional Government of Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, Governor Mujiv S Hataman. The goods were travelled by the 6th Infantry Kampilan Division thru M35 trucks from Central Mindanao to Marawi over the weekend.

"We wish to give humanitarian efforts the same priority as with our combat operations," said Brigadier General Joselito Bautista, Commander of the Joint Task Force Marawi.

"Civil Military Operations officers and personnel together with humanitarian groups are currently imbedded in different evacuation centers to foster and care for our evacuees and to somehow ease their burdens through the conduct of different recreational activities."

Lieutenant General Carlito G Galvez, Jr, Commander of the Western Mindanao Command also thanked the World Food Organization and the Honorable Governor Mujiv S Hataman for the food packs provided.

The WestMinCom chief vowed to continue supporting all humanitarian activities and make all efforts IDP-centered.

Marawi troops watch President’s 2nd SONA

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (July 26, 2017) - Soldiers of the Joint Task Force Marawi watched the 2nd State of the Nation Address of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte as the Commander-in-Chief, who vowed to strengthen the capability of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and help the people of Marawi City in the midst of the all-out military offensives against the Daesh-inspired group in the city, military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) information officer Cpt Jo-Ann D. Petinglay disclosed that the President's statement of support to the AFP uplifted the morale of the troops and left them more motivated and determined in fulfilling their mandate to protect the country's sovereignty, including the liberation of Marawi City from terror.

Village official, 7 cohorts, nabbed in Maguindanao anti-narcotics operation

By Jong Cadion

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (July 26, 2017) – Eight (8) people including a village chief were arrested by joint elements of law enforcement agencies and Army troopers during an anti-illegal drug operation in General Salipada K. Pendatun (GSKP), Maguindanao on Saturday (July 22), military official said.

Information officer Cpt Arvin G. Encinas, 6^th Infantry (Kampilan) Division, Philippine Army, disclosed that under the command of the 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade led by Col Bismarck Soliba, joint elements of PDEA-ARMM, CIDG-ARMM, 4SAB, SAF, 1MECH BN and the 33rd Infantry (Makabayan) Battalion arrested the suspects in a drug den in Midconding village during a simultaneous raid at 6:00am.

Cpt. Encinas said that among those who were collared were village chair Datumama 'Bong' Abdul,31. The law enforcers also cornered Darex Maslamama, 33, Datukung Membida, 23, Mundjahel Membia, 19, and 4 unnamed minors. Drug trafficking suspect named Buga Abdul a.k.a. Lapu-lapu and several others evaded arrest. The group had gained notoriety after being involved in violent attacks against government forces and rival clans.

Seized from the suspects were 3 hand grenades, assorted ammunitions, sachets of suspected shabu, and shabu sniffing paraphernalia, he added.

The suspects were brought to PDEA-ARMM detention facility for the filing of criminal cases against them.

PRO9 Prepares for 2ND SONA of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (July 25, 2017) - The Police Regional Office 9 has intensify its law enforcement, security and public safety operations in the entire Zamboanga Peninsula in preparation for the State of the Nation Address (SONA) of Pres. Rodrigo Roa Duterte (PRRD) at the House of Representatives Session Hall, Batasan Complex, Quezon City on Monday (July 24), official said.  

ZCPO-PRO9 information officer PCINSP HELEN L GALVEZ disclosed that PCSUPT BILLY B BELTRAN, PRO9, Regional Director, directed all PDs/OIC, ZCPO and COP, Isabela CPS to organize, equip and inspect a CDM Contingent ready for deployment when situation arises; ensure peace and order within respective AORs; maximize the implementation of checkpoints/chokepoints, police visibility patrols (foot and mobile), saturation drives and other law enforcement operations; coordinate with LGU units whether there are groups applying for rally/demonstration permit on the said activities and strengthen intelligence monitoring and information gathering to thwart any terroristic activities that may launch by lawless elements to take advantage of the situation and destabilize the peace and security of the region.  

PCSUPT BELTRAN said that there are series of law enforcement operations undertaken by the PNP and AFP counterpart in order to prevent and thwart the possible occurrence of crime and disorder to be perpetrated by various threat and cause-oriented groups who may take advantage of the situation.

PCINSP GALVEZ said that the Regional Director also directed the PNP to ensure observance of PNP Operational Procedures in all police operations; observe the rule of law and respect for human rights; observe the doctrine of Command Responsibility; maximize the collaboration and cooperation of the community in crime prevention efforts and utilize/employ force multipliers such as; BPATs, Barangay Tanod and BINs to assist the PNP in the implementation of Law Enforcement Operations.

Meanwhile, in the event of mass action/ rally, the PRO9 reiterated the guidance to the Police Officers to secure the rallyists, protect the citizenry and ensure the delivery of government services and unhamper the business operations. They shall also observe maximum tolerance in dealing with the rallyists and guided by all applicable laws and other related directives/orders from competent authorities regarding police security operations during mass actions and or demonstrations, she added.

Ulama Council, government authorities convene in Marawi City

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (July 25, 2017) - Members of the Ranaw Ulama-Leaders Conference and high-ranking, government officials convened in the City of Marawi to discuss the considerations submitted by the former in connection with the declaration of certain areas in the city as cleared from the presence of the Daesh-inspired local terrorist group and the operations of key establishments and offices there.

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) information officer Cpt Jo-Ann D. Petinglay disclosed that the Ranaw Ulama, in its manifesto, proposed its inclusion, as member of the sub-committees, in the Task Force Bangon Marawi. The council further recommended the return of the residents to their respective homes and the opening of roads, particularly along Rorogagus-Guimba-Maliwanag-Ramain in Lanao del Sur and Bito-Capitol Complex-Awar Street-Amai Pakpak Avenue-Marantao.

Cpt Petinglay said that the council also sought to enjoin the operation of schools, government agencies and offices, and private establishments in the city, particularly the Marawi State University, after they be declared safe and cleared. Also requested by the group were the immediate burial of the deceased and the prompt investigation of abuses and violations of any party in the proper forum.

Dubbed as, “I will be back, Wait for Me, Marawi,” said convention started at 9am in the City of Iligan and ended at around 2 in the afternoon.

Present during the said convention were Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana; OPAPP Undersecretary Diosita Andot; Office of the Presidential Adviser for the OFW Abdullah Mamao; Secretary of the Mindanao Development Authority Datu Abul Khayr Alonto; Undersecretary for Defense Operations of the Department of National Defense Undersecretary Cesar Yano; Lieutenant General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., Commander, Western Mindanao Command; Congressman Mauyag Papandayan, 2nd district; Datu Bangcola Adtha, Sultan sa Rogan, Secretary General of the Royal House; Doctor Ali Laguindab, representing the professional sector; Secretary Guiling Mamondiong of the TESDA; former Marawi Councilor Anwar Marabu; Alim Sarangani, representing the religious sector; and Dr. Safrullah Dipatuan, BDA MILF Chairman; the Ranao Rescue Group; Ranao Ulamah Leaders; and other non-government groups.

Cpt Petinglay further said that the highlight of the forum was a dialogue between the representatives of the different sectors airing their grievances and concerns and the government represented by Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, also the Martial Law administrator answering their inquiries and taking in their concerns and recommendations. Majority of the speakers expressed their intent to go back to their homes stressing that their lives right at the moment is unimaginably difficult.

In his part, the Sec Lorenzana patiently explained to the attendees that it is not yet possible for the Government to allow them to go back to their homes since the fighting in Marawi is still intense.

Just on Saturday (July 22), 9 soldiers got killed and 26 others were wounded during an intense whole day of fighting in downtown Marawi.

"We want you to go back to your homes, but we cannot be sure when, as of the moment," said Secretary Delfin Lorenzana.

"Human lives are precious for us, that is why we want to make sure that by the time you return to your homes, you will already be safe."

Sec Lorenzana also told the attendees not to blame the Martial Law Declaration for causing the evacuation of the people because with or without the declaration, surely people will evacuate when the fighting started.

"We do not want this war to prolong, and please understand that we did not ask for this either," added Sec Lorenzana.

Attending also the conference was the Commander of the Western Mindanao Command, Lieutenant General Carlito G Galvez, Jr., Cpt Petinglay added.

"We hope you will understand that we are fighting a different kind of enemy," said the WestMinCom Chief.

"Your soldiers die every day and are making sacrifices just to liberate Marawi from terror."

"Your soldiers are fighting not for Marawi alone but for the entire country against these animals who wish to disrupt our normal way of life."

"We need you to understand the situation, we need you to have more patience," LtGen Galvez adds.

The meeting ended with group agreeing to postpone the "rally" sometime after the State of the Nation Address of the President which was scheduled on Monday (July 24). The schedule of the symbolic march will be agreed by parties after the SONA of PRRD.

Abu’s firearms recovered by troops in Sulu

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (July 23, 2017) - Two high-powered firearms and ammunition of the Abu Sayyaf Group were recovered in a clearing operation launched by the military in the nearby province of Sulu Friday (July 21), military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) information officer Cpt Jo-Ann D. Petinglay disclosed that troops of the 32nd Infantry Battalion under Lieutenant Colonel Ramon Flores were scouring the area of engagement when they recovered an M653 rifle, an M203 Grenade Launcher with one round of 40mm ammunition, medical paraphernalia, a notebook containing cellular phone numbers, and other personal belongings of the bandits in Barangay Anuling, Patikul, Sulu at around 1:20pm on Friday.

"Elements of the Joint Task Force Sulu were pursuing the Abu Sayyaf bandits who are evading the government forces, following a heavy, armed engagement with our soldiers in Patikul area last Thursday,” said Brigadier General CirilitoSobejana, Commander of the Joint Task Force Sulu.

Said firefight yielded to the deaths of two bandits and the recovery of five high-powered firearms of the group. The slain Abu Sayyaf bandits were identified as Benajir Intag and Bassal Mahalli. Pursuit is ongoing as of this press time, said Cpt. Petinglay.

Meanwhile, 1 member of the CAFGU Active Auxiliary, 1 member of the Civilian Volunteers Organization and 3 civilians were reported missing since July 20, 2017 in the nearby province of Basilan, Cpt. Petinglay added.

Cpt Petinglay further said that CAA Samuel A Erasga of Switch Yakal, Lantawan, Basilan, reported at the headquarters of 4th Special Forces Battalion that CAA Roberto Lacastesantos of Switch Yakal Patrol Base under 15SFC, 4SFBn, CVO Renato O Casiple, Mr Rene O Sanson, Mr Hernando Sally and Mr Mertong Falcasantos all residents of Sitio Campo Barn, Brgy Switch Yakal, Lantawan, Basilan Province were missing and were last seen in the vicinity of Rancho Eguana, Sitio Campo Barn, Brgy Switch Yakal, Lantawan, Basilan Province.

Troops of the Joint Task Force Basilan immediately deployed forces to find the missing persons.

"The information we obtained is still very sketchy. We have already deployed soldiers and CAAs in the area where the missing persons were last seen," said Colonel Juvymax Uy, Commander of the Joint Task Force Basilan.

"We will give you updates the soonest we get some development."

Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management (DIDM) Conducted Imbestigatour 2017 in PRO9

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (July 22, 2017) - Over a hundred of Police Investigators from Police Regional Office 9 and PRO ARMM have undergone three-day seminar conducted by the Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management (DIDM) led by PCSUPT ERIC SERAFIN G REYES, Deputy Director held at PRO9 Multi-Purpose, Camp Col. Romeo A Abendan, Mercedes, Zamboanga City on July 19-21, 2017, official said.

ZCPO-PRO9 information officer PCINSP HELEN L GALVEZ disclosed that the seminar was dubbed as “Imbestigatour 2017” wherein the kicked-off ceremony was held last July 19, and culminated on Friday (July 21). The seminar is aimed at encouraging more policemen to do their best in the investigation, follow-up, and tracking of cases.

PCSUPT ERIC SERAFIN G REYES, Deputy Director, DIDM said that the activity aims to improve the competency of police officers in the field of investigation. He also emphasized the desire of DIDM to help and assist our investigators to improve their investigative skills and capabilities and eventually become an effective and competent investigator.

PCINSP GALVEZ said that the activity was attended by Chiefs of Police and Investigators from the Zamboanga City Police Office, Zamboanga Del Sur Police Provincial Office, Zamboanga Sibugay Police Provincial Office, Zamboanga Del Norte Police Provincial Office, Isabela City Police Station and PRO-ARMM .

She further said that the highlights of the activity is the conduct of refresher workshop on Report Encoding, Event Reporting commonly known as E-Blotter, Crime Information Reporting and Analysis System (CIRAS) and Tutorial on Quantum Geographic Information System, E-Rouge and Overview on E-Subpoena.

During the closing ceremony, PCSUPT REYES awarded SPO2 Abdulhakim H Harun of Sulu PPO, PRO-ARMM and PO3 Raymond S Diaz of Zamboanga City Police Station 11, ZCPO as Certified Field Investigators after meeting the standard required by the Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management (DIDM), she added.  

           

Troops neutralize 6 enemies, seize 8 firearms in Western Mindanao

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (July 22, 2017) - Two members of the Abu Sayyaf Group were killed and five firearms were seized in a gun battle with the military in Sulu on Thursday (July 20), military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) information officer Cpt Jo-Ann D. Petinglay disclosed that the troops of the 21st Infantry Battalion heavily engaged the Abu Sayyaf bandits while on focused military operations in Barangay Bungkaong, Patikul, Sulu at 6:25am Thursday. Said firefight resulted to the death of two bandits, a certain Benajir Intag and Bassal Mahalli. Intag's body was recovered by the troops at the encounter site.

Cpt. Petinglay said that seized also were 5 high-powered firearms, which include a K3 squad automatic weapon, an M16A1 Colt with M203 attached, and an M653 Elisco with M203 attached. Two cellphones, 3 solar panels and 8 backpacks containing assorted food stuffs and personal belongings were found by the troops in the temporary resting area of the ASG members.

"One of our soldiers was wounded and was immediately extricated by the responding troops to be given medical attention," said Brigadier General Cirilito Sobejana, Joint Task Force Sulu Commander. "He is now on stable condition and is already recuperating."

As of this report, 285 ASG members were neutralized in the entire Western Mindanao. Of the total number, 112 were killed (including the 2 ASG members killed), 103 surrendered to troops and 70 were apprehended.

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In Zamboanga del Norte, two communist terrorists were arrested in a pursuit by the government forces on Tuesday (July 18) afternoon.

Cpt Petinglay said that the elements of the 44th Infantry Battalion and the Municipal Police Station of Leon B. Postigo nabbed the two wounded communist terrorists, one of whom was identified as Rannie, aboard two ambulances along Barangay Cilago, Leon B. Postigo in Zamboanga del Norte at 4:35pm Tuesday.

“The communist terrorists arrested by the government forces were among those who engaged our soldiers on July 16 in Sitio Biwa, Titik, of the same town (Leon B Postigo)," said Brigadier General Joselito Bautista, Commander of the Joint Task Force ZamPeLan.

Two communist terrorists were killed, six were wounded, and another was arrested by the troops following the series of armed engagements in Sindangan, Zamboangadel Norte.

Further recovered by the soldiers were ammunition, explosive devices, and subversive documents.

The arrested persons were then brought to the nearby hospital for medication and investigation.

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Meanwhile, troops of the Joint Task Force Central were able to apprehend two lawless elements, during the conduct of a law enforcement support operations in Maguindanao on Tuesday (July 18), Cpt Petinglay added.

Cpt Petinglay further said that the combined elements of 57th Infantry Battalion and the 2nd Mechanized Infantry Battalion apprehended a certain Menta B Umpan, a suspected BIFF member and a certain TolksLakim, a lawless element at Brgy Lower Meta, Datu Unsay, Maguindanao at 6 and 7 in the morning respectively.

In his report to Western Mindanao Command, Brigadier General Arnel Delavega said that the troops were able to recover 3 high-powered firearms that include one (1) M16 rifle, one (1) M653 and one (1) M16 A1 rifle.

He further said that the apprehended personnel and firearms were turned-over to the PNP for the filing of appropriate charges.

"I would like to congratulate the Commanders and soldiers of our Joint Task Forces for their persistence in going after these threat groups and persons within their respective areas of operation," said Lieutenant General Carlito G Galvez, Jr, Commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

"Truly, our troops are very eager to make sacrifices in order to ensure that the people they serve will have a peaceful community."

"I enjoin all our soldiers to continue the fight. Surely, our Commander-in-Chief will be with us all the way in this given mission of liberating not just Marawi but the entire country from any form of threat."